Australian property developer Third.i and joint venture partner Phoenix Property Investors (PPI), are planning to provide frontline Sydney healthcare workers with a range of new affordable housing at their Crows Nest Metro over-station project, Hume Place.

In an industry-first, Third.i and PPI are partnering with one of Australia’s largest community housing providers, Evolve Housing, and proposing to designate 15 per cent of the mixed-used development to nurses, midwives, health professional and services staff working at nearby Royal North Shore (RNS) Hospital and other local health facilities.

This will allow health workers, who are unable to find affordable rental apartments within the local government area, to live close to their workplaces. A demographic study 1 commissioned by Third.i and PPI shows that local health workers and services staff are being forced to travel between 30-50 kilometres to get to work every day or night. Workers from Royal North Shore Hospital living alone are paying up to 58 per cent of their salary for a studio in the local area.

Health Services Union Secretary, Gerard Hayes, said we have a housing crisis that is becoming a health crisis.

"Essential health workers are already making the tough decision to leave the sector in search of work closer to home. A hospital cleaner, a physiotherapist, a wardsperson, these workers shouldn’t have to travel for hours each day, coming to work already exhausted. We need solutions that mean these workers can afford to live in the communities they serve," Hayes said.

<img alt="Hume Place" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b635fca7-b5b2-4d32-a604-b218a2c2e2e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-09%20at%208.53.14%20am.png?VersionId=y.4veFgMUYw6FaOrPXbVk50XN3mlyxBw" />

NSW Nurses and Midwives’ Association General Secretary, Shaye Candish, welcomed the Third.i and Evolve partnership, pointing to a new member survey, which showed the lack of affordable housing was causing stress and anxiety for many healthcare workers.

“Many nurses and midwives in NSW struggle to secure affordable housing. 76% of respondents to our member survey said a lack of affordable housing was a problem, and over half indicated they were insecure in their current accommodation or didn’t have a steady place to live,” Candish said.

“Proximity to work is particularly relevant because of nurses and midwives’ work patterns, including shift work. 90% want to live near their workplace and access to affordable housing influences their employment decisions. 69% of respondents said they were experiencing rental stress.

“With the crippling cost-of-living pressures, the harsh reality is that the overwhelming majority of healthcare workers simply cannot find, let alone afford, to live near RNS, The Mater or other health facilities on the lower north shore.

Evolve CEO Lyall Gorman said&nbsp;demand for affordable housing far out-strips the current supply on to the market.

“That’s why we’re delighted that Evolve’s partnership with Third.i will potentially deliver a pipeline of new affordable housing for healthcare workers, who otherwise would be travelling between 1-2 hours to get to work every day.”

Third.i Director and Co-Founder Robert Huxley said Third.i was excited that the ‘Hume Place’ development could help address the chronic shortage of quality, affordable housing on Sydney’s lower north shore.

“We want to give frontline healthcare workers, like nurses, midwives, paramedics, and health professional and services staff, the chance to finally find quality, affordable housing options, close to Royal North Shore Hospital, The Mater Hospital and other local health facilities,” Mr Huxley said.

“The strategic location of the development, right above the Crows Nest Metro, will allow health care workers to easily access Royal North Shore Hospital, RPA, Sydney and St Vincent’s Hospitals, within just a few minutes. “Our proposed amended design aligns with the Minns Government’s drive to get more housing in connected, urban areas around stations and transport hubs, allowing key workers to live close to their work.”

<img alt="Third.i" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a2ecf4a7-3137-48b8-a6de-525722a8afd1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-09%20at%209.03.57%20am.png?VersionId=Y3aguPjFQxw9fYnZFZRNYMAjqpQ25HOX" />

Third.i and PPI have already been granted Stage 1 approval for the Metro Precinct (Site A and B) development, but due to a decreased demand for office space, the urgent need for additional residential density in the LGA and in line with the Minns Government’s commitment to increasing the low supply of affordable housing, Third.i and PPI are proposing to amend the concept SSD for Site A for mixed-use, which includes a mix of affordable housing, private residential, retail, and commercial floor space.

Huxley said Hume Place will not only address the growing residential needs of the community, but create much-needed economic activity for local businesses.

“Should the project be approved, it will offer frontline workers a new benchmark of affordable and convenient inner city living; close to transport hubs, amenities and major hospitals in the Northern Sydney Local Health District. Frontline health workers, cleaning and catering staff working at local hospitals will all benefit from the affordable housing options, greatly-reduced travel times and improved work-life balance. 3 “These new residents will shop and spend locally which will be an added bonus for the local business community.”

Third.i will hand over the title of the affordable tower to Evolve, should the amended application be approved. The proposed precinct is set to launch to market on 15 October 2023 at the local community event, Crows Nest Fest.

Third.i has partnered with over 40 local businesses to offer attendees the chance to win one of three $10,000 voucher packs, to be used throughout Crows Nest.

