<html><body>
The NSW government will limit full stamp duty concessions to those buying new homes from January 1, 2012.
First-home buyers will no longer have their stamp duty fully subsidised by the state government unless they buy newly constructed homes.
Hitherto hesitant first-home buyers are set to boost the spring buying season, snapping up established house and units before the January 1 introduction.
The shock measure was unveiled by Treasurer Mike Baird in the Coalition’s first budget in office.
"We recognise this is a difficult decision, but we believe it is necessary to make buying a new house relatively more attractive than buying an existing dwelling for first-home buyers," Baird says.
“The government has therefore decided that from 1 January next year, while all eligible first home buyers will continue to receive the $7,000 first-home owner’s grant, eligibility for additional stamp duty concessions will be limited to those purchasing newly constructed homes, including ‘off the plan’,” the Treasurer says. 
“We will continue to closely monitor housing sector conditions and will work closely with the sector to develop further options to encourage growth.”
Some first-home buyers will lose up to $17,990 exemption. 
The Daily Telegraph’s Andrew Clennell reports that in the budget briefing, Baird predicted the housing market would spike up until January 1 as a result of the change and claimed that after January 1 more much-needed new homes would be built.
First-home benefits of up to $24,990 have been available, including the $7,000 First Home Owner Grant and a duty exemption of up to $17,990 under the First Home Plus Scheme.
The $7,000 first-home buyer grant will continue to be available to all eligible first-home buyers.
Baird says stamp duty concessions need to be directed to stimulate the struggling construction sector.
"With new housing at historically weak levels, and a weak fiscal position, we need to target our assistance to home buyers to where it is most needed in the economy," he says.
The revised First Home Plus and First Home Plus One schemes will provide full transfer duty exemptions for eligible first-home buyers purchasing a newly built home costing up to $500,000 and partial transfer duty exemptions for homes costing between $500,000 and $600,000.
Baird's first budget, released today, was a mix of cuts and new spending, with a $718 million budget deficit forecast for 2011-12, although the bottom line is a return to surplus in the next three years through savings measures.
The Urban Taskforce has welcomed the NSW government’s decision to limit first-home buyers’ stamp duty concessions to newly built homes.
The Taskforce’s chief executive, Aaron Gadiel, says the $1 billion revenue measure is a sensible step that would help boost NSW’s supply of new housing.
“This reform will remove the current scheme’s inflationary impact on home prices, and will make more housing available to more people,” Gadiel says.
“This is good public policy.”
Gadiel says the existing first-home buyers’ stamp duty concessions have been poorly targeted for far too long.
“NSW’s housing supply has been heavily constrained by the planning system and high development levies,” he says.
“By tying stamp duty concessions exclusively to new housing, the inflationary impact on existing housing will be removed, and brand-new homes will be more attractive to home buyers.”
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/nsw-first-home-scheme-won-t-help-600000-plus-new-home-buyers/2011090651443" target="_blank" title="Urban Taskforce">The Urban Taskforce has criticised the government for the low thresholds for the first-home buyer grant concession. </a>
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

NSW to scrap full first-home stamp duty concessions for existing homes from 2012

<html><body>
Western Australian property developer Warren Anderson has gained a reprieve until November 15 in his proceedings to overturn his recent bankruptcy.
Anderson was represented at yesterday’s Federal Court Perth hearing by lawyer Neil Gentilli, who said he had been hampered in getting instructions from his Sydney client given Anderson's fax machine wasn’t working, so legal documents were being sent by post.
Anderson is arguing the June bankruptcy was based on an "invalid personal guarantee" to Perth businessman Warren Sizer. Other creditors attended the court proceedings, according to the Australian Financial Review.
“The applicant (Warren Anderson) file and serve an outline of contentions of law and fact by October 24,” Federal Magistrate Toni Lucev ordered.
“The respondent (Warren Sizer) file and serve an outline of contentions of law and fact by October 31,” he further ordered.
Anderson is also seeking to avoid or delay eviction from his sprawling Fern Hill estate on the outskirts of Sydney, where he says he is a $479,000 a year tenant.
The outcome of the bankruptcy hearing could determine how long he can remain at the western Sydney Mulgoa colonial estate (pictured), which is currently listed for sale by receivers of the Anderson family trust through Colliers International. It had $50 million plus hopes on its listing earlier this year.
Anderson was once on the BRW Rich List, with an estimated $190 million net worth.
</body></html>

