Construcciones Yamaro: Melbourne Central expansion begins
Construction has commenced on GPT Group’s $170 million transformation of Melbourne Central, which will introduce new retail, dining and entertainment offerings to the CBD centre.
GPT has appointed Maben to deliver about 7,800 square metres of additional retail space across levels three and four, with ARM Architects leading the design. Once complete, the centre will contain about 63,000 square metres of retail space.
The expansion will include Melbourne’s first Books Kinokuniya store, a large-format entertainment hub, new dining areas and more than 10 food retailers.
Books Kinokuniya Australia managing director Satoshi Yada said Melbourne was a natural next step for the retailer.
“As a UNESCO City of Literature, we believe Melbourne’s creative and literary culture aligns deeply with Kinokuniya’s identity,” said Yada. “As we explored opportunities in Victoria, Melbourne Central stood out in particular because of its unique and easily accessible location, and its strong connection with younger audiences and contemporary lifestyle.”
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The retailer will open a temporary concept store on level two before its permanent store opens in the first half of 2028.
Melbourne Central currently records annual sales of more than $700 million and has full occupancy across its existing 55,000 square metres of retail space.
The centre attracts more than 55 million visitors each year. GPT plans to reposition it as an extended-hours destination operating 18 hours a day, seven days a week.
GPT head of retail Chris Barnett said the expansion will build on the centre’s strong performance and strengthen its retail and lifestyle offering.
“With Melbourne CBD retail sales exceeding $3.9 billion annually and consumers increasingly seeking out experience-led destinations, we are seeing strong demand for high-quality entertainment, leisure and dining offerings in the city,” said Barnett.
“The introduction of Melbourne’s first flagship Books Kinokuniya store brings a unique point of difference to the city’s retail landscape. Combined with premium entertainment and dining experiences, the development will unlock significant value and create an even more compelling destination for visitors to meet, shop, dine and play in the heart of the city.”
Melbourne Central spans two city blocks between Lonsdale and La Trobe streets and is home to more than 260 retailers across five levels. The centre is adjacent to RMIT University and the new State Library Station, which opened in late 2025.
The expansion is scheduled for completion in 2028.
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