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The retired world record swimming champion Eamon Sullivan has sold his Surry Hills terrace given he's back home in Perth running restaurants.
It fetched a bullish $1.8 million <a href="https://www.goodyer.com.au/selling/NSW/Sydney-City/Surry-Hills/House/1P3079" target="_blank">after its recent Goodyer Real Estate auction</a>.
He had bought the four bedroom home for $1.26 million in 2009, shortly after coming to national prominence setting record times in the pool in 50 and 100 metre freestyle events. 
The auction of the terrace saw it passed in with just the one bid of $1.65 million however Pauline Goodyer of Goodyer Woollahra subsequently had three bidders emerge afterwards taking the price to $1.8 million.
Following his 2012 move to Perth, the Bourke Street terrace had been rented out at $1,400 a week. It has been bought this month by an investor showing a gross yield of around 5.6 per cent.
Born in Perth, Sullivan is dominating the hospitality scene now co-owning three restaurants - Bib &amp; Tucker in North Fremantle; Louis Baxters Espresso bar cafe in Subiaco, and most recently May Street Larder in East Fremantle.
He opened the cafe first with TV producer Laki Baker, then ventured with pole vaulter Steve Hooker, hockey player Jamie Dwyer and chef Scott Bridger to open Bib &amp; Tucker, located on top of Fremantle's surf live saving club in 2013. 
His most recent opening was May Street Larder where he teamed up again with taste of Perth chef Bridger.
Sullivan is engaged to Perth lawyer Naomi Bass, proposing earlier this year under cherry blossoms while the pair were in Japan on holidays.
The two are eyeing a wedding date next April.
Sullivan was a sprint swimmer, finding great success in the freestyle events winning three medals at the Olympics and setting two world records. 
He retired from swimming in 2014 at the age of 29, citing an ongoing shoulder injury as the overriding factor in his decision. 
Aside from sport, Sullivan became a popular TV figure after winning the first series of Celebrity Masterchef Australia and also competing in Dancing with the Stars.
It was bought from the former corporate internet executive Chris Kreis turned property developer and his sister, Swiss architect Nicole Kreis.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Swimming champion Eamon Sullivan sells Surry Hills terrace

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Melbourne agents secured a weekend clearance rate of 67%, compared to 65% last week and 65% on the same weekend last year.
Melbourne buyers met the supply challenge of the biggest auction day in its history.
Balanced rather than strong was how vendor adviser, Peter Sarmas described the result.
There were 1467 auctions reported to the REIV this weekend, with another 400 results yet to come. 
It has been a record month, with about 5,700 auctions held - 300 more than in November last year, the REIV chief Enzo Raimondo said.
The dearest weekend result reported to the REIV was $3.55 million in Brighton, although a private auction mid-week had secured a $7.4 million sale in Canterbury. 
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/17-elwood-street-brighton/Property-Details-buy-residential-9732195" target="_blank">The Brighton sale</a> was a four bedroom house on the edge of the Golden Mile with the 889sqm, north facing lot offering an opportunity to re-build or redevelop, Brakspear House.
The $3.55 million auction sale was higher than its $3.33 million private treaty sale in June this year to Chinese buyers. Buxton selling agent Stefan Whiting was telling inspectees that the client was re-located overseas by the corporate he worked for.
The offerng at 34 Ferrars Place, South Melbourne was passed in at $4,6 million with just the one bidder.
 
TOP 5 HOUSES
1. 17 Elwood Street, Brighton $3,550,000
2. 167 Finch Street, Glen Iris $2,756,000
3. 31B Park Crescent, Aberfeldie $2,750,000
4. 11 Belson Street, Malvern East $2,710,000
5. 14 Terry Street, Balwyn $2,700,000
 
TOP 5 BARGAIN HOUSES
1. 309 Stumpy Gully Road, Balnarring $253,000
2. 8 Peter Court, Langwarrin $295,000
3. 32 Lorraine Crescent, Jacana $295,000
4. 11 Cullen Drive, Wyndham Vale $296,000
5. 3 Marong Court, Broadmeadows $308,500
 
TOP 5 APARTMENTS
1. 27A Irymple Avenue, Glen Iris $2,188,000
2. 3.01/125-139 Rathdowne Street, Carlton $2,075,000
3. 65 Draper Street, Albert Park $1,670,000
4. 2/30 Erskine Street, North Melbourne $1,420,000
5. 2/22 Pascoe Avenue, Bentleigh $1,350,000
 
