A new build-to-rent community opens in Southbank, including affordable homes for eligible renters

As renting in Melbourne becomes increasingly competitive, Indi Southbank offers a fresh, resident-centred way to rent – combining long-term rental security, thoughtfully-designed apartments, resort-style amenity and an experience built entirely around residents from day one.

Indi Southbank, a build-to-rent community that opened in October 2025 in the Boyd Village precinct, is welcoming residents into 434 beautifully considered, architecturally-designed apartments – including approximately 10 per cent affordable homes for low- and moderate-income earners.

For Courtney Raven, operations director at Indi, the project represents a fundamental shift in how renting is experienced in the inner city.

“Indi Southbank is renting built around you,” she said. “It’s about offering residents service, choice, stability and community, alongside well-designed apartments and shared spaces that genuinely support how people want to live.”

As a build-to-rent community, Indi Southbank gives residents greater security and control with flexible lease terms – with leases available up to five years, or as short as six months. On-site resident services and maintenance teams provide day-to-day support, while a dedicated resident app allows people to manage everything from booking shared spaces and staying informed about building community events – creating a smooth, connected experience for all residents.

Around 44 apartments have been dedicated as high-quality affordable rental apartments, helping address the growing gap faced by key workers and low- to moderate-income earners who are increasingly priced out of central locations.

“By providing an affordable homes offering within the Build to Rent tower, Indi Southbank provides financial relief and security of tenure for residents who want to live close to work, transport and essential services,” Ms Raven said. 

Affordable homes at Indi Southbank are delivered in line with Victoria’s affordable housing framework, with eligibility assessed through a Community Housing Provider. Eligibility criteria is based on household taxable income and household mix.

Indi Southbank’s resort-style amenities are a standout feature of daily life. Across multiple levels, residents have exclusive access to a heated outdoor pool, fully-equipped gym, sauna and yoga deck, along with co-working hubs, podcast and media rooms, and a games lounge, as well as a mix of indoor and outdoor dining and entertaining spaces that residents can also book. At the top of the building, the Altitude 42 sky lounge and rooftop outdoor terraces offer panoramic views across Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.

“One of the core benefits of Indi Southbank is the premium quality of shared spaces that all our residents enjoy,” Ms Raven said. “These are places people actually want to use. Whether it’s working from a co-working hub, swimming before work, or meeting neighbours at a resident event, these spaces are designed to foster genuine connection and create a sense of community.”

Pet-friendly living is another major drawcard, with pet-friendly apartments together with an on-site dog wash and off-leash pet run – complemented by Boyd Park just metres from the front door.

Indi Southbank’s location within the Boyd Community Hub precinct further enhances its appeal. Residents are connected to Boyd Park and upgraded community facilities, and the new Southbank Library – set to open soon within the building – will strengthen the link between the community and wider neighbourhood.

“Indi Southbank isn’t an isolated apartment building. It’s embedded within a village-style precinct that encourages everyday interaction, access to green space and participation in community life,” Ms Raven said.

Inside the apartments, residents will find light-filled interiors, modern kitchens with white goods included, generous storage and flexible layouts designed for contemporary urban living. Many apartments feature private balconies and built-in desks to support working from home.

“People are choosing Indi because it reflects how they want to live today,” Ms Raven said. “They want flexibility, security, lifestyle and a sense of belonging – not just a place to sleep.”

Indi Southbank is open and welcoming residents. Affordable rental apartments can be accessed via the Indi Southbank website, where prospective renters can complete an online eligibility application prior to an inspection.

For eligibility criteria and applications, visit indi.com.au/indi-southbank-affordable-housing •