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ANZ has today activated an assistance package for its Australian dairy farmers impacted by a mid-season milk price reduction.
ANZ General Manager Regional Business Banking Christine Linden said falling farm-gate dairy prices are putting significant stress on some dairy producers and while the macro fundamentals in the medium and longer-term of the industry remain strong, we know many of our customers are doing it tough at the moment.
“We’re encouraging our dairy customers to get in touch with us so we can provide support and work with them on the best possible solutions to meet their needs," she said.
“Every farm has a different cost structure and unique characteristics. We’re committed to working with each customer to respond to the current challenges so they can take advantage of the long-term benefits of the dairy industry.
As part of its assistance package, ANZ offers to:
Suspend repayments on loans, including credit cards, for up to three months (which may include interest capitalisation)
Waive fees associated with restructuring business loans considered necessary due to milk price impacts
Provide temporary adjustments to lending limits, including credit cards to assist with unexpected costs and reduced income
Provide early access to term deposits without incurring any fees for impacted customers
Provide access to hardship support services.
ANZ’s customers affected across Australia are encouraged to visit their local branch or contact their Agribusiness Manager to discuss the impact on their business or personal circumstances.
Customers can also contact ANZ’s dedicated financial hardship team on 1800 351 548.
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ANZ assists dairy farmers with milk price reduction package

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GUEST OBSERVER
The April Labour Force report showed that labour market conditions remain okay, but momentum has slowed.
While labour market indicators remain mixed at the moment, we continue to expect the unemployment rate to remain close to the current 5.7 percent for the rest of the year.
Today’s numbers are unlikely to change the RBA’s view on the outlook; its focus has tilted more sharply towards inflation and we continue to expect another cut in the cash rate in August.
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Today’s labour market report showed continued slowing momentum in jobs growth. Employment is now up just +0.1 percent 3m/3m compared with +0.9 percent three months ago. That said, the stability in the unemployment rate at 5.7 percent suggests that the labour market remains in good shape.
Some labour market indicators have been mixed lately. For example, ANZ job ads have been essentially flat for the last six months, and an unemployment rate based on welfare payments ticked higher in March. But indicators like capacity utilisation and profitability in the business surveys point to a solid labour market.
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However, a preliminary read on our Fed-style labour market conditions index, which distils the common trend across a large number of indicators, was unchanged in April. This indicates to us that the labour market remains solid after last year’s sharp improvement was unwound. 
RBA implications: While the RBA’s focus has shifted to the inflation outlook, as is always the case developments in the labour market are important for monetary policy deliberations. We think today’s numbers are likely to be broadly as the Bank expected.
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That said, we continue to expect another 25bp rate cut in August given the sharp downgrade to its inflation forecast.
 
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Modest Australian jobs gain with steady unemployment: ANZ's Felicity Emmett