TOP 5 BARGAIN APARTMENTS
1. 2/29 Kirby Street, Reservoir $271,000
2. 2/10 Edgar Street, Hadfield $285,000
3. 1/249 Burnley Street, Richmond $300,000
4. 3/7 Sydney Street, Footscray $307,000
5. 3/7 Adam Street, Richmond $331,000
Source: <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au" target="_blank">REIV </a>
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Melbourne's busiest auction day sees steady success rate: REIV

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Sydney's greenest home - winning some 13 awards on its 2013 construction - has been snapped up before it's scheduled weekend auction.
Builder Chris Knierim's two storey eco-house in Forest Lodge came with $1.9 million plus price hopes.
Over 100 groups inspected the pricey bespoke offering, which sold at an undisclosed price, through Jennifer Aaron of Jennifer Aaron Real Estate.
The recent marketing campaign had triggered 11,000 plus visits on realestate.com.au.
Designed to minimise its carbon footprint, it was Knierim's $900,000 construction dream to build a sustainable three bedroom house for his family.
Another inner west project is also underway by architect and builder, Oliver Steele in Newtown with three garden-topped eco-terraces on Angel Street.  
Being green might prove costly in the inner suburbs, but the traditional alternate eco home can still come cheap for tree changers with a mud brick home in a 200 acre land sharing community in the Hunter Valley region currently listed at $180,000 plus.
After working on eco-friendly building projects in Europe, Chris Knierim knew to insulate the ground underneath the slab and have solar panels on its green garden rooftop.
There's eight metre tall vertical garden walls in between, which impressed the Sydney Lord Mayor Clover Moore when she opened the house.
It comes with a 3500 litre underground water tank and extensive use of recycled materials.
The sustainable Foss Street home - just 5 metres or so wide in a narrow gap in a row of heritage-listed terraces - featured on the Grand Designs Australia television series.
The awards included the 2014 HIA Green Smart Australian Home of the Year and the Australian Sustainable Project of the Year.
Chris and wife Belinda paid $519,000 in 2007 for the small car park block next door to their then house. 
"Crowned by a green roof, it presents streamlined minimalism with state-of-the-art finishes and a focus on optimal light and airflow," selling agent Jennifer Aaron said.
Chris was happy with the home and said it performed better than expected.
"“It just functions really well."
The founder of design firm Code Green admitted that despite the fact the eco lodge was a dream home for his wife and two sons, it was time to move on.
“I’ve just got a good business opportunity, so it’s time to let it go", he said.
"Being a builder and designer I’m always looking at doing other things,” he said.
They all celebrated the sale at the sustainable fish cafe, Annandale's Fish &amp; Co.
This article was first published in the Sydney Daily Telegraph.
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Sydney's greenest terrace house sold at $1.9 million plus

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GUEST OBSERVER
The RBA is clearly set to remain on hold next week. This was made clear in a recent speech by Governor Stevens, when, rather unusually, he gave fairly clear guidance on the near-term outlook for rates. 
When asked about whether he was ‘still content with a 2.00% cash rate’ or whether the central bank was ‘going to surprise us all again next February’, he said that, “February is three months away, we’ve got Christmas, we should just chill out… come back… and see what the data says.”
December is seemingly not even in consideration.
So if December is out: what about February?
One thing is clear: the RBA does not want to cut further. Otherwise, it would have done so already. Inflation is low and the central bank is forecasting it to stay low over coming quarters. At the same time, the RBA is forecasting growth to remain below trend until late 2016 and the unemployment rate to stay high over the next two years. The RBA is clearly patient and has set a high bar for delivering any further stimulus.
Between now and February there is also a large number of significant local and global events. Local Q3 GDP data arrive next week and are expected to be on the stronger side. Local jobs numbers come after that and will be worth watching, given the surprisingly strong October result. The Fed’s meeting in mid-December will be important, particularly its implications for the AUD: if the Fed hikes, but delivers a dovish message, the AUD may not fall as many are hoping. At the same time, commodity prices have fallen in recent weeks, as the Chinese slowdown has continued. Finally, the next local CPI print, due on 27 January 2016, will be critical.
We remain optimistic about local growth, but pessimistic about the global inflation outlook. Given low inflation, our central case has the RBA delivering another cut early next year, but there is significant uncertainty, given the large collection of events between now and then, and the RBA’s considerable reluctance about considering the prospect of further cuts.
<a href="/images/2015/11/26/Screen%20Shot%202015-11-27%20at%2011.40.51%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/11/26/Screen%20Shot%202015-11-27%20at%2011.40.51%20AM.png" alt="" width="760" height="339"> 
 
 
Growth is lifting, as the rebalancing act continues
 
Timely indicators of economic conditions continue to suggest that Australia’s growth is lifting.
 
