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Phil Ruthven, chairman of IBISWorld, says it is getting very tricky for Australian investors, with over $3.7 trillion in super and other financial assets, to know which asset classes are the best in terms of short or long-term yield and capital appreciation. Or safest, regardless of yield.
The asset classes he considered were:
<ul>
<li>liquids (cash, short term, long bonds)</li>
<li>shares (local or foreign).</li>
<li>property (owner-occupied and investment dwellings, commercial)</li>
<li>commodities and collectables (gold, other metals, collectables)</li>
</ul>
"Residential property values also move around, but over the medium to longer term provided capital growth of a fairly safe 5.25% per annum," Ruthven outlined in the <a href="https://cuffelinks.com.au/put-money-days/" target="_blank">latest Cuffelinks posting</a>. 
"However prices can go negative.
"Australia already has some of the world’s most over-valued residential prices (over 3.5 times average household income), kept high by record low mortgage rates at under 5% compared with the very long term average of nearer 7.5%.
"So considerable care is needed as we head into the third decade of this 21st Century when it comes to looking for a lot of capital gain as distinct from low net rental returns in investment residential property."<img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-9269" src="https://cuffelinks.com.au/wp-content/uploads/PR-Figure2-130315-1024x717.png" alt="PR Figure2 130315" width="1024" height="717" style="font-size: 12.1599998474121px; line-height: 1.3em;">
Overall with other asset classes he concluded that returns are not as good as they have been over recent decades, whether they be liquids, property, commodities or shares, where rising price to earning ratios are lowering yields in response to record low interest rates.
"Then again we aren’t experiencing another GFC either which would be a much greater worry," wrote Ruthven.
"Some forecasters are predicting apocalyptic troubles arising from world debt levels, but not this author, as yet.
"Government indebtedness is not yet back to the immediate post WWII levels (with some exceptions such as Greece and Japan).
"Yes, household debt is huge in many countries, especially Australia, but still manageable in terms of debt servicing costs as our RBA reminds us from time to time, while warning us of stupid dwelling prices and the long term dangers involved."
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Considerable care needed before investing in property: IBISWorld's Phil Ruthven

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Cooley Auctions has reported the eastern suburbs pre-auction sales rate jumped to plus 50% this week.
There were seven pre-auction sales - most at undisclosed prices - among the 13 Monday night offerings.
The highest was $4.1 million at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-double+bay-118099391" target="_blank">Cross Street, Double Bay</a> (pictured above) through 1st City.
Set in The Gallery, it last sold at $3.85 million in 2008.
<img src="/images/2015/03/17/auctions-results-mar-17-one.jpg" alt="">
Source: Cooley Auctions
"This is the strongest market I have seen in my 15 year real estate career and the highest percentage of pre-auction sales ever experienced by Cooley Auctions," auctioneer Damien Cooley told Property Observer. 
"Buyers are relentless with their bullish tactic of buying before auction." Damien Cooley proffered there are two main reasons why property sells before auction in the current market. 
"First is the fear of missing out given the competitive sales. 
"It's possible the buyer has missed out at other auctions and in frustration they attempt to secure the property before. 
"Secondly and more commonly is the fear of paying more at auction."
Pre-sales typically run at between 20% and 25%.
During February Cooley noted it was running at 38%.
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Cooley Auctions see eastern suburbs pre-auction sales rate jump to 50%

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Businessman Brett Blundy has relisted his NSW rural retreat at Cattai on the Hawkesbury River. 
Back in 2013 Blundy was seeking $20 million for <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/acreage-rural-cattai-nsw-2756/236899" target="_blank">Sweven</a>, developed with no expense spared when the home was built six years ago.
He reportedly knocked back a $14 million offer. Offers are due April 23.
The 57-hectare property is next door to Riverside Oaks Golf Course, around one hour's drive north-west of Sydney.
Sweven has a magnificent homestead, which cost about $8 million to build. <a href="https://au.lifestyle.yahoo.com/better-homes-gardens/tv-and-video/a/17219605/recap-episode-16-17-05-13/" target="_blank">No wonder Johanna Griggs</a> described it as one of the best properties ever featured on Better Homes &amp; Gardens.
Sweven is an old English word meaning dream or vision.
Designed by architect Timothy Moon, it took three years to build on an escarpment overlooking the Hawkesbury River.
It comprises a series of linked timber and stone pavilions, approached by a sweeping tree-lined sealed driveway.
The property has a lily-filled lake, tree plantations, irrigated paddocks, cattle yards, a guest cottage and a manager's house at 177 O'Briens Road, Cattai.
 
