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Westpac has called for the introduction of additional regulatory requirements before any SMSF can be established, in its response to the Financial System Inquiry’s interim report.
The bank says "suitability" remained the most important policy consideration in light of the complexity, ongoing administration and unique risks.
Westpac propose a test requiring an adviser or accountant to be satisfied the benefits from the establishment of the SMSF clearly outweigh the risk.
Westpac suggested the current take-up of borrowing by SMSFs has been a “rational” response to the current policy and tax settings, but has encouraged the inquiry to possibly consider how appropriate caps could ensure leverage does not become a systemic risk.
It also said the current level of official data, and oversight and analysis of the systemic implications of the SMSF sector were insufficient, given the sector’s size and continuing growth rate.
“This poses important issues for the government and SMSF members, including risk of shortfalls in retirement savings due to poor management and/ or mismanagement; calls to compensate SMSF members in the event of a failure; and poor understanding of the economic and financial system implications of the sector,” Westpac stated.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Westpac sees SMSF borrowing as rational, but seeks to avoid systemic risk prospect

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The Melbourne Cup winning horse owner, Lloyd Williams has relisted Macedon Lodge, his champion horse facility at Mt Macedon.
The initial February marketing of the lavish Mt Macedon horse training facility was aimed at overseas buyers, including Qatari and Dubai sheiks.
Williams owns a 1,200 acres outside of Mornington with plans to transition the shift over the next 12 months. 
Williams has five properties on the peninsula with his son Nick saying the new racing complex will be headquartered at a 120 hectare property in Boneo Road, <a href="/news">Cape Schanck</a>.
Williams bought Macedon Lodge from Kurt Stern in 2007 for $5.1 million then spending at least that amount again on refurbishments. It had previously sold at $8.5 million in 2004. Stern leased it as the private training complex for John Symons, who moved to Seymour. 
Macedon Lodge has training tracks, a horse pool, water walker along with some 75 stables. 
The bloodstock company <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-mixed+farming-vic-mount+macedon-7675659" target="_blank">William Inglis and Sons has the listing of the property</a> but no price guidance is being given. Earlier this year it was $20 million hopes.
The property is owned by Hudson Conway Racing, the private thoroughbred racing and breeding operation of Lloyd Williams, one of Australia’s largest and most successful owners for over four decades.
Over the years Williams has raced horses including Mahogany, What a Nuisance, Just a Dash, Reset, Efficient, Zipping, Gallic, Perlin, County and Plush.
He has many Melbourne Cup hopes this year, including last year's Caulfield Cup winner Fawkner, who finished sixth in the Melbourne Cup last year.
A total of 148 horses have been nominated for 2014 Emirates Melbourne Cup including the Lloyd Williams-owned, Robert Hickmott-trained 2012 champion Green Moon. The eight-year-old is one of 12 nominations for Williams, the four-time Cup-winning owner.
Her Majesty The Queen’s prized 2013 Ascot Gold Cup winner Estimate headlines international contenders for this year’s $6.2 million Emirates Melbourne Cup (3200m) following the release of nominations today by Racing Victoria (RV) and the Victoria Racing Club (VRC).
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Giddy up! Lloyd Williams relists Macedon Lodge

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Entreprenuer Brett Blundy and wife, Vanessa have secured about $18 million for their Kutti Beach, Vaucluse offering.
The Wharf Road property cost $17.75 million when the family also bought next door on The Crescent for $7.95 million.
The Vaucluse<a href="/news"> </a>acquisition of over 2,000 square metres was <a href="/news/nsw">listed in late 2012</a> with the family off to Singapore.
So it took 22 months to sell, though it was only relisted with its fresh agents James Dack at McGrath and Brad Pillinger at Pillinger Real Estate early last month with revised $18 million plus expectations.
No official sale price has been given.
The five-bedroom, five-bathroom mid-1990s Vaucluse home was constructed for the television entrepreneur Michael Willesee, who sold for $10.3 million in 2000. The residence was designed by Ancher Mortlock and Woolley architect Ken Woolley with championship-sized tennis court and heated swimming pool occuping its elevated 1,597-square-metre block.
Blundy sold the adjoining non-waterfront 549 square metre holding with house in April for $7 million to the Woollahra-based Yim family.
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Brett Blundy secures $18 million Kutti Beach, Vaucluse sale