The NAB business survey, which the RBA has put significant focus on recently in its commentary, shows that business conditions are at around five-year highs (Chart 1). The NAB survey has also shown a further pick-up in capacity utilisation, although business confidence ticked down recently and remains below average. The improvement in business conditions has been led by the services sectors, as growth rebalances away from mining (Chart 2).
 
Jobs growth is also being driven by services sector employment. The recent lift in jobs growth has seen the unemployment rate tick down to 5.9%, which is its lowest level since April 2014
 
(Chart 3). Although the official labour market numbers have been subject to significant measurement issues recently, the collection of labour market indicators suggests gradual improvement in labour market conditions. Job advertisements, job vacancies, internet vacancies and the business surveys have also shown a gradual trend improvement in recent months.
 
Q3 GDP, which is due to be published next week (2 December), is expected to show a solid lift in the quarter, following the weak print in Q2 (Chart 4). A key support for growth is expected to come from net exports, with preliminary numbers showing a strong rise in exports and falling imports. Resources exports are ramping up as new capacity comes on line and coal exports rebound after weather-related disruptions in Q2. Domestic demand is expected to be modest with solid growth in household consumption and housing construction more than offsetting the effect of a sharp fall in mining investment.
<a href="/images/2015/11/26/Screen%20Shot%202015-11-27%20at%2011.43.26%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="/images/2015/11/26/Screen%20Shot%202015-11-27%20at%2011.43.26%20AM.png" alt="" width="776" height="389">
<a href="/images/2015/11/26/Screen%20Shot%202015-11-27%20at%2011.44.32%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/11/26/Screen%20Shot%202015-11-27%20at%2011.44.32%20AM.png" alt="" width="776" height="351">
 
Inflation is low and expected to stay there for some time
Although growth is picking up, inflation is low. This partly reflects that growth has been below trend for the past three years and the unemployment rate remains at a level that is well above full employment (around 5-5.25%). This has dampened wages growth and kept domestic price pressures at bay.
This month brought the wage price index, which showed that wages growth remains at its slowest pace in at least 18 years (Chart 5). The wage price index showed growth of 2.3% y-o-y in Q3, unchanged from Q2. However, growth in the private sector wage price index fell to a new record low of 2.1% y-o-y. Real wages have been broadly flat for the past two years.
Low wages growth is contributing to low inflation, with the underlying measures of inflation having surprised on the downside in Q3. Underlying inflation was running at 2.2% y-o-y in the Q3, which is near the bottom edge of the RBA’s 2-3% target band. Our own modelling, which is based on the RBA’s own work-horse models and using similar assumptions to the central bank, show that underlying inflation is expected to skirt the bottom edge of the target band over coming quarters (Chart 6). 
Considerable reluctance to cut
With growth running below its trend pace, the unemployment rate still well above its full employment level and underlying inflation at the lower edge of the target band, the RBA has scope to cut interest rates further, if it deems that this is needed. As Governor Stevens pointed out in a recent key speech, the RBA is “more than content to lower [the cash rate] if that actually helps”. At the same time, given the recent lift in business conditions and improving labour market, the RBA appears to have considerable reluctance to cut further. Part of this reflects that monetary policy is clearly doing what it is supposed to do and the RBA clearly sees the costs of a further cut outweighing the benefits at this stage.
One of these costs is financial stability. The central bank’s recent financial stability review suggested that the RBA remains concerned about potentially over-inflating the Sydney and
Melbourne housing markets, which have both seen significant housing price growth in recent years. The RBA has also recently expressed concerns about potential over-building in the housing and commercial property markets in some cities. Notably, there are signs that the housing market is cooling, particularly in Sydney, which may reduce the RBA’s concerns about financial stability issues over time (Chart 7).
<a href="/images/2015/11/26/Screen%20Shot%202015-11-27%20at%2011.47.20%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/11/26/Screen%20Shot%202015-11-27%20at%2011.47.20%20AM.png" alt="">
 
