Dexus announced that it has entered into binding terms which provide a framework to fund, develop and invest in Atlassian’s new headquarters in Sydney. Darren Steinberg, Dexus CEO said: “The Atlassian tower is a great example of the future of workplace and is aligned with our purpose of creating spaces where people thrive.”

Located adjacent to the Central Place Sydney development, and within the State Government-led Tech Central precinct.

The site is located at 8-10 Lee Street, Sydney and spans 3,487 square metres. The development spanning 75,088 square metres of GFA, will comprise a market-leading sustainable 40-level office tower with retail amenities and new YHA accommodation space at its base, as well as new public realm around Central Station. Atlassian will take a 15-year lease with the tenancy to become Atlassian’s headquarters.

The building is targeting 6-star NABERS Energy and 6-star Green Star design ratings. Designed by New York based SHoP Architects in partnership with Australian firm BVN, the building is focused on occupant wellbeing and comprises a hybrid timber tower, with each four-storey section to be known as “habitats”, that will have naturally ventilated areas throughout.

As part of the arrangements Dexus will act as development manager and take responsibility for delivering the project, fund 100% of the project costs during construction, and retain a long-term equity interest in the asset with Atlassian. The total project costs are expected to be $1.4 billion.

The agreement is subject to a number of conditions precedent, including planning and other government approvals, which are expected to be satisfied by December 2021,with construction expected to commence in early 2022 and reach completion in early 2026.

Darren Steinberg, Dexus CEO said: “The Atlassian tower is a great example of the future of workplace and is aligned with our purpose of creating spaces where people thrive. We look forward to welcoming Atlassian as a new customer and co-owner onto our platform and building out our developments within the Tech Central precinct.

Ross Du Vernet, Dexus Chief Investment Officer said: “This acquisition increases the size of our city shaping development pipeline and provides us with appealing risk adjusted returns. The exciting sustainability outcomes and initiatives championed at this development are consistent with our ambitions and will enable us to leverage this innovation across our broader platform.”

Dexus will fund the costs of the development through debt facilities and may also look to introduce third party capital into the project prior to completion. The development project will have no impact on Dexus’s Adjusted Funds From Operations or distribution per security in FY22.

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