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GUEST OBSERVER
From the outset it should be stated that the labour market is in pretty good shape. 
The unemployment rate remains at a 2½-year low and jobs are still being created. However it is pretty clear that there is a slowdown in hiring taking place. And the consolidation in employment is consistent with the softer conditions across the economy over the past couple of months.
Not only is has there been a fall in full time jobs over the past two months, but weakness in hoursworked is more telling. Hoursworked has fallen for the past three months and in annual terms is now down 0.5 per cent on a year ago. Now that may not sound like much but it is the first annual fall in hoursworked in almost three years. Interestingly in trend terms (a more smooth measure), employment may have risen for 29 consecutive months but the jobs growth of just 4,100 in April was the weakest in 19 months.
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After racking up almost 300,000 new jobs in 2015, there was likely to be inevitable period of consolidation. And the volatility in financial markets in the early part of 2016 was unlikely to see businesses commit to significant hiring. The fact that we are still adding jobs is a positive and while we expect employment to strengthen over 2016, it is likely that employers will be more circumspect in hiring given the upcoming Federal Election.
The Reserve Bank discussed the more mixed labour market signals at their last Board meeting ahead of cutting interest rates. Given the softer set of economic data no doubt policymakers will place more emphasis on labour market data in coming months.
The Reserve Bank will be hoping for a lift in activity levels particularly once the election gets out of the way. The key will be the inflation data, due on July 27. A super low inflation result would allow the Reserve Bank to contemplate another rate cut – in effect asking the question whether the economy could run at a faster pace without creating asset bubbles. We expect rates to be cut once again in August.
What do the figures show?
Labour force:
Employment rose by 10,800 in April after rising by 25,700 in March (previously reported as a rise in jobs of 26,100). Full-time jobs fell by 9,300 while part-time jobs rose by 20,200. Economists had tipped a 20,000 increase in jobs.
Hours worked fell by 1.1 per cent in April. Hoursworked are down by 0.5 per cent over the year – marking the first annual decline in hoursworked in almost 3 years.
The unemployment rate held steady at a 2½-year low of 5.7 per cent in April (lowest since September 2013). The trend unemployment rate fell from 5.8 per cent to 5.7 per cent – a 31-month low.
The participation rate eased from 64.9 per cent to 64.8 per cent.
A total of 244,700 jobs were added over the year to April. The annual growth rate rose from 2.0 per cent to 2.1 per cent. In trend terms, employment has risen for 29 consecutive months although the jobs growth of 4,100 in April was the weakest in 19 months.
The working age population rose by 21,700 in April. The working age population rose by 288,900 over the past year. The working age population is up 1.5 per cent over the past year.
Unemployment across states in April: NSW 5.3 per cent (March 5.3 per cent); Victoria 5.6 per cent (5.7 per cent); Queensland 6.5 per cent (6.2 per cent); South Australia 6.8 per cent (7.1 per cent); Western Australia 5.6 per cent (5.5 per cent); Tasmania 6.3 per cent (6.8 per cent). In trend terms unemployment in the Northern Territory rose from 4.4 per cent to 4.5 per cent; ACT unemployment fell from 4.2 per cent to 4.1 per cent.
Jobs across states and territories in April: NSW +8,400; Victoria +100; Queensland -5,600; South Australia +5,400; Western Australia +700; Tasmania unchanged. Trend terms: Northern Territory -100; ACT unchanged.
Why is the data important?
The Labour Force estimates are derived from a monthly survey conducted by the Bureau of Statistics. The population survey is based on a multi-stage area sample of private dwellings (currently about 22,800 houses, flats, etc.) and a sample of non-private dwellings (hotels, motels, etc.). The survey covers about 0.24 per cent of the population of Australia and includes all people over 15 years of age, except defence personnel.
If more people are employed, then there is greater spending power in the economy. But at the same time companies may adjust the work hours of employees. If employees work less hours, and therefore get paid less, then spending power in the economy is reduced.
What are the implications?
Labour market conditions have certainly improved over the past 18 months; business conditions are healthier; profitability has improved; and more importantly the housing sector is providing significant support to an array of industries. However the upcoming election has resulted in a more cautious tone across the economy.
The fact that the national unemployment rate is holding at 5.7 per cent – the lowest levels in 2½ years – will provide a big boost to confidence amongst Aussie consumers. And as we saw over the latter part of 2015, job security plays a big part in household consumption. However with a lack of wage growth, household real incomes could face pressure over the medium term and that is likely to be another reason why we expect that the Reserve Bank will contemplate another rate cut in August.
Savanth Sebastian is an economist for <a href="https://www.commsec.com.au/" target="_blank">CommSec</a>
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First annual decline in hours worked in 3 years: CommSec's Savanth sebastian