The RBA’s reluctance to cut further may also reflect timing and uncertainty. The RBA’s recent official statement emphasised a large number of risks at the current juncture.
One risk is what path the Fed might take in coming months and what that could mean for the AUD. The chances of Fed ‘lift-off’ this year have risen in recent weeks, particularly following the strong payrolls numbers for October. Although this could put some downward pressure on the AUD, much depends on the Fed’s subsequent path for rates. If the AUD falls noticeably from here, this could help to lift inflation faster, which could help the RBA hit its target. However, if the Fed’s commentary is more dovish the AUD could rise, putting further downward pressure on already low Australian inflation.
Another risk is what the slowdown in China will mean for commodity prices. The iron ore price has recently fallen to a 10-year low of around USD45 per tonne. The RBA has been content with the level of the AUD recently, partly because it had fallen in line with commodity prices and partly because there are clear signs that the lower AUD is lifting growth (Chart 8). If commodity prices were to fall further and the AUD rose, this could squeeze local income and become a concern for the RBA.
Importantly, we also get a swathe of local data for Australia before February. Next week we get Q3 GDP, which we expect to show solid growth (0.8% q-o-q and 2.5% y-o-y). The following week we get official labour market numbers for November, which will be of particular interest, given the strong result in October. Another critical piece of information ahead of the February RBA meeting will be Q4 CPI print, which is due on 27 January 2016. A low CPI print could encourage the RBA to cut further, although the central bank’s own forecasts already anticipate underlying inflation of 2.0% y-o-y, so it would take a weak result to surprise the RBA to the downside.
 
<a href="https://www.about.hsbc.com.au/hsbc-in-australia/management-team" target="_blank">PAUL BLOXHAM</a> IS CHIEF ECONOMIST (AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND) FOR HSBC. 
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RBA chilling out for Christmas: HSBC's Paul Bloxham

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A modest late 1950s Harry Seidler-designed home has hit the market on Sydney’s upper north shore at Wahroonga.
The home was designed for the then journalist, turned spiritualist Barry Long and his wife Betty when the couple, with two children, were in their early 30s.
Long, was the last editor of the Truth and became the first editor of the Sunday Mirror during Ezra Norton’s ownership, and was later press secretary to the leader of the opposition, Robert Askin.
But Barry Long quit Sydney on his spiritual journey, selling the house in 1965 after telling his wife at the breakfast table one Sunday morning he was off to India.
<img src="https://cdn.newsapi.com.au/image/v1/6e48363b54cdda593edbecf254f3f19c?width=650" width="650" height="488">
Pictured above Barry Long with his daughter Annette and mother Kathleen.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-wahroonga-121336382" target="_blank">Alex Mintorn and Dominic Maxwell of McGrath Pymble</a> have suggested the fourth owner will need to pay $1.45 million plus to secure the home at its December 12 auction.
The three-bedroom, two-bathroom, two-level house on a 898 sqm block comes with a striking original internal feature, the sandstone fireplace.
Agent Alex Mintorn described it has having a “magic feel, especially in the evening”.
The sandstone fireplace lends a “magic feel, especially in the evening”.
The cellar and jacuzzi at the now modernised home were introduced since the property last traded at $719,000 in 2005.
There are plans drawn to extend the Morris Avenue home by Harry Seidler &amp; Associates office veteran Greg Holman. Seidler was considered to be one of the leading exponents of modernism’s methodology in Australia before he died in 2006.
He designed more than 180 buildings, including Blues Point Tower in 1961, courting controversy throughout his long career as he regularly challenged planning authorities and the planning system in Sydney.
The property is on a 898 sqm block.
At Warrawee a recent offering, known as the 1957 Exley house which was being offered by the family of its original owners, sold before auction having been listed at around $2 million.
There was a 1995 Balmain waterfront sale for $5.75 million midyear.
A modernist, Harry Seidler-designed property in Dover Heights was sold in June. The Kalowski House fetched $3.46 million with Seidler’s design including pioneering floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors along the full width of the northern facade in the 1958 designed home.
However, Thurlow House at Blakehurst struggles to find a buyer.
It has been described as a Mad Men style home, being virtually unchanged since its 1952 construction.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph.
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1950s Harry Seidler-designed Wahroonga home hits the market

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Television executive producer Nick Murray and his wife Lizzy pulled their Federation-era Centennial Park home from last weekend’s intended auction.
It was offered with $7.5 million plus hopes through McGrath agent Ben Collier.
It has been updated since they bought <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-centennial+park-121107166" target="_blank">the five-bedroom home on Robertson Road</a> in 2009 for $5.81 million from fund manager Neil Carter and his wife Alison.
The Murrays intend to spend more time planting vegies and raising chooks at Scribbly Gums, the Berrima property they bought for $1.8 million last year, since their children have finished school.
Nick is the managing director and co-owner of Cordell Jigsaw Zapruder. Its shows include Bondi Rescue and The Checkout.
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Centennial Park Federation pulled from auction

