The design of apartments has never been so high on an apartment buyer&#39;s shortlist.

Developers are more conscious of the fact, and are appointing the best architecture practices and interior design firms to make sure their development stands out from the rest.

Urban spotted two of the most stand out projects South East of Melbourne.

<h2>1. The Inc</h2>

Address: 554-556 Inkerman Road, Caulfield North VIC 3161

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95292 project_image_fid=159008]

The Inc is Melbourne-based developer Platinum&rsquo;s latest offering in Melbourne&rsquo;s south-east, delivered in collaboration with Red Collective.

Situated at 554-556 Inkerman Road, the home offers 19 luxury residences in two and three-bedroom configurations at a premium address.

Situated in a premium Melbourne suburb,&nbsp;Caulfield North, The Inc is set amongst quiet tree-lined streets and rich cultural experiences.

Deeply considered, The Inc effortlessly integrates with the surrounding suburb and community with refined architecture and organic textures.

Designed by South Melbourne-based architects, Ewert Leaf, the premium development forms to make a textural masterpiece of architecture and amenity

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95292 project_image_fid=159004]

Generous open-plan layouts offer expansive indoor and outdoor living and dining areas, ideal for entertaining.

&ldquo;Each residence features floor-to-ceiling windows, integrated joinery, vast floorplans and oversized private terraces&rdquo;, said interior designer Doris Rocca.

Featuring exquisite landscaping by&nbsp;John Patrick&nbsp;Landscape Architects, these luxury apartments perfectly assimilate into quiet yet character-filled Inkerman Road

Two-bedroom apartments in the complex begin from $945,000, while three-bedroom apartments start from $1,295,000.

<h2>2. Hurstmon</h2>

Address: 3 Hurstmon Street, Malvern East VIC 3145

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4807 project_image_fid=84184]

Hurstmon is the latest offering from Landream, transforming Melbourne&rsquo;s south-eastern suburb of&nbsp;Malvern East.

Situated at 3 Hurstmon Street, the residences form an eye-catching landmark while complementing the rich history of the suburb.

Designed by Telha Clarke, each residence includes double-glazing, ducted heating and a butler&rsquo;s pantry, with floorplans responsive to changes and requests from homebuyers.

Handcrafted lighting by Richmond-based studio Articolo also features in the project&rsquo;s foyer.

Hurstmon has a &ldquo;hidden-gem quality&rdquo;, according to architect Tim Clarke &ndash; a quality that extends into each residence and its layered textures.

Residents looking to secure a home in the development can <a href="/news/vic/design-brief-design-scheme-options-for-hurstmon-malvern-east-apartment-buyers" target="_blank">choose from two design schemes curated by the architects</a>.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4807 project_image_fid=84185]

Bordered by a commercial building on one side and two-storey brick homes to the other, Hurstmon delivers a restrained design to transition the two with minimal features but warm textures.

Two-bedroom apartments in the project start from $795,000 while three-bedroom apartments begin at $1,599,500.

The project is estimated for completion in early 2022. Hopeful buyers can secure floorplans and information from an agent today.

When seeking the best South-East Melbourne has to offer in luxury developments there are many factors to consider, one of the largest is architecture

jordan_55689

Architecture on show at two of South-East Melbourne's latest apartment developments

Stockland&rsquo;s new townhome development, Haven, is a combination of sustainable features and open spaces in Melbourne&rsquo;s Altona North.

Situated in the city&rsquo;s inner-west, the project boasts a collection of two, three and four-bedroom townhomes designed by the award-winning SJB Architects.

The townhomes at Haven will be nestled around a future park &amp; playground, and residents will also be able to enjoy the abundance of local cycling trails, parklands and reserves in&nbsp;Altona North.

Enticing locals and visitors alike,&nbsp;Altona North&nbsp;offers a number&nbsp;of local shops and retailers, school and education options, medical centres, job opportunities and recreational activities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29947 project_image_fid=93188]

Residents can enjoy an active lifestyle at the nearby public pool, the badminton centre, the indoor climbing gym or the golf course nearby, while cycle paths, walkways and parks connect the community to neighbouring suburbs

Since Haven truly puts convenience first Urban took a look at our 10 favorite amenities located nearby:

<ol>
	<li>Bayfit Leisure Centre - An Aquatics Centre with a Gym and Cafe</li>
	<li>Altona Badminton Centre - Badminton Centre</li>
	<li>Clip &lsquo;n Climb Williamstown - Indoor Climbing Gym</li>
	<li>Altona Lakes Golf Course - Golf Course</li>
	<li>Altona Miniature Railway - Attraction and Ride</li>
	<li>ScienceWorkd - Science Museum</li>
	<li>Pavey Reserve - Playground and Park</li>
	<li>Kids in Motion - Gymnastics Club</li>
	<li>Kooroit Creek Reserve - Walking Tracks and Parkland</li>
	<li>McNish &#39;Dinosaur Park&#39; Reserve - Parks, Cycling Paths and Playgrounds</li>
</ol>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29947 project_image_fid=93918]

Each residence features expansive, open-plan interiors, a contemporary material palette and outdoor entertainment areas, including private back yards and shared green space.

