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One can't help but feel for the City of Melbourne and their plans for Arden-Macaulay. If ever there were a redevelopment zone which has been battered and bruised by the state government, it's <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/buildingandplanning/futuregrowth/structureplans/ardenmacaulay/Pages/ArdenMacaulayStructurePlan.aspx" target="_blank">Arden-Macaulay</a>. Like all development structure plans, they are dependent on the private sector playing their part and as the old adage goes, the private sector invariably wants certainty over anything else. With Arden-Macaulay there's very little if you look at the state of play with regards to public transport, the great enabler for any redevelopment zone.

A heavy focus of the <a href="http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/BuildingandPlanning/FutureGrowth/StructurePlans/ArdenMacaulay/Pages/Information.aspx" target="_blank">Arden-Macaulay structure plan</a> rests on the addition, post 2025, of a new Metro station at the end of present day Queensberry Street in North Melbourne. This station was proposed as part of the Melbourne Metro Tunnel project from the Bracks/Brumby era and still favoured by the current opposition ALP.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/arden_macaulay_metro1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Maps from the City of Melbourne Arden-Macaulay Structure Plan www.melbourne.vic.gov.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="597" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/arden_macaulay_metro1.jpg?itok=X9tk-0zC" title="Maps from the City of Melbourne Arden-Macaulay Structure Plan www.melbourne.vic.gov.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Maps from the City of Melbourne Arden-Macaulay Structure Plan www.melbourne.vic.gov.au</figcaption></figure>However as announced during the recent Victorian budget, the current government has walked away from the original Melbourne Metro tunnel project and stamped its own claim on new rail capacity in central Melbourne through the announcement of the Melbourne Rail Link project.

Making matters worse, <a href="/news/planning-minister-approves-eastern-section-of-east-west-link" target="_blank">the Planning Minister has waived through the section of the East-West Link</a> project which will see the footprint of CityLink expand across the Moonee Ponds creek, when the East-West Link planning assessment committee recommended deferral while other design options were reviewed. The CityLink barrier is going to get wider.

One could argue the region's public transport infrastructure is already conducive to supporting increased densities - especially around the existing train stations at North Melbourne, Macaulay and Flemington Bridge - however the political ping-pong that has become public transport planning in this state does not provide much certainty for anyone. New projects, frequencies and routes will help the region develop quicker and likewise improve the attractiveness for private investment.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/arden_macaulay_metro2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Maps from the City of Melbourne Arden-Macaulay Structure Plan www.melbourne.vic.gov.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="406" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/arden_macaulay_metro2.jpg?itok=TlKca4pQ" title="Maps from the City of Melbourne Arden-Macaulay Structure Plan www.melbourne.vic.gov.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Maps from the City of Melbourne Arden-Macaulay Structure Plan www.melbourne.vic.gov.au</figcaption></figure>If we take the state opposition's rhetoric on face value and should they win the Victorian election in November, the original Melbourne Metro Tunnel and Arden Central station would be built at some point in the future alongside their promise to grade separate 50 level crossings.

If the current government manages to hang on, despite recent polls painting a very dire and soul-searching picture, the significant rail capacity increase through the area will be borne out of the Sunbury line being diverted through the Melbourne Rail Link and frequencies are increased on the Upfield and Craigieburn lines.

While the Arden-Macaulay Structure Plan was adopted in February 2012, what this region and many other redevelopment zones in Melbourne need is a decisive victory at the state election.

And a decisive new or re-elected state government is required to lock in major transport project plans very early in the term so the work of the private sector, public and social housing and local government sectors can begin in earnest and focus on the principles in the structure plan: regenerating the public realm, creating a culturally and socially engaged community and creating local liveable neighbourhoods for people from a diverse and inclusive range of income levels.
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Alastair Taylor

Long live Arden-Macaulay?

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The Planning Minister has distributed a media release stating that he has approved the eastern section of the East West link with some conditions.

It appears the proposed Elliot Avenue Interchange located inside Royal Park has been rejected and will be replaced with an interchange further west at Flemington Road.

Opposition Planning spokesman, Brian Tee, originally <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/east-west-link-project-approved-with-royal-park-largely-spared-20140630-zsr4b" target="_blank">quoted in The Age</a> said "The process hasn't followed any logical path - it has been botched every step of the way. We don't have a business plan, we don't have traffic projections, and now we don't even have a finalised route". Similarly The Age report quotes a community group spokesperson whom called for the State Government to defer "signing contracts for the project until after an assessment of the revised design's full impact on Flemington Road".

