Joel Robinson

The top 16 Sydney off the plan apartment developers to look out for in 2024

Queensland-based property developer Pradella has secured its next Brisbane apartment development site.

They've paid $6.1 million for a&nbsp;1,083 sqm site in Toowong, opposite Toowong Memorial Park.&nbsp;

The corner site at <a href="/new-apartments/70-sylvan-road-toowong">70 Sylvan Road</a> is zoned for&nbsp;medium-density residential and has development potential for an eight-storey residential development.

The property is currently fully occupied by a mix of residential and office tenants on short-term leases.

There had been strong developer interest in the suburb, CBRE's&nbsp;Adelaide O’Brien and Will Carman said.

"The location has been a great success story for local and interstate developers who recognise its attraction to both the owner occupier and investor market,” O’Brien said.

“The property has the ability to generate a robust fully leased net annual income providing Pradella with secure earnings to strategise for future development.”

Toowong is located between Mount Coot-tha and the north bank of the Brisbane River and is surrounded by successful Brisbane developments by companies such as <a href="/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic</a>, BPM and <a href="/developers/consolidated-properties">Consolidated Properties</a>.

There had been strong developer interest in the suburb, CBRE's Adelaide O’Brien and Will Carman said

Pradella secure their next Brisbane apartment development

Sunshine Coast developer Habitat's recently launched apartment development, St Clair in Birtinya, is attracting both local and interstate investor interest due to&nbsp;the robust infrastructure pipeline in the area and anticipated population boom in population in the Sunshine Coast region.

Birtinya, which neighbours Bokarina and Wurtulla, will become a main attraction for the Sunshine Coast and have significant transport links as part of the government's $10 billion infrastructure pipeline.

The government's light rail project, connecting the Maroochydore CBD with Caloundra, will pass through Birtinya and the $3.2 billion, 37-kilometre rail extension between Beerwah &amp; Maroochydore.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108399 project_image_fid=232439]

Further infrastructure upgrades in the region include the Sunshine Coast Airport expansion of the 5.6-hectare greenfield Maroochydore CBD, which will contribute $4.4 billion to the economy, and the $3.2 billion investment in the Sunshine Coast Health Precinct.

All of the infrastructure—the expansion of the Sunshine Coast Airport, the light and heavy rail extension project, solar farm, submarine cables, injection on the Sunshine Coast health precinct, and a new USC University campus—will create over 100,000 jobs for the region which is already booming more than some of Australia's capital cities.

The GDP of the Sunshine Coast is $24 billion a year, which surpasses Adelaide's, Canberra's, and Darwin's GDP. Sunshine Coast's economic growth is expected to reach $33 billion by 2033.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108399 project_image_fid=232440]

Sunshine Coast has evolved beyond its initial small-town status, indicating significant potential for growth and an attractive investment opportunity.

The transformation into a larger city, coupled with unprecedented factors, is expected to lead to a substantial economic expansion, potentially more than doubling in size within the next 15 years.

Despite the positive outlook, challenges such as record-low unemployment and persistent population growth highlight an increasing demand for housing on the Sunshine Coast. These challenges are further intensified by a growing shortage of available dwellings, creating a critical opportunity for astute investors to capitalise on the favourable conditions anticipated.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108399 project_image_fid=230354]

According to Bis Oxford Economics, solid population growth, combined with supply-side challenges, is expected to result in the undersupply of dwellings on the Sunshine Coast rising from 3,900 dwellings in FY2023 to approximately 4,800 dwellings in FY2027.

Investors at St Clair, two adjoining buildings on the water, can expect to secure tenants anywhere between $600 to $680 a week for the two-bedroom apartments, which would reflect a rental yield of around four per cent. They start from $749,900.

The three-bedroom apartments, priced from $869,900, could see yields at comfortably over four per cent if they secured a tenant at the lower end of the $700 to $900 a week forecast. At closer to $900 a week, that yield&nbsp; jumps to nearly 5.5 per cent.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108399 project_image_fid=230765]

The $150 million development, KArchitecture-designed St Clair, on two side-by-side blocks on Waterfront Retreat, will comprise two eight-level residential towers with 200 two, three and four-bedroom apartments.

There will be a maximum of 13 apartments on each level. Some large penthouse apartments will have over 50 sqm of outdoor space, while a handful of courtyard apartments will have around 90 metres of gardens.

A 25-metre resort-style lap pool is on the ground level, featuring a five-metre shallow wading entry adjacent to a BBQ pavilion. A residents' 16-seat dining room with a private outdoor terrace complements the pool for social gatherings.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108399 project_image_fid=230355]

Crowning St Clair is a communal rooftop terrace enveloped by lush subtropical landscaping by Place Design Group, with an outdoor kitchen and BBQ facilities. The rooftop deck faces Bokarina Beach towards the east, while the lounge overlooks the hinterland to the west.

Additional amenities and services include an outdoor beach shower, dog wash facilities, parcel locker storage, and professional property management.

Builder developer Habitat, who are currently building The Corso in Maroochydore where they are also seeing significant interest from Sydney investors, has fast tracked construction due to strong sales.

Habitat Construction is estimating completion of St Clair in Q1 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108399]

The GDP of the Sunshine Coast is $24 billion a year, which surpasses Adelaide's, Canberra's, and Darwin's GDP

Why Birtinya's newest off the plan apartment development St Clair stacks up for investors

It's always quite fascinating talking to developers. No two conversations are ever the same.

They've all got a different story, a varying level of experience and completed development pipeline. Most importantly, every developer has a different way of doing things, from how they identify development sites to what type of product they develop.