Located only 11km from the CBD and with a number of transport options, proximity from Haven to the West Gate Bridge and future tunnel is a real asset.

Two-bedroom townhomes within the development begin from just $605,000, while four-bedroom townhomes sell from $815,000. Three bedders start at&nbsp;$742,000.

Situated in the city’s inner-west, the project boasts a collection of two, three and four-bedroom townhomes designed by the award-winning SJB Architects

The top 10 amenities minutes from Stockland's Haven in Altona North

Nestled amongst verdant parklands, you&rsquo;ll find the tranquil Pavilions Residences, an exciting, newly completed development by one of Australia&rsquo;s leading developers, Mirvac.

Situated in the heart of Greater Sydney&#39;s sporting district, Pavilions by Mirvac offers residents a vibrant lifestyle, with world-class amenities, eateries and transport on their doorstep.&nbsp;

A selection of one, two and three bedroom apartments, terrace homes and Sky Homes are currently available for sale.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7363 project_image_fid=89973]

Urban has shortlisted five reasons why buyer&rsquo;s should consider an apartment in Pavilions.

<h2>1. Developed by Mirvac and BVN Architects</h2>

Mirvac is one of Australia&rsquo;s leading developers with many of their projects designed by their in-house design team.

With currently $24 billion of assets under management in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth, Mirvac has a solid record of continually delivering a quality product.

BVN, whose HQ is in Sydney, has an international footprint and global reputation for design leadership and innovation, with offices as far as New York. The firm has won more Sir John Sulman Medals than any other Australian practice.

<h2>2. Designed by BVN Architects</h2>

Mirvac&#39;s in house design team worked with the internationally renowned BVN Architecture on Pavilions. BVN has a global reputation for design 
 
leadership and innovation, with offices as far as New York. The firm has won more Sir John Sulman Medals than any other Australian practice.

They&#39;ve worked on the likes of the Greenland Centre in the Sydney CBD, Brisbane&#39;s Ascot House, in the multi-stage Ascot Green development, and the 430 Pitt Street, a hotel designed with a sloping green waterfall, also in Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7363 project_image_fid=89987]

<h2>3. The apartments</h2>

Touted as Mirvac&#39;s largest-ever single stage residential project, the four-tower project offers a distinct range of 1, 2 &amp; 3 bedroom apartments, terrace homes and Sky Homes.

Each home is light and spacious, with timeless interior design, high-quality appliances and an abundance of storage. All properties have been designed to suit every lifestyle.&nbsp;

<h2>4. The location and amenities</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7363 project_image_fid=41840]

Located within the Sydney Olympic Park precinct, the site is 16 kilometres west of the Sydney CBD and nine kilometres from the Parramatta CBD.&nbsp;

Living in Sydney Olympic Park means having access to public transport amenities like the Sydney Olympic Park station, Australia Avenue bus stop, Concord West Station and a future proposed metro rail which will see a tram reach the city in less than 20 minutes.

As well as being a short stroll to local cafes and restaurant, Pavilions by Mirvac features its own alfresco dining facilities, part of the central 4,500 square metre courtyard which brings residents of all four towers together.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7363 project_image_fid=89977]

Other amenities include a fully equipped on-site gym, a community room and a multifunction space complete with a kitchen.

The shared space has also been designed with families in mind, complete with a dedicated playground.

<h2>5. Sustainable building and design measures</h2>

<a href="/buildings/pavilions-residences-2-figtree-drive-sydney-olympic-park"><img alt="" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/coffee_bag_wall.jpg" /></a> 
Pictured is a feature wall made of recycled coffee bags

In line with Mirvac&rsquo;s sustainability goals and those of its cornerstone investor, the Clean Energy Finance Corporation, LIV Indigo has been designed to achieve 40 per cent less greenhouse gas emissions. Energy and water-saving measures include upgraded glazing to improve thermal performance, LED lighting throughout, energy-efficient appliances, solar power and water efficient taps, toilets, showers and washing machines.