Health Services Union Secretary, Gerard Hayes, said we have a housing crisis that is becoming a health crisis

Joel Robinson

Third.i to offer affordable housing to frontline workers at Crows Nest over-station development Hume Place

Residential developer Azure has secured a buyer for the most expensive penthouse in their Toowong apartment development, One Earle Lane.

The penthouse, one of four that will top the project in Brisbane's inner west, sold for $3.85 million to a local buyer.

One Earle Lane by Azure, which is taking shape on a 2,697 sqm parkside block on the corner of Sylvan Road and Earle Lane, comprises 90 apartments across eight levels.

Just eight apartments are left in the project, including three penthouses which start from $3.6 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112120 project_image_fid=206696]

Azure Director Trent Kiernan said One Earle Lane has been "extremely well received by the market."

“We’re pleased to announce that, with construction now well under way, the first of our exclusive penthouse collection has sold to a local buyer capping off a strong run of sales across the development,” Kiernan said.

“One Earle Lane has been extremely well received by the market with buyers recognising our vision to create a premium project that offers a suite of superbly appointed residences and amenities.”

Designed by Paul Conrad from Conrad Architects, One Earle Lane will deliver a collection of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments that have been crafted to take advantage of the site’s proximity to urban and natural amenity, including Toowong Park and the nearby Brisbane River.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112120 project_image_fid=206695]

Residences in the Parkview and Penthouse Collection each deliver unobstructed northern views across the heritage-listed park.

The four penthouse apartments command park and city views on the northern façade and provide spacious living areas that are enhanced by expansive balconies.

Each penthouse features three bedrooms plus a multi-purpose room.

“Among the buyers showing interest in the remaining Parkview and Penthouse Collection are affluent downsizers from surrounding suburbs who appreciate everything the area has to offer,” Keirnan added.

“As One Earle Lane starts to take shape, we anticipate that interest in our Parkview and Penthouse Collections will continue to increase.”

One Earle Lane takes residential living in Toowong to a new level, from the entry lobby, concierge desk and business lounge, to the rooftop residents club above the eighth floor with its resort-style facilities including a wellness area with a large sauna, steam room, hot and cold magnesium plunge baths and gymnasium.

The rooftop recreation club will feature a 25-metre swimming pool with sun lounges and barbecue area, while the wellness centre will deliver a combined offering of restoration zones and physical activities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112120 project_image_fid=206691]

The indoor spaces within the residents’ recreation club include a cinema and a private dining room, which is fully equipped with a chef’s kitchen to provide a true residential dining experience - or it can double as a luxe boardroom or an area for business presentations.

One Earle Lane, with its dominating frontage along the tree-lined Sylvan Road, takes advantage of its prime location in Toowong, the western gateway to Brisbane’s CBD and surrounded by natural and urban amenities, including retail, education and professional employment nodes.

Keirnan said Azure has taken a global design approach with One Earle Lane to create bespoke residences that are aligned with the demands of owner occupiers.

“We pride ourselves on creating communities in which people live and One Earle Lane epitomises this philosophy. The level of amenity to be found is the kind that would only be available in a building with twice the number of apartments.

“One Earle Lane also delivers a diverse range of residences to cater for a range of buyers looking for a chic and sophisticated lifestyle that truly feels like home. We are pleased to say that our buyers recognise the level of detail and planning that has gone into this project to achieve this.”

One Earle Lane is under construction by 5Point Projects, the builder that is currently progressing construction of Azure’s One Five Six project in New Farm, which is due for completion in the first quarter of 2024.

Construction of One Earle Lane began in January this year, with Azure targeting completion in the fourth quarter of next year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112120]

One Earle Lane by Azure, which is taking shape on a 2,697 sqm parkside block on the corner of Sylvan Road and Earle Lane, comprises 90 apartments across eight levels

Azure secure priciest sale in One Earle Lane, Toowong apartment development

Johnson Property Group has received State significant masterplan approval for its $600 million Trinity Point development in Lake Macquarie.

The green light fast-tracks the masterplanned community’s plans to provide a unique blend of sustainable luxury living and a significant economic boost to Lake Macquarie and surrounding areas.

Set against the scenic 3.8-hectare backdrop of waterfront property overlooking Barden’s Bay, Trinity Point promises a mix of premium resort hospitality, retail spaces and apartments, as well as a state-of-the-art marina and helipad.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="4e7a4306-1545-4303-8757-498bd3b47266" href="/new-apartments/trinity-point-estate-81-trinity-point-drive-morisset-park"><img alt="Johnson" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-06%20at%2012.36.07%20pm.png?VersionId=5OaqRTMm9aqE.5x_GFEQmXQllS.Ru0_0" /></a>

The masterplan features 180 luxury apartments with 614 car spaces, a 218-room hotel, a function centre for up to 300 people, a medispa and wellness retreat, six serviced apartments and two 300-seat restaurants.

Currently on the site sits restaurant 8 at Trinity.

Johnson Property Group's Natalie Johnson says they built an $8 million, 350-seat pop-up&nbsp;restaurant to showcase a taste of what is to come in the proposed development.