Established Sydney property developer <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> found where they would sit in the Sydney off the plan apartment market in the mid 1990s, after starting life in 1988 as a civil contracting company before focusing on townhouses and low-density apartment development.

The strategy was a simple but effective one, and it was a strategy that relied heavily on location.

They doubled down on the waterfront, where they've in essence created whole suburbs. While the strategy has evolved in recent years to create communities around strong transport links in the likes of Lidcombe, Arncliffe and West Ryde, waterside suburbs are where the developer is still where the action is.

Speaking recently to Joseph Kinsella, third generation Kinsella who is the group Director, it was clear <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> knew what type of apartment developer they would become right from the outset.

"Dad [<a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> Founder John Kinsella AM] saw an opportunity to acquire and amalgamate areas near both water and transport and took ownership of large sites in Meadowbank, Rhodes, Wentworth Point and Camelia.

"History has always turned its back to the water. It's where industrial precincts were located and where unloading and loading were the main activity. But the natural transition, as Sydney's gentrified and come out of the industrial era, these locations are at a premium," Kinsella says.

<a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> completed their Meadowbank precinct, Waterpoint Shepherds Bay&nbsp;complex where the family office is located, over a decade ago, and with it between 800 and 1000 apartments.

Meadowbank is located just across the Parramatta River from Rhodes and Wentworth Point, where <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> is still developing.&nbsp; They've been developing in Wentworth Point almost as long as the suburb has existed. Previously part of Homebush Bay West, it was only 2009 when Wentworth Point became its own suburb.

"Construction in Wentworth Point started in around 2010, but the visioning of the project happened long before that," Kinsella said.

"There were mostly just four to eight-level apartment projects, no real town centre, no schools, and not much opportunity for pedestrian activity or transport.&nbsp;

"Fast forward 12 years and there's a thriving community with a vibrant town centre, around 3,000 apartments, and transport in and out of the suburb, both by bus, car, and the now famous public transit and active transport Bennelong Bridge.

<a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> has just unveiled updated plans for its Bennelong Cove project,&nbsp;the final stage of the multi-national award-winning 11-hectare master-planned community at Wentworth Point in Sydney’s inner-west.

The proposal also incorporates a waterfront promenade with amphitheatre, restaurants, cafes and a registered club and pub to activate the foreshore promenade with a major 16,000 sqm new park in the heart of the town centre. It’s accompanied by $70 million in new community and social infrastructure, a $36 million multi-purpose indoor and outdoor sports and recreation centre with outdoor courts, as well as two childcare centres.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/billbergia-unveils-updated-plans-for-bennelong-cove-wentworth-point-masterplan">Billbergia unveils updated plans for Bennelong Cove, Wentworth Point masterplan</a>

<img alt="Billberbergia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8e06889-191b-4fe6-9ddd-3dc5aae3c865" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-11%20at%203.40.26%20pm.png?VersionId=uqGmynh1w0AWIAHVqVVxPD7WiO8AkuNw" />

Over in Rhodes, accessed by Bennelong Bridge from Wentworth Point over Parramatta River which <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a>&nbsp;developed, Kinsella says they've seen a number of different markets and cycles over the 15 years they've been developing in the suburb.

"The unit mix back in the early 2010's was typically more investor focused, ones and two-beds mainly. You couldn't sell a three-bed apartment 15 years ago," Kinsella said.

"Now there's more infrastructure, a primary school and construction nearing completion for a new high school, the suburb has transitioned from investor friendly to owner-occupier. Everything is two and three-bedrooms with some family four-bedders.

"Owner-occupiers are seeing a suburb which is more appealing, affordable and lower maintenance home for family living compared to the traditional family home which is now out of reach for so many in a quality suburb. There's everyone from families to young professionals who both Rhodes and Wentworth Point are appealing to."

Kinsella says there are two halves to Rhodes, the east and the west, with the train station as the centrepoint.

"The west side is where the majority of rezoning happened in the early 2000s, and that's all but delivered. We recently completed the Super neighbourhood shopping centre Rhodes Central, adjacent to the train station entry on the west side. That's really the hub of the suburb for shopping."

<a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> is currently developing stages two and three of Rhodes Central, two apartment towers with a community recreation centre on three levels in the podium. The two towers, with 674 apartments, will be the second to last piece in that precinct, with <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> currently in discussions with council about providing additional infrastructure to the suburb with the possibility of a bus interchange adjoining the train station.

In October <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> submitted plans for&nbsp;a 37-level, 244-apartment tower at&nbsp;9-13 Blaxland Road, Rhodes.

The proposed new sustainable tower features a striking slender form designed by architects GroupGSA in collaboration with Singaporean landscape studio Salad Dressing - whose exterior design concept earned them first place in a design excellence competition for the site.

Aligned with the principles of the 2021 Rhodes Place Strategy, the proposed new tower sits within the&nbsp;<a href="/developments/rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes</a>&nbsp;Station Gateway East precinct that was rezoned by NSW State Government in 2021 following extensive community consultation.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/billbergia-file-for-sustainable-rhodes-apartment-development">Billbergia file for sustainable Rhodes apartment development</a>

While continuing their strong foothold in Wentworth Point and Rhodes, <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> has branched out over recent years.

They have Arncliffe Central, a multi-stage development near the Sydney Airport and the first masterplanned community of its scale in Arncliffe.

In partnership with the NSW Government Land and Housing Corporation and community housing provider Evolve Housing, Arncliffe Central will deliver four towers with over 800 apartments above a retail podium, as well as parklands, a&nbsp;brand-new community centre, childcare facility, full-line supermarket with supporting retail, and an ‘eat street’ restaurant and café precinct on the 1.3-hectare site.