Residents will also have access to electric vehicle charging stations and connection to Sydney Olympic Park&rsquo;s recycled water network. One of the apartments was showcased by Mirvac as part of their efforts for a circular economy.

In collaboration with the University of New South Wales Centre of Sustainable Materials Research and Technology (SMaRT), Mirvac have utilized technology to turn waste materials into &quot;green ceramics&quot;, which were used throughout one of their display&nbsp;apartments. To see Urban&#39;s tour of the apartment, <a href="/news/nsw/mirvac-make-concerted-circular-economy-effort-with-apartment-made-of-waste">click here</a>.

Situated in the heart of Greater Sydney's sporting district, Pavilions by Mirvac offers residents a vibrant lifestyle, with world-class amenities, eateries and transport on their doorstep. 

Five reasons why Mirvac's Pavilions should be on a buyer's shortlist

Josh Frydenberg says he will bring down a &ldquo;pandemic budget&rdquo; on Tuesday, warning that despite Australia&rsquo;s strong recovery, there is &ldquo;still a great deal of uncertainty out there&rdquo;.

The Treasurer points to new strains of the coronavirus, the COVID crisis raging in India, and local lockdowns. &ldquo;We can&rsquo;t take for granted the strong economic recovery we&rsquo;ve seen. We&rsquo;ve got to lock in those gains,&rdquo; he said on Friday, speaking to The Conversation.

In measures on housing, it will increase from $30,000 to $50,000 the maximum amount of voluntary contributions aspiring home buyers can take from the First Home Super Saver Scheme.

This scheme allows people to make voluntary contributions to superannuation to save for their first home.

At present these contributions are capped at $15,000 a year and $30,000 in total.

With the rise in house prices, the current cap on the amount that can be released is a diminishing proportion of the deposit needed.

There will also be another 10,000 places added to the First Home Loan Deposit Scheme, which can only be used for new housing. This means-tested measure allows first home buyers to build a new home or buy a newly-built one with a deposit of as little as 5%.

The budget will have an &ldquo;improved bottom line, particularly in 2021&rdquo;, compared with the earlier forecasts, Frydenberg confirmed.

This will be thanks in large part to a stronger-than-expected labour market as well as high iron ore prices.

The aim of pushing unemployment down below 5% will be a central feature of the budget.

In measures on housing, it will increase from $30,000 to $50,000 the maximum amount of voluntary contributions aspiring home buyers can take from the First Home Super Saver Scheme

Frydenberg promises housing breaks in 2021 budget

Prestige apartments on the Gold Coast are currently flying off the shelves, with downsizers and owner-occupiers keen for a quiet lifestyle by the beach.

The entry level apartments in the idyllic tourist hotspot are the next wave to be snapped up, as investors continue to come back in to the market.

There was a 19&nbsp;per cent rise in of new loan commitments by investors in Queensland in the 12 months to March 2021.

Urban has had a look at the best on offer in Surfers Paradise under $600,000.

1. Chevron One 
Address: 36-44 Stanhill Drive, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217 
One-bedroom apartments from $480,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68834]

Bensons Property Group&rsquo;s Chevron One offers residents holiday-style living year-round, with close to 2000 sqm of resort-style amenities.

Designed by Marchese Partners, the project includes a Club One residents&rsquo; lounge, floating cinema, dining facilities and sculpted gardens.

Chevron One&rsquo;s intuitive design and quality finishes make it easy to love, providing the best in coastal apartment living with 360-degree uninterrupted views never to be built out.

2. <a href="/buildings/serenity-surfers-paradise-14-cannes-avenue-surfers-paradise?utm_source=news_article.project_embed&amp;source_news_article_id=7182&amp;ref=news_body_link?source_news_article_id=100406&amp;ref=news_body_link">Serenity&nbsp;Surfers Paradise</a> 
Address: 14 Cannes Avenue, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217 
Two-bedroom apartments from $589,900

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7182 project_image_fid=28682]

Set over 10 floors, Serenity offers homebuyers the chance to secure a home at one of Australia&#39;s most coveted holiday destinations.

Boasting a selection of one, two and three-bedroom homes, the development provides the excellent opportunity to secure a home in an amenity-rich development with a designated rooftop recreation zone, complete with lounge areas, barbeque facilities, a spa and views spanning Surfers Paradise.