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The Bali-based hotelier entrepreneurs Tony Smith and wife Simone have listed their prime 1 Surf Street, Mermaid Beach, holding.
The marketing through Ray White Mermaid Beach agent Scott Wagner includes video poetry.
It is one of only seven beachfront house blocks between Nobbys Beach and Mermaid Beach.
With an absolute beach frontage of over 30 metres, i<a href="https://www.raywhite.com/qld/mermaid-beach/1179826/" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">t is a 1,222 square metre block, with three titles including corner position</a>.
It was bought in 2012 when the Breakfree founder tourism entrepreneur made a $7.3 million comeback on the Gold Coast beachfront strip.
Smith told the Gold Coast Bulletin the property would be the family's holiday house when they visited Australia.
Smith made national headlines during the property boom for wanting to build the "the world's biggest bloody house" along Hedges Avenue, having consolidated five properties.
But the plans were thwarted when MFS, aka as Octaviar, got caught in the GFC, with Smith among those hurt by the early 2008 collapse.
Agent John Natoli at McGrath <a href="/news/qld/breakfree-founder-tony-smith-makes-7-million-plus-mermaid-beach-comeback-title-tattle">negotiated the 2012 sale</a>.
For a while recently it appeared that developer Bill McHarg planned to buy the 1 Surf Street, Mermaid Beach property for $8.5 million to build a luxury sixt storey block of apartments.
Height restrictions restrict developments to three storeys, unless an exemption from council is granted.
 
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Entrepreneur Tony Smith lists Mermaid Beach trophy home with $9 million hopes

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There have been two thought provoking commentaries from prestige Melbourne buyers' agents this week on the issue of prestige home sale to buyers of Chinese descent.
There was some silly coverage on the front page AFR on Monday. Quite inflammatory and mostly unhelpful as the AFR didn't address the easy way of solving the concern, that is 100 point required residential identification details within all contracts. 
<img src="/images/2014/09/04/afr-sept-4-one.png" alt="">
The more insightful perspective commentary has been <a href="/expert-insights/fear-of-chinese-buyers-is-now-a-part-of-agents-scripts">published today on Property Observer</a> from Mal James.
Under the online AFR headline, Foreigners illegally buy trophy homes in Sydney and Melbourne, or the printed version, Agents cash in on "illegal" foreign buyers, the high profile buyers’ agent David Morrell claimed foreign investment in Melbourne residential real estate was "rampant", particularly from mainland China with "real large scale flaunting of the current laws".
He said the lack of "cheques (sic) or balances was undermining and damaging the existing residential real estate market".
 Particularly in the $10 million top end and in the $1.5 million to $3.5 million inner city Melbourne marketplace, said David Morrell.
But unfortunately he was very vague in actually assisting the parliamentary committee investigating foreign ownership with any documented examples.
He suggested there had been "many" transactions in the top end marketplace, in particular where a property has been on the market for 12 months and suddenly the Chinese national has purchased the property for a 20% premium to the relevant marketplace and local buyers.
"This of course causes a domino effect in the market where other vendors believe there properties are worth more and our prices local buyers."
His submission went onto say: "Clearly while there’s a law there’s no requirement in any contract that requires proof of residency to the person signing a document, we have seen on many occasions some distant relation actually sign a document that clearly has neither the ability or knowledge of what they’re actually doing. 
"To give you some scale of the problem at a recent Toorak auction where the reserve was exceed by 30%, there were three Chinese nationals competing, neither spoke English or understood the process and literally just kept their hands in the air. 
"This outrageousness is not only contained to an isolated incident," though his submission stopped at just this one unidentified example.
Meanwhile buyers agent Mal James wrote it was not just actual bidding that was "creating the near frenzied bidding response that we are seeing out there right now".
"Even when no Chinese Nationals are bidding, it’s the fear of Chinese nationals bidding that is also pushing prices up," he blogged.
"Ask any agent on an inner east home coming to auction and they will tell you we have some 'Chinese interest' –<a href="/expert-insights/fear-of-chinese-buyers-is-now-a-part-of-agents-scripts"> it is something firmly implanted in many agents’ “buyer scripts”</a>.
"In other words, buyers not only bid as they do against Chinese national bidders but also on the fear that Chinese nationals may bid."
James went onto note that in his last 10 purchases he had been directly involved in (Kew, Camberwell, East Melbourne, Elwood, Camberwell, Glen Iris, Camberwell, Kew, Camberwell and Kew) that Chinese Nationals were the direct underbidder on five. They were used in the selling agents negotiating scripts twice. There was no Chinese bidding or no mention of Chinese bidders by agents on the other three.
James concluded by noting that Chinese nationals are also affected by the bidding or fear the bidding of other Chinese nationals.
The committee chair Kelly O'Dwyer represents Higgins, located in Melbourne's south-eastern suburbs. 
It covers an area of approximately 40 sq km from Hughesdale in the south-east, South Yarra and Toorak in the north-west, Windsor in the south-west and Ashburton and Glen Iris in the east. The main suburbs include Armadale, Ashburton, Kooyong, Malvern, Malvern East, Prahran and Toorak along with parts of Carnegie, Glen Iris, Hughesdale, Murrumbeena, South Yarra and Windsor.
Getting up the 100 point identification initiative will require O'Dwyer to convince all the states and territories to adopt a uniform contract requirement which could coincide with the roll out of e-conveyancing which should allow greater transparency. 
Her committee ought also introduce a foreign buyers'  fee to assist in the compilation of better data on the occurrence, so that the authorities can monitor purchases and exit sales to ensure greater compliance, possibly even if the purchasing is via family members and companies.
Unfortunately until then we are left with mostly anecdotal snippets that don't always greatly assist our understanding amid the confusion between rightful local buyers of Chinese descent and those directly from mainland China who don't have any ownership entitlement.
Kelly O'Dwyer will deliver her findings by October 14.
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Real and imagined - the overstated domino fear of top end Toorak Chinese buyers