They also have just completed four towers at Lidcombe Rise adjacent to the Station, providing 41 per cent social and affordable housing, and three apartment towers at The Parade in West Ryde, next to the West Ryde Train Station.

<a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a>&nbsp;is widening its net once again, not only to a new suburb, but a whole new area with their latest plans, a two-tower, work-from-home focused development in Chatswood.

The PBD Architects-designed towers at 8 Wilson Street, which will be the developers first foray into the North Shore market, will be connected by a podium with retail, commercial showrooms, and flexible SOHO style live/work offerings.&nbsp;

The two 27-level towers will have 251 apartments.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/billbergia-focus-on-hybrid-remote-working-at-new-chatswood-apartment-development">Billbergia focus on hybrid, remote working at new Chatswood apartment development</a>

<a href="/news/nsw/billbergia-focus-on-hybrid-remote-working-at-new-chatswood-apartment-development"><img alt="Bilbergia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9e7d0170-c7d9-4645-a989-50aaba2c237b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-11%20at%204.23.09%20pm.png?VersionId=.vmbAC9dlcoQ8xiN0RFJTqPhEHSa7YyO" /></a>

To highlight Billbergia's long standing in the Sydney off the plan apartment market, they were one of the first developers to work directly with Building Commissioner David Chandler OAM before highly anticipated iCIRT rating system was in place.

"We were one of the industry leaders who worked hand in hand to put the iCIRT rating system together, and we were one of the first to achieve the rating," Kinsella said, adding that the system is starting to make an impact.

"Initially the rating system was a bit slow until it got consumer recognition, but it's starting to get there," Kinsella said.

"It can be more of a marketing push for more and more developers, but ultimately from a consumer point of view, if you're set on a suburb and you see one developers project with it and another without it, people will naturally start gravitating to those developers."

On the outlook of the Sydney off the plan apartment market in 2024, Kinsella said there's a lot of demand drivers which will point to growth.

"Migration is there and there's growing demand, while supply is quite constrained due to planning, and even when supply is available, many projects still aren't feasible.

"Prices need to catch up, and off the plan apartment prices will have to go up for buildings to be developed."

Speaking recently to Joseph Kinsella, third generation Kinsella who is the group Director, it was clear Billbergia knew what type of apartment developer they would become right from the outset

Billbergia: The suburb-creating developer expanding its horizons

Riverlee has unveiled an expansive waterfront penthouse which will top its $600 million <a href="/new-apartments/seafarers-docklands-731-flinders-street-docklands">Seafarers apartment development</a> on the Docklands waterfront.

Designed by <a href="/developers/riverlee">Riverlee</a> founder and architect Clement Lee OAM in collaboration with Nonda Katsalidis and the team Fender Katsalidis, the 719 sqm, luxury penthouse has been priced from $18 million.

The apartment, with four bedrooms and four bathrooms, has been designed with its own personality and configuration to create a result that is refined and compelling,&nbsp;Fender Katsalidis principal Rosie Morley says.

“Generous scale, bold intersecting forms, integrated joinery and the masterful interplay of texture, colour, and light continue across every room,” Morley says.

“With framed views to green outlooks, these apartments use biophilic design to make luxury and simplicity one.

"Skylit conservatories and terraces provide an immediate sense of calm, and flexible floor spaces give residents the opportunity to come together or break away.”

<img alt="Seafarers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e940c95d-7cf0-4ac6-ba49-f238aaf1579d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-11%20at%202.08.35%20pm.png?VersionId=xn1gzNYIyWfHHpdEGxRazymPbtkz41pU" />

Home to Australia’s first 1 Hotel, the US-founded, nature-inspired luxury brand, <a href="/new-apartments/seafarers-docklands-731-flinders-street-docklands">Seafarers</a> will be home to the first completed hotel-branded residences in Melbourne.

Supported by the dedicated team of over 200 hotel staff, residents gain full access to guest amenities and hotel services such as housekeeping, in-room spa treatments, private chef, 24/7 concierge, botanical and pet care, valet, and signature 1 Hotel events.

Launching the penthouse to the market in the same month <a href="/developers/riverlee">Riverlee</a> kicks off its 30-year anniversary celebrations, Clement Lee says the luxury residence is a project of personal significance to himself and Riverlee’s in-house design team.

‘’The penthouse at Seafarers offers an experience that exemplars and exceeds the quality, functionality and placemaking that Riverlee has become known for," Lee says.

"This is the culmination of my career, 30 years as a developer and 40 years as an architect and urban planner.

“Working with our long-term project partners Fender Katsalidis, we have created something that signifies more than a home — it is the crown jewel of Seafarers and a legacy that I am personally very proud of.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173913]

Situated on the final piece of Melbourne’s original waterfront, the 18th-floor penthouse represents the last opportunity for uninterrupted views of Melbourne’s Yarra River, boasting its own 72 sqm biophilic open terrace, a rare offering for its height and scale. Inside it has&nbsp;floor to ceiling views, a private lobby entrance, wine cellar, formal dining, and cocktail lounge.

The 125 sqm master suite features&nbsp;Poliform walk-in robes, while guest bedrooms and social spaces are arranged around a grand central gallery and internal conservatory.

With construction underway, 1 Hotel &amp; Homes Melbourne is set to open in 2024. The Agency co-founder Steven Chen says the premium offering and the imminent timing of the penthouse’s completion will be of interest to high net-worth clients looking for a brand new turnkey residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728 project_image_fid=173942]

“This is a rare offering in terms of location, the immense size of the residence and the integrated 5-star hotel services and amenities on offer, so we are anticipating strong interest,” Chen says.