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GUEST OBSERVER
Today’s modest increase in employment of 10.8k was pretty much in line with market expectations which were centred on a lift of 12.0k (CBA(f) +20k). 
The lift in jobs builds on the solid rise in employment over March and confirms that job creation is still taking place despite record low (and falling) wages growth. The pulse of jobs growth, however, has slowed since the beginning of the year after accelerating markedly in the December quarter. Digging below the surface shows that today’s employment report is softer than the headline numbers imply.
The trend: Cutting through the volatility shows that monthly jobs growth over the past four months has averaged just 6.5k. Normally such an outcome would be associated with an increase in the unemployment rate. But a downward trend in the participation rate has meant that the unemployment rate has actually come down over that period.
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Unemployment: The unemployment rate was able to hold firm at 5.7 percent in April because the participation rate moved a touch lower. The trend unemployment rate, which smooths out the monthly volatility, continued to edge lower.
Hours worked: Growth in aggregate hours worked has eased over the past few months.
Total aggregate hours worked fell by 1.1 percent in April and took the annual change into negative territory (-0.5 percent) for the first time since May 2013. On the surface, this looks at odds with the annual change in the level of employment (+2.1 percent). But the disparity is explained by the big lift in part-time jobs over the past year. There have been twice as many part-time jobs (161k) created as full-time jobs (83.8k).
States: Across the States, there were job gains in NSW (+8.4k), Vic (+0.7k) and SA (5.7k). Employment was flat in WA and TAS while it fell in QLD (-6.6k). NSW and Vic have been driving national employment growth. Booming property markets in both Sydney and Melbourne have supported household consumption in NSW and Victoria, which is largely to the benefit of the services sector.
Leading indicators: The leading indicators of employment growth are painting a mixed picture at present. The vacancies series are pointing to only modest jobs growth, but the NAB business survey continues to suggest robust jobs growth.
The fall in hours worked looks concerning, but then the downward trend in the unemployment rate appears optically comforting. So there is something in the numbers for those looking at them with either an optimistic or pessimistic lens.
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We would argue that the RBA is viewing the labour market through a realistic lens and their latest assessment that, “employment would continue to grow, but at a somewhat slower pace than had been evident over the previous year” looks about right.
RBA: Today’s figures on their own don’t really shift the dial from an RBA perspective for the June meeting. But when pieced together with yesterday’s very soft wages report it may be that the risks of a June cut are lifting a little. The capex report next week now takes on added importance for those picking the timing of another expected cut to the cash rate.
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Gareth Aird is economist at Commonwealth Bank and can be contacted <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://au.linkedin.com/pub/gareth-aird/14/790/905" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Headline labour force figures ok, but details reveal softness: CBA's Gareth Aird

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GUEST OBSERVER
The emerging new trend for slightly softer participation is something we are watching closely. Also note that annual growth in total hours worked was negative this month.
There was not much excitement in the 10.8k rise in total employment in April as was enough to lift the annual pace to 2.1 percent/yr from 2.0 percent/yr and hold the unemployment rate flat at 5.72 percent.
On these two headline numbers there is not much to make you want to alter neither your trajectory for the Australian labour market nor how you think about the outlook for monetary policy.
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However, there are still some key issues that come to light from the current survey. First is further confirmation that employment growth is concentrated in female and part-time employment.
In the year to April, part-time employment has grown 160.9k (4.5 percent/yr) while full-time employment has growth 83.8k (1.0 percent/yr). 
Given that full-time employment represents 69 percent of total employment that in the last year we have added twice as many part-time employees as full-time employees it really highlights the significant shift the economy is experiencing. Furthermore, female employment has grown 164.4k (3.1 percent/yr) in the year to April which is more than double the 80.3k gain (1.3 eprcent/yr) in male employment. As we have noted previously, this highlight the big shift in employment growth from the previously booming resources sectors to the more modestly growing services sectors as these sectors have a much higher proportion of female and part-time workers in their labour force.
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The second key issue is that the participation rate was flat in April. From January 2014 there has been a trend rise in participation which has been driven mostly by a rise in female participation and in particular, a rise in female participation in NSW. However, participation appears to have peaked in the last quarter of 2015 averaging 64.1 percent, up from 65.0% in Q3, then moderate to 64.9 percent in the first quarter of 2016. Printing 64.9 percent in April is does look as if participation is holding around these new levels rather than drifting higher.
It is also worth noting that a return of a small trend decline in male participation has been key to this moderation. Female participation has been volatile of late but the trend appears to be holding the new higher level.   
There was one indicator that suggests we should be cautious about being too optimistic about the near term employment outlook. Total hours worked fell 1.1 percent in April, following a –1.1 percent print in March, to be down 0.5 percent in the year. Compare this to the 2.1 percent/yr gain in total employment. As we illustrate in our chart, a negative print from growth in hours worked has tended to, but not always, been consistent with either softer growth in total employment and/or marginally led a dip in total employment. That is it could be a potential signal for softer employment numbers sometime in the next few months.
ustin Smirk is ‎senior economist, Westpac Group and can be contacted <a href="https://www.westpac.com.au/about-westpac/westpac-group/" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Annual growth in total hours worked negative for April: Westpac's Justin Smirk

