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The home builder AVJennings has posted a $19.1 million loss for the first half of the 2013 financial year compared to a $3.3 million profit a year ago. But it has advised that consumer confidence remains the key issue and until there was a positive change, market conditions will continue to remain challenging.
The value of its residential projects has had a 5.3% cut, slashing $16 million from its result. 
Total lots under control sits at 10,581 for the group whose history stems back to 1932 when "proud old builder" Albert Jennings founded Australia's most famous house building company which is now publicly listed.
Almost 80% of the impairments related to its troubled Queensland projects.
"The Queensland market has still not recovered to the extent previously expected by either the company, its competitors or most industry forecasters,"  the chief executive Peter Summers said.
"Until relatively recently Queensland prices, particularly in the lower and middle segments, were high by historical levels compared to Sydney and Melbourne.
"This is no longer the case and the Queensland markets in which the company operates are now priced at, or even below, historical levels and overall fundamentals are quite strong.
"Unfortunately, Queensland has suffered in recent times from many issues such as the effects of floods, lower population growth, the impact on tourism from the high Australian dollar and recent softening in the
mining sector. This has impacted on consumer confidence, probably to an even greater extent than many other areas in Australia," he said.
But the main reduction in revenue occurred in Victoria.
"The Victorian market was overheated during 2010/11 and conditions have since softened considerably.
"Revenues declined by $31.8 million for the reporting period from December 2011 figures, however, margins on Victorian projects remain acceptable and sales performance over the December 2012 and January 2013 period improved and indicate that market conditions in Victoria appear to have stabilised."
The company cut the value of a Victorian project, noting that the downturn in that state had "required a more aggressive pricing structure" on the project.
It also cut the value of its Cobbitty, NSW project where bureaucratic red tape had been costly, according to the market update.  AVJennings owns 43 hectares of residential-zoned land at Cobbity, in Sydney's south-west, where it hoped 470 lots could be developed.
Mr Summers said the development status of AVJennings’ two main projects in South Australia should see improved performance in the short term. The St Clair project is now entering a significant stage of maturity and sales activity is increasing accordingly. <a href="https://eyrepenfield.com.au/lifestyle/eyre-park" target="_blank">The Eyre (Penfield) project </a>is just underway with the first stage including a substantial display village comprising 8 contract builders and 20 display homes.
Revenue fell from $92.2 million in the prior corresponding period to $52.9 million, which the company attributed to "reduced completed inventory and softer Victorian market conditions".
"Residential property market conditions during the reporting period were adversely affected by weak consumer confidence which has subsisted for some time now," Peter Summers said.
"There are signs that some markets are starting to improve although this is taking time to translate into transactions."
"Consumer confidence remains the key issue and until there is a positive change, market conditions will continue to remain challenging."
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

AVJennings awaits the return of confidence to house and land buyers

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Total construction work in Australia fell 0.1% in December, according to Australian Bureau of Statistics figures released yesterday, defying economists' more optimistic expectations.
It had been previously predicted construction jobs would rise by 1.5% for the quarter, but the results suggest the construction industries woes are not yet over.
The latest Australian Securities and Investment Commission statistics indicated the construction industry had the highest number of insolvencies in 2012, making up over a fifth of the total 10,632 companies.
Savanth Sebastian, market analyst at CommSec noted while construction work eased in the December quarter, work done was still up 11.9% on a year ago and just holding shy of the record highs reached in the September quarter.
"In addition September quarter construction was revised up from 1.7% to 1.9%," he said.
Commercial building work done rose by 2% in the December quarter with residential work up 1.7% while engineering work fell by 1.3%.
South Australia (down 9%) and Western Australia (down 7.5%) lead the declines.
"The modest decline in construction activity is hardly anything to be concerned about," Savanth Sebastain said.
"The weakness in the latest result was largely driven by the pullback in engineering activity driven by the mining services sector late last year and confined to Western Australia and South Australia.
"Given the subsequent improvement in Chinese activity and rebound in commodity prices some of the weaknesss in engineering activity would be reversed in coming months.
"Residential building work rose for the second straight quarter and while it is starting off a low base the improvements are certainly encouraging.
"The housing sector is showing signs of life given the low interest rate environment and the fundamentals remain sound for a healthy pickup in residential construction.
"Low interest rates, pent up housing demand, strong population growth, and low unemployment coupled with state and federal govenement grants should ensure that residential construction coninues to improve over the coming year," he said adding the Reserve Bank would be encouraged by the pickup in residential activity.
 