“It currently attracts up to 1000 to 1200&nbsp; customers per day with 80% travelling up from Sydney for the experience," Johnson says.

"It makes you feel like you could be anywhere in the world without getting on a plane, proving the incredible demand and future success of a project of this calibre.”

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e4cdfd47-2eaa-4633-9b26-87babcec951b" href="/new-apartments/trinity-point-estate-81-trinity-point-drive-morisset-park"><img alt="Johnson" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-06%20at%2012.36.33%20pm.png?VersionId=ticI7ug2NWq91pN_CnXjhT6NapWCo82J" /></a>

Trinity Point’s 188-berth marina is poised to become one of New South Wales’ largest, creating hundreds of new jobs in the region.&nbsp;

Keith Johnson of Johnson Property Group said Trinity Point isn’t merely a development, it’s a world-class resort development.

"[The] 188-berth marina will attract tourism from around the World because there is nothing else like it in Australia," Johnson says. The marina will become one of&nbsp; New South Wales’ largest marinas, creating hundreds of new jobs in the region.&nbsp;

Renowned architect Koichi Takada has been in charge of the designs of the new stage of Trinity Park. He took&nbsp;inspiration from the serene surroundings and rolling Watagan Mountains.

“Our design concept aims for harmonious interaction with nature,” Takada said.

Fluid, sculptural forms are blanketed with green roofs touching the ground in the same manner as the nearby mountains meet the lake.

<a data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="63d1d846-fc91-4791-b71d-02f57cf1ba5c" href="/new-apartments/trinity-point-estate-81-trinity-point-drive-morisset-park"><img alt="Jonson" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-06%20at%2012.38.27%20pm.png?VersionId=e3FTqZw3lOSRCBZkQmc8oxcQ2f_a4OKe" /></a>

Much of the site will remain publicly accessible, featuring a major public pedestrian walkway along the foreshore and secondary through-site links weaving around the buildings. These walkways offer a trail experience, connecting private and public areas.

Koichi Takada Architects will also bring its signature biophilic design to Trinity Point. Think solar panels tucked between lush green roofs, rainwater collection systems, and boardwalks that don’t just look good—they do good.&nbsp;

Lake Macquarie’s property market has shown up to a 40 per cent increase over the last year alone. The recent completion of the Sydney–Newcastle Expressway adds to the region’s desirability.

The masterplan features 180 apartments, a 218-room hotel, a function centre, a medispa and wellness retreat, six serviced apartments and two 300-seat restaurants

Johnson Property Group secure approval for Koichi Takada-designed Trinity Point, Lake Macquarie development

It's been around 15 years since a new apartment project was developed in Bargara, the small coastal town around 13 kilometres east of Bundaberg.

Longtime Brisbane real estate agent Graham Furtado saw it as an opportunity to return to his hometown and create what locals are saying is the first off the plan apartment opportunity since 2007.

Furtado has recently launched MIRA Living, just 25 apartments on a site which Furtado describes as the best in Bargara.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138280 project_image_fid=222855]

"We're strategically located at the south end of Esplanade, which in itself is a busy street given it faces the beach," Furtado says.

"We're however within touching distance of all the amenity the comes with a beachfront strip, but we're quietly positioned at the end of the street, just a few hundred metres from the sand and the beachfront."

The peninsula location puts future MIRA Living residents just 300 metres to Bargara Golf Club, 400 metres to the shops and cafes on the Esplanade, and 300 metres to Kelly's Beach and the Basin.

While Furtado knew he was tapping into a market which has been starved of off the plan product, he hadn't expected sales to come at the rate they have.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138280 project_image_fid=222667]

"Around 30 per cent of the project has already sold, much quicker than anticipiated," Furtado says. His buyers have predominantly been locals, while there's been a couple from the Sunshine Coast and one from Brisbane.

"The demand is definitely there in Bargara," Furtado says. "If there's another opportunity to acquire a site with similar density then there's certainly opportunity to serve an undersupplied market."

Designed by Mondo Architects in collaboration with design specialist Sarah Wood Design, MIRA Living comprises 25 three-bedroom apartments which cater for the owner-occupier. A number of the apartments, which all feature high-end European appliances, master bedrooms with walk-in wardrobes and ensuites, have a study or multi-purpose room.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138280 project_image_fid=222661]

Each apartments also has basement garaging for two cars. Residents will have private amenity in the form of a tropical landscaped pool and gardens adjoining a communal alfresco area.

The site has been cleared, and Furtado is hoping to commence construction early next year, with a mid-2025 completion date anticipated.

Furtado has been an estate agent across Brisbane for the best part of three decades.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138280]

Furtado has recently launched MIRA Living, just 25 apartments on a site which Furtado describes as the best site in Bargara.

Furtado Property secure early success at rare Bargara apartment development MIRA Living

Mirvac has firmed up plans for the next stage of Zetland's burgeoning Green Square precinct.