Fax of the case gives Warren Anderson reprieve

<html><body>
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/september6schofield]}
Arts guru Leo Schofield has listed the antique contents of his early colonial Tasmanian sandstone residence, Dysart House, for October sale.
The listing suggests the property itself is nearing exchange, having been marketed since late 2010 through Charlotte Peterswald agent Brian Watchorn. While it is presumed it will remain a private residence, Dysart House has been marketed as suited for adaption to boutique accommodation, restaurant, or even as cooking school, the state’s current big thing.
Its stables could be also be used as an antique centre.
Located about 40 minutes from Hobart, it represents the best of listings in Tasmania.
The 1842 residence comes with a music room, billiard room, commercial kitchen and 10 bedrooms and has been Schofield's base since he departed Bronte House.
Dysart House’s past owners include Sydneysiders Paul and Yvonne Maule, along with actor Reg Livermore.
The former coaching inn stands on six hectares in the historic village of Kempton, where its first occupant, ex-convict embezzler-turned-innkeeper William Ellis, is buried in the nearby cemetery.
Designed in the Greek Revival (Georgian) style, its main facade is breakfront with five bays.
The portico has square and round Tuscan columns, framing the central entrance with four-panel door, fanlight and half sidelights.
Two wings, each with attic spaces, enclose a huge flagged courtyard and caretaker's quarters.
Built in 1842, it was originally named 'The Green Ponds Hotel' and served as an inn, public house and residence until the 1860s.
During the next decade it was used as scholastic establishment for young ladies before reverting to private occupancy.
The grounds come with an 1845 coach house and stables, partially restored.
The contents have been listed for October 23 Mossgreen auction.
Schofield has undertaken an extensive restoration in the past six years.
He has been recently spotted at a heritage listings elsewhere in Tasmania, so appears set to remain on the Apple Isle.
</body></html>

Leo Schofield lists contents of colonial Tasmanian home

<html><body>
Rupert Murdoch’s News International is set to sell its Wapping headquarters in London, the scene of the bitter conflicts during Margaret Thatcher’s 1980s industrial relations reform era, when Murdoch broke the printing unions.
News International has not used the famous Wapping printing presses since 2008, when it moved printing operations to Hertfordshire, but it had planned that journalists and other staff working for its titles would return to the east London site after a major refurbishment.
Management has now decided to keep News International staff working in offices elsewhere in the area and to abandon plans to house its UK operations under one roof at the six-hectare site.
The Murdoch-owned Wall Street Journal reported the company had originally planned to redevelop the Wapping site but said that "in light of current market conditions, News International has decided not to proceed with re-modelling the site".
News International took out a 10-year lease on offices at Thomas More Square in 2009, and has taken extra space in the past year.
Wapping will now be put on the market for £150 million. It was almost sold in 2008 just before the property market crashed for £200 million.
Last night, Rupert Murdoch’s son James, who heads News Corporations in the UK, said: “Wapping is not only important as a physical site, but also it is a symbol of how bold individuals, working together, can advance the world of media and thereby contribute to life in Britain.”
Rupert Murdoch, encouraged by Conservative Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, built modern printing presses in Wapping before moving all of his operation from Fleet Street in one move in 1986.
Some 5,000 printers in Fleet Street were sacked and replaced by 400 with nightly battles between police and pickets at Wapping who failed to stop lorries distributing newspapers.
</body></html>

Murdoch set to sell infamous Wapping headquarters

<html><body>
Despite some increased optimism, New Zealand property investors remain cautious, preferring to focus on consolidation rather than accumulation, according to the latest ANZ Property Investment Survey.
The survey reveals that most investors now intend to hold onto their properties for the longer term, with fewer looking to purchase more property.
Government regulations and tax changes rank as the biggest risks for 26 % of investors, double the 2010 results.
Investors were less concerned about other risks such as tenants defaulting on payments, properties remaining vacant, and property prices falling.
ANZ New Zealand general manager specialist distribution Craig Moffat says NZ property investors are showing realistic expectations in both price increases and anticipating modest rent rises.
"This suggests investors understand that the dynamics of property investing have changed.
“They are wisely managing their portfolio as a business, focusing more on achieving positive cash flow and managing risk, rather than capital gains."
The survey is against the backdrop of data showing the July NZ national median house price fell by 4.2% to $345,000 continuing the trend of hovering between $340,000 and $365,000 each month since June 2009.
The survey of NZ property investors, run in conjunction with the NZ Property Investors' Federation, received 1,800 responses.
Investors are expecting modest increases to property prices – about 2.5% over the next 12 months, and 6% to 10% over the next five years.
It sits as slightly more optimistic than last year, with 71% expecting an increase in 2011, compared with 59% in 2010.
Some 80% of investors were expecting rents to increase over the next 12 months, with an average expectation of up to 5%.
The NZ Property Investors' Federation President Andrew King said the prospect of higher rentals was a natural expectation among many investors.
"Rental prices have not kept pace with general inflation or the price of properties, so when combined with tax changes, rental increases are overdue in many cases."
The survey indicated about 40% of investors had examined their insurance cover as a result of the Canterbury earthquakes.
It indicated most continue to own the majority of their investment properties in the same region that they live.
Last year ANZ senior economist Khoon Goh noted that past NZ house price cycles had seen a downturn last for an average of 16 quarters or four years.
“This current cycle is only eight quarters long,” he advised last March.
“Given that it is coming off the biggest and longest housing boom since the 1970s, lasting 24 quarters and resulting in a 90% rise in real house prices, it would be remarkable that we can embark on a new housing market upswing from here.”
New Zealand house prices hit their peak in 2007, according to the Productivity Commission's investigation into home affordability. House prices rose 180% in real terms relative to 1990 levels through to 2007, with the largest price increases exceeding 200% in real terms and concentrated in major urban centres and holiday locations, and exceeded only by Australia, the commission report noted.
“Since the global financial crisis nominal house prices have fallen around 5%.
“House prices had risen from an average of around two and a half times personal income to five times between 1990 and 2007,” it noted.
</body></html>