“With breathtaking views of the Yarra River and the beautiful Melbourne CBD skyline, this lock-and-leave penthouse offers immense privacy and high security."

Chen believes there will be a lot of clients interstate and internationally that will want to acquire the penthouse as a second or third residence.

Recent findings by Knight Frank Research have revealed future demand for second homes, including branded residences, is expected to be driven by rising affluence, increased mobility, and the desire of wealthy investors to expand their residential property portfolios.

Fifteen per cent of UHNWIs have been considering a purchase in 2023, it reports, and global sales of prime and super-prime properties have rebounded, with Australia considered a favoured destination for second home purchases.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=27728]

The Agency's Steven Chen believes there will be a lot of clients interstate and internationally that will want to acquire the penthouse as a second or third residence

Riverlee reveal $18 million penthouse atop Seafarers, Melbourne apartment development

The Minns Labor government has announced an enhanced Sydney Metro West project will be delivered, with the potential addition of new stations to help drive new housing supply.

The government is moving to link the construction of major new transport infrastructure in Sydney to major new housing uplift, and this focus will underpin Metro West.

It’s why the NSW Government has also directed Sydney Metro to work on increasing the delivery of new housing supply along the Metro West alignment, to support the government’s plan to build more well-located homes near new and existing transport infrastructure.

If we are going to tackle this crisis, to create more housing supply that will drive down the cost of renting or buying a home, our city is going to have to change.

We need well-located houses and apartments near well-connected transport infrastructure, so people have a place to call home, where they can move around our city easier. Metro West is the beginning of this.

<h3>More sustainable timeline to be adopted following Sydney Metro Review</h3>

The project will be reset to a more sustainable timeline, with the project expected to be completed by 2032.

The additional construction time means taxpayers will not be paying a premium to deliver the project and will provide the necessary timeframe to explore additional station and housing options.

The previous government left a 7-kilometre gap between Sydney Olympic Park and Parramatta metro stations.

To continue this project without maximising its potential to underpin the construction of thousands of new homes would have been an incredibly wasteful missed opportunity.

To that end, the NSW Government has directed Sydney Metro to complete scoping studies for up to 2 new stations to be constructed west of Sydney Olympic Park, along the existing planned route, with a decision made based on their ability to drive greater urban infill housing.

The announcement has been endorsed by the recommendations of the Sydney Metro Independent Review.

Independent reviewers Amanda Yeates and Mike Mrdak have concluded their thorough analysis of the Sydney Metro project. Their findings include:

<ul>
	<li>The government should commit to the current 9 station alignment of Sydney Metro West at a minimum, targeting an opening date of 2032. The reviewers made a point of noting the “arbitrary” nature of the previously announced delivery date determined by the former government.</li>
	<li>Ensure the current design and construction plans do not preclude additional stations from being considered as station locations in future.</li>
	<li>That Sydney Metro to provide a consolidated property and placemaking strategy across all existing lines to support the government’s priorities regarding housing supply.</li>
	<li>That a business case should be prepared to improve bus and active transport connections to broaden the catchment of the existing alignment.</li>
</ul>

Sydney Metro West will ensure tens of thousands of people will be able to live next to a ‘turn up and go’ service that connects them to their jobs, their services and their communities with a train every 4 minutes.

Sydney Metro will move to shortlist delivery partners and develop a procurement model that provides opportunities to get the most housing and the best return from this significant investment for the people of NSW.

<h3>MOU with the Australian Turf Club on Rosehill Racecourse</h3>

The critical need to deliver housing in well located areas, along transport links means the Minns Labor government has commenced discussions with the Australian Turf Club (ATC) on a <a href="/news/nsw/minns-labor-government-to-discuss-converting-rosehill-racecourse-into-25-000-new-homes">proposal to relocate Rosehill Racecourse and build up to 25,000 new homes</a>, surrounded by greenspace and a new Sydney Metro West station.

The proposal, which was brought to the NSW Government by the ATC, centres around the potential to build more than 25,000 new homes on the Rosehill Racecourse site. This would allow the government to explore the feasibility of a new Metro West Station at Rosehill.

The plan will secure the long-term future of horse racing in NSW and the 90,000 jobs it supports with several sites across Sydney to be earmarked and investigated for a new, world-class racecourse track and facilities.

The NSW Government and the ATC have signed an MOU on the potentially historic plan, which would be subject to the NSW Government’s unsolicited proposals process.

<h3>Enhancing transport links and boosting housing across the Sydney Metro West project</h3>

The Minns Labor government has also announced further work will also be considered to broaden the catchment of all Metro West stations with enhanced land transport links, like rapid buses to ensure that more communities will be able to benefit from this once-in-a-generation investment.

Sydney Metro has been tasked with preparing a rapid assessment to create new bus connections to broaden the catchment of the existing alignment.

This work will be subject to a future NSW Government investment decision, which would seek to have this infrastructure and services operational in time for first passenger services on Metro West.

The government will use the already legislated Housing and Productivity Contributions system to ensure some of the value created by government investments will fund future infrastructure.

NSW Premier Chris Minns said this project won’t just change the way people move around the city; it will now also provide the well-located homes for future generations to live in.

“Sydney Metro West is the biggest public transport project in the country. But we’re resetting Metro West to ensure it will be the city-shaping project it always should have been."

Transport Minister Jo Haylen said the&nbsp;review into Metro projects delivers Sydney an improved version of Metro West.

"It’s a new project for the whole of Sydney, building more housing and doubling rail capacity between the Parramatta and Sydney CBDs.

“It won’t just mean a new metro service, it means better train services for Western Sydney too, including in the outer west and Blue Mountains on the T1 Western line.