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While the residential property market may be slowing, it is probably time to lock in your investment in commercial property, going by the rate of returns for the year ended March 31. 
Commercial property delivered an average annual return of 14 percent, according to the Property Council-PD Australia All Property Index, now managed by MSCI, said a report in the Australian Financial Review.
The index measures only directly held property investments and excludes gearing in its calculations.
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The result handsomely beat the 9.2 per cent return on property shares.
Rental returns drove the result. The average income yield on the $160 billion of property in the index was 6.6 per cent. 
The S&amp;P/ASX200 A-REIT index, which includes the top 17 trusts, has delivered a 17.5 per cent total return since March 31. 
For direct property, the March result was the best since the September quarter 2008 just before the financial crisis, the AFR report said.
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The Reserve Bank has long warned of the disconnect between the underlying fundamentals in the sector and the commercial prices.
But AMP chief economist Shane Oliver has said several times that low interest rates favour commercial property. The RBA cash rate is at a low of 1.75 percent at present.
The article cited executive director of MSCI, Anthony De Francesco, as saying commercial property would "hover" around the current cycle peak for the rest of this year.
"Concern about the weakening domestic economy and global economy are likely to constrain demand for space," he said.
In the past year, the aggressive demand for commercial property has cut the yield across the MSCI index by 65 basis points to 6.1 percent.
According to Dr De Francesco, the office sector was strengthening while retail shopping centres and industrial sectors were moderating. He also noted that the Sydney office market was strengthening, while Perth was weakening.
 
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Commercial property returns come out on top 

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Receivers PPB Advisory are warning apartment developers to reduce their settlement risk.
Major developers are activating plans to deal with foreign buyers and local investors who may not be able to access funding levels from lenders they previously envisaged.
It follows on from banks who've introduced an APRA triggered lending crackdown.
"Developers need to understand and manage the risk of their purchasers' settlements," PPB Advisory's Garry McLean told The Australian Financial Review.
"They need to ask themselves some simple questions about the purchaser – can I locate them, where do they live, what is there capacity to settle, are they a cash buyer or will they be seeking finance, who is their financier?"
"A complete due diligence of their purchasers will assist developers to mitigate settlement risk in the residential developments nearing completion."
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He said it had been a major concern with many developments across the eastern seaboard due to be completed in the next few months.
"Developers should be undertaking a complete review of their existing pre-sale purchasers to mitigate their settlement risk – it's too late to wait until settlement day and realise purchasers are unable to complete due to limited financing sources for investment units."
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McLean suggested he didn't see the prospects as similar to the fallout on the Gold Coast market during the global financial crisis.
"This was a global meltdown," he said.
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Settlement risk warning from PPB Advisory