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Brett Blundy relists his Cattai trophy home retreat, Sweven

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The Perth housing market recorded modest price growth over 2014 with affordability barriers and declining economic activity impacting the market, according to the Domain Group's senior economist, Andrew Wilson.
Perth’s median house price increased by just 0.6% over 2014 - well down on the 9.6% of 2013.
<img src="/images/2015/03/12/perth-mar-12-one.jpg" alt="">
Source: Domain Group
"Perth was the early starter in the general capital city housing market revival that commenced with sharp cuts to interest rates in 2012-13," Wilson said.
"The local market is now stabilising following exceptional prices growth over 2012 and 2013."
Rising unemployment and lower economic growth, driven primarily by the decline in the resources sector, are impacting housing market activity, he said.
"Despite this, the local Perth economy remains relatively well placed compared to most other state economies."
<img src="/images/2015/03/12/perth-mar-12-two.jpg" alt="">
Source: Domain Group
Wilson tipped price growth over 2015 to remain steady in Perth helped by the proportion of first home buyers, which exceeds all other capital city markets, and the prospect of rising activity in the prestige market.
"Lower interest rates will also provide a stimulus to aspirational buyers in middle price ranges," he said.
"The recent solid performances in Perth’s higher-priced city suburban areas will continue with moderate buyer activity from the mid and budget range regions of the north, south, south-west and east."
Perth median house prices are forecast to rise between 1 and 3% over 2015.
<img src="/images/2015/03/12/perth-mar-12-three.jpg" alt="">
Source: Domain Group
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Perth prices to remain steady in 2015: Domain Group's Andrew Wilson

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Just 440 of a survey 9,300 properties currently advertised with price indications around Sydney come with prices below $300,000.
The CoreLogic RP Data survey shows 168 houses at $299,000 or under and 271 units at $299,000 or under.
Finding them on the websites realestateview.com.au, realestate.com.au and domain.com.au is like a needle in the haystack.
There are certainly plenty in the regions and a few retirement home rooms on Sydney's outskirts.
There was 11B Mangariva Avenue Lethbridge Park with price guide over $289,950, but that's gone under contract. Ditto 11/174 Lindesay Street, Campbelltown and 20D/541 Pembroke Road, Leumeah.
Offers are being sought above $295,000 for 235/2 City View Road, Pennant Hills.
At weekend auction, there was a $345,000 Gorokan sale outside of Sydney on the Central Coast, but the cheapest within Sydney was <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-camden-119108795" target="_blank">a three bedroom house snapped up pre-auction for $396,000 at Camden</a> (pictured above) through One Agency Stuart Davies.
There are around 1,200 houses and 1,200 units available in the $300,000 to $499,000 price bracket.
There are around 19,000 properties currently available for sale, with the survey covering the 9,300 declaring prices or price ranges.
The busiest Sydney price bracket is between $500,000 and $699,000 with some 1,489 houses and 1,290 units for sale.
CoreLogic puts the median at $750,000 for Sydney houses and $580,000 for units.
In the price bracket $700,000 to $999,000, there are 1263 houses and 657 units for sale.
Above $1 million, CoreLogic puts the offerings at 1289 houses and $375 units.
The general time on market is 46 days.
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Just 440 properties with sub-$300,000 prices across Sydney: CoreLogic RP Data

