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GUEST OBSERVATION
Until now, student debt in Australia has been relatively modest, with low repayment rates, low indexation and high repayment thresholds. This won’t be the case if the government proceeds with changes mooted in the recent budget, including higher fees and higher interest on debts. Australia will move to a student debt model similar to the US, so this is a good place to look at the effects that large levels of debt have on young graduates.
<a href="https://www.demos.org/what-cost-how-student-debt-reduces-lifetime-wealth" target="_blank">Much recent research</a> from the United States shows that student debt is having profound and negative effects, both at the individual and at the national level.
Graduates living with debt
Purdue University is a public university in South Bend, Indiana. President Mitch Daniels commissioned a large, evidence-based study of the impact of student debt on university graduates. <a href="https://www.gallup.com/strategicconsulting/168791/gallup-purdue-index-inaugural-national-report.aspx">The results</a>, based on a survey of 30,000 graduates, were recently released.
The <a href="https://www.nuvo.net/indianapolis/purdues-mitch-daniels-talks-college-costs/Content?oid=2837651#.U4KfSPmSyPY" target="_blank">findings of the study</a> are sobering, on two fronts.
First, student debts weigh heavily on students’ later wellbeing. Wellbeing was measured along five dimensions: life purpose, social engagement, community engagement, financial satisfaction and physical health. Graduates without student debt were seven times more likely to report themselves to be “thriving” along all of these dimensions than graduates (or indeed dropouts) with more than $40,000 in debt.
This finding tends to confirm the results of a <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0272735813001256">major meta-analysis</a> of evidence from the United States, the United Kingdom and New Zealand. The findings suggest that higher levels of debt while a student are significant predictors of stress and secondary negative health consequences. This study also points to other evidence of serious consequences more generally. Higher levels of debt have serious long-term consequences, including mental, neurotic or psychotic disorders, depression, suicide attempts (or suicide completion), problem drinking and drug dependence.
Secondly, large debt burdens influence choices related to work, careers and lives. Graduates with higher debts are less likely to be entrepreneurial and start new businesses. This is to be expected, as student debt repayments tend to constrain the capacity to borrow for other productive purposes.
In the robust free-market economy of the US, such entrepreneurial timidity among the best and brightest is a source of real and valid concern for policy makers.
Other <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0047272710001337" target="_blank">recent research</a> has shown that students with higher debts tend to pursue higher-paying careers, not pursuing “public interest” jobs in areas like teaching and community services. Over time, this means that public institutions like schools will have to pay higher wages to attract the best and brightest, indirectly shifting some of the cost of student debt back to the taxpayer in the form of higher public sector salaries.
Large student debts <a href="https://www.learnvest.com/2012/10/real-women-speak-out-how-student-loans-have-affected-me/" target="_blank">have also been shown</a> to lead to delays in home purchases and having children.
Debt ain’t free
Shifting more of the burden for higher education back on to students, and saddling them with huge debts, may seem like a good idea for policy makers, but it will have serious long-term consequences for those students and thus the wider Australian community.
In the United States, the average student graduated with around $30,000 of student debt in 2013. Currently, Australian graduates of three-year business degrees have debt of a similar level.
If the proposed changes lead to higher fees, <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-much-student-debt-will-you-be-facing-post-budget-26712" target="_blank">as most analysts expect</a>, it would be reasonable to anticipate the graduates of 2018 completing their three-year degrees with debt of around $50,000.
It would be naïve to think debts of this level won’t have far-reaching consequences for graduates’ well-being and the work and economic choices they make in their lives. These choices will have serious consequences for our economy and society.
John Rice is associate professor in strategic management at Griffith University.
John Rice works for Griffith University, a public university. His most recent previous role was Chief Researcher at the National Centre for Vocational Education Research, a ministerial company owned by the Commonwealth and State education ministers. He has received grant funding from the Australian Research Council. He is a current member of the Australian Labor Party and the National Tertiary Education Union.
This article was originally published on <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>.
Photo courtesy of <a href="https://taxrebate.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" data-rapid_p="22">TaxRebate.org.uk</a> / <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0/" target="_blank">Creative Commons</a>.
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How will rising student debt affect first home buyers?

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GUEST OBSERVATION
When I speak to someone looking to buy an off the plan property, one of my first questions is usually “investor or first-time buyer?”
Recently it was claimed that there is currently a ‘property war’ between first time home buyers and investors, each one vying for in-demand properties throughout Australia. If there is a property war, then the investors are winning. They have more experience, better credit, and in most cases, the confidence to act quickly.
Last year saw a lot of first time buyers forced out of the market due to high property prices and excessive demand. The proportion of first home buyers of all owner-occupied loans financed in January increased .5% from December. Although this is a good development for buyers and the market, this stat is still five times less than investment loans financed. But for those intimidated by the investor presence, first time buyers can easily move into top quality properties.
One of the priority issues for first time buyers is location. Most buyers are looking for something close to the city and close to work, which is where the investors begin driving competition. Smart investors will recognise these areas as the key hotspots and are also looking in these areas. But there are brand new developments in Surry Hills, Rosebery and Alexandria that pose fantastic opportunities for those looking to take a step into the market.
Most inexperienced buyers don’t realise how cost effective off the plan purchases are. Many assume that because it is a new development it is going to cost them more. But seeing as many off the plan purchases occur months ahead of moving in, they afford you the time to save a larger deposit and allow you to qualify for the First Home Owners Grant if applicable.
Off the plan purchases represent some of the best opportunities for first time buyers to not only move out of home, but to move into the market as investors. Now more than ever, buyers are taking the opportunity to buy a new apartment and rent it out to pay off their mortgage faster. With the large number of young professionals looking for homes and willing to pay higher prices for better locations, the potential for return off a purchase can be significant.  
Sam Elbanna is managing director of <a href="https://www.cpmrealty.com.au/" target="_blank">CPM Realty</a>.
 