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The August quarter update from RP Data showed the strongest winter performance in Australian capital cities since 2007.
Sydney and Melbourne's housing <a href="/news/vic/melbourne-records-strongest-august-2014-quarterly-growth-rp-data">out-performed expectations</a>.
Sydney, which has the highest prices in the country, recorded a $650,000 median dwelling price for August after 16% annual growth.
Burrowing down with the price growth showed Sydney was much stronger when it came to house growth with the median at $740,000, up 17.2% annually. 
With greater supply of apartments, the price growth for units in Sydney was up 12.1% to $565,000.
The growth gap was more noticeable in Melbourne where there was 6.2% annual growth to a $460,000 median Melbourne unit price while house values rose 12.4% over the year to a $570,000 median.
RP Data national research director Tim Lawless said ongoing investor demand was one of the key drivers of market conditions, particularly in Sydney where ABS data showed investors account for more than half of all new mortgage commitments across Australia.
Lawless said investors are concentrated across Sydney and Melbourne, where the markets have proven strong capital gains but now lower yields. Yields are currently so low in Sydney that <a href="/expert-insights/buying/sydneys-16-2-year-on-year-growth-straining-yields-rp-data">they’re on track to race below Melbourne</a>.
“Potentially there are better investment returns to be had in the smaller capital cities where the growth trend is less mature and yields are also healthier,” he said.
There were several capitals where apartment price growth was stronger that house price growth including Perth, Darwin, Brisbane and Canberra.
Perth houses were up 3.2% to $530,000 over the year to August 31, while its apartment growth was up 7.2% to $440,000.
Darwin houses were up 4.3% to $550,000, while its apartment growth was up 10.3% to $450,000.
The latest RP Data Core Logic Home Value Index suggested that while yields are tracking down in the majority of areas, there are still opportunities for investors willing to look further afield than Sydney and Melbourne. HOUSE YIELDS   1.  DARWIN ------------ 5.9%   2.  HOBART ------------- 5.2%   3.  BRISBANE ----------- 4.5%   4.  ADELAIDE ---------- 4.2%   5.  PERTH -------------- 4.1%   6.  CANBERRA --------- 4.1%   7.  SYDNEY ------------ 3.6%   8.  MELBOURNE ------- 3.2% UNIT YIELDS   1.  DARWIN --------- 5.8%   2.  BRISBANE ------ 5.4%   3.  HOBART --------- 5.2%   4.  CANBERRA ----- 5.0%   5.  ADELAIDE ------ 4.8%   6.  PERTH ---------- 4.6%   7.  SYDNEY -------- 4.5%   8.  MELBOURNE -- 4.2%
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House price growth stronger than apartments in Sydney and Melbourne