3. <a href="/buildings/ocean">Ocean</a> 
Address: &lrm;84 The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise QLD 4217 
One-bedroom apartments from $425,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7974 project_image_fid=72337]

The&nbsp;Meriton-developed Ocean at Surfers Paradise will soon be the tallest high-rise in the area, standing at 252 metres and 76 levels, therefore there will be a number of the higher apartments which look down on every building in the popular Gold Coast tourist hotspot.

Each of the&nbsp;SJB-designed apartments are&nbsp;complete with floor-to-ceiling windows, made to take full advantage of its iconic beachfront views. Properties are available in a selection of one, two or three-bedroom apartment configurations, with one beds starting from $425,000. Prices over the last six months have ranged from $450,000 to $1.4 million.

<a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld?utm_source=news_article.project_embed&amp;source_news_article_id=100406&amp;ref=news_body_link?"><img alt="" height="739" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-05-13_at_10.54.13_am_0.png" title="Search New Projects on the Gold Coast" width="1112" /></a>

Serving as a hot vacation spot for Australians and international visitors alike, with its breathtaking beach and plethora of nightlife options, Surfers has it all without breaking the bank

Top Surfers Paradise apartments under $600,000

Southport is not only the CBD&nbsp;of the Gold Coast with&nbsp;the city&#39;s largest area of office space but also the central entertainment location of the Gold Coast.

In current times it is set apart from the normal tourist hub of the Gold Coast, however there is still plenty to see.

The Gold Coast&rsquo;s best restaurants, boutiques, and cultural institutions are just a&nbsp;walk away from, choose from an everflowing list of award-winning grocers, cinemas, cafes, malls &amp; eateries.

With so much convenience on offer it isn&#39;t a surprise that&nbsp;Southport has 18&nbsp;high-rise towers&nbsp;either completed, under construction or awaiting commencement.

Urban took a look at three of the best and most affordable on offer:

1.&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/regal-residences-imperial-square-59-73-meron-street-southport">Regal Residences Imperial Square</a> 
Address:59-73 Meron Street, Southport QLD 4215 
One-bedroom apartments from&nbsp;$364,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29350 project_image_fid=154910]

Gold Coast developer Azzura have&nbsp;fast-tracked construction of Regal Residences, the first stage in their $2.3 billion Imperial Square development in Southport.

Also featuring 200 hotel suites, local&nbsp;construction company Descon Group Australia is on the job.

Already around half of the 145 apartments in Regal Residences have sold, with&nbsp;Azzura&#39;s&nbsp;sales director Jason Paris pinning the strong sales on the pent-up demand for new product in the city&rsquo;s CBD hub.

Regal Residences will also include a range of commercial&nbsp;spaces on completion, rooftop bars, and amenities such as rooftop infinity pool, steam room, sauna, gymnasium, spas, zen garden, BBQ and a residents lounge.

Part of the project will be a 108-level tower, set to be one of Australia&#39;s tallest buildings.

2. <a href="/new-apartments/rise-on-minnie-23-minnie-street-southport">Rise on Minnie</a> 
Address: 23 Minnie Street, Southport QLD 4215 
One-bedroom apartments from&nbsp;$339,500

[smartcode_project:default project_id=8233 project_image_fid=140838]

Inside Rise on Minnie, designed by RH Frankland you will find beautiful white walls, stone benchtops and expansive living areas that style to your new apartment.

Whether you&rsquo;re at home with your loved ones or hosting a gathering, the modern interior seamlessly enhances your time spent at home; the perfect blend between beautiful design and function.

Just minutes away from the Gold Coast University Hospital, Griffith University, Gold Coast TAFE and some of the best schools on the Gold Coast including The Southport School and St Hilda&rsquo;s. You&rsquo;ll find all you need right outside your door.

Enjoy your own private rooftop terrace featuring&nbsp;BBQ facilities to entertain family and friends whilst enjoying views of the Surfers Paradise Skyline

3. <a href="/buildings/the-mill-137-eugaree-street-southport">The Mill</a> 
137 Eugaree Street, Southport QLD 4215 
One-bedroom apartments from&nbsp;$485,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7435 project_image_fid=153965]

The Mill presents a collection of 27 spacious apartments, thoughtfully designed to appeal to those who value quality, luxury, space and design.

Developed by PSA Group and designed by BDA Architecture, don&#39;t miss the opportunity to live a life of opulence surrounded by everything you need right at your doorstep.&nbsp;

Inside your new home, you will be greeted with quality at every turn, spacious living that seamlessly connects indoor with your private outdoor garden room.