Media release in full:

<a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/231902279/140630-Guy-Planning-Minister-Approves-the-East-West-Link" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View 140630 Guy - Planning Minister Approves the East West Link on Scribd">140630 Guy - Planning Minister Approves the East West Link</a> by <a href="http://www.scribd.com/tayser82" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View tayser82's profile on Scribd">tayser82</a>

<iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="0.7066666666666667" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_40288" scrolling="no" src="//www.scribd.com/embeds/231902279/content?start_page=1&amp;view_mode=scroll&amp;access_key=key-aLxDOLr4ir42wrlLQ1Vi&amp;show_recommendations=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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Planning Minister approves eastern section of East West Link

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Somewhat reminiscent of <a href="/tag/super-tuesday" target="_blank">Super Tuesday</a> back in February, the Planning Minister, Matthew Guy, has approved another chunk of 2,000 apartments across three skyscrapers; however this time the total value weighs in at $830 million.

Australia 108 at 319 metres, 452 Elizabeth Street at 241 metres and 84-90 Queensbridge Street at 185 metres are now all approved.

Australia 108, originally proposed with a height of 388 metres and subsequently reduced owing to Federal aviation regulations, will have a jaw-dropping amount of apartments split across 1, 2 and 3 bed configurations - 1,105! A spokesperson for the Planning Minister confirmed to Apartments.com.au that the height of Australia 108 is at the ceiling for <a href="/news/flight-paths-and-tall-buildings-in-melbourne-explained" target="_blank">PANS-OPS</a> in that region of Southbank.

Australia 108 will be the city's first super-tall placing Melbourne in an elite global club of skyscraper cities. A 'super-tall' is <a href="http://www.ctbuh.org/TallBuildings/HeightStatistics/Criteria/tabid/446/language/en-US/Default.aspx" target="_blank">classified</a> as a building over 300 metres in height.

<a href="/architects/fraser-partners-0" target="_blank">Elenberg Fraser</a>-designed 452 Elizabeth Street joins a long line of approvals for Elizabeth Street in the CBD annex between La Trobe and Victoria Streets. <a href="/architects/rothelowman" target="_blank">Rothe </a><a href="http://www.rothelowman.com.au/" target="_blank">Lowman</a>-designed 84-90 Queensbridge Street is located on the corner of Kings Way and Queensbridge Street in Southbank and will yield 295 apartments.

Update 5:00pm 26/6/14: The Fifth Estate have published an interview with Australia 108's architect Nonda Katsalidis - <a href="http://www.thefifthestate.com.au/archives/63959/" target="_blank">we recommend having a read</a>.

Update 8:00am 27/6/14: Mark Baljak has <a href="https://urbanmelbourne.info/opinion/2014/06/27/70-southbank-boulevard-be-thy-name-for-now" target="_blank">written a follow up on 70 Southbank Boulevard</a>, formerly known as Australia 108.

Media release in full:

<p style="margin: 12px auto 6px auto; font-family: Helvetica,Arial,Sans-serif; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; font-size: 14px; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal; -x-system-font: none; display: block;"><a href="http://www.scribd.com/doc/231329504/140626-Guy-Melbourne-s-Ever-Changing-Skyline-Climbs-Further-Upwards-Media-Release" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View 140626 Guy - Melbourne's Ever Changing Skyline Climbs Further Upwards - (Media Release) on Scribd">140626 Guy - Melbourne's Ever Changing Skyline Climbs Further Upwards - (Media Release)</a>

<iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" data-aspect-ratio="undefined" data-auto-height="false" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_74733" scrolling="no" src="//www.scribd.com/embeds/231329504/content?start_page=1&amp;view_mode=scroll&amp;show_recommendations=true" width="100%"></iframe>
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Australia 108, 452 Elizabeth Street and 84-90 Queensbridge Street gain Ministerial approval

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The Sydney Morning Herald <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/melbourne-train-operator-metro-to-run-sydneys-northwest-rail-link-20140624-zsjyr" target="_blank">reported yesterday</a> that the Baird Government in New South Wales has selected <a href="http://www.metrotrains.com.au/who-we-are/" target="_blank">Metro Trains Melbourne</a> - the consortium made up of MTR Corporation, John Holland and UGL which operates and maintains the entire Melbourne metropolitan network - to operate the <a href="http://nwrail.transport.nsw.gov.au/" target="_blank">North West Rail Link</a>.