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The six bedroom Brighton home which accommodated the recent batch of Masterchef contestants on the Channel Ten competition, has been sold.
It was designed at 323 St Kilda Street by Peter Carmichael, and then constructed by Everclear.
<a href="https://www.marshallwhite.com.au/sold/323-st-kilda-street-brighton-7027769/" target="_blank">It was offered through Marshall White agent Michael Paproth</a>.
It comes with home cinema, play room, cellar, swimming pool, spa and gymnasium, security surveillance and garaging for six cars on an allotment measuring some 1,883 square metres.
The beach and the bay are at the end of the street.
It has been listed with $5 million plus expectations.
Fairfax Media speculate that it sold to Chinese buyers.
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Masterchef Australia Brighton home base sold

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Geoff Harris, the upgrading co-founder of Flight Centre, has sold his redundant Albert Park abode for $5,808,000. 
It followed <a href="/news/flight-centres-geoff-harris-the-12-million-hollyford-albert-park-record-setter">his $12 million purchase of Hollyford</a>, the much admired 1873 residence, that nows hold the mantle of the suburb's top sale.
David Wood's Hockingstuart is being credited as the selling agency for both sales.
His five bedroom, tri-level Kerferd Road (pictured above) house was sold to Bruce Crome, after being listed for around $5.95 million. <a href="https://www.james.net.au/rating/150-Kerferd-Road-ALBERT_PARK" target="_blank">It was described </a>as a classic at the front, and a modern entertainer to the rear.
Harris had paid $4.9 million in 2011 when he bought from the Fineman family. 
Hollyford (pictured below) was built about 17 years after St Vincent Place was laid out, modelled on the English idea of houses clustered around its central landscaped gardens.
The heritage listed St Vincent Place home comes with <a href="https://nma.net.au/project/st-vincents-place/" target="_blank">rear Nicolas Murray-designed extension</a> on its 480 square metre block.
<img src="/images/2014/05/13/albert%20park%20may%2013%20two.jpg" alt="" style="line-height: 1.3em;">
Hollyford, which has its 1873 construction date on its gorgeous vined facade, was the home of the mariner, Thomas Mowbray Hutchinson, according to the land title documents that Property Observer has researched. 
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Upgrading Flight Centre's Geoff Harris sells for $5,808,000 in Albert Park

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The Colliers International male staff in Melbourne have got behind the <a href="https://www.polishedman.com.au/" target="_blank">Polished Man campaign</a> which clients will notice when they sign any contracts.
The fundraising initiative is a two week campaign run by <a href="https://ygap.com.au/" target="_blank">YGAP</a>, which challenges men to end violence against children and raise awareness.
Collier team members have painted one nail blue, representing the estimated one in five children who experience violence globally before the age of 18. 
Colliers female staff are painting one nail in solidarity and encouraging the men in their lives to participate.
According to YGAP, approximately 90% of all sexual violence committed against children is by perpetrated by men.
The majority of this violence happens behind closed doors and is committed by people known to the child. 
YGAP believes all men have a role to play in ensuring children feel safe and can reach their full potential. 
Supporters have included Carlton footballer Chris Judd and Essendon footballer Jobe Watson who had a fingernail painted at their drawn weekend AFL MCG game.
 
{qtube vid:=nEs_BPjkt_E}
 
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Colliers International Melbourne agents participate in Polished Men campaign 

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A Chinese investor has purchased the three-storey Junction Club in Moonee Ponds for $10.7 million.
CBRE's Justin Clarkson and Scott Callow sold the club at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-vic-moonee+ponds-501058655" target="_blank">740 Mount Alexander Road</a> on behalf of the private syndicate, United Investment Management.
It sold at $8.4 million in 2011.
The property is largely leased to Harness Racing Victoria until 2022. There is a total passing income of $802,500 per annum.
The long established gaming venue with 80 EGM's, public bar with Pub TAB and bar/bistro.
It had the potential for a high rise residential development on the 1,943 square metre holding at the intersection connecting Mount Alexander Road, Ascot Vale Road, Pascoe Vale Road, Dean Street and Puckle Street. 
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Chinese investor buys Moonee Ponds Junction Club

Builder-developer Scion is the latest to target Sydney's booming Hills Showground Metro precinct, filing plans for more than 100 apartments within walking distance of the station.

