The Victorian Government has approved plans for a major new suburb in Ballarat, designed to accommodate more than 13,000 residents as the regional city prepares for future population growth.

The proposed suburb, known as Ballarat North, will cover approximately 832 hectares of land near Mount Rowan and Miners Rest. The development area is located north of the Western Freeway, around eight kilometres from Ballarat's central business district and approximately 105 kilometres from Melbourne.

The approved plan includes almost 6,000 homes, providing additional housing opportunities for families, individuals and people planning to move to the region. The development is expected to create a new residential community with essential services and public facilities.

Four schools are included in the proposal, which is intended to support the educational needs of the growing population. A neighbourhood centre will also form part of the development, giving residents access to local services and community facilities closer to home.

Green spaces and recreational facilities are another important part of the plan. The suburb is expected to include two sports reserves and approximately 7.5 hectares of parkland. These spaces are intended to provide opportunities for outdoor activities, sports and community gatherings.

The City of Ballarat has identified the project as an important step in supporting the city's long-term development. Council representatives said the approval would help create opportunities for future generations and support economic growth.

Construction activity associated with the development is also expected to create employment opportunities. Jobs may arise through building work, infrastructure projects, transport improvements and the establishment of local services as the suburb develops.

An estimated $164 million in infrastructure investment is planned for transport, recreation and community facilities. This investment is intended to help support the new residential area and improve the facilities needed by a growing community.

The land has been rezoned to an urban growth zone to allow the proposed development to proceed. The suburb is a priority project under the Victorian Government's Housing Statement 2024–2034 and is expected to be formally gazetted in the coming days.

Planning is also expected to begin for another nearby housing development north of Cummins Road, which could accommodate an additional 2,600 homes.

The approval represents a significant planning milestone for Ballarat, although the suburb will take time to develop. Its future growth will depend on the delivery of housing, schools, infrastructure, transport and community facilities.