The North West Rail Link project consists of twin 15 kilometre tunnels and four kilometres of elevated track from Epping on the city's main northern trainline to Sydney's North West outskirts at Rouse Hill. The project in a way winds back the clock for Sydney (albeit not necessarily in a bad way), as the new tunnels will only cater for single deck trains, and the Chatswood-Epping link will be retrofitted to allow North West Rail Link trains to run all the way from Rouse Hill to Chatswood.

Trains running on the new line and through the retrofitted Chatswood-Epping corridor will be fully automated being centrally controlled with no train drivers. This will be a first for Australia.

The New South Wales Government also outlined plans to <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/planned-new-rail-line-would-cut-direct-trains-from-inner-west-to-redfern-sydney-university-20140624-zsjnd" target="_blank">convert the existing Bankstown line</a> and build a <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/nsw-electricity-sale-to-pay-for-new-harbour-crossing-rail-roads-20140610-39uyu" target="_blank">second Sydney Harbour crossing</a> to allow the new North West Link to form a part of a complete rapid transit line.

The ultimate goal of having one long rapid transit line from Sydney's North West through the Central Business District and out to South West is very similar to the goal in Melbourne, of running Pakenham and Cranbourne trains in the South East through the Melbourne Rail Link to Sunbury (and when electrified) Melton. And as various documentation released by the Victorian Government and Public Transport Victoria has alluded to, the new high-capacity signalling system - to be rolled out as part of the <a href="http://www.transport.vic.gov.au/projects/cranbourne-pakenham-rail-corridor-project" target="_blank">Dandenong corridor project</a> - will be a precursor to allowing Melbourne trains to head down the automated path as well.

Given the same consortium will be building both the North West Rail Link and the Dandenong Corridor project in and around the same timeframes, it will be interesting to see how much of the same technology will be applied in both cities.

Lead image credit: <a href="http://nwrail.transport.nsw.gov.au/The-Project/Project-Overview" target="_blank">nwrail.transport.nsw.gov.au</a>
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Metro Trains Melbourne to operate Sydney's North West Rail Link

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Over the July school holidays major works are to be carried out in order to finalise the Sunshine to Southern Cross section of the <a href="http://www.regionalraillink.vic.gov.au/" target="_blank">Regional Rail Link</a> project. Bendigo and Ballarat <a href="http://www.regionalraillink.vic.gov.au/news/june2014" target="_blank">train services will be replaced by coaches between Saturday 28th June and Tuesday July 15th</a> in order to allow the Regional Rail Link authority and its contractors to complete track and signal installation.

The shutdown period is also set to include testing and commissioning works between North Melbourne and Southern Cross, driver familiarisation trips and noise barrier installation in West Melbourne.

Once the shutdown period has ended, Bendigo and Ballarat V/Line services will then begin to use the new track that has been under construction for the past few years between Sunshine and Southern Cross, marking the first segregation of Metro and V/Line rail traffic inside metropolitan Melbourne.

Bendigo and Ballarat trains will also start to utilise the new platform infrastructure at Footscray and Sunshine stations and the rebuilt North Melbourne flyover will also see V/Line trains cross Metro services to enter regional platforms at Southern Cross unhindered.

A spokesman for the Regional Rail Link commented the greenfields section between West Werribee and Deer Park is scheduled, weather and other construction-related risk permitting, to be complete by the end of the year with Geelong services using the new track in early 2015.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/IMG_8106.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Works on the new signalling infrastructure at Sunshine in January 2014 - Image credit www.regionalraillink.vic.gov.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/IMG_8106.jpg?itok=mQEW_YGv" style="height:387px; width:580px" title="Works on the new signaling infrastructure at Sunshine in January 2014 - Image credit www.regionalraillink.vic.gov.au"></a>
<figcaption>Works on the new signalling infrastructure at Sunshine in January 2014 - Image credit <a href="http://www.regionalraillink.vic.gov.au/news/images?result_92818_result_page=2" target="_blank">www.regionalraillink.vic.gov.au</a></figcaption></figure><h2>Comment</h2>

While the benefit likely to kick in after the July shutdown is limited to a mainly modest operational one, within 6 to 12 months construction, testing and driver familiarisation will be complete on the entire project and PTV will have rolled out its new V/Line and Metro timetable. As the project name itself suggests, the biggest beneficiary for the Regional Rail Link is the regional passengers travelling beyond metro's footprint and traveling inter-city but it is the metro side which will have the greatest impact on reducing congestion and driving new development investment into Melbourne's West.