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Not according to ‘the plan’: First home buyers missing out on off the plan opportunities

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The Australian residential property market has recently been showing signs of improvement.
Investors and changeover buyers are being drawn back to the market following interest rate cuts and the positive outlook for housing.
Unfortunately, first-home buyers are missing out on the favourable environment due to  a number of reasons – stamp duty, the size of deposit required and ability to save for it, unemployment and underemployment concerns.
Recent changes to the first-home owner grant in all states and territories (except for Western Australia and the Northern Territory) have added to the uncertainty and impacted on the activity of first-home buyers in the market.
As part of the inter-governmental agreement (IGA) on the reform of Commonwealth/States financial relations signed in June 1999, all states and territories agreed to provide uniform financial assistance to Australians who are buying their new or established first-home through the introduction of the first-home Owner Grant.
According to the recently released QBE Lenders’ Mortgage Insurance’s (QBE LMI) 2013 Mortgage Barometer Report, 84% of first-home buyers believe property prices are close to reaching or are above what they can afford and 69% worry they will neverbe able to afford their own home (compared to 24% of all respondents).
Unfortunately, governments of most states and territories have made it much harder for first-home buyers to see their dreams realised. Table 1 (below) shows recent changes to the first-home owner grant.
<img alt="hawthornejuly25table1" height="328" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/07/hawthornejuly25table1.jpg" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
As a result of the new policies, the Australian Bureau of Statistics’ figures for March 2013 show that first-home buyers are becoming an endangered species. 
Figure 1 (below) shows that in Australia, only14.2% of owner-occupier housing finance commitments in March were from first-home buyers – the lowest level seen since May 2004.
<img alt="hawthornechart2" height="226" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/07/hawthornechart2.jpg">
Housing finance figures for April show that in New South Wales and Queensland (both below), where the grant ended in Octobe rlast year, first-home buyers made uponly 7.3% and 10.3% of the owner occupier market respectively with both states significantly decreasing their share in the total number of first-home buyers in Australia.
<img alt="hawthornechart3" height="212" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/07/hawthornechart3.jpg">
<img alt="hawthornechart4" height="203" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/07/hawthornechart4.jpg">
Two out of three first-home buyers in NSW and Queensland surveyed by the QBE LMI’s indicated the new policies made an impact on their purchase intentions.
With new arrangements aiming to stimulate building activity, it is too early to expect substantial positive results on the industry. REIA has been lobbying hard against the breach o fthe IGA, however we are still to hear what the Commonwealth will do.
Evgeniya Hawthorne is Research Officer for the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.reia.com.au/">Real Estate Institute of Australia</a>.
 
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First-home buyers left out as residential market improves: Evgeniya Hawthorne

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Property investing is a game of numerical knowledge.
Clued-up investors know that it’s not just about the headline median price, clearance rates and prestige sale figures. Yields, vacancy rates and employment figures can be just as important.
Some numbers are more equal than others. Here are seven of the standout figures that you should stick to the back of your brain this week:
<ol>
<li>
1.2% Sydney’s price gains managed to drag the national result up as the latest Australian Property Monitors PriceFinder data revealed that <a href="/expert-insights/buying/sydney-strength-drags-along-slowing-house-prices-apm">national price growth had risen by 1.2%</a> for the September quarter. It was the slowest national growth figure recorded since March 2013. Brisbane was perhaps the most surprising result, with its median price falling 1.3% over the quarter. 
</li>
<li>
4% Infrastructure is often pointed to as one of the keys to future price growth. But just how big an effect does it really have. Researchers from Griffith University studied the effect of Brisbane’s introduction of ferries nearly 20 years ago and found that on average <a href="/news/qld/how-the-introduction-of-brisbanes-ferries-affected-property-prices">properties one kilometre closer to the ferry terminal increased by an average of 4%</a> more than those further away. In fact academic Barbara Yen said that: “A one hundred metre decrease in the distance to the ferry stop would increase property values by between 4.9% and 13.1%.” 
</li>
<li>
-8.5% The Sydney market has boomed over the past couple of years, but not every region has benefited. SQM Research’s Louis Christopher dug down into <a href="/news/nsw/not-all-sydney-areas-are-booming-the-citys-three-worst-performing-regions">the three areas which have underformed</a>. Among them the affluent Lower North Shore which has actually seen prices fall by 8.5% over the past three years. 
</li>
<li>
274 Brisbane has a new contender for the crown of the city’s tallest tower. <a href="/expert-insights/buying/brisbane-skytower-joins-race-to-be-the-citys-highest-residential-tower">Brisbane Skytower will reach the city maximum height of 274 metres</a>, potentially equalling Shayher Group’s proposed 82-storey residential tower on 300 George Street. 
</li>
<li>
11 Melbourne’s median house price has stabilised over the previous quarter, but <a href="https://propertyobserver.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=24bd0766a834290948593f5aa&amp;id=e48e5e6ff4&amp;e=035e81ff9a" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">price growth in 11 suburbs stood out</a>, according to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria. 
</li>
<li>
104 Melbourne City Council has secured the $76 million purchase of a 6,462 square metre property site opposite the Queen Victoria Market <a href="/expert-insights/investing/queen-victoria-market-precinct-site-sells-to-melbourne-city-council-after-104-year-wait">after a 104 year wait</a>. The council managed to fight off competition from $80 million offshore buyers to secure the prime redevelopment site. 
</li>
<li>
1,641 Melbourne is gearing up for its<a href="/expert-insights/buying/all-time-record-number-of-auctions-rp-datas-melbourne-weekend-preview"> biggest auction weekend ever</a>. RP Data figures show 1,641 auctions are scheduled for the forthcoming pre-Melbourne Cup weekend, breaking the 1,619 auction record set on the same days last year.
</li>
</ol>
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The top property investment numbers of the week