 
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Housing sector signs of life, but total construction work fell 0.1% in December: ABS

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Leighton Properties announced that it had formally signed Leighton Contractors to almost 13,000 square metres of its 567 Collins St building in Melbourne.
It was announced today as the Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Robert Doyle, turned the first sod on the development in the location in the western end of the CBD on the edge of Docklands.
Hamish Tyrwhitt, the Leighton Holdings chief and Mark Gray the Leighton Properties managing director and Peter Hicks, the Leighton Contractors chief financial officer presided over the formal groundbreaking ceremony. Presumably a few lawyers were there too since the other anchor tenants are Corrs Chambers Westgarth.
On its mid-2015 completion, the 567 Collins Street tower with 55,000 square metre space will be the largest PCA premium grade tower constructed in Melbourne in the last  25 years.
<img height="586" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/02/leightonfeb27one.jpg" alt="leightonfeb27one">
Its will occupy a site of 3,942 square metres with a 74 metre frontage to Collins Street between Spencer and King Streets.
The 26 level tower is about 50% leased following the announcement of a major new lease to Leighton Contractors.
Leighton Contractors will establish its Victorian head office across 12,700 sqm of the campus component of the building.
Leighton bought into the site in 2008, but it remained one of Collins Street's ugliest development sites for another five years.
The site - a former car park - had struggled to attract a tenant initially under the ownership of the Stamoulis family, which bought it from the government for $8.5 million in 2003.
At one point around 2008, its then owner developer, APN Funds Management was close to securing law firm Allens Arthur Robinson (AAR) as a major tenant.
Its had a permit for a high-rise building issued since 1988.
 
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Leighton celebrates 567 Collins Street groundbreaking

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The Westfield Group has increased its earnings despite retail conditions in Australia being subdued for most of the year.
Earnings before interest and tax was $2.12 billion, up 3%, while net profit rose 18% to $1.72 billion.
Westfield’s global portfolio comprises 105 shopping centres across five countries with some 22,800 retail outlets.
“The performance for the year has been very good and in line with expectations,” its management team headed by Peter and Steven Lowy advised today.
They said the operating performance had been marked by continuing high occupancy, growth in average rents and comparable specialty sales growth.
Specialty sales grew strongly in the United States, being up 6.3% for the year.
But in Australia the specialty sales grew only 0.5%.
Some 99.5% of its Australian/New Zealand space is leased. 
There is an average $1,521 per square metre speciality store rent in the region. 
Sales productivity of specialty stores sits as at $9,887 per square metre. 
In Australia and New Zealand approximately 84% of total annual rental income is derived from specialty stores. Standard specialty shop lease terms are typically five to seven years with current annual contracted increases of either consumer price index (CPI) plus a fixed percentage, or fixed percentage increases.
Anchor retailers generally have lease terms of 20 to 25 years with stepped increases throughout the term which can be fixed, CPI based or sales turnover based.
“We have confidence in the group’s business model and opportunities for growth," the Lowy statement said.
“We are focused on remaining at the forefront of our industry as we continue to improve the quality of our portfolio through our $12 billion development pipeline together with acquisition opportunities in existing and new markets.
“We also plan to continue redeploying capital from further joint ventures and non-core asset disposals.”
Stakes in $4.1 billion of shopping malls were offloaded during the year. There was around $300 million of property acquired and some $800 million invested in developments.
Net property income was $2.02 billion, which is the same as last year but up 7 per cent on a comparable basis after adjusting for properties that have been sold.
Comparable net operating income for the group was up 3.3%.
Management fee income rose 12% to $128 million and project income jumped 31% to $194 million.
 The two income streams represent around 22% of funds from operations, up from 17.5% in the previous financial year.
The Westfield Retail Trust has posted a full-year profit of $830.8 million, down 2.2% given the retail environment.
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Westfield increases earnings despite retail conditions in Australia being subdued