One on hand, Werribee and Williamstown line commuters are likely to benefit the most early next year as all Geelong trains are to be diverted via the new track opening up the existing corridor to increased capacity. One thing to watch around the time the new timetables take effect in 2015 (and thereafter) is whether or not planning application activity throughout the rail corridors in Maribyrnong, Hobsons Bay and Wyndham sees an uptick.

By early 2015, increased levels of service on the Werribee and Williamstown lines will arrive conveniently after the new planning zones are bedded down; more mass transport capacity and planning certainty is a match made in heaven for increasing densities. This, of course, does hinge on whether PTV actually do increase services over what currently operates - caveat emptor!

Yet on the other hand it's telling the largest rail project in living memory is coming to its conclusion and thanks to a balance transport policy mentality in a extremely unbalanced transport modal share situation we have in Melbourne(1), we are realistically another 10 years away(2) from seeing the full benefits on the Metro side for those who live or plan to invest along the Sunbury line.

Footscray wins no matter which way you look at it: increasing levels of service on the Werribee and Williamstown line will enhance the attractiveness to increase development investment. But Brimbank, which has <a href="https://stratus.pbondemand.com.au/connect/brimbank/?mapcfg=NewResidentialZones" target="_blank">liberally deployed the Residential Growth Zone and General Residential Zone around Sunshine, St. Albans and Watergardens</a>, has a less bright - more delayed - urban development future hanging over it.

The three North and North Western lines - Sunbury (9), Craigieburn (9) and Upfield (3 services in the afternoon peak) - are not far off maxing out the capacity in the loop tunnel they currently use and unless one is removed from the loop there's likely to be little uplift in Metro services under the status quo.

The question: Why weren't the Melbourne Metro (now Melbourne Rail Link) plans finalised in the first or second year of the current Government - and funding prioritised so construction could start sooner - utilising the labour deployed on the Regional Rail Link as the project wound down?

There are many answers, some more cynical than others, feel free to leave yours in the comments section below.

(1) I'm referring to the anti-urban East-West link and the amount of funds it will suck from the infrastructure purse over the next decade.

(2) When the Melbourne Rail Link, or who knows which next iteration, is complete and operating.

Lead image credit: www.regionalraillink.vic.gov.au
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It begins - Regional Rail Link benefits start to flow in July

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Open House Melbourne is upon us once again with the organisers of the July 26th and 27th event announcing the building list recently. Among the <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings" target="_blank">list of buildings</a> are some familiar favourites as well as buildings throwing open their doors for the first time and also brand new recently completed and occupied buildings.

Among the new buildings this year are <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/government-house" target="_blank">Government House</a>. Open only the the Saturday, there will be guided tours of the State Apartments between the reduced hours of 10am and 3pm. On the other side of St. Kilda Road, <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/vic-barracks" target="_blank">Victoria Barracks</a> will be open on both Saturday and Sunday, however the guided tours will be limited to 30 people at 10am and 1pm only.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/government_house_chris_phutully_flickr_cc_by_sa_20.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Government House, source: flick, CC-BY-SA 2.0"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/government_house_chris_phutully_flickr_cc_by_sa_20.jpg?itok=c3H9VALV" style="height:386px; width:580px" title="Government House, source: flickr, CC-BY-SA 2.0"></a>

<figcaption>Government House, source: <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.flickr.com/photos/72562013@N06/8416406044" target="_blank">flickr</a>, CC BY-SA 2.0</figcaption></figure>Happily, one of the buildings which at the time we asked "<a href="/news/is-this-melbournes-best-new-residential-development" target="_blank">Is this Melbourne's best new development?</a>" is also flinging its doors open. The Commons in Brunswick will have guided tours of 15 people every 15 minutes where, <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/commons-the" target="_blank">according to the OHM profile</a>, visitors will be exposed to many of the building's elements.