Scion has lodged a concurrent rezoning and State Significant Development Application for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/27-33-middleton-avenue-castle-hill-nsw-2154">27–33 Middleton Avenue</a>, where it plans to replace four existing homes with an 11 and 14-storey mixed-use development comprising 109 apartments, six affordable housing dwellings, and a ground-floor café.

Designed by BHK Architects, the proposal includes three levels of basement parking with 174 spaces, more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space, and extensive landscaping across the 3,791 sqm site.

The development has been designed as two buildings connected by a recessed wintergarden spine, with the 14-storey building positioned to the south and the 11-storey building to the north.

<img alt="Scion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64dc359d-736b-43b8-87a8-70a8285cab47" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-25%20at%208.47.01%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=PXh.m8id_aevBPHEckPf88wQ2RQThPos" />

The apartment mix has been weighted towards owner-occupiers, with 13 one-bedroom apartments, 55 two-bedroom residences, 31 three-bedroom apartments, six three-bedroom lofts, and four four-bedroom homes. Six apartments will be dedicated as affordable housing in line with the NSW Housing SEPP.

According to the Architectural Design Report by BKH, the proposal seeks to create "a place-responsive architecture" inspired by the natural landscape surrounding Cattai Creek, while strengthening the public domain through landscaping, active frontages and a neighbourhood café.

Atlas Urban, in its Urban Design Report, says the proposal takes a different approach to increasing density around Hills Showground Station by favouring a more slender, vertically articulated built form over a conventional mid-rise outcome. The report argues this allows for greater deep soil planting, improved solar access and a better public domain outcome, while still delivering additional housing close to rapid public transport.

The site sits around 500 metres from Hills Showground Metro Station, within a precinct earmarked for significant residential intensification following the opening of the Sydney Metro Northwest line. Planning documents accompanying the application note that Greater Sydney's population has grown by more than one million people since planning for the precinct first began, reinforcing the need to accelerate housing delivery around existing transport infrastructure.

Scion is expanding its development pipeline which also includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/chatham-west-ryde-2-6-chatham-road-west-ryde-nsw-2114">Chatham in West Ryde</a>, 62 apartments which are approaching completion. They also have a State Significant Development Application with the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/96-anzac-avenue-west-ryde-nsw-2114">145 apartments on Anzac Avenue</a>, also in West Ryde.

Joel Robinson

First look: Scion plots Castle Hill apartment development near Hills Showground Metro Station

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>&nbsp;has unveiled its scaled-back plans for a pair of towers rising up to 49 storeys directly opposite Bella Vista Metro Station.

The builder-developer will deliver 674 apartments and a new mixed-use hub at the gateway to the station precinct.

The State Significant Development Application has been lodged under the Housing Delivery Authority pathway for the 6,979 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/9-11-mawson-avenue-bella-vista-nsw-2153">9-11 Mawson Avenue</a>, with the apartments sitting above a mixed-use podium. Initial plans were for closer to 900 apartments across two 40-storey towers.

Located around 30 metres from the Bella Vista Metro Station entrance, the development is intended to act as a catalyst for the long-planned Bella Vista Station Precinct, transforming a vacant site into a transit-oriented residential and commercial destination.

Planning documents describe the project as delivering "a high-density mixed use destination that combines housing, retail and community-serving uses in a highly accessible setting."

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 674-apartment Bella Vista towers opposite Metro station" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21c08216-589e-490d-ad08-2d88b6fa62d9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bella%20vista%20podium.png?VersionId=3TnwjjQCNwTsmyQRaWnFrLTSAF0CJeka" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/turner-studio">Turner</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, the project comprises 674 apartments, including 102 affordable housing dwellings representing 15 per cent of the residential floor space. The housing mix spans studios, one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside a collection of townhouse-style residences integrated into the podium levels. The development also includes specialist disability accommodation and an elevated provision of adaptable and liveable housing.