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Property valuers LandMark White are being sued for a "gross overvaluation" of a Sydney office building by the financial services group, Suncorp.
Suncorp alleges LandMark was negligent when it provided Record Investments, the Allco company, with a $115 million valuation for the 13-storey office building at 149 Castlereagh Street in Sydney's CBD.
Allco had purchased the property for $35 million in 2007, then received a $90 million mortgage facility from Suncorp to renovate the building based on a $115 million valuation.
However Suncorp's claim before the Federal Court suggests the renovated building was only worth $65.6 million with Landmark alleged to be negligent partly because it relied on a 100% occupancy as soon as the renovations finished.
"A reasonably competent valuer would not have assumed that the property would be more than one-third leased on practical completion," Suncorp said in its statement of claim which was reported by Fairfax Media.
LandMark also failed to take into account poor pedestrian traffic flow and access, poor natural light and an excess of columns in the building, and the lack of vehicular access "with the result that all goods, including waste removal, would have to be carried in and out of the building at the street frontage".
Suncorp claims it was left $40.2 million out of pocket after Allco collapsed and is seeking compensation and damages.
The building was in the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/office/allco-asset-re-listed-after-last-sale-fails-to-get-across-the-line/2011110652219">news in late 2011 when the Allco asset </a>was re-listed after a sale failed to get across the line. It finally sold last year at $40.6 million to Blackstone at a reported 46% discount to the face value of the debt from Suncorp.
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Landmark White being sued over Allco Sydney office valuation

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Bulky goods entrepreneur Brett Blundy has offloaded his redundant Pearl Beach weekender for $2,643,000, a 30% decline on its last sale price. It was the NSW Central Coast beachfront home's second price collapse.
It was snapped up by a company associated with Sydney accountant Stuart Waugh, from Bell Partners, when offered through <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.thehomepage.com.au/property/residential/36-coral-cres-pearl-beach/173087">Stuart Gan of PRDnationwide Ettalong Beach</a>.
It had last traded for $3.8 million in late 2007 and at $4.035 million in 2004.
Its latest sale represents a 34% drop from its 2004 peak sale price.
The Coral Crescent beachfront property became superfluous after the Blundy clan bought a Hamptons-style beachfront house a few doors along the beach for $5.8 million in late 2009.
It was available at the weekly peak season rate of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.pearlbeachrealestate.com.au/holiday-rentals/more-photos.asp?ID=5&amp;Pr=1&amp;Pg=1">$4250 or off season rate of $2775 a week</a>, but while on the web, it appears no longer in the Coral Crescent, Pearl Beach <a target="_blank" href="https://www.pearlbeachrealestate.com.au/holiday-rentals/?Pr=9">rental pool </a>which consists within some 110-plus house rentals through Ray White.
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Brett Blundy takes loss as accountant snaps up Pearl Beach weekender

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Brookfield Multiplex has been appointed by NSW Health Infrastructure to build the new clinical services building at the Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH), delivering an additional 30,000 square metres of health services to the campus which is one of the state’s major trauma centres.
The appointment follows the completion of other health projects in New South Wales by Brookfield Multiplex including the Campbelltown and Auburn Hospitals redevelopments.
Brookfield Multiplex is also contracted to deliver the new Chris O’Brien Lifehouse at RPA in Sydney, due for completion mid this year.
"This appointment builds on our reputation for delivering vital health projects in New South Wales and around the world," said David Ghannoum, the regional managing director of New South Wales at Brookfield Multiplex.
"At its peak construction the project will create 2,200 jobs," he added. 
Construction on the Building Studio Architects and Woods Bagot-designed project will commence in early April 2013 and expected to be fully operational in late 2014.
Bound by Westbourne Street, Herbert Street, Red Road and Kolling Lane in St Leonards, the nine-level building will connect with the hospital’s existing infrastructure and services.
The new building will provide a variety of services including a private mental health unit on level two, a women’s health and maternity unit across levels three and four, a general inpatient unit on level five, and a severe burns unit on level six. A pediatric inpatient unit will make up level seven.
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Multiplex secures Royal North Shore Hospital building project