<a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/coops-shot-tower-and-museum" target="_blank">The Coops shot tower and museum</a> will be open for self-guided tours on both Saturday and Sunday and 41 Exhibition Street, housing the <a href="http://www.architecture.com.au/" target="_blank">Australian Institute of Architects</a>, will be open as well. <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/41x" target="_blank">41 Exhibition Street</a> will have guided 15 person tours, two in the morning and two in the afternoon each day taking in the rooftop, levels 21 and 1 through 5 as well as the <a href="http://www.architext.com.au/" target="_blank">Architext</a> Bookshop. 41 Exhibition Street was one tower<a href="/news"> we had a very close eye on during construction</a>.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/Img_9326.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="41 Exhibition Street, picture © Mark Baljak"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Img_9326.jpg?itok=4My48aa7" style="height:387px; width:580px" title="41 Exhibition Street, picture © Mark Baljak"></a>

<figcaption>41 Exhibiton Street, image credit: Mark Baljak.</figcaption></figure>Among the other new buildings this year are the <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/collingwood-masonic-centre" target="_blank">Collingwood Masonic Centre</a>, the <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/australian-catholic-university" target="_blank">Australian Catholic University</a> and <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/circus-oz-hq" target="_blank">Circus Oz HQ</a>.

NAB's new <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/nab-headquarters-700" target="_blank">700 Bourke Street building</a> is also open allowing visitors to mill around the concourse level and guided tours (which require photo ID) will lead visitors through NAB's new activity-based workplaces as well as visit the rooftop garden.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/NABDocklands6_woods_bagot.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="NAB 700 Bourke Street, image © Woods Bagot"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/NABDocklands6_woods_bagot.jpg?itok=GEKXy7QU" style="height:387px; width:580px" title="NAB 700 Bourke Street, image © Woods Bagot"></a>

<figcaption>NAB 700 Bourke Street, image © <a href="http://www.woodsbagot.com/project/national-australia-bank-docklands" target="_blank">Woods Bagot</a>.</figcaption></figure>The recently redeveloped <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/argus-building" target="_blank">Argus Building</a> will be open to tours, however it will be by ballot only (opening on July 1).  Interestingly this year <a href="http://www.openhousemelbourne.org/buildings/port-of-melbourne-boat-tours" target="_blank">Port of Melbourne will have boat tours</a> with guided commentary by Port of Melbourne staff as the boats pass through the Coode Canal, Victoria, Appleton and Swanson Docks.

Do you have any recommendations?  Post it in the comments section below.
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Open House Melbourne building list announced

The Planning Minister has announced the approval of 1000 units in five towers in two separate towers - both projects having been profiled on Apartments.com.au previously.

Apartments.com.au first profiled 2 Hopkins Street <a href="/news">on the forum</a> in May last year with images taken from the original planning application lodged with Maribyrnong City Council. 2 Hopkins Street consists of 751 apartment split across four towers ranging in height from 16 to 28 levels.

57 Haig Street Southbank was similarly profiled originally <a href="/news">on the forum</a> and then in <a href="/news/57-haig-street-unveiled" target="_blank">this piece</a> at the end of April last year. 57 Haig Street will have 249 apartments over 38 levels and is nestled between Clarendon Street and the West Gate Freeway in Southbank.

Of great interest is the scale of the 2 Hopkins Street project. Slowly but surely nodes outside the traditional core of Melbourne are building their own medium and high-density development momentum. Where South Yarra was the poster child (and still arguably is one of them) for non-CBD high-density development, Footscray is increasingly asserting itself.

For a map and list of all the projects Apartments.com.au is tracking in Footscray, <a href="/developments/footscray-vic-3011">click here</a>.

<h2>Full media release</h2>

<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.scribd.com/doc/227747599" style="text-decoration: underline;" title="View Five Towers and 1,000 Units Approved in Central Melbourne on Scribd">Five Towers and 1,000 Units Approved in Central Melbourne</a>

<iframe class="scribd_iframe_embed" frameborder="0" height="600" id="doc_94405" scrolling="no" src="//www.scribd.com/embeds/227747599/content?start_page=1&amp;view_mode=scroll&amp;show_recommendations=true" width="100%"></iframe>

2 Hopkins Street Footscray and 57 Haig Street Southbank approved

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PrefabAUS, the peak body for Australia's off-site construction industry, has announced the dates for its inaugural conference. To be held at Rydges Swanston Street on the 11th through to 13th of August, the 150 delegate event will feature an influential line-up of national and international speakers and cover all approaches to off-site construction, from commercial to residential and across all key infrastructure sectors including health and education.

