Work starts on Goldfields' $280m 88 Robertson tower in Fortitude Valley

What's happening

Construction is under way on 88 Robertson, a $280 million A-grade office tower in Fortitude Valley's James Street precinct. Developer Goldfields turned the first sod on 7 October 2026, with Central Ward councillor Vicki Howard officiating.

The project adds a significant new workplace to one of Brisbane's most sought-after lifestyle precincts. Goldfields plans to move its own Brisbane office into the building, signalling confidence in the location and in demand for high-quality, amenity-rich offices.

The key details

The tower was designed by COX Architecture and will be built by ULTRA Queensland. Goldfields describes it as a 16-storey building, while the council approval covers 18 storeys and 72.38 metres including ground and rooftop levels.

• Address: 88 Robertson Street, Fortitude Valley
• Value: $280 million
• Office space: about 17,000 m² (17,828 m² approved)
• Food and drink space: 825 m²
• Leasing agent: Aegis Property Group; no other tenants named yet

Timeline and next steps

Brisbane City Council approved the development on 19 December 2025, and site works have now started. Completion is targeted for the third quarter of 2028, so leasing activity is likely to build over the next two years.

Goldfields chief executive Lachlan Thompson said workplaces have "changed fundamentally", with businesses seeking more than floor space.

ULTRA managing director Adrian Sicari said the builder looks forward to delivering a design-led workplace. The start of works follows other recent Fortitude Valley activity, including a planned eight-storey office building beside St Patrick's Church, pointing to continued investor and occupier interest in this inner-city Brisbane precinct.

What it means for Gold Coast property owners and developers

New A-grade office supply in inner Brisbane matters for the wider South East Queensland economy. Quality jobs close to transport and amenity support housing demand across the region, including on the Gold Coast, where many residents commute or run businesses with Brisbane links.

For Gold Coast commercial owners and developers, the project is a useful benchmark: tenants are prioritising design, amenity and location, and developers who deliver those features are committing capital despite higher construction and finance costs. This is general commentary, not financial advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where is 88 Robertson?

It is at 88 Robertson Street, Fortitude Valley, in Brisbane's James Street precinct.

When will 88 Robertson be finished?

Completion is targeted for the third quarter of 2028, with ULTRA Queensland as builder.

How big is the building?

It will offer about 17,000 m² of office space and 825 m² of food and drink space, with council approval for 17,828 m² of office floor area.

Source: Brisbane Development, published 9 October 2026. This article is an independent summary and commentary by GC Prestige based on the original report — read the source for full details.