The mixed-use podium has been designed to create an active urban centre around the Metro station, incorporating a 1,423 sqm supermarket, a 3,029 sqm gym, specialty retail spaces, a 100-place childcare centre and a publicly accessible "city room" community space. A secondary laneway, active frontages and landscaped public areas are intended to improve pedestrian connectivity through the site and strengthen links between the station precinct and surrounding neighbourhood.

In the project's design report, Turner said the proposal responds to Bella Vista's emerging role as a higher-density centre within Sydney's north-west growth corridor.

"The project transforms a strategically located site into a high-density mixed use destination that combines housing, retail and community-serving uses in a highly accessible setting," the report states.

"Active frontages, a publicly accessible city room, a secondary laneway and a mix of uses including a local supermarket, child care centre and gym create a more complete and socially useful urban environment for residents, workers and the wider community."

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 674-apartment Bella Vista towers opposite Metro station" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0fde6220-82de-4f6a-9b63-d0fd8157acc9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bella%20vista%20da.png?VersionId=7hEmuSutH8plTd_RqqdmPu055F6qe554" />

Urban Property Group has been one of the busiest developers across Greater Sydney this year.

The developer is progressing around 1,000 apartments across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-urban-property-group-plans-next-major-wollongong-tower">two projects in Wollongong</a>, with several thousand more homes in the pipeline across Newcastle, Castle Hill, Little Bay and Penrith.

First look: Urban Property Group plans 674-apartment Bella Vista towers opposite Metro station

Burwood's southern town centre precinct is set for another major injection of housing, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/holdmark-property-group">Holdmark</a> unveiling plans for three mixed-use towers containing 900 apartments above new retail and commercial space.

The State Significant Development Application covers a consolidated 10,265 sqm site at 36-46 George Street and 16-26 Elsie Street, immediately south of Burwood's commercial core and within walking distance of Burwood Station, Westfield and Burwood Park.

The proposal comprises <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/36-46-elsie-street-burwood-nsw-2134">three mixed-use towers</a> ranging between 32 and 43 storeys.

<img alt="First look: Holdmark unveils 900-home mixed-use precinct for Burwood town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="84b90b18-a54c-426d-885b-6f205bc2b883" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/burwood%20da1.png?VersionId=cJrb7Snn7qNpRzgXBOXK13PKF2CK021Z" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/studiosc">Studio.SC</a>, the scheme is positioned as a significant extension of Burwood's evolving high-density centre. The project would be delivered across two interconnected development parcels, replacing existing commercial buildings and creating a new pedestrian-focused precinct linking George Street, John Street, Elsie Street and Railway Crescent.&nbsp;

The design report describes the proposal as "a contemporary response to this evolving urban condition," adding that it seeks to "reinforce George Street's role as a human-scaled, active street while contributing to the broader rhythm and grain of the town centre."

The development features a mix of residential, commercial and retail uses, with activated ground-floor frontages intended to strengthen pedestrian connections between Burwood Station, Burwood Place, Westfield and the wider town centre.&nbsp;

The proposal also incorporates extensive communal facilities, landscaped open space and new through-site links designed to encourage public movement across the precinct.&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Holdmark unveils 900-home mixed-use precinct for Burwood town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89a6bccc-b78b-4a97-a49f-cac1761f34b6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/burwood%20podium%20a.png?VersionId=6HBYg_pKxAc3yCND_wDKZmfMfzfneHmz" />

Studio.SC said the project draws inspiration from Burwood Park and the area's mature tree canopy, with "warm, earthy tones and robust materials such as brick and sculpted concrete" used to anchor the buildings within their urban context.

The scale of the proposal reflects Burwood's growing role as one of Sydney's key metropolitan centres. Planning documents note the suburb's strong population growth, high apartment living rates and increasing transport accessibility, particularly with the future Burwood North Metro station expected to further strengthen the area's connectivity. The development is designed to capitalise on those transport links while introducing a substantial amount of new housing stock into the town centre.

Burwood is expected to see a development boom, with the NSW Government rezoning the Burwood North Metro Precinct, a move expected to deliver around 15,000 new homes surrounding the new station.

Earlier this month, Nascon lodged plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-nascon-targets-burwood-growth-corridor-with-112-unit-apartment-tower">100-apartment development on the edge of the town centre</a>.