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The wealth merits of moving from pricey Sydney to regional NSW was evident in a recent Onthehouse.com.au survey.
The survery looked at the number of million dollar properties in each state or territory’s metro and regional areas.
The findings showed that NSW was the wealthiest state when it comes to residential property, with 23.4% of dwellings in the metropolitian suburbs valued at over $1 million in 2014.
However, the number of million dollar properties in the state’s regional market was only 0.6%, meaning NSW had the highest disparity between metro and regional districts.
<img src="https://static.console.com.au.s3.amazonaws.com/Invstor%20Centre/Million-Dollar%20Properties%20Table%201.jpg" alt="" width="250" height="429">
Source: Onthehouse.com.au
John Edwards noted Victoria ranked as the second wealthiest state, with 12.4% of its metro properties being valued over $1 million, with a higher 0.7% in regional Victoria.
This was followed by metro WA (9.9%) and the ACT (4.9%).
The wealthiest regional market was the NT, where 1.4% of properties were found to be valued over the $1 million mark.
This compares to its metro market where 3.7% of properties were valued at $1 million or more.
John Edwards, the consulting analyst for Onthehouse.com.au, said SA was the least expensive state overall in Australia, with 2.0% and 0.1% of properties in the metro and regional markets respectively valued above $1 million.
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NSW the highest disparity between city and regional $1 million properties: Onthehouse

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Perth house sales during February were down on the same time last year. 
Turnover was down around 16% on last year, to 1,870 reported sales, according to REIWA.
The median house price eased by around 1%, or $5,000 to $547,000.  The REIWA president David Airey said reiwa.com data showed that sales lifted 12% in February after the festive season downturn. 
“Given that sales were down by 15% in January and now by a similar figure in February, it’s clear that the market is showing a trend of slow-down that is apparent even at a time when seasonal summer sales are usually stronger,” Airey said. 
Listings for sale increased by 4% in February to 13,456 properties. 
The rental market showed no sign of change in February, with the exception of the City of Belmont where median rents lifted by $20 to $450 per week. 
Perth’s median rent is unchanged at $440 per week and data shows a vacancy rate of just over 4%, Airey said.  
There were 6,251 rental homes looking for tenants in February, up by almost 30% on the same time last year. 
Top selling suburbs in February:
<ul>
<li>Northwest metropolitan Quinns Rocks, Woodvale, Duncraig, Clarkson, Butler. 
</li>
<li>Northeast metropolitan   Ellenbrook, Ballajura, Forrestfield, Lesmurdie, High Wycombe.  
</li>
<li>Central metropolitan  Willetton, Balga, Morley, Dianella, Karrinyup.  
</li>
<li>Southwest metropolitan  Baldivis, Secret Harbour, Waikiki, Rockingham, Warnbro.  
</li>
<li>Southeast metropolitan  Canning Vale, Armadale, Thornlie, Kelmscott, Byford. </li>
</ul>
Source: REIWA.
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Around 30% more homes for rent in Perth than last year: REIWA

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MissChu founder Nahji Chu's business went into Korda Mentha administration before Christmas, owing creditors around $4 million.
Now Slattery Auctions &amp; Valuations has the 2013 luxury boat from the business for Rushcutters Bay <a href="https://www.slatteryauctions.com.au/product/1935/770868/Boat_Auction/2013_CHRIS_CRAFT_LAUNCH_25_PLEASURE_CRAFT.__HIN:US-CCBLJ17E213.__LENGTH:_25FT_6_" target="_blank">auction on 19 March</a>, obviously the most disposable item to the restaurant business.
It is no longer <a href="https://www.misschu.com.au/Locations/SydneyHarbourBoat" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">boating around Sydney Harbour</a>.
Chu had been a fan of Garry White's floating coffee vendor that takes Vittoria coffee to boat owners and sailors, as well as a juice vendor called Tristan.
"I thought the Harbour could really use some Vietnamese food so I launched a speedboat service where people book online and pay for delivery," <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.urbanwalkabout.com/sydney/blog/post/4051" target="_blank">she told the urban walkabout blog</a>.
"The super yachts love it when I rock up on my speedboat and hand over a bag of food.
"For me, living in Sydney and being a former refugee made me feel as if I should own a boat.
"If you’re going to keep calling me a boat person, I’m going to take that literally!"
The Chris Craft boat with beige leather upholstery has been tipped to fetch about $100,000, but that is based on the $97,000 owing on it. 
Creditors have been told the envisaged rollout of Double Bay and Balmian stores has been halted.
There was also continued disputation regarding the Opera Kitchen premises.
 