The ambitious $13 billion Green Square redevelopment has been a longstanding collaboration between Mirvac and Landcom, the NSW Government owned property developer, since 2012. Over the last decade they've focused on the 13.7 hectare block of land surrounding the Green Square Train Station, which has seen them already construct hundreds of apartments, extensive food and beverage tenancies, a library, and a primary school.

The latest $315 million plans are a revision on a 2017-approved development application. Proposed are three towers at 960A Bourke Street, two designed by Tzannes Architects and one designed by Bates Smart, both in collaboration with Mirvac's in house design team.

The amalgamated 3,688 sqm block, referred to as Site 7, Site 17 and Site 18, will flank the Green Square central plaza, opposite the Green Square Library and the Green Square Train Station and next door the the award-winning completed residential development Infinity by Crown Group.

<img alt="Mirvac Green Square" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1eb84464-9f8e-4011-ba0b-ff3615062b52" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-05%20at%203.17.22%20pm.png?VersionId=CZPBLVddBwqcqI4jv4KaWvbG.FeLeNOO" />

The buildings will rise 13, 18 and 20 storeys.

The 13 and 18-storey buildings, designed by Tzannes, were designed to be&nbsp;complimentary in their form, but display individual identities through differing materials, vertical and horizontal articulation, Tzannes noted in their Design Statement submitted to City of Sydney Council.

The Site 7 tower has been designed with a glazed commercial podium with a residential tower floating above, while Site 17 is a brick apartment building, with "reference to Sydney’s long history of small and medium sized brick residential fl at buildings."

There will be 183 dwellings spread across the two buildings, the majority two-bedrooms apartments. There will also be a handful of two and three-bedroom townhouses.

At the foot of the two Tzannes-designed buildings will be 14 retail spaces.

<img alt="Tzannes Mirvac" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d84ff26f-6b5c-4130-80f6-0c13c4134226" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-05%20at%203.21.18%20pm.png?VersionId=goVrkEdtfpSAOhbd5D1qH8R09xrDIOIb" />

Bates Smart has designed the tower, referred to as Site 18, on the smallest section of the site.

That will have just 77 apartments, again heavily weighted towards two-bedrooms (67%).&nbsp;Bates Smart said the change in the apartment mix was due to the evolution of Green Square since they designed the original tower over six years ago.

"Green Square has undergone radical change in recent years as the public domain and community infrastructure envisioned by the Green Square DCP has come to life," the architecture studio wrote in their Design Statement.

"The completion of key community buildings has made for a highly liveable town centre, including; the Green Square Library and Plaza, Community Centre, Gunyama Park Aquatic and Recreation Centre and the Drying Green. Future Improvements including the Green Square Public School and an ever growing retail network will only continue to make the area more desirable.

"This changing context has seen a shift in the market from investor product to larger owner-occupied dwellings which has underpinned the re-thinking of the design of Site 18."

They said the&nbsp;façade approach "contrasts a crisp white frame with a family of ‘cool’ infill elements that provide a calm and elegant backdrop for the staggered primary frame."

<img alt="Bates Smart Mirvac" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b7a2503-eb7f-4881-b25c-7a72ccf9a070" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-05%20at%203.50.34%20pm.png?VersionId=kEP.xfcQi_iD830tne4YbSQ7f5v9Lkem" />

&nbsp;

Mirvac recently topped out three of their Green Square apartment developments,&nbsp;The Frederick, Portman on the Park, and Portman House,&nbsp;which have a combined construction value of over $210 million.

&nbsp;

Over 80% of the apartments are sold, to a mix of owner occupiers, young first home buyers and investors.

<a href="/developers/mirvac" target="_blank">Mirvac</a>&nbsp;CEO Development Stuart Penklis said the completion of the three buildings forms a significant milestone for the ongoing evolution of Green Square from one of the city’s oldest industrial suburbs to Sydney’s first new town centre in more than a century.

"The new community we are delivering in partnership with state and local government at Green Square has already contributed homes for over 1,000 residents, and these three new apartment buildings will see a further 685 residents calling the precinct home by the end of 2023," Penklis said.

When Mirvac complete Green Square they will have delivered more than 1,600 apartments.

<h1>Fast Facts about 960A Bourke Street, Zetland</h1>

Site 7: 19-storey building with an 8-storey podium fronting Green Square Plaza comprising ground floor retail, ground floor loading dock, commercial uses within the podium, 124 apartments, landscaped communal open space and landscaped podium roof terrace.

Site 17: 14-storey building with a 4-storey podium fronting Green Square Plaza comprising ground floor retail, commercial uses within the podium, 183 apartments and a landscapes podium roof terrace.

Site 18: 21-storey building comprising ground floor retail, 77 apartments and a landscaped roof terrace

The ambitious $13 billion Green Square redevelopment has been a longstanding collaboration between Mirvac and Landcom, the NSW Government owned property developer, since 2012

First look: Mirvac continue Green Square transformation with three-tower mixed-use development

Melbourne unit value growth doubled month on month in September, with the growth in apartments and townhouses outstripping house value growth.

