The Western Australia (WA) Government has selected Brajkovich Demolition & Salvage (WA) to carry out the demolition of the former Stirling Towers complex for the Smith Street build-to-rent (BTR) project.  

This initiative is a part of the state's Housing Diversity Pipeline, which aims to repurpose underutilised government-owned land. 

The demolition and site preparation are the first of three stages in the Smith Street BTR project in Highgate.  

Following this initial phase, construction of the development will commence, leading to a ground lease for the management of the complex.  

WA Housing Minister John Carey said: “The Stirling Towers site is in a well-located area, close to a range of amenities including the Perth CBD [central business district], shops, public transport and parks, as well as education, sporting and entertainment facilities. 

"Redeveloping the Stirling Towers site as a build-to-rent model will assist tenants through social, affordable and market rental arrangements, supported by on-site tenancy management.” 

The appointed contractor will be responsible for the demolition of the existing 12-storey and a smaller three-storey building, alongside other related works. 

The redevelopment of this site in inner northern Perth is set to transform the former public housing location into a residential complex. 

It will offer one and two-bedroom social, affordable, and specialist disability rental units.  

The planning process for the Smith Street BTR project is said to have been complex, with the land requiring remediation to support the redevelopment.  

An application for a demolition permit will be submitted for approval from the Department of Communities as a public work.  

Meanwhile, the City of Vincent will provide input to ensure the demolition meets all necessary conditions. 

The decision on the development application is expected to be announced in late 2024.