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<ul>
<li>$18,000 per square metre</li>
</ul>
A one bedroom Potts Point bolthole (pictured below) <a href="/expert-insights/buying/the-38-square-metre-potts-point-sydney-unit-that-fetched-684-000">38 square metre offering sold for $684,000</a> at auction last weekend.
That works out as $18,000 per square metre.
 <img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/10/potts-point-oct-24/potts%20point_0002_3.jpg.jpg">
<ul>
<li>$50,000</li>
</ul>
The 460 square metre, three level penthouse atop the Tony Owen-designed Eliza building (pictured below) comes with a <a href="/expert-insights/buying/the-15-million-eliza-penthouse-has-a-50-000-fridge">pretty hefty price tag of $15 million</a>. 
For that, the four bedroom, six bathroom apartment includes a private lobby, an internal passenger lift, 13.5-metre frontage overlooking the park and ... a $50,000 fridge.
<img src="/images/2014/10/29/eliza-oct-29-two.jpg"> 
<ul>
<li>44%</li>
</ul>
Westpac is the most exposed of the 'Big Four' to investor lending, with new research indicating <a href="/expert-insights/finance/westpac-most-exposed-to-property-investor-mortgage-market">44% of its mortgage book belongs to this market</a>.
Macquarie Group research concluded macroprudential policy could result in a 1% fall in big bank earnings.
 
<ul>
<li>Seven out of 10</li>
</ul>
It was a record breaking auction week in Victoria in the lead up to the Melbourne Cup long weekend and <a href="/expert-insights/buying/victorian-prestige-homes-dominate-rp-datas-top-10-sales-of-the-week">seven of the top 10 sales across the country were in the state</a>, according to RP Data.
Among them was the Canterbury trophy home Tavistock (pictured below). The house was designed by Ussher and Kemp, the prolific Federation era Melbourne architects who made their mark throughout Melbourne's eastern suburbs.
 <img src="/images/2014/10/28/camberwell-oct-28-breakout.jpg" alt="Victorian prestige homes dominate RP Data's top 10 sales of the week">
<ul>
<li>$5 million</li>
</ul>
But the honour of the priciest sale of the week belonged to a three bedroom Darlinghurst apartment (pictured below). 
The north-east corner apartment on the 16th floor of the Residence secured <a href="/expert-insights/buying/darlinghurst-apartment-sells-prior-to-auction-for-5-million">$5 million prior to auction</a>.
<img src="/images/2014/10/27/darlinghurst_0000_1.jpg.jpg" alt="Darlinghurst apartment sells prior to auction for $5 million">
<ul>
<li>$300 million</li>
</ul>
One of the largest commercial property transactions of the quarter went through this week.
A 50% stake in North Sydney’s 101 Miller Street/Greenwood Plaza(pictured below) <a href="/expert-insights/investing/half-share-in-north-sydneys-101-miller-street-greenwood-plaza-sold-for-300-million-plus">was sold for over $300 million</a>.
TIAA Henderson Real Estate, on behalf of TIAA-CREF, purchased the half stake from Eureka Funds Management. Mirvac Group will continue to own the remaining 50% stake.
<img src="/images/2014/10/30/greenwood-plaza-oct-30-breakout.jpg" alt="Half share in North Sydney's 101 Miller Street-Greenwood Plaza sold for $300 million plus">
<ul>
<li>$6.25 million</li>
</ul>
The octagonal Hotel Saville (pictured below) <a href="/expert-insights/building/confirmed-the-block-makes-octagonal-south-yarra-hotel-reservation">was confirmed as the site for a future installment of The Block</a> after Jonathan Chancellor revealed the $6.25 million buyer to be Watercress, the company behind the show's production. 
The site comes with a dash of morbid history. In 2002, it was alleged that male gigolo Shane Chartres-Abbott raped a client in a hotel suite.
Chartres-Abbott was arrested shortly afterwards and presented a bizarre defence that he was a 200 year old vampire.
In 2003, Chartres-Abbott was executed outside his Reservoir home as he left for his County Court trial.
<img src="/images/2014/10/24/block%20octagonal%20oct%2024%20breakout.jpg" alt="Confirmed! The Block makes octagonal South Yarra hotel reservation">
 
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A new Chapel Street, South Yarra development has been completed, just over two years since construction started.
661 Chapel St is the first Australian project of Malaysian-based developed Gamuda Land and was completed ahead of schedule. Settlements are set to occur in May 2018.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/5/25/2b369aa3a2ea4c529adf81a8eb014801.jpg" alt="">
Consisting of 116 apartments over 30 floors, the Bird de le Coeur designed development is close Melbourne High School and the Yarra River.
The hotel style development also has a library, BBQ area, 25 metre lap pool, private cinema, dining rooms and board room, as well as a wine cellar.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/5/25/f746b8e3b3f641898dab56c5caafbd9a.jpg" alt="">
661 Chapel St’s project director Aw Sei Cheh said the development was inspired by town making principles and the location was a major selling point for local and interstate buyers.
“We have had strong sales for this project, and strong inter-state sales too – with 15% of purchasers coming from NSW,” he said.
“Sydney-siders are attracted to Chapel Street’s legendary status as Melbourne’s premier shopping street, the locality to greenery such as the Yarra river and Royal Botanical Gardens, and its proximity to Melbourne CBD and other landmarks such as the MCG.”
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/5/25/fd2087db2eaa4a949463c8be7faf5571.jpg" alt="">
The Urban Developer recently reported that sales for the project are at approximately 70%.
Prices for the apartments start at $546,000 for a one bedroom, and go up to $2.7 million for a three bedroom.
There is an unsold $22 million penthouse shell which will be customised to the purchaser’s brief by celebrity interior designer David Hicks who has undertaken some preliminary (pictured) designs.
<div>
<div>It is a 729 sqm residence over three levels, likely to include three bedrooms, five bathrooms, sauna, steam and shower room, gym and yoga room, cinema, study and wine cellar.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The 729 sqm space includes 93 sqm of balcony space and 82 sqm of rooftop.</div>
</div>
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Chapel Street apartment development completed ahead of schedule