Following modest gains of 0.4 per cent in July and 0.3 per cent in August, Melbourne units grew 0.6 per cent over September, compared to the 0.3 per cent growth houses in the Victoria capital posted, according to&nbsp;CoreLogic's Monthly Hedonic Home Value Index.

Melbourne unit values are now 1.6 per cent up over the rolling quarter, and 3.3&nbsp;per cent year to date. The median value for units in Melbourne is now $612,585.

CoreLogic Research Director Tim Lawless noted that in&nbsp;the more expensive cities, Sydney and Melbourne, the broad middle of the market is now recording the highest growth rate after previously being led by the upper quartile.

“Possibly we are starting to see renewed affordability challenges deflecting more demand towards the middle of the market where barriers to entry are lower,” Lawless said.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/vic/city-beat-august-2023-buyers-start-to-emerge-in-melbournes-off-the-plan-market">City Beat August 2023: Buyers start to emerge in Melbourne's off the plan market</a>

<h2>What's happening in the Melbourne off the plan market?</h2>

Melbourne is arguably the slowest of markets to understand the value that off the plan apartments offer currently.

Everything in Melbourne points to a prolonged period of growth. The supply and demand imbalance is the largest in the country by some distance, and the most concerning part for Melbourne is that the gap is likely to widen, not narrow. Not enough apartment developments are getting launched, nor are development sites transacting. At the same time, immigration numbers are expected to be the highest in the country.

Anecdotal feedback from agents however is that the majority of buyers are not ready to commit to a purchase yet, with confidence of deliver an issue. However more buyers are starting, or restarting, their purchasing journey now there's more confidence in the RBA holding rates.

Buxton Projects Director Josh Buxton believes there's a real opportunity to make money in the off the plan apartment market at the moment.

"Over the next decade we’re going to see a large shortfall of supply, and at some stage those pressures will come in and people will realise there’s money to be made in buying off the plan property," Buxton said.

"When property prices jumped by 40 per cent in some areas during COVID, off the plan prices didn’t move which is incredible. That means you’re still buying at a price that you might have afforded back in 2020. Buyers can’t do that in the established market after such significant price jumps."

Buxton recently started construction on ADA Toorak, just 22 three-bedroom apartments designed by Paul Conrad on Malvern Road.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=92806 project_image_fid=175568]

Buxton said he couldn't believe how quickly enquiry changed when they started building.

"There was a really distinct line. It wasn’t when the site was demolished, or site prep, but as soon as the concrete was poured, then we got activity."

Construction on the striking building is slated for mid-2024. Buxton says ADA brings something different to Toorak, offering a more affordable solution to the bluechip suburb without compromising on quality.

"We wanted to provide the quality Toorak locals have come to expect from high-end homes but in an apartment. We really pushed on the landscaping too so downsizers are still surrounded in greenery without the maintenance of a large yard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=92806 project_image_fid=175569]

OSK Property is finding buyers are saying the same about builder confidence at BLVD, their latest stage of their&nbsp;$2.8 billion Melbourne Square development in Southbank.

BLVD, which follows two completed residential towers, comprises 591 apartments and a suite of wellness facilities and sustainability features which have become the cornerstone of the masterplan.

OSK Property Sales and Marketing Director Ivy Chen said they are seeing success because of the certainty they bring to the off the plan apartment market.

"What is influencing buyers is having the&nbsp;certainty that construction will indeed go ahead. They will research the quality of past projects as evidence too."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214124]

Chen says&nbsp;demand for both completed and off the plan apartments is very strong at the moment.

"There has been a big change from previous years with a noticeable switch of purchaser type from investors to owner occupiers. Now more than half are owner occupiers," Chen advised.

She says buyers are more demanding in their requirements for floor plan layouts, views, and storage space, as well as&nbsp;whether the development has any sustainability or wellness features, the latter more of a requirement since COVID.

"People are definitely more focused on their mental and physical health now," Chen noted.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=211867]

Lendlease have quickly secured two thirds of sales at their Regatta at Collins Wharf development, which has prices starting from $591,500 through to nearly $4.7 million.

<a href="/developers/lendlease-development">Lendlease</a>&nbsp;Head of Apartments Daniel Dugina&nbsp;said the&nbsp;significant demand demonstrates the return of confidence in the off the plan housing market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134684 project_image_fid=224391]

He said the development has been welcomed by first home buyers through to downsizers seeking a quality home within the desirable dual-waterfront neighbourhood with easy access to the CBD.

“Regatta at Collins Wharf is the next stage of our ongoing investment in the area, with the precinct’s location presenting an exciting opportunity for Melbourne's city centre to stretch further westwards and engage with the water, connecting its maritime past with the contemporary vibrancy of the city for residents, workers and visitors.”

Melbourne unit values are now 1.6 per cent up over the rolling quarter, and 3.3 per cent year to date

City Beat September 2023: Melbourne unit growth outstrips houses as buyers look ahead

Brisbane unit vales continued to grow over September as supply remains incredibly tight in the Queensland capita.