Expansive bedrooms double as private retreats, elegant bathrooms with refined finishes and fittings and impressive kitchens with stone benchtops, 2-pak joinery and the very best European appliances. Your light-filled apartment is positioned to take in the prevailing breezes and captivating views across the hinterlands and Gold Coast skyline.

Your new home also features lift access, timber flooring, air conditioning and one car space with generous separate storage. The Mill rooftop terrace is truly unlike any other complete with alfresco dining areas and barbeque facilities.

Queen Street Village, a $550 million integrated masterplanned community is already taking shape and once complete will be within walking distance. It will feature an urban village with retail, dining and entertainment, as well as commercial office space, a medical centre and cinema.

The newly developed Southport Broadwater Parklands provides the suburb with a sheltered seaside precinct to rival Brisbane's South Bank

Top Southport apartments for sale under $500,000

As national house prices continue to climb, consumers are not convinced that now is a good time to buy property, according to new research by Finder, Australia&rsquo;s most visited comparison site. &nbsp;

Finder&rsquo;s Property Positivity Index shows that the proportion of Australians who think now is a &ldquo;good time to buy&rdquo; is at its lowest ebb since lockdowns started last year.

As of May 2021, the index is sitting at 49% &ndash; only a few points higher than the pessimistic low of 42% in April 2020.&nbsp;

In December 2020, a record-high number of people (67%) said it was a good time to buy, however this figure has since dropped by 18 points.&nbsp;

Graham Cooke, head of consumer research at Finder, said that Australians&rsquo; property optimism has yoyoed throughout the past 12 months.&nbsp;

&ldquo;As lockdowns rolled out across Australia and open house inspections declined, Finder&rsquo;s Property Positivity Index nosedived only to recover again as the housing market sprang back to life.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Both the rock-bottom cash rate and FOMO have turbo-charged prices but fears of a property bubble are making many Aussies pessimistic that now is the time to buy,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29048 project_image_fid=151677]

Property positivity toward prices spikes

Despite fewer people thinking now is a good time to buy, approximately 74% feel that property prices in their area will continue to rise over the next 12 months &ndash; up from a low of 24% in April 2020.&nbsp;

When asked about whether prospective first-time buyers with a deposit saved may miss an affordability window if they do not purchase within the next year, Finder&rsquo;s RBA panelists were divided.&nbsp;

In total, 9 experts said they would miss out (64%), while the remaining 7 (36%) said they wouldn&rsquo;t.

Dale Gillham, stock market analyst from Wealth Within said buyers would not be missing a window.

&ldquo;This situation has been talked about since Adam was a boy and it will continue to be into the future. I have never seen a time when we thought property was cheap for anyone let alone first-time buyers,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;

Rebecca Cassells of Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre said buyers may miss a window if they don&rsquo;t buy.

&ldquo;Increased house prices driven by significant stimulus and low interest rate environment has the potential to lock out future first home buyers by making it even harder to come up with the deposit needed to enter the market.&rdquo;

Cooke said that window of opportunity or not, there&rsquo;s been a significant turnaround in property price expectations over the past year.&nbsp;

&ldquo;The last 6 months resulted in the largest amount borrowed to buy housing in any 6-month period in Australian history. The property market really is surging back into life,&rdquo; Cooke said.&nbsp;

Finder’s Property Positivity Index shows that the proportion of Australians who think now is a “good time to buy” is at its lowest ebb since lockdowns started last year.

Consumers increasingly unconvinced to buy property: Finder Survey

EXPERT INSIGHT

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg calls this a &ldquo;pandemic budget&rdquo; &ndash; one to sustain the economy in times that are still uncertain &ndash; but it also has a substantial element of an election budget.

That&rsquo;s not to suggest Prime Minister Scott Morrison will rush to the polls this year. But given the election has to be held by May 21, 2022, this is likely to be the last budget of the cycle. Another could be squeezed in, as in 2019, but it would have to be brought forward from the normal time.

Last year the treasurer said budget repair and debt repayment &ndash; otherwise known as the hard and unpleasant decisions &ndash; wouldn&rsquo;t be undertaken before unemployment was &ldquo;comfortably&rdquo; below 6%.

Now unemployment is 5.6% (the March figure) but Frydenberg has shifted the goal posts, so the emphasis remains on recovery, with more difficult reckonings a way off &ndash; beyond the election.

