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Londoners thinking of buying in Australia have been advised to “rent for a month in the Australian winter (August) before you take the plunge”.
<a href="https://www.telegraph.co.uk/property/expatproperty/9079796/Relocating-to-Australia-Britons-head-for-the-high-life-Down-Under" target="_blank">The Telegraph</a> has warned its readers that “it isn’t always hot and sunny”.
Australia is the UK’s top destination for moving abroad, and writer Jan Etherington is apparently sorely tempted to join the exodus after her son and his girlfriend moved to Australia six years ago and stayed.
“Since then they have married, had two daughters and settled half an hour away from Sydney’s glorious harbour bridge – albeit the home is a bit of a squeeze.
“As we sit on Bondi Beach, I hear myself say, ‘This is exactly how we like to live. Why are we going back to Britain?’”
Jan Etherington, the British writer and producer came to prominence as creator and writer of Second Thoughts along with her husband Gavin Petrie.
She’s recently also been weighing up “the possible downsides of a move to this beguiling distant land.”
Her writing credits also include Next of Kin, Faith in the Future and Duck Patrol.
“Most people think of Australia as a year-round sun-kissed paradise.
“It’s not the case. Australian summers can be fiercely (and wonderfully) hot, but winters as dull and grey as Britain,” she says.
“And there’s no real spring or autumn, which friends insist we would miss.”
She’s given thoughts to contributing to the family’s Australian property pot, so that they all can buy a house with extra room for everyone.
Etherington’s Richmond house is for sale for £1.39 million through <a href="https://johndwood.co.uk" target="_blank">John D Wood.</a>
Her no-worries guide to buying in Oz
1. Buyers from abroad must obtain consent from the Foreign Investment Review Board (firb.gov.au).
2. Foreign non-residents can only buy new properties subject to approval. To buy an established home you need a temporary resident’s visa of at least 12 months.
3. Where to buy Sydney’s bigger beaches, such as Bondi and family-friendly Coogee are ringed by smart new apartments. They all face the Pacific and are priced from around £900,000. You’ll get more for your money by going south. Kingsford and Randwick are walking distance from Coogee. A one-bedroom apartment starts from £275,000.
4. If you want an older property, take a look at the ornate Federation houses, built just before the First World War. These are Australian versions of the English Edwardian home. Following the Second World War bungalows sprang up – plainer, but still pretty.
5. View potential properties online at domain.com.au.
6. Consider a buying agent such as Stuart Jones (roseandjones.com.au), who advises property guru Phil Spencer. The charge is around £10,000 to £15,000 on a £700,000 home, but a good buying agent is worth the money.
7. Find out if you’re eligible for an Australian retirement visa (visabureau.com/australia). This lasts for four years. You must be 55-plus and have private health insurance.
8. New apartments include 10 per cent GST (equivalent to VAT) in the sale price. There is no GST on older properties. Buyers also pay stamp duty – allow five per cent of the purchase price. Visit britzinoz.com.
9. Rent for a month in the Australian winter (August) before you take the plunge. It isn’t always hot and sunny.
 
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Londoners considering buying Australian property warned it’s not always sunny Down Under

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The Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria has suspended western Melbourne suburbs converyancer Anh Ngoc Nguyen.
Nguyen, trading as Compact Conveyancing Services, had his conveyancer’s licence suspended based on serious concerns about his St Albans business practices.
He had about 40 conveyancing matters in progress.
Consumer Affairs Victoria has contacted those clients to inform them of the situation.
CAV director Claire Noone said anyone who has concerns about conveyancing work done by Nguyen should contact Consumer Affairs Victoria for advice.
The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal has begun a disciplinary inquiry into Nguyen’s conduct. His licence will remain suspended until the tribunal makes further orders.
The department has advised consumers should never engage a conveyancer who is suspended or unlicensed, as it can affect claims on professional indemnity insurance or the Victorian Property Fund if something goes wrong.
 