CoreLogic's monthly Hedonic Home Value Index showed another surge in Brisbane unit vales over last month, a further 1.1 per cent. The rolling quarterly gains of 3.7 per cent makes the Brisbane unit market one of the best performing unit markets in the country.

The Brisbane unit median is now&nbsp;$539,169, a rise from the previous months $520,000.

CoreLogic Research Director Tim Lawless said the performance of the housing market in Brisbane reflects the underlying supply dynamic, with advertised supply levels around 40 per cent below the previous five-year average.

"The trend in advertised stock levels is a key influence on housing values," Lawless says.

"The flow of new listings has been on an upwards trajectory since early June, bucking the normal seasonal trend where new listings are typically flat to falling through winter. Over the four weeks ending September 24th, the flow of new capital city listings was 14 per cent higher than at the same time last year and 8.0 per cent above the previous five year average."

Lawless notes however that, while total&nbsp;capital city listings remain below last year and less than the five-year average, there is a clear upswing in available supply.

<h2>What's happening in the Brisbane off the plan apartment market?</h2>

The <a href="/developments/brisbane-qld">Brisbane off the plan apartment market</a> is firing on all cylinders, still driven by a lack of supply across the city.

The supply constraints was evident in Rider Levett Bucknall's 2023 Crane Index which showed the Queensland capital recorded a net loss in crane numbers over the past six months.

Pikos Group have timed the relaunch of their Kangaroo Point apartment development, Skye Residences, perfectly, at a time where there's little to no premium riverfront apartment projects.

They've secured a number of sales at the luxury two-tower, 68-apartment development on one of the best sites in the whole of Brisbane.

Pikos Group CEO Michelle Wooldridge says the response from the immediate local market has been overwhelming, with Brisbane buyers accounting for $20 million in sales over last month alone.

"Many buyers have viewed more than five residential projects and revisted Skye, realising it cannot be matched for quality of finish and its absolute riverfront location," Wooldridge says.

“People can see the tower crane in place, a full basement completed and that construction of the building is progressing and a reality. While many other projects have been put on hold, Skye is clearly progressing and this certainty has boosted demand.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=218024]

Pikos recently completed the excavation of the basement on the River Terrace site, a major milestone in construction. They've appoted Tomkins Commercial to build the project, which will be complete in 2025.

Read more: <a href="/news/qld/pikos-advance-construction-at-kangaroo-point-apartment-development-skye-residences">Pikos advance construction at Kangaroo Point apartment development, Skye Residences</a>

Wooldridge says buyers were attracted to the views on offer and apartment sizes, with all luxury residences featuring uninterrupted views of the Brisbane City skyline, South Bank, the Botanic Gardens and the Brisbane River.

“We are finding that buyers require a visual demonstration of value which Skye offers in abundance including a strong recognition of, and appreciation for, generous use of natural stone throughout the residence, premium Vzug appliances and Parisi tapware, master king sized suites with upgraded built-in wardrobes, and ensuites with baths

“Our purchasers are motivated to upgrade their living environment, and at the same time, maximise a riverfront lifestyle on Brisbane’s premier dress circle, within walking distance of waterfront dining and the CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=218025]

At the other end of the market, longstanding Brisbane developer Azure has continued its success in Brisbane's northern corridor, doubling down on what sales manager Allyce Kluger says is a niche market to be developing in.

"We're one of few developers creating design-led and amenity rich townhouses in the northern corridor," Kluger says, adding that the northern hub has "everything a buyer would need."

"The northern corridor has grown in popularity, with good schools, transport and retail. Our projects are more price pointed than a house, while families have also been attracted to a lock up and leave, low maintenance lifestyle which a house doesn't tend to offer," Kluger said.

Azure have been developing in the northern corridor for a number of years. They've already sold two thirds of their yet to be launched 76-townhouse development Willow in North Lakes, and they're soon to launch Elwood by Azure, another 68 townhouses in Mango Hill bordering a nature reserve.

They're currently construction their sold out Munro by Azure in Bundamba.

Kluger said Azure's biggest marketing tool is to point prospective buyers&nbsp;in the direction of their previously completed projects nearby to show what it would be like living in an Azure community.

"We have 25 year caretaking agreements in every community we develop to ensure we deliver on the promise and our properties remain special forever. We are also a builder developer and can therefore give buyers confidence in the final price, having a deep understanding of the true construction costs.”

Next year Azure will launch their Casuarina project at 6 Grand Parade which will have 91 "subtropical" apartments and terraces.

The Brisbane off the plan apartment market is firing on all cylinders, still driven by a lack of supply across the city

City Beat September 2023: Locals snap up off the plan projects in and out of Brisbane

The continued strength in the Gold Coast property market has seen the South East Queensland hotspot's median unit value surpass $700,000.