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/57114/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUEST OBSERVER
It is well known that retail sales have regular cycles that can be disrupted by external events, such as federal elections. While anecdotally it has been suggested that uncertainty around elections causes shoppers to close their wallets and purses, there appears very little evidence either domestically or globally to support the claim that an election campaign will negatively impact consumer spending.
<h2>The Blame Game</h2>
Retailers are notorious at playing the “blame game” when it comes to their sales and profit reporting. They too quickly point the finger at Mother Nature, for being too hot or too rainy, the releasing of blockbusters that distract shoppers, and even customers themselves for being too price conscious, chasing discounts that erode their margins.
This month, Myer CEO Richard Umbers warned that the election campaign is expected to hit consumer sentiment and negatively affect Myer’s outlook.
Surprisingly, Australia’s other large department store, David Jones, remained silent. It appears David Jones is just getting on with business and delivering store sales growth twice the rate of the Australian department store sector. Seemingly, there are other factors affecting retail stores sales, other than an impending federal election.
<h2>Is there evidence?</h2>
Researchers from Princeton University and the University of Chicago found elections had little impact on how consumers actually spend. In their study, spanning four presidential elections, their initial findings identified a correlation between a voters’ “ideological opposition towards a winning candidate” (measured by a voter-ideology score) and a lower score on the Michigan Consumer Sentiment Survey.
However, the correlation did not prove causality. For example, when President George W. Bush was elected in 2000, negative sentiment had no effect on consumers’ self-reported spending plans or on their subsequent automobile purchases and credit-card use. Consumers ideologically opposed to President Bush were not happy about the election outcome, but this slump in sentiment had no effect on what they planned to spend, or actually spent.
It is a similar picture here in Australia, where commentators are looking a little more closely at claims elections stifle retail spending. A review of the ANZ – Roy Morgan Consumer Confidence Index demonstrates a similar phenomenon to that in the US. With the exception of September to October lead into the November 2001 election, marred by the 9/11 attacks in New York and the collapse of Ansett, in most cases, confidence remained positive.
Prior to the October 9 2004 election, the September consumer confidence grew by over 6 percent on August. Similarly, October 2007 was up nearly 6.5 percent on September in the lead up to the November 24 election.
<h2>Confident but deferred</h2>
The operative word used among consumers during times of uncertainty is “deferred”. IBISWorld chairman Phil Ruthven finds that shoppers tend to take a “wait-and-see approach” during election campaigns, which sees spending curtailed on big ticket items like cars, consumer electronics and high-end fashion, but household basics such as food and basics generally remain insulated. In most cases, consumer confidence tends to bounce directly after elections.
There are far too many variables in play to suggest that an extended federal election alone will derail consumer confidence and stifle retail spending. In fact, some consumers who expect to be the recipients of election sweeteners such as tax cuts, infrastructure projects and or job opportunities, may actually increase spending. The power of suggestion is strong with such consumers. Once consumers anticipate a specific positive outcome will occur, they believe their subsequent thoughts and behaviours will actually help to bring about that outcome.
<h2>What retail categories are most affected?</h2>
Food, groceries, fuel and basic clothing generally remain well protected during uncertain times. Despite increasing price competition between the players, the food and grocery division remain moderately strong.
Ultimately, shoppers still need to put fuel in their cars and food on the table. However, most exposed are “big ticket” retailers selling furniture, consumer electronics and automobiles. Fashion clothing and accessories are expected to struggle as such purchases are tied to discretionary spending.
<h2>Other factors?</h2>
Granted, the combination of unseasonable warmer weather across Australia and the growth of global fashion retailers like H&amp;M, Uniqlo, Zara, Forever 21 and Top Shop in the domestic market, will definitely pose a challenge for retailers.
This year incumbent players like Myer, David Jones, Premier Investment and Specialty Retail Group are not just competing with one another, but also these new entrants. This year, more than ever before, shoppers have more choice.
While most consumers remain confident, some retailers are certainly looking towards challenging times ahead. Granted, this is the first federal election held during winter in 20 years and timed “smack bang” in the middle of half yearly, stocktake sales. With an eight week election period well underway, shoppers will continue to buy the basics, but will defer upgrading big ticket items until an outcome is announced on July 3.
An unseasonably warm autumn and a glut of global fashion retailers in the market, will encourage incumbent retailers to cut prices little deeper this year. Great for shoppers, but tough on the books. It is looking to be a tough year ahead for retailers.
Gary Mortimer senior lecturer, QUT Business School, Queensland University of Technology and author for The Conversation. He can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/gary-mortimer-1322" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Keep calm and keep shopping – how elections impact retail sales

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Labor will limit negative gearing to new housing from 1 July 2017. 
All investments made before this date will not be affected by this change and will be fully grandfathered.
This will mean that taxpayers will continue to be able to deduct net rental losses against their wage income, providing the losses come from newly constructed housing.
From 1 July 2017 losses from new investments in shares and existing properties can still be used to offset investment income tax liabilities. These losses can also continue to be carried forward to offset the final capital gain on the investment.
For more information, <a href="https://www.alp.org.au/negativegearing" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Property 101: Labor's negative gearing policy

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Stockland plans to build 542 apartments in a mixed-use project adjacent to its Merrylands Shopping Centre property in Sydney's west.
It has lodged a development application to construct the apartments across five 11- to 17- storey towers on a 1.2-hectare development site, bordered by Merrylands Road, Treves Street and McFarlane Street.
The integration of the Turner Architects-designed mixed use development with the existing shopping centre – previously redeveloped for $395 million – will be reviewed by the Sydney West Joint Regional Planning Panel.
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Stockland have five Merrylands residential tower plans

Nature Based Cities (NBC), the not-for-profit organisation focused on improving biodiversity and nature outcomes in urban development, has launched its latest industry design guidelines and accreditation framework, this time targeting precinct-scale residential communities.

The move extends NBC’s influence beyond its initial focus on medium and high-density residential developments. Several projects have already achieved NBC accreditation since the launch of its Medium &amp; High-Density Residential Guidelines in early 2025.

The expansion into masterplanned communities and new residential precincts reflects the growing need for stronger nature-positive benchmarks as Australia’s outer suburban growth corridors continue to expand at pace.

Paul Hameister OAM, NBC Founder and the Executive Chairman of Melbourne developer Hamton who itself leans heavily into nature and biodiversity in its developments, says the&nbsp;nature-first approach to mitigate the effects of climate change has become standard in other parts of the world such as the UK, but Australia is lagging.&nbsp;Australia’s environmentally sustainable design (ESD) rating tools have no minimum mandatory requirements for living landscapes.