 
 
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Consumer Affairs Victoria suspends converyancer Anh Ngoc Nguyen's licence

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Les Flots Bleus, the clifftop Shelley Beach, Manly, property that set the suburb's then residential record in 2007, has been listed for sale by home economist Jane Fitton-Williams, the relatively low-key cookery expert and author of Foolproof Food.
It has been offered for March 10 auction through Jake Rowe from McGrath, who secured its $6.75 million sale in 2007.
Rowe says there has been an inspired “re-imagining” of the traditional three-storey period home since its sale.
He suggests the UK-bound Fitton-Williams has created a sumptuous world-class designer retreat.
It has four bedrooms and three bathrooms.
It stands with views over the Fairy Bower point surf break, Shelly Beach up towards Manly Beach and beyond to the Central Coast.
The 696-square-metre block comes with poolside entertainment space with kitchenette and bathroom.
Its deluxe kitchen comes with AGA stove, butler’s pantry and cool room.
Hailing from England, Fitton-Williams is a skilled AGA demonstrator who can be booked for one-on-one demonstrations of the iconic stove.
Its previous owner was InterStrat strategic marketing company founder Professor Linden Brown, who bought and built the house for $1.43 million in 1997 and then paid the leasehold renewal, which cost about $550,000.
Manly’s latest residential house record was set last year when haircare industry entrepreneur Susan Starling sold her house for $10 million to Craig Butcher, having initial $12 million expectations in 2008. The three-storey Addison Road harbourfront house sold through Elders agent Luke Newby, in conjunction with McGrath agent Jake Rowe.
 Jake Rowe has been telling buyers that he expects $7 million plus for his latest listing based on the last recent comparable sale of $8 million in June 2010.
"The house is ideal for a small family or a couple as the main home is now three bedrooms, and there is a separate granny flat beneath the garage which would be good for an older child or a guest," he advises'.
"The position on the cliff side is about as good as it gets in terms of the view."
 
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Home economist lists record-setting Fairy Bower Manly property: Title Tattle

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The total value of the 59,810 properties in the Wyong area in July 2011 was $13.063 billion, according to NSW Valuer-General Philip Western.
The figure was down 7% from the last valuation of $14.063 billion in 2008.
The Valuer-General found that residential land values had generally shown a slight decrease over the past three years, with medium-density and larger more valuable sites experiencing a slight to moderate decrease.
Residential properties in the low and middle price ranges remained steady or increased slightly, but higher-value properties, including waterfront and beachfront properties, experienced a strong decrease in land values.
In 2011 median residential values decreased 2% from $160,000 in 2010.
Commercial land had a slight decrease overall. Tuggerah experienced a strong decrease while Budgewoi remained stable and Wyong CBD increased significantly over the three years.
Industrial land had a slight decrease in land value overall. Larger sites and more valuable sites traditionally purchased by institutional investors had a moderate decrease in value while parts of Berkeley Vale showed a slight increase.
Year on year, median 2011 industrial land values in Wyong decreased 0.5% from $397,000 in 2010.
Rural and lifestyle properties had a slight to moderate decrease in Wyong. Rural residential properties close to major suburban areas were the most stable while unimproved, ecologically affected land without a designated building envelope had a strong decrease in value.
Since 2010 median rural land prices decreased 0.7% from $413,000.
Landowners and rate-paying lessees received a notice of valuation this month.
The valuations are used to determine rates and land taxes on investment properties.
 