Writing in a newsletter sent out to subscribers, PrefabAUS CEO Sarah Backhouse says "as the off-site construction sector begins to expand rapidly, this Conference is timed to bring together key representatives from all related areas for the first time; from architecture, engineering, manufacturing, material supply, property development and construction, universities, government agencies and client representatives".

List of speakers:

<ul>
<li>
<a href="http://www.findanexpert.unimelb.edu.au/display/person617608" target="_blank">Dr Masa Noguchi</a>, ZEMCH and The University of Melbourne</li>
	<li>
Steve Hayden, ACT Government</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.prefabnz.com/About/People/" target="_blank">Pamela Bell</a>, CEO of PrefabNZ</li>
	<li>
Associate Professor Haeyoon Yoo, Seongsil University, South Korea</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://www.architectureanddesign.com.au/comment/in-profile-tai-hollingsbee-from-ghd" target="_blank">Tai Hollingsbee</a>, Sustainability and Performative Design Group at GHD, Australia</li>
	<li>
<a href="http://constructionedge.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/bio.pdf" target="_blank">David Chandler</a>, Construction Edge</li>
	<li>
Damian Moloney, <a href="http://www.themoloneygroup.com/" target="_blank">The Moloney Group</a>
</li>
	<li>
<a href="https://humanities.curtin.edu.au/about/humstaff/research.cfm/P.Newman" target="_blank">Professor Peter Newman</a>, Curtin University</li>
	<li>
Mark Albert, <a href="http://www.mtmauto.com/history" target="_blank">MtM</a> and Linsey Siede, <a href="http://www.asea.net.au/" target="_blank">Automotive Supplier Excellence Australia</a>
</li>
	<li>more speakers will be confirmed in the coming weeks.</li>
</ul>
On the afternoon of Monday August 11th, optional factory tours and project visits will be offered. Tuesday August 12th the Conference gets underway in full swing from 9am to 5:30pm with a drinks and networking session from 6pm. At 7:30am on Wednesday 13th, the PrefabAUS Annual General Meeting will be held and open for members to attend and then the final session of the conference will be held from 9am to 3pm.

<a href="http://www.prefabaus.org.au/join-prefab/" target="_blank">PrefabAUS members</a> are offered a generously discounted rate to attend the conference with early bird rates set at $600 and from June 16th the full rate of $800 kicks in.

Non-member rates start at $1,400 and from June 16th the full rate of $1,600 applies.

Interested parties who would like to participate in the conference are invited to contact PrefabAUS CEO Sarah Backhouse: <a href="mailto:sarah@prefabaus.org.au">sarah@prefabaus.org.au</a>.

PrefabAUS is a member of the Apartments.com.au Industry Hub.
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PrefabAUS announces inaugural conference dates

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Chances are that 25% of everyone who reads this article will belong to or take an active part in what we deem to be a part of the Urban Industry - property developers, architects, planners, engineers, development managers, financiers, analysts and creatives.

Today we are launching a new section of Apartments.com.au where we aim to concentrate industry focused news, analysis and opinion as well as allow interested organisations to carve out their own little corner of Apartments.com.au.

The best analogy to use when describing the Industry Hub is a highly-targeted Yellow Pages-like directory for the Urban Industry... with a modern twist. The Industry Hub member pages themselves are what you'd expect in a directory: a chance to showcase product and service offerings while facilitating lines of contact for new business enquiries. In addition Apartments.com.au staff also build a portfolio of projects each member organisation has worked on, leveraging off the Apartments.com.au Project Database. Third-party advertising is suspended on all member pages - only Apartments.com.au house ads will run.

Since March 9th 2013, the day Apartments.com.au launched, the site's motto has been "enhancing community and development industry interaction for the mutual benefit of a future urban Melbourne." Quite simply we aim to accelerate interaction by deploying platforms such as the Industry Hub. Melbourne is a knowledge-focused, innovative city and knowledge is always enhanced by the concentration of people and their ideas - the Industry Hub will be no different.

