<html><body>
Sydney has been ranked the third most unaffordable major property market in the latest annual Demographia International Housing Survey.
Melbourne took sixth spot on the unaffordability index.
Hong Kong was ranked the most unaffordable place to buy a house, followed by Vancouver.
The report noted historically, the median multiple had been "remarkably similar" in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States, with median house prices from two to three times median household incomes.
"However, in recent decades, house prices have been decoupled from this relationship in a number of markets, such as Vancouver, Sydney, San Francisco, London, Auckland and others," the report said.
<a href="/images/2015/01/19/unaffrodabe-jan-19-one.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/01/19/unaffrodabe-jan-19-one.jpg" alt=""></a>
Source: Demographia
The US was the most affordable place to buy a house of all the countries surveyed, with 14 major property markets ranked as being affordable.
New Zealand property values rose 4.9% last year, less than half the pace in 2013, according to recent QV figures, but Auckland ranked ninth.
The 11th annual Demographia survey analysed 86 major property markets in New Zealand, Australia, the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Hong Kong, Ireland and Singapore.
<img src="/images/2015/01/19/unaffrodabe-jan-19-two.jpg" alt="">
Source: Demographia
The most affordable major metropolitan markets in 2014 were in the United States, which had a moderately unaffordable rating of 3.6. 
Canada and Ireland were rated "seriously unaffordable," with a median multiple of 4.3, along with Japan (4.4), the United Kingdom (4.7) and Singapore (5.0). Australia (6.4), New Zealand (8.2) and Hong Kong (17.0) were severely unaffordable.
Hong Kong's median multiple of 17.0 was the highest recorded (least affordable) in the 11 years of the Demographia International Housing Affordability Survey.
Click to open in new window: 
<a href="/images/2015/01/19/unaffrodabe-jan-19-three.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/01/19/unaffrodabe-jan-19-three.jpg" alt=""></a>
Source: Demographia
Again, Vancouver was second only to Hong Kong, with a median multiple of 10.6.
Housing affordability in Sydney deteriorated to a median multiple of 9.8, which was followed by San Francisco and San Jose (each 9.2). 
Melbourne had a median multiple of 8.7 and London (Greater London Authority) 8.5. 
Three other markets had median multiples of 8.0 or above, including San Diego (8.3), Auckland (8.2) and Los Angeles (8.0). 
For the 11th year in a row - each of the years the Demographia International Housing Affordability Survey has been published - all of Australia's five major metropolitan areas were severely unaffordable.
Sydney's median multiple of 9.8 was a substantial increase from last year's 9. It was based on an $812,000 median price and an $82,800 median household income.
Housing affordability also deteriorated in Melbourne, rising to a median multiple of 8.7 in 2014 from 8.3 in 2013, based on $658,000 and $75,900 income. Housing affordability deteriorated slightly in Adelaide (from 6.3 to 6.4 based on $410,000 median and $63,600 median income), Perth (from 6.0 to 6.1 $535,000 and $87,200) and Brisbane (from 5.8 to 6.0 $465,000 and $78,000). 
The top 10 most unaffordable city markets in the world:
1. Hong Kong 2. Vancouver 3. Sydney 4. San Francisco 5. San Jose 6. Melbourne 7. London 8. San Diego 9. Auckland 10. Los Angeles
Source: Demographia
Among all 378 markets, there were 98 affordable markets, 88 in the United States, five in Canada, three in Ireland and, for the first time, there were affordable markets in Australia, <a href="https://www.demographia.com/dhi.pdf" target="_blank">perhaps the only surprise</a> in what has been a highly repetitive predictable survey.
The most affordable surveyed Australian market was suggested as Karratha, in Western Australia's Pilbara, with a median multiple of 2.6. Kalgoorlie, also in Western Australia was judged the second most affordable Australian market, with a median multiple of 2.8. 
"These improvements appear related to resource industry related demand decreases," the report's author Wendell Cox noted.
But amid the smaller surveyed markets Tweed Heads sat in the highly unaffordable at a 9.1 median multiple and Port Macquarie, with a median multiple of 8.2. 
In 2008 the survey suggested Australia was perhaps the least densely populated major country in the world, but state governments there have contrived to drive land prices in major urban areas to very high levels, with the result that in that country housing in major state capitals has become severely unaffordable.
House price data for Australia is from multiple sources, the most important being the Real Estate Industry Association of Queensland (Queensland Market Monitor), the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, the Real Estate Institute of South Australia, the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia, Australian Property Monitors, the Real Estate Institute of Australia and various real estate internet web sites.  
The report noted in Australia, housing affordability multiples have been published that compare average household incomes and median house prices. 
"To make valid comparisons between international markets, it would be necessary to also calculate these "average/median" multiples for the markets outside Australia to which comparisons are made (and to provide historical data). However, "average/median" multiples have been inappropriately compared to median multiples," Wendell Cox advised.
"This treatment portrays Australian housing affordability, which is among the worst in the high-income world, more favorably than the reality." 
While Property Observer takes housing affordability seriously, the results of the report are, as noted, predictively repetitive. So which of the three most expensive cities would you prefer to live in? 
{mijopolls 75} 
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Only Hong Kong and Vancouver dearer than Sydney's severely unaffordable housing: 11th Demographia 2015 survey