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MissChu's Sydney Harbour boat up for auction

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Prices growth in Canberra has been relatively flat over recent years, reflecting the impact of a declining local economy, according to the Domain Group senior economist, Andrew Wilson.
"Canberra has clearly benefited least from the sharp cuts in interest rates through 2012-13, which activated most capital city housing markets," said Wilson.
"Federal government fiscal consolidation policies over recent years have impacted the local economy through public service job losses and service cuts, and this has had a predictable impact on housing market activity."
<img src="/images/2015/03/12/canberra-mar-12-one.jpg" alt="">
Source: Domain Group
Over 2014, Canberra recorded modest price growth of just 0.9%, following the previous year’s 2.2% result.
"Through 2015 the Canberra housing market looks set to maintain its modest but steady performance of recent years," he said.
<img src="/images/2015/03/12/canberra-mar-12-two.jpg" alt="">
Source: Domain Group
Recent positive signs for the local market remain with increased auction activity recorded towards the end of 2014 and solid buyer activity early in 2015.
"Lower interest rates will feed into buyer confidence and add to the prospects of rising buyer activity," Wilson said.
"Canberra’s median house price is set to increase by between 1 and 3% through 2015."
<img src="/images/2015/03/12/canberra-mar-12-three.jpg" alt="">
Source: Domain Group
Domain Group tips the best performers will be the middle and upper price market sections as well as regions that experienced subdued prices growth over recent years as value perceptions drive increased changeover buyer activity.
"As usual, however, much will depend on the performance of the local economy, which has recently shown encouraging signs of improvement," said Wilson.
"Government fiscal consolidation policies remain an ever-present impediment for the local Canberra housing market."
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Modest price growth tipped for Canberra: Andrew Wilson

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Two prominent Sydney real estate industry operatives and authors, Peter O'Malley and Neil Jemnan, have seized on the underquoting reforms signalled by the NSW government to highlight their trenchant opposition to the auction system.
Peter O'Malley says if the Baird government actually policed under quoting by estate agents, "it will cruel the auction system".
"The auction system relies on under quoting," Peter O'Malley tweeted.
Overquoting to sellers and underquoting to buyers was at epidemic proportions nationally, according Jenman.
"Thousands of agents do it!," he tweeted.
The anti-auction campaigner added that many buyers so detest auctions, they won't even inspect homes for auction.
"So, if you're selling, don't lose buyers by auctioning your home," he suggests.
"Yes, you can get a high price with auction but you rarely get the highest price."
Jeman also added at least 80% of money spent on real estate ads is needless.
"Sellers are ripped-off," he said adding the newspapers stay silent as they need the money.
He revealed one "big" agent admitted that the kickbacks he got from newspapers on sellers' advertising money paid the lease payments on his flash car.
Victorian estate agent John Keating, who believes in reserve prices disclosed during auction marketing, commented the call for real estate auction rules reform to stop the insidious practice of underquoting should be coming from within the profession and be a bipartisan political issue.
"Stopping underquoting would be welcomed by nearly everyone from first home buyers to the Reserve Bank - except perhaps some rogue estate agents," Keating said.
"Rogue agents, many of whom have very high profiles and systemically deceive buyers with underquoting, bring the trustworthiness of all estate agents into disrepute."
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Under and overquoting agents at epidemic proportions: Jenman and O'Malley seize the issue

A trio of Queensland property groups have unveiled plans for a $300 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Noosa Bowls Club site, a proposal that would deliver more than 200 new homes in one of the Sunshine Coast's most supply-constrained markets.

Kilter Property, Frank Developments and Calile Malouf Investments are behind the plans for the 1.8-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-noosa-drive-noosa-heads-qld-4567">99 Noosa Drive</a>, which would transform the long-vacant site into a new residential precinct featuring 208 apartments, retail, hospitality and public space.

The proposal comes as Noosa continues to grapple with housing affordability and a shortage of permanent accommodation, particularly for key workers. The site's location in Noosa Junction, close to shops, public transport and employment, aligns with the direction of Noosa Council's Housing Strategy, which encourages higher-density housing within established activity centres rather than continued urban expansion.