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 <img src="/images/2015/11/26/NEW_RAMS_LOGO.jpg" alt="">
The process of applying for a home loan will flow more smoothly if you have your paperwork in order from the start.
The lender will need proof of your identity such as a passport or driver’s licence and birth certificate or citizenship certificate. You may also have to supply documents such as a utility bill or recent notice issued by the Australian Tax Office.
You’ll be asked for details about your income and financial position as this will determine how much you can borrow. 
INCOME
If you’re paid a salary or wage, proof of income might include:
<ul>
<li>Recent pay slips</li>
<li>Your employment contract or a letter from your employerconfirming your salary and how long you’ve worked there</li>
<li>A bank statement or transaction history showing your salary going into a bank account</li>
<li>A tax return prepared by a tax agent</li>
<li>An ATO Notice of Assessment</li>
</ul>
If you’re self-employed, you may need:
<ul>
<li>Recent personal and business income tax returns and ATO assessment notices</li>
<li>About a year’s worth of Business Activity Statements </li>
<li>Financial statements prepared by an accountant</li>
</ul>
FINANCIAL POSITION
You may be asked to demonstrate proof of your savings by presenting bank account transaction summaries. 
If someone has given you money towards your purchase you may need them to supply a letter saying the funds are an unconditional gift or outlining the repayment terms and conditions if it’s a personal loan.
The lender may ask for details of any other savings or assets you have, such as term deposits, share investments, property or motor vehicles.
Also, be prepared to supply statements for credit or store cards and any other loans you may have.
INSURANCE
If you have home and/or contents insurance, or any life insurance policies you may need to supply these details as well. 
THE PROPERTY
It’s important to have finance pre-approved before the exchange of contracts. When it comes to completing the formal home loan application, you’ll need to supply the lender with the contract of sale.
If you’re building, you’ll need a fixed price building contract and council approved building plans or specifications, or a building permit.
Quick tip: It's important to be open and honest about your finances from the start as this will avoid disappointment down the track, so choose a broker or loan adviser who you feel comfortable forming a relationship with as you will be sharing personal information with them.
 
TO FIND OUT HOW RAMS CAN HELP EASE YOU THROUGH THE PROCESS, GET IN TOUCH WITH YOUR LOCAL RAMS HOME LOAN EXPERT OR DROP IN FOR YOUR <a href="https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/clk/297891154;125002177;g" target="_blank">FREE FIRST HOME BUYERS’ GUIDE</a>.
For more great property advice and tips on buying your first home from RAMS subscribe to <a href="https://ad.doubleclick.net/ddm/clk/297886984;125002178;w" target="_blank">The Great Australian Dream property series</a>.
For your free Property Observer eBook from RAMS, 12 tips for first-time buyers, covering everything you need to know when it comes to purchasing property, click here.
Disclaimer: Information in this material is general and does not take into account your objectives, financial situation or needs and you should consider whether it is appropriate for you. You should also obtain independent professional advice relevant to your financial circumstances.
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Organising loan paperwork 

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A Toorak trophy home has been reportedly sold - believed to be the highest paid for a house in Melbourne this year.
It is a Yar Orrong Road manor rumoured to have sold for $20 million.
The four-bedroom, three-bathroom home sits on a 2137-square-metre elevated Yar Orrong Road site.
The home, designed by Alan Synman, last sold for $6.35 million in 2006 when bought by the Heffernan family. 
Some property agents are unconvinced by the $20 million price credit first flagged by Fairfax Media which has a reputation for over reaching in its price speculation.
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Toorak trophy home sale whispers