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GUEST OBSERVER
Measures including toughening the requirements for interest-only loans and property investments in self-managed super funds introduced in March have reduced the number of investors purchasing property in Sydney by 20% and helped cool the market.
Investors comprised more than 50% of the entire Sydney market in 2016 but have started to level off this year, which I largely attribute to APRA’s tightened macro-prudential measures.
Many experts believe we shouldn’t interfere with the market and simply let nature take its course, but I feel that this laissez-faire approach would have had dire consequences.
Although there are several factors at play, the excessive number of investors in the market was primarily responsible for the recent exponential price growth, so it is encouraging to see the further tightening is putting the brakes on the investor boom – which is what the measures were designed to do.
But, Australians should not expect a market crash. 
I believe the market has now plateaued, which was inevitable as prices couldn’t continue to rise indefinitely but this shouldn’t be a reason to panic.
We must caution against the inevitable scaremongering, and maintain some perspective because we are looking at the aftermath of the investor ‘boom’, but that doesn’t mean we are heading for a crash.
Sydney prices will remain strong for the short- to medium-term, and will naturally realign and readjust over time.
I remain very optimistic about the Sydney market. We will see a correction in prices but there are so many variables, making it difficult to forecast.
Over the past 18-24 months, we’ve witnessed prices across most Sydney suburbs rise at the same pace, which is quite unusual, so we could see this start to adjust and become nuanced.
Starr Partners has seen a shift this year amongst investors in Sydney, with many now starting to set their sights on areas such as the Newcastle and Hunter regions.
The APRA measures were designed to encourage lending institutions to be more prudent, not necessarily to solve the housing affordability crisis.
With these measures having taken hold, I’m hopeful we will see the return of natural market equilibrium, with higher numbers of first home buyers and other owner occupiers, which we are already starting to see at our open for inspections and auctions.
In saying that, investors will still be competing for property amongst these buyers – as they have always done. A bump in the road won’t be too impactful for experienced investors. Normally, they are very sensible in their approach, they have enough capital in their investment portfolio and carry a long-term view.”
Following APRA strengthening its policies, the federal government’s recent budget announced tougher rules on foreign investment such as removing the main residence capital gains tax exemption and an annual foreign investment levy for future foreign investors who fail to occupy or lease their property for at least six months each year.
It also revealed plans to restore the requirement that prevents developers from selling more than 50% of new developments to foreign investors.<a href="https://outlook.office.com/owa/?realm=propertyobserver.com.au#_ftn1"></a>
Despite this, more could be done to curb investment from non-residents, given the action taken to restrict investor spending for residents. 
My one lingering concern is that the new measures could pave the way for more foreign buyers.
Although I welcome the recent introduction of tougher rules on foreign investment, I’m not convinced that these measures are enough.
We have gone to great lengths to curb investor spending for residents, so shouldn’t we be doing the same for non-residents?
However, my fears could be allayed, with reports out of China suggesting its new regulatory crackdown on capital outflows is really starting to work.
Douglas Driscoll is CEO of real estate group Starr Partners and can be contacted <a href="https://www.starrpartners.com.au/" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Sydney property investor activity drops by 20% - but don’t expect a crash: Doug Driscoll

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PRDnationwide’s Hobart Property Hotspots Second Half of 2016 nominated three affordable unit hotspots for 2017.
They included Sandy Bay, Kingston and Howrah.
Sandy Bay
OVERVIEW
Approx. distance from CBD: 2km
Median unit price: $400,000
• 1 Bed Median Price $265,000
• 2 Bed Median Price $370,000
• 3+ Bed Median Price $575,000
Close to Hobart’s CBD, Sandy Bay is often associated with an expensive price tag, however its unit market is an attractive property option.
Although at the higher end of the unit hotspots it has continually displaying sought-after potential during 2016.
Median prices climbed 6.1% from 2015, double the growth of the previous year.
The area is set to have $5.1 million worth of new projects under construction by the end of 2016, adding further foundations for future growth in the area.
A two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-tas-sandy+bay-124169774" target="_blank">1/16 Chessington Court</a>, Sandy Bay (above) was sold for $407,500.
Kingston
OVERVIEW
Approx. distance from CBD: 12km
Median unit price: $310,000
• 1 Bed Median Price $146,000
• 2 Bed Median Price $281,500
• 3+ Bed Median Price $357,500
Kingston features as both a unit and house hotspot this half year.
The area has shown positive movement over previous years creating confidence in its property market.
This confidence is underpinned by the commitment to improving the area by additional developments valued at $9.3 million.
The project focus is on additional residential stock to the market at a total of $5.5 million.
The further $3.8 million of project developments is shared between a infrastructure and commercial projects.
A three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-tas-kingston-123509838" target="_blank">1/65 Hutchins Street</a>, Kingston (below) has been listed for sale for $315,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/02/02/1_65%20Hutchins%20Street.jpg" alt="">
Howrah
OVERVIEW
Approx. distance from CBD: 7km
Median unit price: $300,000
• 1 Bed Median Price $175,000
• 2 Bed Median Price $290,000
• 3+ Bed Median Price $365,000
Located on the eastern shore of Hobart is the beachside suburb of Howrah.
Enjoying views of the Derwent River and the Hobart CBD this suburb has a lot on offer for its broad range of demographics.
From the many parks with walking tracks to recreation areas and more, Howrah boasts a sought-after living and lifestyle environment.
Recent upturns in sale prices, along with attractive investment returns, extremely low vacancy rate of 0.2%, and solid rental yield of 4.8%, reflect the strong potential of the area.
A two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-tas-howrah-123846686" target="_blank">2/13 Hance Road</a>, Howrah (below) has been sold for $305,000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/02/02/2_13%20Hance%20Road.jpg" alt="">
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Sandy Bay unit market prime for the picking: PRDnationwide