The draft plans include 48 affordable-by-design apartments and 48 rooming accommodation units aimed at key workers. Around 2,000 sqm of ground-floor retail and food and beverage space would activate the street frontage, alongside a new public town square and landscaped open space.

<img alt="Noosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd02f53-1360-4e51-801e-bfd61a6c980e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-26%20at%208.44.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=x1iNs3BSMN6Jy7YUwaBZMHRrrKX2hMpy" />

&nbsp;

Frank Developments Founder and Director Frank Licastro said the development would continue the company's focus on architecturally-led residential projects while addressing one of the region's biggest challenges.

"Not only will this project exude a sense of luxury, it will also enhance not only the built environment but also the surrounding community," Licastro said.

"Noosa's success relies on the people who live and work here. Providing well-designed accommodation for key workers is critical to supporting the local economy and ensuring the Shire can continue to thrive."

Kilter Property Co-Founder Huw Williams said the focus was on delivering additional permanent housing while creating a mixed-use destination that benefits both residents and the wider community.

"Our focus is on delivering a well-considered mixed-use project that provides more permanent housing options, supports local workers and businesses, and delivers an exceptional product for the local market," Williams said.

"The redevelopment vision aligns with the long-term evolution of Noosa Junction as a vibrant activity centre, creating a destination that enhances the area's character while delivering significant economic and community benefits."

Calile Malouf Investments, best known for its role in Brisbane's James Street precinct and The Calile Hotel, will bring its place-making experience to the project. The company recently commenced construction on The Calile Noosa hotel and says the residential development will complement its growing investment in the region.

CMI Director Cal Malouf said the aim was to create a walkable precinct combining housing, retail and hospitality while remaining true to Noosa's character.

"We see a similar opportunity in Noosa to deliver a vibrant, walkable destination that combines exceptional housing, hospitality and retail in one integrated project," Malouf said.

Brisbane-based Cavill Architects has been appointed to design the project.

Joel Robinson

Noosa Bowls Club to be redeveloped into mixed-use apartment precinct

One of Brisbane's last major riverfront redevelopment opportunities has taken a significant step forward, with Lendlease selected as the Queensland Government's preferred development partner for the former Visy site in South Brisbane.

The seven-hectare industrial site, positioned between South Bank and West End and 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, will be transformed into a mixed-use precinct expected to deliver more than 4,000 new homes alongside extensive public open space and riverfront parkland.

The project is one of the largest urban renewal opportunities currently planned in Brisbane and is expected to play a key role in accommodating the city's growing population ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Plans for the precinct include a network of riverfront promenades and boardwalks, new public plazas, parkland, amphitheatre-style gathering spaces and shared pedestrian and cycling links designed to reconnect the long-isolated site with the Brisbane River.

The Queensland Government is targeting delivery of the first homes and key public spaces before the 2032 Games, allowing the precinct to begin contributing new housing and public amenity well before the broader masterplan is complete.

The redevelopment is also expected to support more than 3,000 jobs across planning, construction and ongoing operations.

For Lendlease, the appointment adds another major urban regeneration project to its Queensland portfolio. The developer has operated in the state for more than 70 years and has delivered a number of large-scale mixed-use precincts in partnership with government.

Lendlease Development CEO Claire Johnston said the project represented one of Brisbane's most significant redevelopment opportunities.

"The transformation of the former Visy site represents a rare opportunity to reimagine one of Brisbane's most significant riverfront locations, deliver thousands of much-needed homes, and create long-term legacy," Johnston said.

"In partnership with the Queensland Government, we have the opportunity to create a new riverside destination that will help shape Brisbane's growth and how people experience the city for decades to come.

"This is exactly the type of large-scale, city-shaping development that will provide lasting benefits for Queensland, bringing together housing, jobs and world-class public spaces."

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the riverfront transformation would deliver a thriving new community precinct.