Typical residential land values were:
<ul>
<li>531 square metres at Dening Street, The Entrance valued at $375,000 </li>
<li>654 square metres at Fishburn Crescent, Watanobbi valued at $130,000 </li>
<li>620 square metres at Iluka Avenue, San Remo valued at $125,000 </li>
<li>790 square metres at Lakedge Avenue, Berkeley Vale valued at $258,000 </li>
<li>556 square metres at Robertson Road, Killarney Vale valued at $160,000 </li>
<li>613 square metres at Soldiers Point Drive, Norah Head valued at $304,000 </li>
<li>677 square metres at Surf Street, Long Jetty valued at $195,000 </li>
<li>753 square metres at Werrina Parade, Blue Bay valued at $1,774,000</li>
</ul>
 
Typical commercial land values were:
<ul>
<li>518 square metres at Canton Beach Road, Toukley valued at $325,000 </li>
<li>2,098 square metres at Pacific Highway, Tuggerah valued at $669,000 </li>
<li>278 square metres at Pacific Highway, Wyong valued at $255,000 </li>
<li>524 square metres at The Entrance Road, The Entrance valued at $494,000 </li>
</ul>
 
Typical industrial land values were:
<ul>
<li>3,274 square metres at Catamaran Road, Fountaindale valued at $491,000 </li>
<li>2,363 square metres at Joule Place, Tuggerah valued at $270,000 </li>
<li>5,828 square metres at Reliance Drive, Tuggerah valued at $665,000 </li>
<li>4,002 square metres at Naples Place, Wyong valued at $488,000</li>
</ul>
 
Typical rural residential land values were:
<ul>
<li>4 hectares at Cams Boulevard, Summerland Point valued at $406,000 </li>
<li>1.1 hectares at Hansens Road, Tumbi Umbi valued at $457,000 </li>
<li>1 hectare at Holloway Drive, Jilliby valued at $365,000</li>
</ul>
 
Typical hobby farm land values were:
<ul>
<li>8.7 hectares at Finns Road, Kulnura valued at $617,000 </li>
<li>10 hectares at Beaven Lane, Jilliby valued at $530,000</li>
</ul>
 
 
<ul></ul>
 
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Beachfront land values fall sharply in Wyong in past three years

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The January rental vacancy rate for the Sydney metropolitan area rose by 0.3% to 1.9%, the largest single increase since July 2010.
All areas of Sydney recorded increases in the percentage of rental properties available, according to the latest rental vacancy data from the Real Estate Institute of NSW. The figures show Sydney’s highest vacancy rates since August 2006.
Inner suburbs (zero to 10 kilometres from the CBD) rose 0.2 to 1.7%; middle suburbs (10 to 25 kilometres from the CBD, rose 0.1 to 2.1%, and outer suburbs (more than 25 kilometres from the CBD) rose 0.4% to 1.8%.
Areas outside of Sydney also experienced a marked increase in available properties, with Newcastle climbing back from 1.1% in December to reach 1.5% and Wollongong experiencing a 0.2% rise in availability to 2.3%.
The overall rental vacancy rate across the Hunter rose by 0.4% to reach 1.5%.
The entire Illawarra region experienced a 0.5% increase allowing the January vacancy rates to reach 2.1%.
However, vacancy rates dropped on the Central Coast (1.4% from 1.6%), Central West (1.8% from 1.9%) and Orana (1.2% from 1.5%).
REINSW president Christian Payne warns that the increase will be short lived and that tenants can soon expect the market to tighten up once more.
"January and February are traditionally peak periods for change in the rental market across NSW as school leavers, university students and families changing jobs or schools settle into new properties.
"Those looking to join the rental market or move properties from March onwards will find that availability could deteriorate sharply," says Payne.
 
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Sydney's tight rental market eases during January