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Property prices on a seemingly never ending upward trajectory; first home buyers priced out of the market; exasperated claims of a lack of available stock; a fear that a major city’s property market may have shifted rapidly from buoyant recovery to spectral bubble.
It’s a story many investors in Australia’s main two major markets – Sydney and Melbourne – have been accustomed to hearing. But likewise the Dutch city of Amsterdam has a similar recent tale of property travails.
Amsterdam house prices rose 22% year on year to October 2016, <a href="https://www.nvm.nl/actueel/persberichten/2016/20161005woningmarkt2016q3" target="_blank">according to</a> the nation’s association of real estate agents. While the latest data from CoreLogic shows that Australian property prices continue to rise. Over the past year prices in Sydney and Melbourne have rise by over 15% and 13% respectively. That stat is one of the many parallels investors can draw between the North Holland city and those in the land once claimed as New Holland.
Price growth in Brisbane and Adelaide hasn’t quite matched those heady double-digit heights, but at about 4% growth year on year, both cities are returning decent dividends for property investors. The only city dragging down CoreLogic’s five city capital average is Perth; a slight uptick in December failing to make up for the price declines earlier last year.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/18/CORELOGIC-DEC-19.jpg">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/18/CORELOGIC-DEC-19.jpg" alt="">
So what will the average median price buy you in Amsterdam?
Sydney
According to CoreLogic’s December 2016 indices report, Sydney’s all-dwelling median price sat at $1,056,000.
At current exchange rates, the equivalent median price in Amsterdam (approx. €745,624) would put you in the market for <a href="https://www.engelvoelkers.com/en-nl/property/modern-living-in-one-of-the-loveliest-streets-in-amsterdam-3664333.1174577_exp/" target="_blank">a 125 square metre, four room apartment</a> (pictured below) on the trendy inner west Haarlemerstraat, a sector know for its chic cafes, boutique stores and tourist-drawing “coffee” shops.  It comes with double-glazed windows, two-rooftop terraces and a Jacuzzi.
It may be a relatively high price to live in this area, but the prime real estate in Amsterdam is the famous canal houses, which leave little spare after a several million euro outlay.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/25/adm%201.jpg" alt="">
Melbourne
Melbourne’s median price sits at $863,260, according to CoreLogic. The equivalent (€610,000) would put you in the market for <a href="https://www.engelvoelkers.com/en-nl/property/tasteful-flat-in-listed-warehouse-3665296.1174976_exp" target="_blank">a beautiful two bedroom, one bathroom apartment</a> on the inner city Herengracht.
Like many properties in this region, the 105 square metre property (pictured below) is a converted warehouse property.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/25/adm%202.jpg" alt="">
Brisbane
Brisbane’s median dwelling value of $549,630 equates to roughly the price of €390,000.
With an estimated metropolitan population of approximately 2.3 million, Amsterdam is of a relatively equivalent size to Brisbane. However, any Brisbanites looking to decamp to Amsterdam can expect a fair decrease in size ­–<a href="https://www.engelvoelkers.com/en-nl/property/sold-3677474.1179727_exp/" target="_blank"> this central Amsterdam apartment</a> (pictured below) is only 46 square metres in size.
Located in the beautiful Jordaan district, it’s close to many shops, restaurants and has a view of the famous Brouwersgracht.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/25/adm%203.jpg" alt="">
Adelaide
Adelaide has the lowest median dwelling value of the five included in CoreLogic’s aggregate, at $472,000.
The equivalent of €333,271 would have this central Amsterdam apartment, located on the closet western canal to the city centre, in range. Though only 47 square metres, <a href="https://www.engelvoelkers.com/en-nl/property/studio-apartment-with-elevator-3696689.1187116_exp/" target="_blank">this apartment </a>(pictured below) boasts a great location to offset its lack of size.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/25/adm%204.jpg" alt="">
Perth
Perth’s property market may have declined in the wake of the end of the mining boom, but its all-dwelling value still eclipses all bar Sydney and Melbourne in CoreLogic’s five-city aggregate.
Its median value of $581,280 would be put a buyer in the Amsterdam market in the range of this €400,000 listed property. Though only 61 square metres, <a href="https://www.engelvoelkers.com/en-nl/property/whole-building-in-the-centre-of-amsterdam-3696411.1187025_exp/" target="_blank">this apartment</a> comes with two beds and a bathroom and is very close to the centre of the city.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/25/adm%205.jpg" alt="">
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What will Australian property prices get you in Amsterdam?