CoreLogic's Hedonic Home Value Index found Gold Coast units jumped another 1.3 per cent across September, topping growth in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

Unit values are now 6.4 per cent up in the last 12 months, according to the property data analytics firm.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/qld/city-beat-august-2023-gold-coast-unit-median-approaches-700k-following-august-growth">City Beat August 2023: Gold Coast unit median approaches $700k following August growth</a>

<h2>What's happening in the Gold Coast off the plan market?</h2>

Prospective buyers are still queuing up for off the plan apartments developments on the Gold Coast.

While signing up to join waitlists was more prevalent during the pandemic when buyers were missing out on projects which were selling to databases without even hitting the market, the recent development application by Molti for their <a href="/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-molti-secure-prime-bilinga-site-plan-luxury-apartment-project">luxury beachfront Bilinga project</a> saw a strong response.

Molti Director Ben Teague said the response has been incredibly positive.

"We’ve already had people join our waitlist at this early stage," Teague said, adding that buyers have been impressed with both the architecture and the beachfront position in Bilinga.

"We’ve been looking at the southern Gold Coast for a number of years, and while it’s seen considerable growth since the pandemic, we still feel there’s plenty more room to grow."

<img alt="Bilinga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="90f45f83-d3ae-48fd-9b32-e28ac6b82207" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202023-10-05%20at%209.15.01%20am_0.png?VersionId=8oIJOVH6SMSrf8SFM_IDJpf0RcIVOGBK" />

Molti's key business&nbsp;contacts and stakeholders from southern states, particularly Melbourne, are wanting to heavily invest in property in South East Queensland.

"That tells us the growth wasn’t solely pandemic-fuelled. While thousands from the southern states viewed it as an escape from lockdowns over 2020 and 2021, there’s still people moving in droves to SEQ, and forecasts suggest that will continue."

Prominent Canberra developer Amalgamated Property Group are set to bring some further supply to the Gold Coast off the back of the success of their under construction Broadbeach apartment development, Amaya Broadbeach.

Amalgamated Property Group Development Manager Michael D'Elboux says they&nbsp;are seeing a return of buyer confidence, which he says&nbsp;is a direct response to the recent introductions of developer/builders at the helm of both the project vision and delivery.&nbsp;

"Specific feedback that we’re hearing from our buyers at Amaya Broadbeach is that this is providing them with additional certainty knowing that the delivery of the home they’re investing in will actually be of the highest priority to both parties and that their successes go hand-in-hand; there isn’t another party calling the shots," D'Elboux says.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111866 project_image_fid=205116]

"Industry-wide, this all contributes to a much-needed positive sentiment – these increases in sales and continuation of construction activity does have a broader flow-on effect, with impact on the general market confidence and therefore, future demand and supply."

D'Elboux said that even with the arrival of spring and its natural inclination for the number of sales to pickup, the majority of enquiries at the moment are discerning buyers, namely those who have been watching the marketplace for some time.&nbsp;

"Buyers are doing more independent research before they even reach out to us, which means we're experiencing higher-quality enquiries and shorter conversion timelines to purchase,"&nbsp;D'Elboux says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=111866 project_image_fid=205115]

"They are connecting with the long-term vision so we’ve got a strong reassurance of a quality residential community that will be in alignment with our original concept.

"As well as holiday-home makers, we’ve definitely been seeing a strong pickup in owner-occupiers who are looking to the future and finding their way to get closer to the water and live that Gold Coast dream by the sand and the sea, but in a low-maintenance home for an easy lifestyle."

Unit values are now 6.4 per cent up in the last 12 months, according to the property data analytics firm.



City Beat September 2023: Gold Coast unit values pass $700k after continued 2023 growth

<a href="/developers/lendlease-development">Lendlease</a> has achieved huge success at its Regatta at Collins Wharf development which they launched off market earlier this year.

They've sold over two thirds of the Collins Street building,&nbsp;uniquely located between the Yarra River and the harbour in Docklands, following the success of Collins Wharf’s flagship residential building, No. 1 Collins Wharf, which was completed in 2019.

Since its off-market launch in March this year, Regatta at Collins Wharf has attracted a legion of buyers seeking the opportunity to experience the best of city and waterfront living while being only a short walk from Melbourne’s CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134684 project_image_fid=224395]

Daniel Dugina, Head of Apartments at <a href="/developers/lendlease-development">Lendlease</a>, said the&nbsp;significant demand demonstrates the return of confidence in the off the plan housing market.

He said the development has been welcomed by first home buyers through to downsizers seeking a quality home within the desirable dual-waterfront neighbourhood with easy access to the CBD.

“Regatta at Collins Wharf is the next stage of our ongoing investment in the area, with the precinct’s location presenting an exciting opportunity for Melbourne's city centre to stretch further westwards and engage with the water, connecting its maritime past with the contemporary vibrancy of the city for residents, workers and visitors.”

The 317-residence development designed by&nbsp;architecture firm Warren and Mahoney spans 29 levels and has one, two and three-bedroom apartments and a Premier Collection of luxury residences that have up to four bedrooms.