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GUEST OBSERVER
Last week Victoria announced a new plan to manage bushfire risk by conducting prescribed burns.
Previously, Victoria had adopted a plan to burn 5% of the state’s area each year to manage bushfire risk. The 5% target has been criticised by scientists for damaging the environment without necessarily reducing risk. But, following a review, the state is shifting to a new “risk-based” strategy.
So, how does the new strategy work and what can we learn from it?
<h2>Targets: a blunt instrument</h2>
Immediately following the devastating Black Saturday bushfires there were many questions about whether the government could have done more to either prevent such an event or at least reduce the impact of the fires.
A Royal Commission considered a range of submissions from government, the public and scientific committees. Following careful consideration of the information, the commission handed down 67 recommendations. Recommendation 56 was to adopt a long-term program of prescribed burning with a rolling average of 5% per year on public land.
A range of research has since been conducted examining the role of prescribed burning in reducing the risk to people and property as well as the impact on biodiversity.
The key message is that a hectare target is not the most cost efficient way of reducing risk to people and property, and that such an approach can have negative impacts on biodiversity.
Therefore, an alternate approach is needed to achieve the two objectives in the Code of Practice for Bushfire on Public Land: To minimise the impact of major bushfires on human life, communities, essential and community infrastructure, industries, the economy and the environment. Human life will be afforded priority over all other considerations. To maintain or improve the resilience of natural ecosystems and their ability to deliver services such as biodiversity, water, carbon storage and forest products.
<h2>The risk of bushfires</h2>
The new risk-based approach means that the state government will be able to focus their efforts in strategic areas, such as places close to houses and infrastructure, or areas where due to landforms there is a high chance of fires starting or spreading quickly.
Reducing fuels in these areas can result in the greatest reduction in risk from wildfires to the assets, but have a much higher risk of damage if the prescribed burn escapes such as we have seen recently at Lancefield.
Risk to people and property will be measured through fire behaviour simulation using the PHOENIX RapidFire program. This allows the state to compare the risk of losing houses between maximum fuel load (and maximum risk) and fuel loads after burnoffs.
The difference between the two is known as “residual risk” and is expressed as a percentage of the maximum risk. Victoria has set a target of 70% residual risk which means that burnoffs will remove at least 30% of the maximum risk. While there may be debate about the actual value, adopting a risk-based metric represents a more outcome focused approach to developing fire management strategies.
Residual risk methods currently consider only the impacts on people and property, however equivalent methods are being developed for the environment.
As a researcher in the field, it would be remiss of me not to say that there is great scope for improving both the underlying fire behaviour model and the methods of calculating risk. There is a big difference between developing a model in the lab and applying it to public safety. In time, new methods will be developed and Victoria will need to consider whether these represent improvements over their current system before they are adopted.
<h2>Doesn’t remove risk</h2>
The new plan advocates a reduction in risk, but doesn’t entirely remove it. This is simply not possible.
Black Saturday fires could occur again in the future under either a hectares or a risk reduction approach to fuel treatment as these fires are driven primarily by catastrophic fire weather.
What is important to note is that a risk reduction approach aims to reduce the impact of such fires so that we hopefully do not see the same devastating loss of life and property.
Fire management on private land and the preparedness of communities for wildfire will remain vital. Communities in at-risk areas need to be actively involved in fire management decision making and preparedness. Some communities may elect to live with the risk while others may actively be involved in reducing risk. Regardless of the decision, it is important that all parties understand the risk they are exposed to and take actions accordingly.
Overall, Victoria’s new plan is a major step forward for fire management in the state and Australia. Explicitly adopting risk as a measure of success is a brave and positive step by the Victorian government. The success of the new policy will be assessed in time, but in my opinion, it will make fire management decisions more transparent.
Such transparency will allow for better community involvement in the planning and application of fire management. In time, the inclusion of other asset types in the estimation of risk will complicate the process, but also allow for better assessments of the extent to which both objectives for fire management can be met.
 
Trent Penman is lecturer, Bushfire Behaviour and Management, University of Melbourne and author for The Conversation. He can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/trent-penman-197032" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Saving homes, saving wildlife: Victoria ditches burnoff targets

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The billionaire property developer Lang Walker is seeking to sell his $2.5 billion Collins Square project in Melbourne, likely to be the largest single property sale in Australia.
But Lang Walker, who sold his empire just ahead of the last peak of the market, says he is not selling at the top again
"I don't think it is at the top," he told the Australian Financial Review.
"Look at the yields and the 10-year bond rates. There is still a big gap and interest rates are going to stay lower for longer and there is a lot of overseas capital looking for projects in the gateway cities." 
He told The Australian he was getting two or three offers every week from potential buyers over the past six months.
Investment bank UBS has the sales mandate for Collins Square, five towers at the western end of Melbourne. 
Two of the five towers are complete and fully tenanted, with two more scheduled to be completed mid-2016 and the fifth in 2017, with more than 250,000 square metres of lettable area.
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Lang Walker seeks Collins Square buyers at $2.5b

Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372212]

Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372227]

Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372225]

While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372222]

The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146717]

Joel Robinson

Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6395]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6399]

Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=353235]

A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6390]

“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

The Walden pairs house-scale living with North Sydney connectivity

The ACT will become the first jurisdiction in Australia to abolish stamp duty for all first home buyers, with no income caps and no property price thresholds from 1 July.

The move, announced as part of the ACT Budget, completes a key election commitment from the Barr Government and removes what Chief Minister Andrew Barr described as one of the biggest barriers to entering the housing market. The reform forms part of the ACT's long-running transition away from transaction taxes and towards a broader-based property tax system.

"This budget marks a major milestone in our long-term tax reform program," Barr said, adding that the government had maintained a sustained focus on removing barriers to home ownership. He said stamp duty had long been one of the largest upfront hurdles facing buyers and that from July, "that barrier is gone" for first home buyers in the Territory.

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The changes come alongside a range of measures designed to encourage new housing supply, including support for the delivery of so-called "missing middle" housing such as terraces, townhouses and low-rise multi-unit developments.