<html><body>
An inner-city development site, at 70-88 Greville Street and 42 Charles Street in Prahran, has been sold.
The buyer, reportedly a local private developer, paid more than $20 million.
It is a <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-vic-prahran-501340459" target="_blank">2,662 square metre site</a> suitable for a mixed-use residential and retail project. It was the first time offered in 25 years.
For a time The Voluntary Euthanasia Society of Victoria had its office at 70 Greville Street.
The site was listed by Mark Wizel and Jamus Campbell of CBRE City Sales.
More than $23 million has been paid for a full city block in Collingwood too.
The 2010 square metre island site, bounded by Wellington, Langridge, Cambridge and Derby streets, sits within Collingwood’s so-called golden pocket.
“Rewind several years and few people would have expected that land in Collingwood and Prahran would be achieving in excess of $10,000 per square metre,” Wizel said.
</body></html>

Prahran development site sells for $20 million plus

<html><body>
The price growth for Australian houses will slow in 2015 to about 4%, Fitch Ratings has forecast.
Its Global Housing and Mortgage Outlook says an “affordability ceiling”, plus a potential interest rate rise in the medium term, will moderate the recent price growth.
Perth prices will not move, but prices in Sydney and Melbourne are forecast to rise between 3% and 4%.
House prices in Australian cities rose 8.9% in the 12 months to October 2014, it noted.
"However, the rate of growth has been slowing since it peaked at 11.5% in April," the report added.
 Price growth has been driven by continued record low interest rates and increasing investor demand in the Sydney and Melbourne markets. Annual growth rates to date have reflected a two- tiered market with the prices in Australia’s two largest cities outstripping other capital cities’ growth. 
Fitch expects that house price growth will moderate to around 4% in Sydney and Melbourne as rental yields become compressed and the prospect of further capital growth lessens. 
"Perth prices (3.4% annual) are expected to flatten as mining investment slows and prices in the other capital cities are expected to continue to grow at a moderate pace."
Fitch Australia’s managing director of structured finance, Ben McCarthy, said housing affordability had reached its peak in Australia.
“People just can’t afford to pay much more for housing,” he told the Australian Financial Review.
“At 4% growth, prices will still rise higher than people’s incomes.”
<div class="page" title="Page 28">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Capital cities which have experienced strong house price growth in the past 24 months (Sydney 26.2%, Melbourne 17.4%) will continue to experience affordability pressure, he noted in the report.
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
Australian property is among the most expensive in the world on almost all metrics, the report says.
<div class="page" title="Page 28">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
Housing debt as a percentage of disposable income was 137% in 2Q14, which has been increasing steadily from 130% since 2Q12. 
Fitch expects lending net volumes to continue to grow as house prices increase at a moderate pace. Investment loan approvals are expected to continue to represent 50% of new lending (excluding. refinance loans) as investors compete with owner occupiers. 
Existing borrowers are expected to be cautious with higher-than-average household savings being maintained. 
It noted mortgage prepayments have been gradually increasing since the market low of 17.2% observed in March 2011 to 21.3% as at June 2014, according to the Fitch Dinkum Prime RMBS CPR. 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</body></html>

Nothing for Perth, but Fitch sees 4% price growth for Australia houses in 2015

<html><body>
32 Ian Avenue, North Curl Curl, an architecturally designed, split-level house with ocean views, has been sold for $4,125,000.
Set on a 907 square metre ocean-front position, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-north+curl+curl-118307099" target="_blank">the home</a> comes with giant walls of retractable glass to capture the views.
Raine &amp; Horne Dee Why Collaroy secured the late 2014 sale for the Johnson family who had been trying to sell since listing it in early 2012 with $5.95 million hopes.
It was marketed as "embracing the ambience of an exclusive beach resort".
The architectural concept was by Co-AP architects with sweeping ocean side decks, 12 metre solar-heated infinity pool, and cliff-side cabana and cubby house in its cul-de-sac setting.
The home has been featured in The Australian Financial Review's Dream Home and the Sydney Morning Herald's You Wish sections over the years. 
The land traded at $2.1 million in 2005.
</body></html>