“We’ve always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren’t there,” Hameister says. “In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that’s concrete and glass with not a blade of grass. 
 
“The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn’t been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities.”

He says that having now&nbsp;made good progress in supporting developers of medium and high-density residential projects, NBC is now looking to bolster better nature-based decision-making and recognise developers of greenfield projects in the outer ring and large inner-ring brownfield precincts, who want to champion nature and living landscape as a defining feature.

Since 2022, the not-for-profit has sought to remove the roadblocks preventing developers from incorporating nature and living landscapes into their projects, shifting the conversation from the reduction of emissions and grey infrastructure, toward recognising nature as an essential infrastructure.

The New Communities Design Guidelines and Scorecard arm developers with the tools needed to deliver a nature positive outcome for their new communities. Intended to be adopted at the outset of the planning process, the guidelines are designed to help create communities that are cooler, healthier and more resilient while also enhancing social wellbeing and long-term economic value.&nbsp;

New Communities developers seeking accreditation will be independently assessed across a range of key criteria including ecology, tree canopy, biodiversity, and walkability. Once the masterplan is complete and submitted for approval, the scorecard is formalised based on proposed outcomes. Projects that meet the NBC criteria will receive either Commended or Exemplary accreditation outcomes, creating a clear benchmark for nature-positive new communities in Australia.&nbsp;

Janis Fischer, Director at Tract and NBC Advisory Council member, said the development of new communities in our suburbs can have a substantial impact on nature and biodiversity.

"By incorporating nature-based design principles at the inception of a project, developers and their design teams can achieve nature positive outcomes that are good for both people and the planet.’’&nbsp;

NBC accredited New Community projects will gain access to NBC branding and marketing tools to help communicate their nature-based credentials to purchasers and the broader market.&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Nature Based Cities: A new Australian benchmark for developing nature-positive new communities

Apartment buildings are increasingly being designed around how people actually live day to day, not just how they want a building to look.

For buyers, that shift is showing up in practical inclusions that respond to changing habits. Work-from-home spaces, EV charging, wellness amenities, secure bike storage and parcel management are becoming part of the broader apartment conversation, reflecting a move toward buildings that reduce friction in everyday life.

Online shopping has become one of the clearest examples of that change.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online. That has made parcel delivery a regular part of apartment living, rather than an occasional inconvenience.

For apartment residents, however, the delivery process can be less straightforward than it is for detached homes. Parcels may be left in lobbies, redirected to Post Offices, missed entirely, or placed under the responsibility of building managers and concierge teams.

That is why secure parcel infrastructure is increasingly being considered alongside more familiar apartment amenities.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-VjjLwoViX0?si=A3k7ws9NX35Uac7_" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Australia Post Parcel Lockers offer one way to address the issue. When a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS, then collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN. The parcel is kept secure, accessible and removed from common areas.

The broader Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations across Australia, positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and other accessible locations.

For new apartment projects, the relevance is clear. A building’s amenity offering is no longer only about lifestyle spaces, but also about convenience, security and functionality.

As buyer expectations evolve, secure parcel delivery is becoming part of the same design conversation as flexible working, sustainable transport and resident wellbeing.

It is one less thing for residents to worry about, and another example of apartment design adapting to the way Australians now live.

Apartment design is adapting to the way Australians shop

While school holidays and trips to Europe tend to define the winter property market, there's been no cold snap at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> in North Sydney.

Developer-builder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a> sold more than $35 million worth of apartments throughout June, including a $6.8 million apartment that now ranks among the highest apartment sales ever recorded in North Sydney.

SRM Residential agent Ben Stewart said buyer demand throughout June reflected a mix of improving market confidence and longer-term thinking from owner-occupiers.

"We're seeing strong demand from owner-occupiers who are taking a longer-term view," Stewart said.

"Many recognise the opportunity to secure an apartment in an iconic building and premium location while values remain attractive. They may initially lease the property, but the intention is to eventually move in themselves, rather than purchasing purely as an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=367129]

Located at 177 Walker Street, The Walden will deliver 161 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across a 30-storey tower designed by Rothelowman. Every apartment occupies a corner position, maximising natural light, cross ventilation and views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Sydney Heads and the northern districts.

Rather than a traditional balcony, the residences feature winter gardens that seamlessly extend the open plan living areas, creating versatile spaces for relaxing or entertaining throughout the year. Floor-to-ceiling glazing draws in natural light while showcasing sweeping views from the building's elevated Walker Street position.