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The former Palm Beach home of Tony Morris, ex-principal of GP Noble, one of Britain's largest pension schemes, has been listed for March 20 sale by his bankruptcy trustee Andrew Wily.
Morris, who was extradited from Sydney last April to face charges of defrauding the fund, paid $7.45 million in 2006 for the clifftop property he named Aman.
Peter Gosnell’s Sydney Insolvency News reported last October that Wily had been appointed trustee in bankruptcy to the estate of Tony Morris after Morris failed to pay $50,000 in legal fees owed to his lawyers, HWL Ebsworth. Morris’s insurance policy indicated jewellery with a replacement value of $5 million was kept on the Palm Beach premises.
Wily subsequently took possession of the safe's contents, which included a platinum ladies’ ring with a seven-carat diamond, diamond earrings valued at $200,000 and other high-end pieces from Phillip Street jewellers.
A man's ring with a replacement value of $2 million was missing, and Morris has since said he lost the ring while working on a farm in New Zealand.
The mortgage, currently running at $25,000 a month, has the National Australia Bank owed about $5.2 million and accumulating penalty interest.
Valuations for the property mentioned in court last year ranged from $6.2 million to $6.5 million, a fair way shy of the $7.4 million Morris paid in 2006.
David Egan of Raine &amp; Horne <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-palm+beach-109585431">is marketing the property</a>.
Morris was initially under investigation for a £52 million ($86 million) fraud with creditors and British police searching for missing funds, but investigators have subsequently recovered $50 million of the funds.
In a 2010 interview with Channel Seven at his clifftop home Morris has said he was innocent and would return to England to speak to police to clear his name.
"I've got a lot to lose, a lot to lose. I'm confident I won't be charged but that's what terrifies me," he said.
The Australian Federal Police, as Interpol's representatives, had been asked to assist the Serious Fraud Office with inquiries into Morris.
The central allegation made at the hearing was that GP Noble and a trustee firm identified only as BDC paid money that had been held in the trusts of 29 pension schemes into investments that were not within the trustees' investment powers.
It was alleged that two directors of GP Noble and BDC, Mr Pitcher and Mr Cordell, were "dishonest" and that Morris was a "dishonest accomplice".
The north-facing property, which is situated on the top of a cliff at the northern end of Whale Beach, had been the subject of a “soft sell” marketing campaign late last year after Wily and Morris’s wife, Vanessa Jackson, found common ground over inspection times that suited the nap times of the couple’s two-year-old child.
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Bankruptcy trustee lists ex-GP Noble boss Tony Morris’ former Palm Beach home as Morris faces fraud charges 

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It’s too early to sense any direction in the major metropolitan auction markets, although it hasn’t taken long for see-sawing weekend results to have returned in 2012.
But Angus Raine was among the first to spot a recent surge in Saturday morning open for inspections.
And he suggests higher turnout typically morphs into sales in the following month.
Then Danny Cobden, a Balmain peninsula agent, advised that foot traffic at his early February open homes had been “huge”, with 30 to 50 groups typically attending open homes for new listings.
“The Sydney weather doesn't seem to be deterring the buyers,” he says.
Raine reckons 2012 presents an interest time in the age-old supply and demand equation.
Buyers have been sitting on their hands for some considerable time, he notes.
“The demand bucket has been filling for a few years,” he says.
“It will spill over in the second or third quarter of this year,” he forecast.
Of course the agents need a boost in sales for their own good – especially in Queensland and Western Australia, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/declining-sales-and-prices-have-agents-clambering-for-the-exits/2012021353371">where estate agent numbers have slumped</a> as a consequence of a nationwide drop in transaction volumes and property prices. Last year's volumes were about 13% lower than volumes in 2010 across Australia, according to RP Data head of research Tim Lawless. The figure was 26% lower than 2009 and 33% lower than the recent highs of 2007.
"The real estate industry is doing it tough," Lawless concludes.
Lawless notes the latest IBISWorld Real Estate Industry report that puts income per employee in the real estate industry as having not changed much over the past four years – remaining around $59,000 since 2008 after generally trending down since 2002.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/agentincomelarge.gif"><img src="/images/stories/agentincome.gif"></a>
After I wrote of this alarming trend one reader commented: “It's funny how the average income of a real estate agent wouldn't allow them to purchase an average house using 30% of their income.”
“Even at 40% of their income they would only get finance of around $340,000 at 7% interest,” the reader advised.
It seems they've successfully priced themselves out of the market.
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Higher Saturday morning open for inspection turnout as estate agents hope the bucket overflows in 2012