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The former canvas factory in Newtown owned by artist Ben Hall has been listed for sale through Ercan Ersan at BresicWhitney Estate Agents.
The architecturally reinvented <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-newtown-113150755">Trade Street warehouse</a> home comes with soaring ceilings, exposed beam structures along with handmade features ensuring great use of light.
The price guide is more than $1.1 million.
<img height="350" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/02/hallfeb27two.jpg" alt="hallfeb27two">
There are exterior terrace spaces.
It has three bedrooms plus along with stainless steel breakfast bar kitchen and sky lit shower space.
Its upper level has a bedroom and study with balcony.
<img height="352" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/02/hallfeb27one.jpg" alt="hallfeb27one">
Ben Hall's paintings are abstractions inspired by the Australian landscape.
He studied art under Roland Wakelin and Lloyd Rees while studying architecture at Sydney University.
He is also a master woodworker, having crafted baroque musical instruments, some of which are included in the Powerhouse Museum.
The 1930/40s warehouse will go to auction on March 23.
It was bought by Hall in 1980.
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Artist Ben Hall lists his inner city Newtown warehouse

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Generation Healthcare REIT, Australia’s only listed healthcare property entity, will build a $150 million, staged development healthcare project on its newly-acquired development site in Berwick in Victoria.
The 1.2 hectare holding has existing approval for a medical centre, radiotherapy/day surgery and medical consulting building, along with a 200 bed private hospital.
Its located opposite Casey Public Hospital.
The $2.4 million purchase will be funded by its debt facility with the National Australia Bank.
The development site at 55 Kangan Drive, Berwick is set within Victoria’s largest and fastest growing municipality.
GHC’s chief executive officer, Miles Wentworth said plans were well advanced for the commencement of stage one; a $10 million, 2,500 square metre medical specialist centre, although tenant pre-commitment will be a condition to proceeding.
Generation Healthcare REIT has a portfolio of seven properties including hospitals, medical centres, laboratories and other purpose built healthcare facilities.
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Generation Healthcare REIT spends $2.4 million on Berwick site

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Alannah Hill, a star among the Melbourne fashionocracy, is selling her South Yarra abode, Risby.
The chic 1880s Victorian residence sits within the Domain precinct across from Fawkner Park.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/2013/02/hillfeb27one.jpg" alt="hillfeb27one" width="470" height="351">
It is expected to fetch $4 million-plus when auctioned next month, before Hill's intended bayside move.
The two-storey house with retained period features has been listed through Marshall White agent Marcus Chiminello.
The boom-style terrace with three bedrooms and a formal lounge, wraparound terrace, double garage and pool, cost a reported $4.31 million in 2010.
It was sold in 2010 by Virginia Monahan, who imports fine cashmere from Scotland to make into sweaters, and her husband Brad who'd listed it with $3.5 million-plus hopes.
<a href="https://www.marshallwhite.com.au/?pagecall=property&amp;propertyID=2279301" target="_blank">The auction is scheduled for March 2</a>.
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Alannah Hill lists South Yarra boomtime terrace, Risby

ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.

The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.

They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."

The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.

Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" />

The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.

"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."

The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.

Joel Robinson

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.

Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.

The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" />

Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.

As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."

Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" />

The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.

As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.

Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.

<img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" />

The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.

Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.

Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.

Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage

Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.

Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.

One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.

Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.

That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.

Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]

For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

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As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.

Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.

For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.

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Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.

Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.

Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.

<img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" />

The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.

The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.

At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.

Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.

Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Jonathan Chancellor

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