Every apartment features high-end Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, and fully integrated appliances.

The larger residences have been planned with distinct entertaining and private zones, with many master suites positioned on corners to capture natural light and harbour views. Walk-in dressing rooms, freestanding baths and refined stone finishes reinforce the house-like feel that has resonated with downsizers and owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6393]

Rothelowman Principal Ben Pomroy said the project was designed to make the most of its unique position overlooking the harbour.

"The Walden is a celebration of all things beautiful, curated for those who expect nothing less than exceptional," Pomroy says.

"Meticulously designed entertaining spaces and light-filled living areas that capitalise on capturing the natural beauty of Sydney's iconic harbour."

Residents will also have exclusive access to The Pavilion, a dedicated amenity building featuring a rooftop pool, wellness studio, gymnasium, sauna, concierge service, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and work-from-home facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6402]

The project marks ALAND's first major luxury apartment development in Sydney's inner-city market after more than two decades delivering residential communities across Greater Sydney.

Founder and CEO Andrew Hrsto previously said the rarity of the Walker Street site made it an opportunity the company could not overlook.

"This is a rare opportunity to bring a truly exceptional project to life in one of Sydney's most iconic locations, and to showcase our craftsmanship and design expertise at a world-class level," Hrsto said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6383]

The Walden has been introduced to the market at a time when demand for living in North Sydney is at an all-time high. Billions of dollars have been invested in infrastructure, including the recently opened Victoria Cross Metro station, located just 300 metres from The Walden, providing residents with direct access to the Sydney CBD in just minutes.

Private investment has also transformed the area through the arrival of new retail and dining destinations, elevating the lifestyle offering in what was once considered primarily a commercial precinct rather than an aspirational residential address.

The Walden is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

ALAND records $35 million in sales in North Sydney as The Walden bucks quiet winter selling season

The long-awaited redevelopment of the former Eastlakes Shopping Centre site has reached a major milestone, with Conquest's plans for a new mixed-use precinct officially placed on public exhibition.

The State Significant Development Application would transform the 1.7-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19a-evans-avenue-eastlakes-nsw-2018">19A Evans Avenue</a> into one of Sydney's largest urban renewal projects, delivering 736 apartments above a new shopping centre anchored by Woolworths, alongside specialty retail, dining, commercial space and new public open spaces.

The public exhibition marks the next chapter for the project after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a> acquired the stalled Stage Two development from Crown Group, who completed the first stage across the road prior to their voluntary liquidation.

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fca22c5-d1ed-4e2c-8801-03f7df1eafc8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland%20podium.png?VersionId=uomwr41nF8CmLUZRDcu3mHQechlbxucS" />

&nbsp;

Designed by DKO Architecture, the proposal comprises four residential buildings ranging from 14 to 18 storeys above a two-level retail podium. The development would deliver 736 apartments, including 74 affordable homes, 215 Build-to-Rent apartments and 521 market residences. Provision has also been made for dual-key apartments, which could increase the total number of dwellings to 877.

At ground level, the shopping centre has been designed as the suburb's new meeting place, anchored by a full-line Woolworths and complemented by a curated mix of fresh food retailers, cafés, restaurants, health services and everyday convenience shopping. Generous pedestrian links and landscaped public spaces will connect the retail precinct through to Jack Mundey Reserve, creating a more walkable and connected neighbourhood.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

"Eastlakes has been overlooked for too long, and this is the community’s moment. We are building a shopping centre and homes, a genuine heart for the suburb, and we genuinely want locals to help shape it."

"We enrich communities through the creation of homes, places, and experiences designed for life, built to last, and owner for generations. That starts with listening, so we warmly encourage everyone with a connection to Eastlakes to view the plans and share their thoughts."

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22f6fb20-54fb-4bd7-8a92-48fafdd00608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland.png?VersionId=cugp7s9hrMHGJJdYzkeAkrFoQgnF4GXf" />

DKO said the design had been shaped by the site's landscape setting and surrounding open space.

"Our vision for the site embraces its unique Bidjigal identity by blending the residential living with generous landscaping and a material palette inspired by the Bidjigal locality, and celebrating the panoramic views to Botany Bay and the wetlands reserves."

"Taking cues from Country, we seek to harmonise built form with the landscape and lightly touch the earth. By reconnecting, retaining and regenerating existing ecology, and weaving in natural elements, we can deepen our connection to Country."