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It was in 1996 when a pretty, double-fronted Victorian then unrenovated eight-room Caroline Street, South Yarra brick-and-timber house last sold.
Its selling agent Philippe Batters was just about to knock the hammer down the house when a woman stopped the auction to ask the highest $645,000 bidder, “Are you going to develop it? We are neighbours, and we want to know".
The answer was duly given and now the lovely time capsule has returned to the market with its Peter Carmichael redesign by the Liberman family for all to inspect. The light-filled house, with open-plan living and dining areas and adjacent outdoor entertaining spaces, comes with many modern features including Scandinavian myrtle floors and hydronic heating.
Offers are due on the house, which sits on an 895-square-metre block, by February 28 through Darren Lewenberg and Gowan Stubbings at Kay &amp; Burton.
The modern home behind its Victorian façade was briefly listed last July through Justin Long at Marshall White with $4 million-plus hopes, which were revised to $3.75 million plus.
Set on an 1840 subdivision, the lot first sold in 1854 for £200. The 1870s the brick additions to the earlier cottage were made for grocer George Walker, who’d purchased the property for £600 in 1870. It’s believed Walker also added the Italianate front wing with its polychromatic brick and twin bay windows.
<img src="/images/stories/caroline.jpg">
The house was bought by Major-General Walter Adams Coxen before World War II, and he gave it the name it still bears in honour of his birthplace in Surrey, England. It was his daughter, Adelaide ``Marmie" Coxen, 85, who was its 1996 vendor, having set a reserve of $500,000.
Walter Adams Coxen was educated in Australia and had a distinguished record, being ADC to the King between 1920 and 1927, the Chief of Artillery from 1921 to 1924, 2nd Chief of the General's Staff from 1930 to 1934, Quartermaster-General from 1925 to 1930, and chief of the General's Staff from 1930 1931. He commanded the greatest aggregation of artillery of any war in history with 1,083 guns.
“It is as if this house was locked up after World War II and recently unlocked again. The owner's everyday utensils are collector's items," the agents said at the time.
During its 1996 marketing it was noted an old brick bakery, connected to the house by a rusty, corrugated walkway, pre-dated the house. According to a local historian, the bakery building appears on one of South Yarra's earliest maps.
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South Yarra Victorian with on the market after a Peter Carmichael redesign: Title Tattle

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Investors returning to the market, not first-home buyers, helped Villa World secure 209 sales across 11 projects during the past six months.
The tally compared with 288 in the previous corresponding period.
First-home buyers constituted about 10% of buyers, with the bulk being upgraders.
<img src="/images/stories/villawood.gif">
Projects in Queensland, including the resource-strong market of Gladstone, notched up a 29% increase in sales success.
But Villa World reported the Victorian market continued to be “very challenging.”
Victorian sales and price growth continued to soften, with Villa World noting over the last six to nine months that Victoria’s previously strong population and migration growth had stalled.
“Consistent price growth over recent years has put pressure on affordability,” the company notes.
Villa World’s Victorian operations will carry forward 161 lots sold worth $29.8 million.
Across all states, an average gross margin of 24.5% per lot was achieved across all its sales, up from 18.8%, with the 2011 first half result affected by the sale of non-core projects.
The group recorded 343 settlements in the six-month period.
The group has total net lots under control of 4,897, including proportional joint-venture ownership.
Villa World indicates the group’s strategy remains unchanged with its focus of developing affordable residential communities, “combined with prudent capital management and maintenance of strong leverage and gearing ratios.”
 
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Investors and upgraders, not first-home buyers, behind Villa World’s building lot sales in past six months

Mosman heads top 100 list, with Kew, Paddington and Castle Hill climbing the ranks and Hope Island and Vaucluse tumbling 

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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&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.

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&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."

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&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."

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&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.

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Jonathan Chancellor

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