New Zealand property investors remain cautious

<html><body>
The Poms might be coming! Monthly visits to the overseas section of the top UK property portal rightmove.co.uk have passed the 2 million searches mark for the first time.
Rightmove Overseas says that 52% of its international destinations had an increase in searches during July. Victorian and South Australian properties on the website both recorded jumps in viewing. The NSW and Queensland listings fell in viewing popularity, although the viewing numbers are higher than Victoria and South Australia.
The greatest increase in searches occurred for British Columbia in Canada, with a rise of 64% month-on-month. The big winner was France, with three different regions receiving 40% more searches than in June.
Some of the biggest falls occurred for four Portuguese regions, with Costa Verde losing 23 places and dropping to 136th place on the website’s charts.
“The British appetite for property abroad shows no sign of slowing down as over 2 million searches were performed on Rightmove for overseas property in July, a record number for the site,” rightmove.co.uk says.
“Even in this economic climate, and maybe because of it, Brits are still chasing the overseas dream,” Shameem Golamy, head of overseas at Rightmove, suggests.
On average, Rightmove Overseas receives 80,000 unique visitors a week and generates more than $1.7 million overseas property searches a month for advertisers.
August is a historically strong month for search activity on Rightmove Overseas as British buyers return from their summer holidays abroad with dreams of capturing the experience by owning property where they were staying.
Top 10 Climbers and Fallers this month (areas with &gt; 100 searches a day)
<table style="width: 400px;" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Top 10 Climbers
</td>
<td>
% Change Searches
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap></td>
<td>
Top 10 Fallers
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
British Columbia, Canada
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
89.06%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap>
 
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Costa Verde, Portugal
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Ontario, Canada
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
87.89%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap>
 
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Punjab, India
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Los Angeles County, United States of America
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
55.96%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap>
 
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
New South Wales, Australia
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Aude, France
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
52.41%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap>
 
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Silver Coast (Costa de Prata), Portugal
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Calvados, France
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
52.02%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap>
 
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Sardegna, Italy
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
South Australia, Australia
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
49.93%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap>
 
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Lisboa, Portugal
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Herault, France
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
47.10%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap>
 
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Sicilia, Italy
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Berlin, Germany
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
45.90%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap>
 
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Piemonte, Italy
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Black Sea North, Bulgaria
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
43.50%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap>
 
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Queensland, Australia
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Victoria, Australia
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
42.40%
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap>
 
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap>
Lisbon and Lisbon Coast, Portugal
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</body></html>

Pommy sun-seekers look to put down roots in Australia

<html><body>
The Sydney motor vehicle dealership Damelian Automobile has been placed in receivership just two weeks after being unable to sell its redundant Parramatta Road car yard holdings.
Ferrier Hodgson partners Steve Sherman and Jim Sarantinos have been appointed receivers and managers after the prominent Parramatta Road car dealership was put into receivership today.
It was founded in 1978 by Rick Damelian.
The three redundant offerings were 587-595 Parramatta Road, Petersham, which was passed in on a $2.4 million vendor bid, 680-716 Parramatta Road, Petersham, which was passed in with no bid, and 509-529 Parramatta Road, Leichhardt, which was passed in on a $1.9 million vendor bid when auctioned last month through Knight Frank by auctioneer Damien Cooley. They were listed through Knight Frank agents Nick Saba and Eugene Evgenikos.
Located on Parramatta Road, the offerings consisted of a showroom, office and workshop on sites totalling about 4,700 square metres.
It was offered with vacant possession at its August 25 Knight Frank auction.
The appointment of receivers came after an extended period of support by the creditor, who is owed about $80 million by the car dealership. During this time, the Damelian group had been working towards a possible restructure and reduction of its debt.
Steve Sherman says the receivers will engage with the manufacturers of cars sold by the group, including Honda, Suzuki, Renault, Citroen, Fiat and Alfa. The Skoda dealership is not subject to the receivership.
Sherman says the servicing of vehicles has been suspended until further notice.
</body></html>