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering this golden opportunity to unlock a riverfront jewel for all Queenslanders,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment to reshape a significant slice of Brisbane and deliver lasting benefits – thousands of new homes, and public spaces for all Queenslanders to enjoy well beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – unlike Labor’s plan which would have delivered zero benefits and zero new homes.

“Queensland is well and truly open for business and through partnership with the private sector, we are accelerating delivery while ensuring strong housing, community and economic outcomes."

Early works on the precinct are expected to commence in April 2027.

Lendlease selected to deliver transformative South Brisbane riverfront precinct

Eddy Haddad's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> is levelling up its approved Wollongong development, as the coastal city south of Sydney continues to prove popular in the high-density development space.

Level 33, a longtime developer in the Wollongong area, has gone through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to upsize its approved two-tower development on the corner of Crown Street and Gladstone Avenue, just 100 metres from Wollongong Station.

The developer currently has approval for 252 apartments across two buildings rising to 19 storeys. It is now seeking approval for 33 and 38-storey towers that would deliver 467 apartments, including 67 affordable homes.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the development would comprise apartments above a three-level podium with around 1,100 sqm of retail space, along with basement parking for 448 vehicles.

According to the Urban Design Report by BKA, the proposal has the capacity to "reinforce the precinct's identity by strengthening links between health, education, and transport services, while also contributing to Wollongong's ongoing evolution as a key regional centre."

Wollongong is somewhat in vogue. Between Level 33 and Urban Property Group, the two developers have several thousand apartments planned across the city.

Level 33 is currently delivering Easterly Wollongong, one of its most boutique projects to date with just 21 high-end apartments, as well as Atchison &amp; Kenny, a 329-apartment development due for completion later this year.

The developer plans to redevelop the 13,088 sqm WIN Grand megasite into <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crown-square-216-238-keira-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Crown Square</a>, a new $500 million precinct with nearly 600 apartments. It also has more than 900 apartments planned for the former Bunnings Warehouse site at the intersection of Gipps and Flinders streets.

Urban Property Group is also playing a major role in the city's transformation. Its five-tower Keira Place precinct will deliver more than 800 homes, and it has recently lodged plans for a further 300 apartments near Wollongong Station.

First look: Level 33 upsizes Wollongong apartment towers

Just a week after filing plans for the final stage of its major Keira Place masterplan, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has unveiled another significant housing proposal in Wollongong, this time targeting a prominent site opposite North Wollongong Station.

The developer has lodged a State Significant Development Application for a 38-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-4a-flinders-street-north-wollongong-nsw-2500">4-4A Flinders Street</a>, around one kilometre north of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place precinct</a> currently taking shape on the edge of the CBD.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b6428f1-6405-4038-8476-897de440e90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium.png?VersionId=QLqEvK0OuCEwRC47oHNftrw2B1YqaHF8" />

Designed by Studio.SC, the proposal comprises a 38-storey mixed-use development containing 303 apartments, including 45 affordable housing units, alongside 174 co-living residences. The scheme also includes ground-floor retail space, extensive landscaping and public domain improvements.

Studio.SC noted in the proposal it "outlines a vision for a landmark transit-oriented mixed-use development centred around North Wollongong Station, designed to support the city’s future growth while responding to the NSW Government’s housing and planning reforms."

The architecture firm said the proposal responds to the opportunities and constraints shaping future growth within the 400-metre catchment of the station and represents "a coordinated and future-focused approach to urban intensification, contributing to the long-term evolution of North Wollongong as a connected, walkable and high-density station precinct."

The site occupies a strategic corner bounded by Flinders Street, Station Street, Stafford Street and the Princes Highway, directly opposite North Wollongong Station.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7863adad-1f71-4022-b850-f44b252738fd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium%20a.png?VersionId=WsU7av0g8_8R2tGHWxgHeFSlhu7yeY1V" />

The proposal follows Urban Property Group's recent submission for the second and final stage of Keira Place, which would deliver a further three buildings comprising 657 homes opposite Beaton Park. It builds on the first stage, which features 150 apartments across two towers and recently commenced construction.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said breaking ground on the first stage marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/urban-property-group-unveils-trio-of-towers-for-next-stage-of-new-wollongong-precinct-keira-place">Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place</a>

First look: Urban Property Group plans next major Wollongong tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/arada">Arada Australia</a> has wasted little time expanding its ambitions in Campsie, lodging plans for a second major project in the rapidly transforming town centre just months after unveiling its three-tower One Campsie proposal on Beamish Street.