The landscape strategy extends across the podium and rooftops, incorporating communal gardens, children's play areas, lawns, community gardens, family gathering spaces and extensive tree planting. New landscaped links will also strengthen the connection between the precinct and Jack Mundey Reserve, while publicly accessible open spaces have been integrated throughout the development.

The proposal builds on Conquest's broader placemaking strategy for the site. Through an ongoing partnership, local artist Joe Rashbrook has been appointed Urban Art Curator, working alongside young residents to transform the project's site hoardings into a public art gallery that allows the community to engage with the redevelopment before construction is complete.

Conquest has rapidly expanded its development pipeline since acquiring the Eastlakes site, with more than $6 billion worth of mixed-use projects now in planning across Sydney, including Stanmore, Castlecrag and Waterloo.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

First look: ‘Far more than replacing a shopping centre’ as Conquest unveils 736-home Eastlakes redevelopment

Abadeen has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for one of Mosman's largest apartment developments in recent years, seeking approval to transform the former Honeysuckle Garden and Midas site on Military Road into a 100-apartment mixed-use development.

The SSDA, lodged with investment partner Phoenix Property Investors, proposes around $230 million worth of new housing on the prominent <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/494-516-military-road-mosman-nsw-2088">494-516 Military Road</a> site.

The proposal comes as Mosman Council continues to progress its recently endorsed Masterplan, which identifies the precinct for increased housing density while maintaining the suburb's established character.

Designed by DKO Architecture, the development would comprise 100 apartments above ground-floor retail, with a rooftop wellness precinct including a gym, sauna, entertaining areas and landscaped communal spaces.

Rather than pushing to the full 12-storey height identified in Council's Masterplan, the proposal ranges between five and nine storeys, stepping down towards Hale Road. A tenth level would accommodate resident amenities rather than additional apartments.

The project has been designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and young professionals through to families and local downsizers looking to remain on the Lower North Shore.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5dada03f-5b4c-43ba-ba62-2868add31440" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.57.55%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7LBy0B.Jo8_iWAFJsClcV7Q3UnXrv49r" />

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock.

"The apartments have been designed as genuine long-term homes, with efficient floorplans that maximise usable living areas, generous storage, natural light and strong connections between indoor and outdoor spaces," Brown says."

"We've focused on creating homes for a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and growing families through to downsizers who want to remain in Mosman."

The rooftop wellness offering forms a key part of the proposal, with residents set to have access to a gym, sauna, outdoor entertaining spaces, communal dining areas, landscaped gardens and a multi-use recreation court overlooking Sydney Harbour.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d37c2d6b-583a-4a0f-b7a9-9f46b893d2f4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.58.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=FPoa5FCm2RtzjhAh2w5FTWJbV6GHfY8D" />

DKO drew heavily on the site's natural and cultural history, undertaking a Connecting with Country process with local Aboriginal Elders to inform the architectural and landscape design.

Senior Associate Matthew Ritchard said the design sought to create a building that responded to both the site's landscape and its cultural significance.

"The architectural language of the project is a deep expression of Connecting with Country, where the materiality and colour palette serve as a bridge between the site's geological history and its future as a residential sanctuary."

The proposal also retains the site's established blue gum tree as the centrepiece of the communal landscaped gardens, while introducing activated retail fronting Military Road to strengthen the connection between Mosman and Cremorne villages.

If approved, the project would deliver 100 new homes within walking distance of shops, public transport, schools and local amenities, adding to the limited pipeline of new apartments on the Lower North Shore.

<h2>Project Snapshot</h2>

Project: Honeysuckle Garden Redevelopment

Address: 494-516 Military Road, Mosman

Developer: Abadeen and Phoenix Property Investors

Architect: DKO Architecture

Lead Architect: Matthew Ritchard

Value: $230 million

Residences: 100 apartments

Key features:

<ul>
	<li>
	Ground-floor retail
	</li>
	<li>
	Rooftop wellness precinct
	</li>
	<li>
	Gym and sauna
	</li>
	<li>
	Outdoor entertaining and BBQ areas
	</li>
	<li>
	Landscaped communal gardens
	</li>
	<li>
	Multi-use recreation court
	</li>
	<li>
	Retained mature blue gum tree
	</li>
	<li>
	Connecting with Country design process
	</li>
	<li>
	Harbour, CBD and Balmoral views from upper-level apartments
	</li>
</ul>

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock

Jonathan Chancellor

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