"Metro West will also cut crowding by 30% at stations like Strathfield, Redfern and Burwood.”

NSW Premier Chris Minns said this project won’t just change the way people move around the city; it will now also provide the well-located homes for future generations to live in.

Enhanced Sydney Metro to drive new housing supply

Homebuyers have a new reason to be confident about building quality in NSW with the official opening of Building Commission NSW this week, the state’s first ever dedicated building regulator.

From today Building Commission NSW, led by Commissioner David Chandler, will open its doors.

The newly established agency will lift the existing Office of the Building Commissioner out of NSW Fair Trading to give staff dedicated resources and a clear focus on the building sector.

Delivering a standalone regulator was a key election promise of the Minns Labor government, ensuring builders and the homes they construct in NSW are compliant, safe and durable.

The change means NSW will go from just 40 staff dedicated to enforcing quality and standards in the building industry to more than 400.

Funded by a $24 million down payment in the NSW Budget, Building Commission NSW will be a one stop shop for regulation, licensing and oversight of the sector.

While the NSW Government is committed to tackling the NSW housing supply crisis after over a decade of inaction, the government will not allow quantity of homes to come at the expense of quality.

This is another milestone in the work the NSW Government has already completed to lift standards across the industry, including:

<ul>
	<li>new laws to dramatically expand the Building Commissioner’s powers over freestanding residential homes.</li>
	<li>elevating the sector to cabinet level with the first ever Minister for Building.</li>
	<li>boosting the capacity of smaller builders to deliver quality medium-density housing through initiatives like BuiltIt NSW.</li>
</ul>

The recent completion of Parq Bexley marks&nbsp;the first building in Australia to be covered by Decennial Liability Insurance (DLI), a decade-long guarantee against serious defects.

Parq’s builder Urban Property has also announced that DLI will be rolled out across all future projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29078 project_image_fid=216582]

Owners in buildings covered by DLI can make a claim to get defects repaired for up to a decade after completion, whether their builder is still operating or not.

NSW is the first state in the nation to offer decennial liability insurance and the NSW Government recently passed laws to encourage more builders to sign up and protect buyers.

“In recent years we’ve heard horror stories about defects in apartment buildings but we’re turning the tide with Building Commission NSW," NSW Premier Chris Minns said:

“The Building Commissioner has made a start restoring integrity, now we’ve given him the powers and resources he needs to get on with the job.”

Minister for Building Anoulack Chanthivong said the Building Commission NSW will turbocharge our work to restore trust and integrity in the building sector, while&nbsp;Building Commissioner David Chandler OAM says the Commission's team comprises amazing, talented and committed people.

“It will be my privilege to lead this next phase of delivering the trusted housing that the state's community desperately needs.

“When I started this work everyone was driving towards the bottom of quality, now we are all working towards the top and Urban Property is a great example.”

Funded by a $24 million down payment in the NSW Budget, Building Commission NSW will be a one stop shop for regulation, licensing and oversight of the sector

Building Commission NSW opens to ensure compliant new housing

The Minns Labor government has announced discussions have commenced with the Australian Turf Club (ATC) on a proposal to relocate Rosehill Race Course and build tens of thousands of new homes, surrounded by greenspace and a new Sydney Metro West station.

The proposal, which was brought to the NSW Government by the ATC, centres around the potential to build more than 25,000 new homes on the Rosehill Racecourse site. This would allow the government to explore the feasibility of a new Metro West Station at Rosehill.

The proposal will also turbocharge NSW’s world-class racing industry, securing its long-term future.

The NSW Government and the ATC have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the potentially historic plan, which would be subject to the NSW Government’s unsolicited proposals process.

<h2>Under the ATC’s proposal:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>A centre of excellence horse training facility at Horsley Park to accommodate the relocation of 300 to 400 horses from Rosehill Gardens stables.</li>
	<li>Warwick Farm redeveloped as a state-of-the-art racing, training, member and spectator facility.</li>
	<li>Several sites across Sydney will be earmarked and investigated for a new, world-class racecourse track and facilities.</li>
	<li>ATC retains and develops the Rosehill Gardens site for housing (potentially 25,000 homes), entertainment, green space and a new school.</li>
	<li>Funds from the development invested in racing, training and member and spectator facilities at all racing, training and stabling venues.</li>
	<li>The NSW Government explores the feasibility of a new metro station at Rosehill to deliver reliable public transport for the new Rosehill Gardens community.</li>
</ul>

We know that housing affordability and availability are at their lowest levels in decades, and we are facing the lowest rates of rental vacancies and a slowdown in building approvals and construction activity.

This is the biggest single pressure facing the people of NSW, with mortgage payments or rent the largest expense for most households.

The NSW Government is committed to building more housing in the right places, where people want to live – to improve affordability, reduce building and infrastructure costs and create thriving communities.

<h2>The unsolicited proposals process includes:</h2>

<ul>
	<li>Strong probity, conflict of interest and confidentiality arrangements, including the appointment of a probity adviser to advise, monitor and report at each stage of the assessment process.</li>
	<li>Prohibitions on the proponent lobbying ministers or officials on the proposal, with clear communication channels established.</li>
	<li>Clear assessment criteria, timeframes and a streamlined process for objectively assessing the proposal.</li>
</ul>

NSW Premier Chris Minns said this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

"The ATC sees this as a chance to secure the future of racing in NSW," Minns said.

“The government sees this as an opportunity to put its money where its mouth is and build more housing, close to transport links, with plenty of green space for new families.

“This is exactly the type of proposal my government has been talking about over the last 6 months.