Sydney Damelian car dealership in receivership two weeks after failing to sell

<html><body>
<img src="/images/stories/billabong1.jpg">
Billabong Station, the 1,875-hectare Eurongilly Valley cropping and pastoral property, has been listed for October 13 auction.
It is in Nangus, 50 kilometres from Wagga Wagga.
The property, which is 90% arable, has a diversified production including cattle breeding, fat lamb production and soft commodities including cereals, lupins and canola.
“It is arguably one of the best developed agricultural holdings in the region,” its listing agent Chris Meares of Meares &amp; Associates says. It has been listed in conjunction with Bill Schulz at Landmark Harcourts Wagga Wagga.
<img src="/images/stories/billabong4.jpg">
It has been listed by the Sydney lawyer and property group director David Baffsky. Billabong has been his family's farming enterprise for 31 years.
The Eastern Riverina property had been in the Beveridge family for 76 years. The Beveridge family had strong links to the Country Women's Association.
It’s been Baffsky’s sole rural holding since 1997, when he sold the 892-hectare Oura Station, east of Wagga Wagga, to American billionaire Barbara Cox-Anthony for $2.5 million. Cox-Anthony owned several other nearby properties.
The listing suggests a change in emphasis for Baffsky and his wife, Helen, who spent $6 million late last year on Runnymede, an 18-hectare property at Glenquarry in the NSW Southern Highlands through Bowral agent Drew Lindsay.
<img src="/images/stories/billabong2.jpg">
The property, with Billabong Creek frontage, comes with a five-bedroom homestead plus additional houses. The homestead was renovated in 1979 and extended in 2007 with additional accommodation.
It has a six-stand woolshed, four sets of sheep yards, and two sets of cattle yards.
<img src="/images/stories/billabong3.jpg">
Its highly developed agricultural productions comprises a mix of established perennial and annual pastures prescribed by agronomist Mark Lucas. Traditionally 800 hectares of cereal and dual-purpose crops are sown annually, with up to 1,400 hectares in some years. The standing crops are to be given in with the sale.
</body></html>

