ALDI Australia has received planning approval for the construction of its newest Victorian store at The Base – Craigieburn’s newest retail, hospitality and entertainment precinct, developed by APD Projects.

Expected to open mid-2025, the full line supermarket will provide the Craigieburn community with expanded choice and an affordable grocery offering in the area. The store will feature self-serve checkouts, modern interior design, and simple navigation.

“Craigieburn is experiencing significant population growth. A purpose-built ALDI will service the growing number of residents and families moving into the area, who value affordability and variety,” Director of APD Projects, Brad Paddon, said.

The announcement follows the success of The Base’s Precinct 1, which saw 95% of tenancies committed before opening. Developer APD Projects has now brought forward the leasing campaigns for large format retailers to cater to increased demand from local and national tenants, marking the beginning of Precinct 2 leasing.

“ALDI marks a significant milestone for The Base, being the first supermarket in the precinct, and also marking the commencement of Precinct 2 leasing,” Paddon added.

ALDI complements a growing list of high-profile national tenants at The Base including Carl’s Jr., KFC, Jasbe Petroleum and Jax Tyres & Auto who opened stores in mid 2023. Kool Kidz Childcare commenced trading in February 2024 and Planet Fitness and Hungry Jacks are on track to open later this year. Bluefit Swim and Cellarbrations Superstore positioned in Precinct 3 are set to open mid 2025.

The Base is located within one of the fastest-growing areas in Victoria. Craigieburn’s population is expected to grow by 49.6% to 388,891 by 2041, which is an average of more than 7,000 new residents each year, according to Forecast ID.

84.2% of The Base’s primary trade area consists of families in early life stages. With an average household income of $1,523 per week, according to the 2021 ABS Census, residents are attracted by the affordability and accessibility of the region, coupled with advancements in local infrastructure, such as the North East Link and Suburban Rail Loop.

“Craigieburn continues to go from strength to strength in Hume’s expanding northern suburbs, and those that choose to make it their home deserve access to the best facilities available,” Cr Naim Kurt from Hume City Council said.

“Hume City Council is pleased The Base lives up to its name by providing a home base for locals to find everything they need in one place, whether for work, play, health or fitness.”

“We welcome developments like The Base as they add to the liveability of our city by ensuring our community has more access to employment opportunities, recreation and vital living services close to home,” Kurt said.

The 21.6-hectare centre is being developed by APD Projects, whose other developments include Riverdale Village in Tarneit, Warralily Shopping Centre in Armstrong Creek and Ramlegh Springs Village in Clyde North.

Civil works for Precincts 2 and 3 at The Base are now underway, with completion estimated for mid-2024.