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Australian property prices continue to rise, according to the latest data from CoreLogic. But many investors will be scratching their heads and wondering if and when the good times may be coming to a halt.
Over the past year prices in Sydney and Melbourne have risen by over 15% and 13% respectively. Price growth in Brisbane and Adelaide hasn’t quite matched those heady double-digit heights, but at about 4% growth year on year, both cities are returning decent dividends for property investors.
The only city dragging down CoreLogic’s five city capital average is Perth; the city recording a slight uptick in December, but failing to make up for the price declines earlier last year.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/01/18/CORELOGIC-DEC-19.jpg">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/18/CORELOGIC-DEC-19.jpg" alt="">
But what will the median price in these cities buy you in a city around the globe?
With a long history of cultural ties, the UK property market has long been a haven for keen Australian investors (by some calculations the favourite overseas property market for Australian investors). Many Australian property investors are able to purchase property in the UK, subject to tax laws, and many others hold UK or EU citizenship which allows them to (currently) purchase property with fewer restrictions.
With Brexit on the horizon, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/(https:/www.theguardian.com/money/2016/nov/04/end-property-boom-uk-house-prices-flatline-savills-forecast" target="_blank">Savills is predicting</a> the central London property boom is about to ground to a halt. Many economists predict an economic slowdown in the UK and a decrease in immigration will temper house price and demand for rental properties, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/money/2016/jun/10/prices-property-pensions-30-eu-referendum-questions-answered" target="_blank">while some argue</a> the fall in sterling will present great opportunities for the astute investor.
So what will the average median price buy you in London?
The current median asking price of a property in London is £1,198,081 ($1.49 million), then it won’t surprise that bargains are hard to come by. Though, keen-eyed investors may be able to pluck diamonds from the rough.
Sydney
According to CoreLogic’s December 2016 indices report, Sydney’s all-dwelling median price sat at $1,056,000.
At current exchange rates, the equivalent median price in London (£644,000) would fetch you <a href="https://www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-41872836">a three bedroom, two bathroom flat</a> (pictured below) in the Edgware Road precinct of West London, close to Hyde Park, Notting Hill and Buckingham Palace.
The south-east region of Wandsworth has a roughly similar median price for a studio apartment to Sydney’s all-dwelling price, <a href="https://www.londonpropertywatch.co.uk/avg_prices" target="_blank">according to London Property Watch</a>.
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/18/ldn-1.jpg" alt="">
Melbourne
Melbourne’s median price sits at $863,260, according to CoreLogic. The equivalent amount in sterling (£525,000) would put you in the market for a 535 square foot (approx. 163 square metres), two bedroom apartment in the north-west area of West Hampstead, not far from the bustling hub of Camden Town.
The south-west region of Surbiton, not far from Hampton Court Palace has a similar median price for a two bedroom apartment to Melbourne’s median dwelling price.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/18/ldn-2.jpg" alt="">
Brisbane
Brisbane’s median dwelling value of $549,630 equates to roughly the price of<a href="https://www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-56887366" target="_blank"> a £335,000 studio flat </a>in the rapidly changing area of the Isle of Dogs in East London.
The area may be the home of EastEnders but the area is now being known for its rapidly shifting cityscape and a Brisbanite may feel content with a property parallel. The north-west suburb of Kingsbury in London has a comparable median price, according to LPW.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/18/ldn-3.jpg" alt="">
Adelaide
Adelaide has the lowest median dwelling value of the five included in CoreLogic’s aggregate, at $472,000.
The British equivalent of £288,000 would have an investor in the market for a<a href="https://www.rightmove.co.uk/property-for-sale/property-57242908" target="_blank"> two bedroom flat property in Leyton</a>, a stone throw from the Olympic Stadium.
The suburb also would match Adelaide’s all-dwelling price, albeit only for a one-bedroom flat.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/18/ldn-4.jpg" alt="">
Perth
Perth’s property market may have declined in the wake of the end of the mining boom, but its all-dwelling value still eclipses all bar Sydney and Melbourne in CoreLogic’s five city aggregate. Its median value of $581,280 would be put a buyer in the London market in the range of a £350,000 one –bedroom flat in the southern region of Stockwell.  The 605 square foot apartment is close to the bustling region of Brixton.
A two bedroom flat in the north-west region of Hendon would be similar to Adelaide’s median price.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/01/18/ldn-5.jpg" alt="">
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What will Australian property prices get you in London?

The most elevated residential tower in Palm Beach, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/corallo-palm-beach-5-palm-beach-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Corallo</a>, has officially launched this week, however only a handful of buyers will have an opportunity to buy in to the 17-storey project.

The $200 million mixed-use project includes ground floor dining and retail and is considered so valuable its developer, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a>, will be staging its release of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses to the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=806]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a> International, Director, David Higgins, said the development’s location just metres from the beach on the corner of Palm Beach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway influenced the sculptural design by the acclaimed Plus Architecture studio.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a> locals understand the rare opportunity here at Corallo, particularly being the tallest building in the suburb and its proximity to the beach and local restaurants, and they’ve represented the bulk of pre-launch enquiries,” Higgins said.

“The orientation of the apartments captures views of the coastline from Surfers Paradise to Currumbin, and the diversity of floor plans and apartment types provide an exceptional level of choice.

“The first release includes just 59 one-, two and three-bedroom apartments and two half-floor penthouses, with flexible use designed to appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=799]

In addition to the ground floor amenity, residents will also have access to a private dedicated wellness level offering 734 sqm of resort-style amenities including a pool, cold plunge, wet deck, steam room, sauna, gym, day bed, fire pit, barbecue area, dining area and yoga/stretch deck.

The project is located within walking distance of Tallebudgera Creek, Burleigh Heads village, Currumbin Alley and Palm Beach Currumbin High School. The Gold Coast Airport is under 10 minutes away.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=814]

Higgins said Palm Beach remained a hotly contested suburb for home buyers, with prices doubling in the past five years.

“What makes Corallo so appealing to the local market is the diversity of apartment types and pricing, with one-bedroom apartments starting from $841,000 and two-bedroom apartments starting from $1.34 million,” he said.

“The ground floor retail and dining offering will further expand on Palm Beach’s village atmosphere and create a meeting place for locals, and those opportunities for connection are highly valued.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=807]

The on-site sales display, which includes a fully fitted kitchen, bathroom and bedroom, will be open until early works commence in Q1 2026. Each residence at Corallo will feature premium finishes including natural stone, artisanal brickwork, and warm copper accents.

Changfa Group has a two-decade history of delivering premium developments in Australia and internationally, having recently completed its collection of premium townhomes at Lyra, Hope Island, as well as apartment projects in Leichhardt, Carlingford, and Chatswood in New South Wales.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112194]

Joel Robinson

$200 million Corallo Palm Beach launches with limited apartment release

In a move that aligns with NSW's accelerated planning incentives for affordable housing, developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/the-one-collection">One Collection</a> has revised its Hills District apartment plans, and taken it to the NSW Government, to secure approval.

