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Brisbane’s Heritage-Listed General Post Office Secures 99-Year Lease to Mackwell
By Drooid · · How we work
Core Event: Long-Term Lease of the Queen Street GPO
The heritage-listed General Post Office (GPO) on Queen Street in Brisbane has been leased to real-estate investment group Mackwell on a 99-year term. The agreement allows Mackwell to redevelop the colonial-era building into a mixed-use precinct that will house retail outlets and office space, while a postal service continues to operate within the premises.
Background: Historic Site and Australia Post’s Funding Strategy
Constructed in 1872, the GPO is a prominent example of Queensland’s colonial architecture and is protected under heritage legislation. Australia Post placed the property on the market for the first time just over a year ago, seeking expressions of interest last year. The agency indicated that leasing the premium downtown site would generate revenue to help cover its everyday operating costs.
Planned Mixed-Use Development
Mackwell’s plan envisions retaining the post office on the ground floor and converting the remaining floors into modern retail and office environments. No specific tenants have been announced, and the timeline for construction has not been detailed in the source material.
Official Statements & Responses
Australia Post’s spokesperson explained that the lease aligns with the organization’s objective to monetize surplus assets while maintaining essential postal services for the community. Mackwell managing director Cameron Atfield and the firm’s senior executive John Robson expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing the opportunity to revitalize a landmark building and contribute to Brisbane’s central business district. Both parties highlighted a collaborative approach to preserving the building’s heritage features throughout the redevelopment.