Billabong Station at Wagga Wagga listed for October auction

<html><body>
Estate agent John McGrath expects the recent economic events that have caused a heightened level of uncertainty will prove problematic for high-end property during the spring quarter.
However he expects most markets are at the beginning of a long-term growth cycle.
“Currently the market appears to be taking a breather,” McGrath says.
“A pause in any growth cycle should always be considered a positive. People are very conscious about debt and are acting cautiously, demand is greatest for the most affordable properties sub -$750,000.
“They are experiencing great buying opportunities,” he says.
McGrath, who has been selling real estate since the early 1980s, says affordability was a key issue for buyers in his spring review.
He notes there have been “green shoots” in increased property demand in many regional areas.
“Some of the hardest-hit markets such as Bowral, Ballina and the Gold Coast are receiving more new buyer enquiry than they have for several years – a good sign that smart buyers are picking the bottom.
“Buyers continue to look for value, however they are now starting to purchase when they see it.
“The backlog of buyers is starting to create activity in markets such as Bowral where demand has increased noticeably over the last quarter, where our office reports significant new interest from Sydney investors seeking long term capital growth,” McGrath says.
“Newcastle has become a popular regional market as it undergoes a fundamental change from its working class heritage to a fast growth business community with young Sydney families realising the lifestyle and better value for money in Newcastle, as a very appealing sea change.
“Another strengthening market is the Blue Mountains, where 70% of our buyers are coming from Sydney or outside the locality,” he says.
“The main Blue Mountain buyers are downsizing empty-nesters and young couples from Sydney seeking excellent value with strong prospects for capital gains.”
McGrath notes with people less confident about taking on large amounts of debt, his offices are finding higher competition on the more affordable homes.
“Buyer demand, although weaker across the board, still outweighs the lessening supply. Upgraders and investors are still active.”
His agencies have noticed an increasing number of young people choosing to buy an investment property ahead of their first home.
“People still want to enter the market and if they can’t afford it, they will stay at home longer, save for a bigger deposit, or buy with family or friends.”
He says strong rents were driving investor demand.
“Many more people are using self-managed super funds to buy property – latest tax office figures show a 13% increase in property investment via SMSFs over the past year.”
In July the McGrath Estate Agents group reported the sale of 5,993 properties over the financial year that yielded $5.7 billion in transactions.
The three-state McGrath group tally eclipsed the previous financial year, when 5,095 properties were sold for a $5 billion tally.
The agency had opened four new offices to bring the company’s tally to 39.
Its average sale price eased from $981,000 to $951,000 between the two financial years.
“Property remains an excellent asset class for long term investment and definitely offers more stability than the volatile share market,” McGrath says.
“Once confidence returns Australia will be in good shape.
“Buyers have been concerned about interest rates moving upwards and we really need to see a rate reduction that puts the steep rises of the past 18 months behind us,” McGrath adds.
John McGrath’s Top Regional Picks
<ul>
<li>
Balgownie </li>
<li>
Broadbeach Waters (Gold Coast) </li>
<li>Burleigh</li>
<li>Waters Caves Beach </li>
<li>Ettalong </li>
<li>Hamilton </li>
<li>Katoomba </li>
<li>
Kingston (ACT)</li>
<li> Lennox Head
</li>
<li> Town Beach</li>
</ul>
John McGrath’s Top Metro Suburb Picks (Houses)
<ul>
<li>Abbotsford </li>
<li>Breakfast Point </li>
<li><a target="_blank" title="Frenchs Forest" href="/news">Frenchs Forest </a></li>
<li>
<a target="_blank" title="Freshwater" href="/news">Freshwater</a> </li>
<li>
<a target="_blank" title="Haberfield" href="/news">Haberfield</a> </li>
<li><a target="_blank" title="Northbridge" href="/news">Northbridge </a></li>
<li>
<a target="_blank" title="Palm Beach" href="/news">Palm Beach</a> </li>
<li><a target="_blank" title="Queenscliff" href="/news">Queenscliff </a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" title="Seaforth" href="/news">Seaforth </a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" title="Sylvania Waters" href="/news">Sylvania Waters</a></li>
</ul>
John McGrath’s Top Metro Suburb Picks (Units)
<ul>
<li><a target="_blank" title="Bronte" href="/news">Bronte </a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" title="Cremorne Point" href="/news">Cremorne Point </a></li>
<li>Dawes Point </li>
<li><a target="_blank" title="Earlwood" href="/news">Earlwood </a></li>
<li>
<a target="_blank" title="Kensington" href="/news">Kensington</a> </li>
<li><a target="_blank" title="Newtown" href="/news">Newtown </a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" title="Parramatta" href="/news">North Parramatta </a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" title="Pyrmont" href="/news">Pyrmont </a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" href="/news">Sans Souci </a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" title="Wollstonecraft" href="/news">Wollstonecraft</a></li>
</ul>
</body></html>

John McGrath says property market 'breather' the start of long-term growth

<html><body>
Canberra is within cooee of again matching Sydney’s median house price. 
Its $490,000 dwelling median price is within 2% or $10,000 of Sydney’s $500,000 median, according to the latest RP Data-Rismark index.
The gap for houses is $12,625, with Sydney’s house median at $561,625 and Canberra’s house median at $549,000.
Canberra houses were up 3.8% over the year to July, with Sydney house values easing 0.6%.
The gap for units is slightly wider at $38,500 with Sydney’s unit median at $458,500 and Canberra’s unit median at $420,000.
Sydney unit values were up 2.5% over the year to July but Canberra’s median unit value eased 5.9%.
RP Data national research director Tim Lawless  says the gap between Sydney and Canberra median dwelling prices was on a consistent narrowing trend between June 2000 and January 2009.
<img src="/images/stories/canberrachart.jpg">
“During this time the price gap narrowed from a peak of about 60% in June 2000 to January 2009 when the median prices were equal to each other.
“Since that time median prices across the two cities have remained fairly level,” Lawless notes.
Lawless says the reasons are likely to be varied.
“Household incomes in Canberra are some of the highest in the nation, rental rates are also quite high.
“In July the average house rent was $524 a week compared with Sydney’s $549 a week, which encourages more people to own.
“And land supply remains very tight which is another driver of higher home prices,” Lawless notes.
Canberra’s average equivalised disposable weekly household income was put at $1,101 in ABS data released last week, which was 30% above the national average.
Sydney’s was just 1% above the national $848 weekly average.
Picture courtesy of Australian Capital Tourism
</body></html>

Canberra closing in on Sydney median prices

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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

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

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News