“The fact is we have a housing crisis – we aren’t building enough homes. The more supply we have, the more we can drive down cost of living pressures, whether it’s for renters or those wanting to buy their own home.”

NSW Premier Chris Minns said this is a once-in-a-generation opportunity

Minns Labor government to discuss converting Rosehill Racecourse into 25,000 new homes

We've not seen any slowing down in demand, and with supply levels at significant lows due to the current construction issues, the Gold Coast market has continued to outperform the rest of the country

The top 12 developers to watch out for on the Gold Coast in 2024

Sydney is predicted to have the highest growth in luxury residential property prices of the Australian cities in 2024, according to Knight Frank research.

Knight Frank’s Global Prime Residential Forecast found the New South Wales’ capital sits in fifth place out of 25 cities globally for predicted prime property price growth next year, with 5% growth forecast.

Prime property is generally defined as the top 5% of property in each market. Melbourne came in at number eight for forecast growth in prime residential property prices over 2024, with an expected rise of&nbsp; 3%.

Globally, Knight Frank’s latest projections for prime prices in 2023 and 2024 were revised upwards by the global research network in its Global Prime Residential Forecast, foreseeing an average growth of 2.4% in 2023 and 2.5% in 2024.

<img alt="Knight Frank" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="53f3a14e-d1ea-43a3-98c5-e4e2f3b8cdc8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-12-07%20at%2011.29.02%20am.png?VersionId=sOnYotq_Va2y8BXJRKfTzXcoz8QVKjEy" />

Both Sydney and Melbourne were in the list of 10 cities in Knight Frank’s Global Prime Residential Forecast that had seen an improvement in the luxury property price growth forecast for 2024. The 5% growth figure forecast for Sydney is a 2% increase on the original forecast for prime property price growth in 2024, made six months ago by Knight Frank, and is the second highest forecast price growth revision for next year behind Auckland.

Melbourne's forecasted price growth has jumped from 1% to 3%.

Both cities have also had better growth in luxury residential property prices than predicted over 2023, with price growth forecasts up to the end of this year also revised upwards.

Sydney’s forecast for luxury residential property growth for 2023 has been revised upward from 0% to 3%, while Melbourne’s forecast has been revised upwards from -1% to 1%, reflecting the better than expected performance of these two cities over 2023.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136076 project_image_fid=212615]

Knight Frank Head of Residential Research in Australia Michelle Ciesielski said cautious optimism was emerging in the luxury residential property market globally, with prime buyers appearing confident that economic headwinds were easing.

“In Australia, buyer appetite is strengthening, while supply of prime properties is constrained,” Ciesielski said.

“The limited number of exceptional and most desirable prime residential property listings continues to create a price floor under many luxury Australian properties.

“This undersupply of luxury homes is one of the key factors set to shape the performance of the Australian prime residential market in 2024, with inflation and interest rates also set to play a big role.

“In saying that, in this upper echelon of the market, we are seeing an increasing number of cash buyers, with the proportion being 60% of all prime residential property sales in Sydney and 65% in Melbourne.

“Climate risk, geopolitical tensions and currency shifts are also expected to impact the Australian luxury property market.

“Amongst these risks there are opportunities, however, with property set to continue to appeal as a means to diversify and spread risk, being seen as a safe haven for capital.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108801 project_image_fid=236536]

Prime residential property has outperformed most other asset types over a 10-year period, with 55% growth, according to Knight Frank’s Prime Global Cities Index. It came in second behind oil, with growth of 110% over the same timeframe.

Knight Frank Head of Residential in Australia Erin van Tuil said in pockets of prime suburbs around Australia, record sale prices were being achieved, with some taking place before an advertising campaign takes place.

“Many of these properties are located on the waterfront, large estates and on the upper levels of apartment towers with panoramic views,” she said.

“The super-prime end of the market - especially A$20m-plus - is doing exceptionally well, with no shortage of buyers and limited homes.

“Most buyers are local Australian buyers, with a notable absence of foreign buyers committing to sales, despite enquiries.

“Relative to other Australian cities, Melbourne has counted more prime luxury product built over the past couple of years, which has made prime prices lag the stronger performance in other Australian cities.

“Melbourne is also still recovering from an extended lockdown in the pandemic, with city seeing many residents move interstate to Queensland and the slower return of international investors which the city relies heavily on.”

Knight Frank research shows in Sydney 5% of prime property buyers are foreign buyers, while in Melbourne it’s 10%.

Both Sydney and Melbourne were in the list of 10 cities in Knight Frank’s Global Prime Residential Forecast that had seen an improvement in the luxury property price growth forecast for 2024

Sydney and Melbourne in world top 10 for luxury property market growth in 2024: Knight Frank

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD Group</a> has set a new residential price record in Queensland with the $30 million sale of the penthouse at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-burleigh-88-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads-qld-4220">ONE Burleigh</a> development in Burleigh Heads.

The sale equates to around $37,500 per sqm.

The two-level, 800 sqm penthouse, featuring five bedrooms, five bathrooms, five car spaces, and a private infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean, was acquired by a Gold Coast-based entrepreneur, highlighting continued demand for ultra-premium beachfront product.

Selling agent Freddie Tehle of PRD Burleigh Heads said the result reflects tightening supply of high-quality, large-format apartments in Burleigh.

“There’s very limited opportunity to secure this level of scale and absolute beachfront position in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/burleigh-heads-qld-4220">Burleigh Heads</a>,” Tehle said.

“Buyers are increasingly seeking apartments that genuinely replace a standalone home, and this penthouse delivers that with its size, privacy, and direct ocean frontage.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323057]

The sale comes as construction progresses on ONE Burleigh, a boutique development of 17 full-floor residences at 88 The Esplanade, scheduled for completion in early 2027.