The UAE-backed developer has now taken aim at one of the suburb’s most strategically positioned sites, filing a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/10-north-parade-campsie-nsw-2194">33-storey mixed-use tower</a> at 10 London Street and 43 North Parade, directly opposite the future Campsie Metro Station. The proposal is currently on public exhibition and represents another significant vote of confidence in Campsie's emergence as one of Sydney’s key transit-oriented growth centres.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the development would deliver 156 apartments above a podium containing retail and commercial space, creating a new residential and commercial gateway to the town centre. The scheme also includes a four-level above-ground parking podium and a dedicated residential amenity floor featuring wellness and recreation facilities. At least 10 per cent of the apartments would be allocated as affordable housing for a period of 10 years.

The proposal occupies a 1,631 sqm site bounded by London Street, North Parade and Dispensary Lane, immediately adjoining the future Metro station precinct and just metres from Beamish Street’s retail and dining strip. According to the Urban Design Report, the project seeks to deliver "a great place that prioritises human-scaled experience and provides spatial improvements to the area."

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="175a8324-015b-4856-abe3-ce6f23199fa7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium%20campsie.png?VersionId=742UGwXFhFBX4GEl6wX4PYIWREAgn6il" />

Woods Bagot describes the tower as a key marker within Campsie's next phase of growth.

"Located directly opposite the new Campsie Metro Station on North Parade, 10 London Street is a thoughtfully composed 33-storey mixed-use tower that contributes to the ongoing transformation of the town centre," the Architectural Design Report states. The report says the project is intended to provide "high-quality homes within a vibrant, connected urban environment, while helping define Campsie's future skyline."

A strong emphasis has been placed on the public realm. The ground floor incorporates over 500 sqm of retail space and active frontages along both London Street and North Parade, while the podium is wrapped by extensive landscaped planting intended to soften the building's scale and strengthen the pedestrian experience. The development would also widen surrounding footpaths and improve connections between the Metro station and the broader town centre.

Above the podium, residents would have access to more than 1,400 sqm of communal amenities, including a pool, gym and landscaped recreation spaces. A distinctive green-wall treatment extending across four podium levels forms a major architectural feature, helping differentiate the project within the emerging high-density precinct.

The tower's design is closely tied to the broader Campsie Town Centre Master Plan and the arrival of Sydney Metro. The Urban Design Report notes the proposal "directly supports the Campsie Town Centre Master Plan by delivering new homes in a location explicitly identified for growth, improved accessibility, and high-quality urban renewal." It adds that the project contributes to the master plan's vision for a strengthened town centre supported by thousands of new homes around the future Metro station.

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd17654-253e-489a-bade-6278d63db412" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/base%20campsie.png?VersionId=3roJPMQGs36dazpkhvpvbDDP73Ld.Ica" />

The application follows Arada Australia's recently lodged One Campsie project at 124–142 Beamish Street and 16–18 Ninth Avenue, where the developer is seeking approval for 346 apartments across three towers rising 24, 32 and 39 storeys. Together, the two proposals would cement Arada Australia as one of the most influential developers shaping Campsie's future urban form.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-arada-files-for-trio-of-apartment-towers-in-campsie-town-centre">First Look: Arada Australia files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada Australia entered the Australian market in 2024 and has rapidly assembled a significant development pipeline across Sydney. Alongside its Campsie holdings, the developer is soon to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wattle-green-2-fishburn-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Wattle Green</a> in Castle Hill, and has expanded its local operations following its acquisition of construction firm Roberts &amp; Co.

Located around 14 kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, the site sits at the centre of one of Sydney's fastest-changing middle-ring precincts. The Metro conversion of Campsie Station, combined with Canterbury-Bankstown Council's master planning framework, is driving significant residential intensification around Beamish Street and North Parade, with thousands of new homes expected over coming decades.

Jonathan Chancellor

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