The developer, which is currently delivering Horizon Hurstville, is seeking to add 80 more apartments to its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-castle-hill-16-dawes-avenue-nsw-2154">Castle Hill development</a> near Castle Towers. They already have approval for 280 apartments across eight six-storey buildings.

<img alt="One Collection" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3c298ba-1cc5-4db7-9872-607c75f8ceca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-10-13%20at%2010.19.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=wN9KpFIu5ENSGZLLsaZgXQHrXcwEO3Vd" />

Now on the desks of the NSW Department of Planning is 360 apartments, 48 of which will be dedicated to affordable housing.&nbsp;Affordable housing is to be “fully integrated within the building and visually indistinguishable,” according to the planning submission.

The 15,697 sqm block, an amalgamation of 16 sites, spans across Dawes Avenue, Hughes Avenue, and Camdan Crescent, sits 550m from Hills Showground Metro Station.&nbsp;

"The existing context is quickly changing from free-standing homes into residential flat buildings in line with the Hills Showground Precinct planning framework," Place Studio noted.

<img alt="Castle Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3ec24948-c185-48fa-af8b-ed25adf302bf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-10-13%20at%2010.19.04%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zNDX.IeRROX1RlDeYcS38xn8w_dqgU2t" />

They said the design was informed by the site's unique condition of having three street frontages and was developed to to respond sensitively to iots surrounding context.

"The design adopted a conventional perpendicular alignment to the primary street frontage. The massing of the development was carefully modulated to align with the evolving character of the neighbourhood. The design ensured that the scale was not excessive or out of context, but instead contributed to a cohesive urban form consistent with emerging developments in the area."

<img alt="Castle Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f83ffdaa-f960-469d-b6fe-abcece57c9ef" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-10-13%20at%2010.19.09%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4oKlCyfaKes7jLi1_EMoqa46w2h_YvDZ" />

The apartment mix will be 46 one-beds, 168 two-bed apartments, and 146 three-bedroom units, with 631 parking spaces proposed.

Along the street frontages, the building heights are four storeys with a 7.5 metre setback, and eight storeys with an 11.5 metre setback. It should cost about $150 million to build.

One Collection works hand-in-hand with the respected development and construction firm Masscon, which has built a reputation for leveraging its expertise in the built environment to take on developments others can't. That's what they're achieving at Horizon Hurstville, having taken over the project to deliver it.

First look: One Collection advances plans for Castle Hill apartments

At Yarra’s Edge, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a>’s newest tower under construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trielle-at-yarra-s-edge-docklands-16-point-park-crescent-docklands-vic-3008">Trielle</a>, sets a new benchmark for elevated living. Rising 45 storeys, 12.5 metres from the Yarra River, the landmark building offers residents access to a private wellness retreat and spa, a resident-only golf simulator, and an elegant lounge, dining and bar complete with a self-playing piano, all without ever having to leave home.

Now, that sense of elevation has reached new heights with the Aerus Sub-Penthouses, a limited release of half-floor riverfront residences on the Collins St axis where the sought-after street meets the Yarra River.

Each Aerus Sub-Penthouse, located across levels 42 and 43, represents the most expansive offering within Trielle, aside from the yet-to-be-revealed crowning penthouses. Spanning between 269 and 301 sqm, these residences are designed to capture natural light and uninterrupted views of the city skyline, Yarra River, and Port Phillip Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114216 project_image_fid=3784]

Among the collection are three-bedroom sub penthouses, complemented by a media room, and expansive four-bedroom layouts. All include panoramic living areas and oversized master suites with luxury ensuites reminiscent of a five-star hotel, complemented by dedicated dressing rooms finished in timber and natural stone.

The interiors have been crafted by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mirvac-design">Mirvac Design</a>, the developer’s award-winning in-house architecture and design team. Every material has been chosen for quality and longevity, from sculpted stone island benches with feature soft wash LED lighting to bespoke joinery and chevron timber oak flooring.

Kitchens are fitted with a BORA induction cooktop with integrated downdraft extractor, alongside Gaggenau appliances, including a fridge, freezer, and wine fridge. The adjoining butler’s pantry incorporates the exclusive Gaggenau Minimalistic Series including oven, steam oven, microwave, coffee machine and warming drawer, all concealed behind handleless glass panels for a clean, integrated presentation. Bathrooms feature custom Apaisar freestanding baths and basins and natural stone benchtops, continuing Mirvac’s design emphasis on tactile, timeless materials.&nbsp;

<img alt="Trielle at Yarra's Edge, Docklands" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c00be724-b0f1-47c0-afed-54f829870704" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Aerus%20sub-penthouse.png?VersionId=Uktd61kpLSqNjwJeDFs7IaZ3xgLlDQmu" />

Michael Wiener, Design Director at Mirvac, says The Aerus Sub-Penthouse embodies the apex of Mirvac’s design ethos.

“Moving through your home is like walking on air - a private sanctuary where the craftsmanship is refined, the proportions generous, and the flow so effortless, you feel completely at ease in the sky,” Wiener says.

“In Aerus, we wanted to create a sense of weightlessness - a home that feels suspended in the skyline, full of light, grounded in luxury.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114216 project_image_fid=3777]

The Aerus Sub-Penthouses are expected to attract a mix of local and international buyers seeking a long-term residence of scale and quality in a riverfront setting, from returning expats to established families and business owners who value privacy, craftsmanship, and convenience within walking distance of the CBD.

With an unmatched suite of amenities, Trielle is the most extensively appointed development Mirvac has created to date at Yarra’s Edge. Within the tower will be The Oasis, a 900 sqm podium rooftop wellness retreat designed in collaboration with spa expert Naomi Gregory. Located seven storeys above the Yarra River promenade, it features a 25-metre lap pool, spa and sauna, hot magnesium spa, biophilic gym, yoga and Pilates studio, cold-pail contrast treatment, and day spa treatment rooms. Further amenities include a piano lounge, bookable dining room, cinema room, golf simulator studio, games room, teppanyaki bar, dog wash bay, and two flexible work hubs, The Biblioteca library and Mills Place office space, catering to residents’ evolving lifestyle needs.