The Premier Collection includes five two-storey Skyhomes that are located on level 27 and offer panoramic views of the water and city skyline along with open-plan living, a choice of hand-selected colour palettes, and high-quality fixtures and fittings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134684 project_image_fid=224394]

The Premier Collection also includes ten Harbourhomes each enjoying access to a secluded rooftop terrace via a private lift or internal staircase, while another 12 premium Riverhomes offer expansive river-frontage views that will never be built out as well as a private double garage with direct access to the residence.

Residents at Regatta at Collins Wharf will enjoy a hotel-style lobby with concierge service and access to a range of facilities within the building that promote wellness including an indoor swimming pool, spa, sauna and steam room, gym and multipurpose rooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134684 project_image_fid=224392]

Guests can be entertained in the private dining room and resident lounge, or enjoy the lush, landscaped surrounds of the two rooftop terraces located at level 4 and level 17 with panoramic views, plus a wintergarden.

The development will target 5 Star Green Star certification, designed as&nbsp;an all-electric building with electric vehicle infrastructure.

Collins Wharf is located adjacent to <a href="/developers/lendlease-development">Lendlease’s</a> Victoria Harbour precinct that has been in development over the past two decades. Residents will have ease of access to nearby amenity including public parks and community spaces such as the Library at the Dock.

As part of delivering Regatta at Collins Wharf, new parks and open spaces for the community will be created.

Buyer interest has been buoyed by confidence in the delivery of the development. Built atop a ‘finger wharf’ between Victoria Harbour and the Yarra River, early works have already commenced. Construction is expected to start in early 2024 and anticipated for completion in 2026.

Waterfront apartment prices start from $591,500, and Premier Collection residences range from $2,372,000 to $4,689,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134684]

Daniel Dugina, Head of Apartments at Lendlease, said the significant demand demonstrates the return of confidence in the off-the-plan housing market

Lendlease secure quick success at Regatta at Collins Wharf apartments in Docklands

David Devine's DD Living has unveiled the much-anticipated North Burleigh beachside apartment development, Burly Residences.

The 25-level premium development sprawls across a&nbsp;2024 sqm site across 264 and 266 Esplanade, offering never to be built out views of the sand and ocean.

The $480 million Burly Residences offers 100 luxury apartments and a suite of five-star resort amenities. There are a mix of two and three-bedroom apartments offering different views of North Burleigh headland or the beach. A handful of the apartments also have a multi-purpose room.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134791 project_image_fid=220106]

DD Living had&nbsp;award-winning architect Koichi Takada of Koichi Takada Architects design the building, with Miriam Fanning, founding director of Mim Design, handling the interiors. The landscaping is by Thomas Schubel's LDG Landscape Architecture.

"Having the opportunity to bring such an iconic building to life in such a special part of the world makes me immensely proud,"&nbsp;David Devine said.

"That's why we've assembled a world-class team of architects, interior designers, landscape architects, and engineers to ensure that the finished product is the very best it can possibly be."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134791 project_image_fid=220103]

Koichi Takada said he designed a building that mimics the natural rhythm of the tides.

"The billowing columns that support the building reference the barreling waves that make this place a surfing mecca," Takada said, emphasising the breathtaking views Burly Residences achieves.

"The higher you go, the more you become at one with your surroundings, where you will enjoy uninterrupted views of the hinterland and ocean beyond," Takada added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134791 project_image_fid=220104]

Miriam Fanning said Burly Residences will&nbsp;deliver an unparalleled standard of living and will benefit from a level of amenity unlike anything ever seen before in Australia," Fanning said.

"We've appointed every aspect to deliver ultimate tranquillity and ease of living. This design is a reflective response to the undulating oceans and sun-kissed sea."

Total Property Managing Director Adrian Parsons, who is managing the sales of the project, says Burly Residences is truly outstanding development.

“Burly provides a true essence of Gold Coast living,” Parsons says.

“Everything has been geared around the subtropical lifestyle which the Gold Coast is famous for, from wide balconies and sunny decks to extensive views up and down the coastline.”

Parsons says the “playground” of amenity on offer suits the owner-occupier, as well as the buyer who wants to spend a few weeks at a time at Burly Residences.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134791 project_image_fid=223396]

Residents of Burly Residences will enjoy access to two floors of five-star resort amenities, including resort-style pools set amid tropical gardens, a pool deck, and a luxury beach club. There's also wellness facilities in the form of a gym, yoga and Pilates lounge, Peloton room, steam room and a sauna.

Completing the amenities is a cinema, work from home office spaces and an executive lounge with a bar.

Parsons says the location of Burly Residences also appeals to the owner-occupier.

"North Burleigh is a little different to Burleigh Heads," Parsons says.

"It's a quieter lifestyle, literally a few steps from the ocean, while also being a short walk to Burleigh Heads to the south and Miamia and Nobby's Beach to the north. It offers the best of both worlds."

Burly Residences is slated for completion in 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134791]

The 25-level premium development sprawls across a 2024 sqm site across 264 and 266 Esplanade, offering never to be built out views of the sand and ocean

DD Living reveal luxury Burly Residences development

For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]

The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

Joel Robinson

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