North Curl Curl home with giant walls of retractable glass finds buyer

<html><body>
Almost another social media meltdown ensued when Roxy Jacenko tweeted photos mid-week of her new temporary abode, the Double Bay Intercontinental Hotel.
But there was nothing new about the accommodation concept. 
Those who've seen a few show ponies in their day would recall the events that unfolded after Bob Hawke lost Prime Ministerial office to that pesky deputy Paul Keating.
Same hotel, but different brand name this time. 
It was 1991 when the 62 year had been running the country for close to eight years.
SMH Canberra bureau chief Mick Millett had got the vague tip that Hawke had quietly bought a home somewhere on Sydney Harbour.
After it was tracked down, it was then reported in June 1991 by yours truly and Mike Seccombe suggesting it was a sign that he was planning for life away from the Lodge.
Paul Keating certainly used the purchase in the campaign that Hawkie needed to retire in the lead up to his December 19 dumping. 
Bob and Hazel Hawke's $1.23 million home had been leased at $650 a week to a Japanese businessman until September 1992.
So the day before the sacking, his mate and election advertising consultant, John Singleton offered Hawke his Birchgrove joint. So on the 4/5 January, 1992 weekend, the Hawke's moved from Canberra. Singo was away, Title Tattle seems to recall, his brief marriage to Liz Hayes coming to a close.
The Birchgrove house, one of 10 Allen, Jack &amp; Cottier-designed Loiusa Keys waterfront properties, had been bought by Singleton from Leon Fink's development company for $825,000 in 1987.
As Sally Loane reported in the SMH, the Singleton housekeeper was there to ensure the passage to the real world of washing and cooking was gradual. "She was never impressed with any of the stars that came to stay, but she fell in love with Bob Hawke," Singleton advised.
By February 1992 Bob and Hazel needed to move out of Birchgrove - and so it was into the plush new Ritz Carlton Hotel in Sydney's Double Bay, developed by Paul Smith's Sahben Pty Ltd
Deborah Cameron subsequently told the SMH readers that if the Hawke's were ordinary guests at the Ritz Carlton the bill for six months would range from $77,500 to $114,000, given room prices range from $215 a day to $375 a night.
It appeared the Ritz had been second choice with Cameron reporting James Erskine's IMG had previously sought out a contra deal at The Boulevard Hotel, a hotel with a longer Hawke association. 
<a href="https://www.ihg.com/intercontinental/hotels/gb/en/sydney/sydic/hoteldetail?cm_mmc=GoogleMaps-_-ic-_-AUEN-_-sydic" target="_blank">Standard Double Bay Intercontental rooms</a> can be secured anywhere from $300 to $400 a night these days, though suites will cost $850 to $5500.
Anyway this week Roxy Jacenko, the founder and director of Sweaty Betty PR has, along with her husband Oliver Curtis and two children, temporarily taken on hotel life while they look for a new home. She posted snaps of her children in their beds on Instagram, <a href="https://instagram.com/p/x1KGOKjPhT/?modal=true" target="_blank">even her meals</a>.
Back in the days of a tad more discretion, the Ritz Carlton was cagy about admitting that Bob Hawke was a guest and its switchboard gave callers the telephone number for Parliament House in Canberra instead of connecting them to his room.
The Sydney PR queen Roxy Jacenko and her husband, Oliver Curtis, sold their Woollahra residence late last year for $8 million plus with settlement due shortly.
She suggested it was an offer too good to refuse since they bought the four-bedroom house for $6.6 million in 2011.
Photo source: Instagram.
</body></html>

Roxy does a Hawkie with new Double Bay digs

<html><body>
Aussie Home Loans set a new monthly settlement record in December, bettering its previous record set in May 2014. Home loan settlements for Aussie and its wholesale aggregator, National Mortgage Brokers (NMB), reached close to $1.8 billion.
It was $150 million above the previous record. Aussie’s executive director James Symond says the franchise now has its sight on the $2 billion mark for its 23rd year.
Aussie Home Loans has appointed CommSec general manager of customer experience Richard Burns as general manager of customer.
Burns joins the company after seven years with CommSec.
Founder and executive chairman of Aussie Home Loans John Symond said Burns will be responsible for Aussie Home Loans’ brand, marketing and digital presence, customer retention and data and IT architecture and operations.
Burns starts the new role on 9 February.
</body></html>