Construction of the $350 million tower is underway through Mirvac’s in-house construction arm, with completion anticipated for mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114216]

Sky-high sanctuaries: Mirvac unveils The Aerus sub-penthouses at Trielle

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/jwland-development">JWLand</a>’s De Burgh, the final residential release within the Northbourne Village precinct in Lyneham, is nearing completion just as the Federal Government’s Home Guarantee Scheme prepares for its most significant expansion to date.&nbsp;

From October 2025, the scheme will allow first home buyers to enter the market with just a five per cent deposit and no lenders mortgage insurance (LMI), removing some of the most common barriers to ownership.

With <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/de-burgh-at-northbourne-village-40-de-burgh-street-lyneham-act-2602">De Burgh</a> on track for residents to move in by late spring 2025, the timing creates a strong opportunity for first home buyers seeking brand-new apartments in Canberra’s sought-after Inner North.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212888]

The project delivers 350 residences across two buildings, with layouts ranging from compact studios through to one, two, and three-bedroom apartments.

JWLand has tailored the development for long-term liveability, integrating natural light, privacy and outdoor space into each home. Ground-floor residences feature private courtyards, while upper levels benefit from generous balconies.

Kitchens are fitted with Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, and all apartments include ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning with smartphone app control for lighting and climate.&nbsp;

Shared resident facilities include a rooftop garden, gym, lounge and parcel lockers, alongside landscaped green space within the precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=267376]

For buyers, the expanded Home Guarantee Scheme removes income caps and introduces unlimited places, making it more accessible than ever. With most De Burgh apartments priced under $1 million, they fall well within the updated eligibility thresholds.

The policy changes provide first home buyers with greater certainty and a smoother path to finance. Combined with the quality and location of De Burgh, the expanded scheme is expected to draw a new wave of buyers to Canberra’s Inner North.

Residents will benefit from the project’s central setting, just 600 metres from the light rail and three kilometres from Canberra’s CBD. The precinct is bordered by the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/lyneham-act-2602">Lyneham</a> wetlands and sits within easy reach of cafes, restaurants, schools and the ANU.

With completion scheduled for late 2025, De Burgh is set to be among the first major apartment projects to meet the expanded scheme head-on, offering first-time buyers a realistic pathway to ownership in one of Canberra’s most connected neighbourhoods.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139989]

JWLand’s De Burgh aligns with expanded Homebuyer Scheme, opening doors for first home buyers in Canberra’s Inner North

A subtropical pair of residential towers are in planning for a key South Brisbane site neighbouring the iconic Expo ’88 Skyneedle, with new documents revealing a vertically layered vision designed to respond to the precinct’s evolving high-density character.

The proposal has been lodged by&nbsp;Darveniza Group, which is also is behind the 400-apartment Station Quarter precinct in Alderley.

Darveniza Group, led by Jane Darveniza, the Brisbane-based investor and Queensland rich-lister and widow of the late property magnate Bojan Darveniza, is seeking approval for a mixed-use project encompassing 204 apartments, ground-level retail, food and drink tenancies, and office space across two architecturally integrated towers at 37–39 Manning Street.

Occupying an 1,822 sqm site, the proposed towers would rise above a sculptural podium base, with a recessed landscaped centre, rooftop communal areas, and a total of 220 car parks and 256 bicycle bays. The apartment mix spans one- to five-bedroom dwellings, with a design emphasis on generous balconies, cross-ventilation, and climate-responsive materials.

<img alt="First look: Twin towers proposed for Manning Street site beside Skyneedle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="42c1f501-2afd-440b-af49-67c257123ea7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Manning%20podium.png?VersionId=KFlksfWzmDRD.VIYxd_1q3VAel.nN3TH" />

“The development is conceived as two slender twin buildings that meet at a lushly landscaped central recess,” the Finegrain design report states. “The façade is highly articulated with the plan form stepping back and forth to reduce visual bulk and maximise internal occupants’ access to natural light and air”.

A hallmark of the proposal is its integration of greenery, both visually and functionally. Around 77 per cent of the site’s green plot ratio is delivered through vertical planting spines, a green podium wall, and rooftop amenity. Ground-level deep planting and landscaped communal zones aim to create a shaded, walkable interface along Manning Street.

“The stepped plan form introduces variation in balcony setbacks and enclosed apartment areas, enriching both the façade expression and the resident experience,” the design team notes. “At ground and podium levels, this stepping also enhances permeability, maximising pedestrian view lines to the neighbouring Skyneedle and reinforcing a strong sense of local identity”.

<img alt="First look: Twin towers proposed for Manning Street site beside Skyneedle" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3f26dfc-6b93-465c-9ffb-0a2530372a23" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Manning%20site.png?VersionId=JflvKdqDxcaHTFbb9HL5TwoiRgeQ2LqA" />

The site directly adjoins the heritage-listed Skyneedle at 35 Manning Street, an enduring legacy of World Expo ’88. The accompanying heritage impact report by Pendergast Architects contends that the proposal has been carefully conceived to protect the cultural significance and landmark visibility of the structure.

“The design provides setbacks, tower separation and podium articulation to maintain the visibility and landmark role of the adjoining Skyneedle,” the report states. “The significance of the Skyneedle lies principally in its landmark visibility and cultural symbolism, rather than in detailed fabric or architectural setting”.

The proposal sits within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct, under Brisbane’s TLPI 02/2023, where revised planning controls support high-density, mixed-use development integrated with subtropical design and increased public realm contributions.

Finegrain’s design reflects this intent, drawing cues from the site's adjacency to Musgrave Park, the subtropical landscape of South Brisbane, and cultural landmarks such as QPAC and South Bank.

Jacob Robinson

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