The announcement has renewed debate around whether the ACT's approach could provide a blueprint for improving housing affordability nationally.

New research from OurTop10.com.au, conducted by Primara Research, suggests the Territory's decade-long reform agenda has produced outcomes unmatched elsewhere in Australia.

While stamp duty costs have increased by an average 67 per cent nationally over the past decade, the ACT has recorded growth of just 15 per cent, the lowest increase of any jurisdiction.

The Territory has also emerged as one of the strongest performers on housing delivery. Based on population-weighted housing targets, the ACT is sitting less than one per cent behind its target. Victoria is the next closest at seven per cent behind, while the national average sits 25 per cent below target. New South Wales is tracking 39 per cent behind.

The latest reform removes one of the final barriers facing first home buyers in Canberra.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=359152]

The average Australian home buyer currently pays $61,714 in stamp duty. In the ACT, that figure is $38,399 despite the Territory having the third-highest median house price in the country.

Until now, the ACT's first home buyer concession scheme only applied to purchases up to $1.02 million, around $51,000 below Canberra's median house price of $1.071 million. In practical terms, many first home buyers were unable to access the median-priced home without losing the concession.

From July, those restrictions disappear.

Every first home buyer in the ACT will pay no stamp duty, regardless of income or purchase price.

Canberra remains one of Australia's most expensive housing markets, with dwelling values increasing 82 per cent over the past decade. However, that growth ranks only 11th among Australia's 15 major housing markets, suggesting affordability pressures have been less severe than in many other parts of the country.

Simon Ma, CEO of OurTop10.com.au, said the latest reforms recognise that many first home buyers have simply outgrown thresholds set years ago.

"Many first home buyers aren't just looking for a way onto the ladder, they want a home their family can actually live in," Ma said.

"In a market where the median house price is over a million dollars, a concession scheme that cuts out at $1.02 million was never going to get them there.

"Removing the ceiling entirely means ACT first home buyers can now pursue the home they actually want, rather than limiting themselves to a price point designed for a very different market."

Whether other states follow remains to be seen. But at a time when most jurisdictions are struggling to improve affordability while also increasing housing supply, the ACT has quietly become the national test case for both.

15% stamp duty growth. Just 1% off the national housing target. Zero stamp duty for FHBs. Is the ACT the blueprint for the great Australian dream?

ACT abolishes stamp duty for first home buyers

A rooftop pool and spa overlooking the Brisbane CBD, private dining spaces, expansive landscaped gardens and a residents' lounge are set to crown <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/callista-on-park-west-end-49-mollison-street-west-end-qld-4101">Callista on Park</a>, the final residential building within Brisbane's West Village precinct.

The rooftop amenity collection has been designed as an extension of the lifestyle already established throughout West Village, providing residents with a series of indoor and outdoor spaces that capitalise on the building's elevated position above West End.

A swimming pool and heated spa form the centrepiece of the rooftop offering, surrounded by landscaped gardens developed through a collaboration between developer Sekisui House and ASPECT Studios. The design incorporates expansive lawn areas surrounded by English garden-inspired planting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134800 project_image_fid=370648]

Residents will also have access to two barbecue and outdoor dining areas positioned to take advantage of views across Brisbane's skyline, neighbouring Mollison Park, and the surrounding inner-city landscape.

For larger gatherings, the rooftop includes a private dining room centred around a substantial stone island bench, complete with a full kitchen and a 10-seat dining table set beneath four-metre-high ceilings. The space has been designed to overlook both the rooftop gardens and the Brisbane CBD skyline.

A separate residents' lounge provides an additional indoor retreat connected to the broader rooftop amenity offering, creating another space for residents to work, relax or entertain guests.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134800 project_image_fid=370647]

The attention to detail extends beyond the rooftop.

Upon arrival, residents will enter through a lobby featuring a bespoke ceiling light installation developed in collaboration between Sekisui House and Alcorn Middleton Architecture. The arrival experience is complemented by private resident mailboxes and carefully considered interior finishes designed to reflect the premium positioning of the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134800 project_image_fid=372541]

The amenity offering forms part of Callista on Park, the final residential release within the decade-long transformation of the former Peters Ice Cream Factory site into West Village, one of Brisbane's most established mixed-use communities.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a>, Callista represents the most premium residential offering within the masterplanned precinct.

Construction is now entering its final stages, with scaffolding beginning to come down and completion expected in the first quarter of 2027.

Prices for the three-bedroom plus MPR apartments start from just over $2.6 million.