Aussie Home Loans aims for $2 billion month as Richard Burns joins executive team

<html><body>
The satisfaction level of Australian business banking customers has reached its highest level since the Roy Morgan survey began four years ago.
It is now 69.6%, up from 61.4% in 2010, according to the latest findings from the Roy Morgan Business Single Source survey of around 12,000 interviews with business decision makers and the Roy Morgan Single Source Survey of over 50,000 people per annum.
The big four banks remain below average with satisfaction of 67.6%, compared to other banks with 72.2%.
Of the big four, Westpac maintained top position in November with 71.6%, followed by NAB on 69.6%.
The business customers of banks sentiment remains well below the satisfaction level of personal customers. 
<img src="https://www.roymorgan.com/~/media/Files/Morgan%20Poll/2015/January/6008-Business-bank-sat-chart1.jpg" alt="banking-satisfaction-chart" width="800" height="462">
Source: Roy Morgan Research Business Banking Satisfaction Report, November 2014. Average 6 month sample n=6,274; Roy Morgan Research Consumer Banking Satisfaction Report November 2014, average 6 month sample n=25,709.
Banks other than the big four are currently the clear leaders in satisfaction for both consumers (86.6%) and businesses (72.2%). For the last four years the smaller banks have maintained a big lead in satisfaction over the big four among consumers but the gap has generally been much closer among business customers.
Westpac business customers have generally had the highest satisfaction levels of the big four banks over the last three years and currently lead with 71.6%, followed by NAB (69.6%), CBA (66.2%) and ANZ (62.3%).
All four of the big banks are below the average satisfaction level of the smaller banks. 
<img src="https://www.roymorgan.com/~/media/Files/Morgan%20Poll/2015/January/6008-Business-bank-sat-chart2.jpg" alt="business-banking-sat" width="800" height="464">
Source: Roy Morgan Research Business Banking Satisfaction Report, November 2014. Average 6 month sample n=6,274
Westpac also showed the greatest improvement of the big four banks over the last four years increasing satisfaction among its business customers by 9.7% points (61.9% to 71.6%). The other three majors also showed gains, with NAB up 8.8% points, ANZ up 4.4% points and CBA up 4.3% points.
Norman Morris, the industry communications cirector at Roy Morgan Research says banks have obviously been making a concerted effort to improve customer satisfaction over a number of years.
</body></html>

Bank customer satisfaction at high levels: Roy Morgan research

<html><body>
Wangararu, the historic Brighton East trophy home has been sold for $5 million.
The 1890 mansion is <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/marriage-road-brighton-east/Property-Details-sold-residential-7932320" target="_blank">one of the finest estates in the area</a>. It last sold at $1.22 million in 1994.
Previously known as Brighton Park, the heritage listed Victorian residence is set on 2,504 square metres.
It has a heated swimming pool and floodlit north-south tennis court.
Its period features include bay windows, soaring ceilings and marble fireplace mantels.
Kay &amp; Burton agent Ian Jackson secured the sale.
</body></html>

Wangararu, the $5 million Brighton East trophy home, sold

<html><body>
The turn-key Woollahra apartment of interior designer Garth Barnett has been sold for $1,635,000.
Title Tattle gathers it was sold to a recently separated buyer. It was marketed as<a href="https://www.rwdoublebay.com.au/1832701/" target="_blank"> The Claverton Suite</a>.
The designer auctioned the two-bedroom pad having bought it as a three-bedroom apartment last February for $1.35 million. 
It was listed for auction last November with $1.95 million hopes through James Dunn, of Richardson &amp; Wrench Double Bay, and Richard Cooper, of Sotheby's International.
it was passed in at $1,605,000.
</body></html>

Interior designer Garth Barnett sells his turn-key Woollahra apartment

<html><body>
The Young Street Terraces, the only Sydney CBD buildings that remain from the original site of Government House, have been leased by the law firm AR Conolly and Company Lawyers.
AR Conolly and Company Lawyers have taken out a five year lease at a gross rental of $630 per square metre per annum.
Constructed in 1875, the heritage buildings at 36-38 Young St, Sydney, were leased in a deal negotiated by Ray White Commercial office leasing director Jeremy Piggin on behalf of the Historic Houses Trust of NSW.
Behind the Victorian Filigree architectural style, the building offers a floor area of 313 square metres.
It consists of four units, each of three storeys and a basement, interconnected on all floors.
The interior detail is largely intact in terms of skirting boards, architraves, doors, windows, staircases and fireplaces.
</body></html>

Young Street, Sydney terraces leased by law firm

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

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News