Developed by MAYD Group and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mas-architecture-studio">MAS Architecture</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/sici-design">Sici Design</a>, the project has been positioned as a collection of house-sized beachfront apartments, each occupying an entire floor with around 381 sqm of internal and external living space.

When construction commenced, MAYD director Todd Mould pointed to the long-term resilience of premium coastal real estate as a key driver behind the project.

“Real estate, particularly at the premium end, remains one of the most resilient and proven long-term investment avenues,” Mould said.

“Our ambition is that anyone who buys a MAYD-built product can genuinely feel the care, craftsmanship and commitment we bring to every detail.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323055]

Each residence has been configured with four bedrooms, multiple living zones, a private office, and expansive ocean-facing terraces. Interiors draw on a restrained material palette, including travertine stone, timber joinery, and integrated premium appliances.

Interior designer Sici Design said the approach was to reflect the project’s coastal setting through both materiality and spatial planning.

“ONE Burleigh is our vision of luxury living, designed to bring the essence of Burleigh Heads' vibrant coastal beauty into an unparalleled residential experience.”

Residents will have access to a suite of wellness-focused amenities, including pools, sauna facilities, and dedicated relaxation spaces, reflecting a broader shift toward lifestyle-driven apartment design on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323052]

The project occupies a southern Esplanade site with uninterrupted beachfront frontage, an increasingly rare offering in Burleigh Heads, free from the Norfolk Pines that line much of the coastline and often limit direct ocean outlook.

Mould said the design intent was to balance that outlook with a sense of retreat.

“Living at ONE Burleigh is about how your day naturally unfolds, morning light across the ocean, coffee on the balcony, and being in Burleigh but elevated above the noise.”

The result further reinforces Burleigh Heads’ emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held and supply-constrained beachfront markets, where boutique, owner-occupier-focused developments are increasingly setting new price benchmarks.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146358]

MAYD Group sets Queensland record with $30 million penthouse sale at ONE Burleigh in Burleigh Heads

Apartment developers in the Gold Coast are finding new, creative ways to differentiate themselves from competing projects, as new supply starts to flow through up and down the Coast.

Developer Big Projects brought in the renowned Sydney-based design studio YSG to craft the interiors for The Frederick, Big Projects' new Mermaid Beach project and YSG's first move into the multi-residential development space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5346]

It was a strategic move for Big Projects to bring in a Sydney eye to the development.

“Our role is to give our design partners the space and freedom to explore,” says Matt Barrett, Director of Big Projects.

“We wanted YSG Studio to capture the essence of Nobby’s, to design a building that embraces life, light and connection, while creating a genuine sense of place.”

There are only 39 apartments in The Frederick, including a striking beach house, just 100 metres from the booming Nobby Beach precinct.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5347]

Yasmine Ghoniem, Director of YSG Studio, says their vision&nbsp;for The Frederick "reinvents coastal living."

“Nobby’s has such an iconic energy, it’s one of those rare pockets of the Gold Coast where the community, the beach, and the streets all feel connected,” Ghoniem says.

"Responding to the neighbouring coastline, soothing curves add a relaxing regional overlay, while unique detailing really sets it apart. It’s a place that feels lived in from the moment you step inside.”

A standout feature of The Frederick is its rooftop terrace, an uncommon inclusion for a boutique, low-rise building, where amenity is typically concentrated at ground level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5360]

Positioned to capture panoramic views from the hinterland to the ocean, the rooftop has been designed as a series of intimate zones. It includes a pool, sauna, sun decks, workspaces and dedicated entertaining areas.

“The rooftop was conceived as a collection of spaces where residents can unwind and connect, an extension of the Nobby’s lifestyle,” Barrett says.

Architecture for the project was led by Plus Architecture, with landscape design by LDG.

SRQ Projects Director Nick Clydsdale, who is handling sales at The Frederick, says the majority of enquiry is coming from South East QLD and Victorian buyers who have been actively searching between Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach for some time.

"They’ve reviewed a number of projects, however this one has stood out for its design flair/ appeal,"&nbsp;Clydsdale says.

Site demolition is slated for this month, with construction commencing soon after. Big Projects is targeting a late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110588]

Big Projects taps Sydney’s YSG for first multi-residential project at The Frederick Mermaid Beach

Melbourne-based property developer ALTA Property has this week achieved planning approval for the adaptive re-use of a former commercial tower into a $200 million, 169-apartment project at 10 Queens Road, one of the last developable sites along the Albert Park Lake-fronting boulevard.&nbsp;

Set within one of Melbourne’s most sought-after precincts and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser and Partners</a>, the illustrious building will offer unparalleled views across Albert Park Lake, Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne CBD.&nbsp;

The mix of 1, 2 and 3-bedroom residences will be complemented by a ground-floor amenity featuring private dining, a lounge bar, gym and wellness spaces, co-working, outdoor communal gardens, and retail.&nbsp;

The 17-storey building is a masterclass in adaptive re-use, with the existing commercial building’s façade, shell and internal structure to be retained, before high-end residences are built from the ground up in a newly built Albert Park facing addition to the building.&nbsp;

Sitting atop the building will be two 320+sqm penthouses with private rooftop terraces, which are expected to be priced between $9 - $11 million.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa11211b-5581-43f9-940c-fc84d30a0e61" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/C_04.png?VersionId=Yhf5p_1EgGDu_zOIMFgvA8Ug8j3sTFQs" />