Holdmark's broader portfolio includes plans for nearly 800 new homes at Macquarie Park, currently before the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority. The developer is also behind a significant portion of the Melrose Park masterplanned redevelopment, as well as the former Caddens Corner drive-in site, where around 500 homes are planned.

First look: Holdmark unveils 900-apartment, mixed-use precinct for Burwood town centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hyecorp-property-group">Hyecorp</a> has completed construction of Audrey, its parkside apartment development in St Leonards South, becoming the first residential project within the St Leonards South Precinct to reach completion.

Residents are expected to begin moving into the Canberra Avenue development at the end of June, making Audrey the first opportunity for buyers to take up residence within the emerging precinct.

Positioned at the highest point on Canberra Avenue, directly opposite Newlands Park, the project enjoys protected parkland outlooks and district views that cannot be built out as the precinct continues to evolve.

Unlike many of the larger developments planned across St Leonards South, Audrey comprises just 102 residences, making it one of the more boutique offerings within the precinct. The smaller scale has enabled Hyecorp to place a strong focus on owner-occupier design, resident amenity, and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=368333]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, Audrey comprises a mix of three-bedroom apartments and a double-storey five-bedroom townhouse, with many residences positioned to capture views toward the Sydney CBD and Harbour Bridge. The project has been underpinned by a strong focus on design continuity, with Hyecorp working alongside interior designers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/jackson-teece">Jackson Teece</a> and landscape architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/site-image">Site Image</a> to shape both the private residences and shared amenity spaces.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/audrey-st-leonards-13-19-canberra-avenue-st-leonards-nsw-2065">Audrey</a>’s interiors feature open-plan layouts, floor-to-ceiling glazing, oak timber flooring, bespoke joinery, and large-format stone finishes throughout the kitchens and bathrooms. Integrated Miele appliances, brushed metal tapware, and concealed cabinetry detailing were specified across the residences, reflecting Hyecorp's emphasis on quality and owner-occupier appeal.

The upper levels of the building are home to the Tiffany Collection, a premium offering occupying Levels 12 to 15. The residences include upgraded appliance packages, fluted standalone bathtubs, heated bathroom flooring, custom walk-in robes, and larger internal layouts ranging from 155 to 159 sqm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=367164]

Backed by a 30-year legacy, Audrey reflects the experience of Hyecorp, an Australian family-owned developer with an award-winning track record across Sydney. As locals, Hyecorp understands the needs of local communities, creating homes and precincts designed for long-term liveability, connection, and lifestyle.

Despite its boutique scale, Audrey delivers an extensive suite of amenities typically associated with much larger developments. Residents have access to an indoor lap pool and spa, personal training studio, private cinema, music room, rooftop entertaining terrace, residents lounge, and private dining room overlooking the Sydney skyline.

The rooftop terrace and communal lounge spaces were conceived as extensions of residents' homes, supporting a lifestyle-focused environment that encourages wellbeing, flexibility, and community connection.

The project also incorporates a ground-floor café and an integrated daycare centre, adding to the growing mixed-use character emerging across the St Leonards South precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110379 project_image_fid=198680]

Audrey arrives as <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/st-leonards-nsw-2065">St Leonards</a> continues its transformation into one of Sydney's most strategically located urban renewal areas. The precinct's proximity to Royal North Shore Hospital and the broader health, research, and commercial corridor has made it increasingly attractive to medical professionals, healthcare workers, and owner-occupiers seeking housing close to employment and transport infrastructure.

Residents are within walking distance of St Leonards Station and the Crows Nest Metro, while nearby retail includes Mall 88, Forum Plaza, Woolworths, and the recently opened Coles supermarket. Nearby green spaces including Newlands Park, Gore Hill Oval, and Naremburn Park further reinforce the area's lifestyle appeal.

As the first completed project within the precinct, Audrey demonstrates the direction of St Leonards South's evolution, combining higher-density living with generous amenity, strong transport connectivity, and access to green space.

A limited collection of premium residences remains available, including spacious three-bedroom apartments, a four-bedroom townhouse and a selection of penthouses.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110379]

Hyecorp completes Audrey, first project to welcome residents in St Leonards South Precinct

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.

Jonathan Chancellor

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