After an expression of interest has been received, new members will get a friendly "hello" call from myself and one of the first questions I'll be asking is how new member organisations may be able to contribute to ongoing discussion on Apartments.com.au in a wide variety of forms.

Put simply we're targeting any organisation - small, medium or large - who operates within the Urban Industry - our sign up form lists the different categories. With the end of financial year approaching, the Apartments.com.au Industry Hub is a perfect opportunity to lock in low-cost brand awareness advertising for the next financial year.

<h2>Our goals</h2>

Apartments.com.au is still, despite our continued growth and unique audience profile, very much in a start up phase and we need financial support to help us expand our capabilities. We will always focus on Melbourne's built future through doing what we have always done - collating and analysing new development information as well as report and opine on areas such as Transport, Planning and Policy. However we also wish to provide a platform for more concentrated content for our biggest audience segment.

The financial support Industry Hub members provide will also go a long way to help us expanding content areas such as Melbourne Life - after all, what's the point of building more urbanism in Melbourne if we don't hear about the experiences, ideas and opinions from the people who live in it?

Oh, and... Urban Sydney, you're next.

<h2>The details</h2>

Like the Yellow Pages, a fee is charged to place a classified. The Industry Hub has a simple base annual fee (prices exclude GST) and is tiered as follows:

<ul>
<li>Small businesses with under 10 employees: $350</li>
	<li>Medium-sized organisations with between 11 and 50 employees: $750</li>
	<li>Large businesses with over 51 employees: $1500</li>
</ul>
* The number of employees is based on the nationwide headcount (FTE and contractors) of your organisation.

All new members are required to fill out the sign up form.

After receiving the sign up form, I'll endeavour to contact you on the phone as soon as possible to discuss requirements and then I'll follow up with sending a Media Buying Authorisation (MBA) which will outline the annual fee and any other fee(s) associated with optional promotional features (refer to <a href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/article-images/UM_Rate%20Card_Industry%20Hub_May14.pdf" target="_blank">rate card</a>) you have elected to purchase.

The MBA includes a content specification and checklist for the Industry page and we ask that you sign, scan and return the first page of the MBA along with your Industry Hub page content. Invoices are generated on the date your Industry Hub page is published and payable within 7 days.

<h2>A thanks and shout out to our launch members</h2>

Thank you to all the people who have filled out the Effective Measure audience surveys which pop up in the bottom right corner of the screen - the information we have been provided with through the surveys has been invaluable and I wouldn't be writing this article had it not been for them. If you haven't filled out an audience survey before, please do - the anonymous information we receive is closely linked with our content and expansion plans.

Check out our launch members! They're all listed below (and this is an opportune time to point out that any Industry Hub member mentioned in an article will have their Industry Hub page link appear at the end of an article).

Special thanks go to Mark Wizel and the CBRE City Sales team who have elected to take out one of the four exclusive Gold Sponsorship packages we offer as part of the Industry Hub - the support they and all Industry Hub members provide is greatly appreciated.
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The Urban.com.au Industry Hub is born

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A rare opportunity for the general public to have a 'touch and feel' session at one of Habitech Systems recently completed projects is presenting itself tomorrow.
Where the word 'prefabrication' conjures up images of temporary 1960s school buildings, the word in the 21st century realistically equates to architectural and construction innovation.
Sometimes innovation and prefabricated technologies are a bit unknown to the general public and this is the perfect opportunity to experience it in a real dwelling.
Quoting <a href="http://www.habitechsystems.com.au/about/" target="_blank">Habitech Systems</a> about page, Habitech have developed <q>a system of high-quality manufactured building components that are delivered to site in a flack-pack format which fit together to get a house to lock-up stage in weeks, not months</q>.
<img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="343" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/why-habitech1.jpg?itok=zAi0S78W" title="Image source: http://www.habitechsystems.com.au/why-habitech/" width="580">
<a href="http://www.habitechsystems.com.au/port-melbourne-open-day" target="_blank">The Port Melbourne House open day</a> will run from 10am to 4pm on Saturday 31st May at 388 Graham Street, Port Melbourne.
Lead image credit: <a href="http://www.habitechsystems.com.au/port-melbourne-house/" target="_blank">Habitech Systems</a>.
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Habitech Systems Port Melbourne Open Day 

Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tsioMLcnjas?si=zq-ys3JuWpfa5hFv" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Alastair Taylor

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