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Callista will mark the final opportunity to purchase within West Village, where residents have direct access to more than 35 retail, dining, wellness and medical operators including Harris Farm Markets, Woolworths, Function Well and Goodlife Health Clubs, Metro Arts, and a growing collection of restaurants and cafés.

Located just 800 metres from the Brisbane CBD, the precinct also places residents within walking distance of South Bank, West End's dining scene, riverfront parklands and major public transport connections.

For Sekisui House, which has delivered more than two million homes globally, Callista serves as the concluding piece of the West Village masterplan, bringing together the precinct's heritage character, parkland setting and emphasis on walkability in a final collection of larger-format residences.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134800]

Rooftop pool, private dining and skyline gardens to crown West Village's final apartment release, Callista on Park

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/wahroonga-nsw-2076">Wahroonga</a>’s enduring appeal has long been tied to its balance of bushland, established amenity, and access to some of Sydney’s most respected education and healthcare institutions.

Along Fox Valley Road, that combination is becoming increasingly sought after by buyers looking to remain connected to the Upper North Shore lifestyle while prioritising walkability, wellbeing, and convenience.

Developer Capital Corporation's initial vision of a 62-hectare site on Fox Valley Road was that they could create their own walkable community, bordered by&nbsp;more than 25 hectares of bushland and adjoining Coups Creek.

<img alt="Wahroonga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b84917a1-0d75-49b9-888c-ddf7ebfd6692" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/NEW2026_Wahroonga_Walkway.gif?VersionId=Gk3_xi5ssYfalmwuQQ5umQakddceC31j" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-residences-at-wahroonga-estate-169-fox-valley-road-wahroonga-nsw-2076">The Residences at Wahroonga Estate</a> draws directly on the area’s natural landscape, with walking trails and green corridors linking into sections of Lane Cove National Park. The surrounding network of bushwalks, cycling tracks, and reserves reinforces the suburb’s long-standing reputation as one of Sydney’s most nature-oriented residential pockets, while still maintaining close ties to village retail and transport infrastructure.

The address places residents within minutes of Wahroonga and Turramurra villages, where cafés, local grocers, boutiques, and everyday services support a highly localised lifestyle. Popular nearby venues including The Fox Café and Breeze Valley Café provide easy options for morning coffee or casual dining, while longstanding retailers such as IGA Wahroonga Fresh and Novella Fine Books continue to anchor the area’s village character.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Wahroonga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4a950f7-4f05-4370-b360-b106359788e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/2026_Wahroonga_Entry_Gates.gif?VersionId=7n5kh9ymu.azYEYDemJkPgiIAfSw44oj" />

Healthcare access remains one of the defining locational advantages of the estate. Sydney Adventist Hospital, known locally as The San, sits directly adjacent and is one of the largest and most respected private hospitals in New South Wales. The hospital precinct incorporates specialist medical services, radiology, physiotherapy, and outpatient care, contributing to growing buyer demand from downsizers and owner-occupiers seeking long-term convenience and peace of mind.

Research commissioned by Capital Corporation found that health and wellbeing considerations are increasingly influencing downsizing decisions, particularly among buyers wanting to remain within familiar neighbourhoods while accessing medical infrastructure more easily.

Education has also historically underpinned demand across Wahroonga and the broader Upper North Shore. The estate sits close to several of Sydney’s leading private and independent schools, including Knox Grammar, Abbotsleigh, Barker College, Pymble Ladies’ College, Ravenswood School for Girls, and Loreto Normanhurst. Co-educational options including Wahroonga Adventist School and Sydney Adventist School further strengthen the area’s appeal to established families looking for long-term schooling pathways within a tightly held catchment.

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Transport connectivity supports the suburb’s liveability without compromising its quieter residential character. Wahroonga and Turramurra train stations provide direct rail access into the Sydney CBD, while the nearby Pacific Highway and M1 motorway strengthen links across the North Shore and broader metropolitan area. At the same time, the heavily treed streetscape and low-density character continue to distinguish the precinct from more urbanised parts of Sydney.

The Residences at Wahroonga Estate forms the first stage of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/capital-corporation">Capital Corporation</a>’s broader masterplanned vision for the precinct, delivered alongside the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135247 project_image_fid=364995]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/group-gsa">GroupGSA</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/coco-republic-interior-design">Coco Republic</a>, the development integrates landscaped communal spaces including a pet-friendly Green Spine, resident lounge, BBQ pavilion, and direct bushland access, reinforcing the project’s focus on outdoor connection and community-based living.

Now under construction by Gold Star iCIRT-rated builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/dasco-australia">DASCO</a>, The Residences at Wahroonga Estate will deliver a collection of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments priced from $990,000, with completion anticipated in 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135247]

Jonathan Chancellor

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