Architecturally, the building will feature a curved, geometric façade that celebrates and elevates the existing structure, with warm, muted tones which were selected to extend the materiality of the existing building rather than contrast it.&nbsp;

Interiors will bring together three metre high ceilings with waffle concrete in some spaces, natural timber, granite and Australian materials, culminating in crafted, generous and considered spaces that are defined by authenticity.&nbsp;

The adaptive re-use means that the Queens Road project will be a sustainability led, high-quality finished product, with a 62% saving in carbon emissions by re-using the existing structure rather than knocking it down and rebuilding.&nbsp;

ALTA Property was launched by Nigel Givoni in 2023, bringing over 25 years of experience in multi level residential delivery.&nbsp;

Melbourne’s property market growth is currently led by apartments. According to RPM VIC Apartments &amp; Townhomes Market Report (April 2026), units are outpacing houses, especially in the middle ring suburbs where median prices hit $757,500 – a four-year high that represents 2.9 percent growth quarter-on-quarter.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="647e13d7-b4bc-433a-9bc9-fe3c3dd4f2ec" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/V_06.png?VersionId=ou4NUCWUgA3NAy.6CQJlEdKX50j3dOk6" />

For ALTA Property Founder Nigel Givoni, this performance speaks to the confidence he has in the Melbourne market.&nbsp;

“Queens Road represents a rare opportunity to continue to shape our presence in the Melbourne market.,"&nbsp;Givoni says.

"With a considered project team and a premier site along one of the city’s most sought-after boulevards, we look forward to contributing to the fabric of this established address.

“Other Australian markets are getting a lot of attention, but I believe the depth of value in Melbourne is being overlooked. The fundamentals are strong, population growth is steady and, based on our preliminary conversations with a leading builder, construction costs are beginning to normalise, creating further opportunity."

Givoni says the project is a&nbsp;highly considered example of adaptive re-use, delivering quality, high-end residences, premium hotel-inspired amenities and an architecturally striking façade, all achieved without the need to remove the existing structure.

"We are really looking forward to the market’s response,” he said.&nbsp;

ALTA Property to deliver $200 million Queens Road apartment tower

Construction is set to begin at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/orchard-mews-glen-iris-18-scott-grove-glen-iris-vic-3146">Orchard Mews</a> in Glen Iris, with&nbsp;PC Whitehall &amp; Sons&nbsp;now appointed as the townhome development moves into its next phase.

The development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/montcoeur">MontCoeur</a>,&nbsp;located at 18 Scott Grove, is now around 30 per cent sold, with completion targeted for late-2027.

Orchard Mews comprises a curated collection of three- and four-bedroom customisable townhomes, positioned within one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>’ more tightly held residential streets. The low-density project has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, bringing together a team known for high-end residential projects across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366285]

The development is defined by its focus on flexible living and long-term usability. Each residence includes multiple living zones and a customisable multipurpose room, allowing buyers to tailor spaces to suit changing needs, whether as a home office, additional bedroom, wellness area or entertainment space.

Architecturally, the townhomes emphasise natural light and spatial volume, with dual-aspect layouts and double-height living areas incorporated into the design. Interiors feature natural stone benchtops, premium appliances, and a neutral material palette intended to support everyday functionality rather than statement-driven finishes.

All residences are all-electric and include private lifts and secure double garages, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainability and future-focused housing in Melbourne’s established suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366277]

Outdoor connections are also central to the offering, with a mix of private courtyards and terraces extending internal living spaces and integrating with the landscaped surrounds.

The Scott Grove address places Orchard Mews within close proximity to some of Melbourne’s key lifestyle and education amenities, including Scotch College, Sacré Cœur, Cabrini Hospital and the retail hub of Chadstone. Public transport access is also nearby, with trams and Gardiner Station providing connectivity to the CBD and surrounding suburbs.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150128]

Construction to commence at luxury Glen Iris townhome project, Orchard Mews

A rare new apartment development has been proposed on the fringe of St Ives Village.

Developer Newquest Property has lodged plans for a low-rise apartment project designed by well-regarded architecture firm Warren &amp; Mahoney, which is best known for its work in the multi-residential sector in Melbourne.

The building, proposed for a 1,916 sqm site on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-ives-residences-3-5-memorial-avenue-nsw-2075">Memorial Avenue</a> opposite St Ives Village Green, has been designed to blend into the surrounding natural environment.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c1c7437-2fba-4345-a6d7-05321714ad3e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.28.46%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=KrYyMaJvNqR7vbx0xbB3Ef8sJ6FuHpmn" />

“Drawing inspiration from the pale trunks and flowering canopies of the scribbly gums and blue gums prevalent in the area, a considered material palette was developed,” the architectural design report states.

“This palette references the established materiality of the suburb while elevating it through refined finishes to achieve a more luxurious architectural expression.”

Of the 33 apartments proposed, 21 will be three-bedroom residences. The remaining mix includes nine two-bedroom apartments, one one-bedroom apartment and two four-bedroom residences. The development will be supported by 62 car parking spaces and 33 secure bicycle spaces.

The proposal would replace two single-storey brick buildings currently on the site.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21422eaf-09a9-4439-9278-b9bd9daf22a1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.38.10%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=v.fXSgcUcEscvOZzqcjG5nk3gVqk_Amt" />

St Ives remains a relatively untapped market for new apartment development. North Shore developer WINIM has a number of projects in the area, while INCA is nearing completion of Ellis Residences.

More recently, Traders In Purple has lodged plans for one of the denser projects proposed in the suburb, a 75-apartment development on a 5,900 sqm site on Cowan Road.

NewQuest, a construction, design and development firm, has delivered over 24 projects across commercial, residential, industrial, and lad markets.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

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