Given a grim COVID picture internationally and a long way to go with the vaccine program locally, that is sound &ndash; and also politically convenient.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89720 project_image_fid=147505]

In this budget, the government&rsquo;s policy approach is firmly aligned with that of the Reserve Bank, with Frydenberg embracing the bank&rsquo;s objective of pushing unemployment well below pre-pandemic levels, which means to a rate with a 4 in front of it.

Two central spending areas in the budget have been, in effect, imposed on the government.

It had to respond to the damning findings of the aged care royal commission. The fact most Australian COVID deaths occurred in aged care underlined how unfit for purpose the system is. Frydenberg told the ABC there will be more than $10 billion spending on aged care over the forward estimates.

The budget&rsquo;s &ldquo;women&rsquo;s&rdquo; focus &mdash; a sharp contrast to last year &mdash; has drivers that go beyond the urgent need to do more to combat violence against women, and other imperatives.

Morrison&rsquo;s &ldquo;women problem&rdquo;, which exploded with the demonstrations following the high-profile allegations of rape, most obviously increased the attention on women in this budget, which will include a women&rsquo;s statement with initiatives on health, safety, and economic security.

Also, Labor&rsquo;s decision to make childcare one of its main policy pitches, promising a big spend, reinforced economic considerations pushing the government to produce its own childcare policy (which doesn&rsquo;t start until July 2022).

Even in the middle of the pandemic last year, few would have thought that by now we&rsquo;d still have no firm idea when our international borders will re-open.

Morrison is cautious about it, and judges that&rsquo;s in line with the thinking of the Australians public at the moment. He can read those state electoral results as well as anyone &mdash; he knows people put health safety above all else.

&ldquo;International borders will only open when it is safe to do so&rdquo;, he said on Facebook at the weekend. &ldquo;Australians are living like in few countries around the world today.&rdquo;

On the other hand, the pressure for students to come, migration to resume and people to be allowed to travel must build sooner or later.

The budget&rsquo;s assumptions will put the reopening in 2022, Frydenberg told the ABC at the weekend

Economist Saul Eslake says while keeping the country closed to the outside world is obviously not sustainable in the long run, it has, in a perverse way, some short run plusses for the government&rsquo;s economic objectives.

&ldquo;It&rsquo;s very easy to get unemployment down when the border is closed. You only need to create 5000 new jobs a month to prevent unemployment rising.

&quot;Previously [with migrants coming] you needed 16,000 new jobs a month. Currently we&rsquo;re creating 60,000 a month,&rdquo; Eslake says.

Migrants stimulate growth. But so does having Australians unable to travel overseas, Eslake says. They can only spend domestically &ndash; or save &ndash; the $55 billion they would normally be spending abroad. They appear to be spending quite a deal of it on things like home equipment, furnishings, renovations, cars, and even clothing.

While fiscal repair is formally delayed, the budget will show it is gradually, to a degree, repairing itself.

The quicker-than-expected bounce back of the labour market, which reduces welfare costs and boosts tax revenue, and the similar rebound in corporate profits, help the bottom line. Frydenberg says that, despite JobKeeper coming to an end, 105,000 people came off income support in April. High iron ore prices are also a godsend to revenue.

Chris Richardson, from Deloitte Access Economics, has forecast a deficit for this financial year of about $167 billion, compared with the December budget update figure of $198 billion. For 2021-22 , the Deloitte forecast is a deficit of about $87 billion compared with the update&rsquo;s forecast of $108 billion.

Still, a balanced budget will be some years off, Richardson says.

He gives four reasons: substantial structural spending on aged care, mental health, childcare, disability and the like; low wage and price inflation (inflation helps budgets); missing migrants; and interest payments on debt (helped by low interest rates but still significant).

On what we know, the budget will be safe rather than adventurous. And while budgets can always unexpectedly trip over their own feet, and inevitably have plenty of critics, this will be the sort of benign one that doesn&rsquo;t go out of its way to hurt or offend voters.<img alt="The Conversation" height="1" hub="" o3us6t2oy="" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/160594/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" width="1" />

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/michelle-grattan-20316">Michelle Grattan</a>, Professorial Fellow, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-canberra-865">University of Canberra</a>

This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-a-budget-for-a-pandemic-with-next-years-election-in-mind-160594">original article</a>.

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg calls this a “pandemic budget” – one to sustain the economy in times that are still uncertain – but it also has a substantial element of an election budget

A budget for a pandemic, with next year's election in mind

Genteel East Melbourne is marked by stately Victorian terraces, art deco buildings and parks with Spring Street offering European-style cafes and glitzy musicals at the opulent Princess Theatre.

While Melbourne&#39;s northern suburbs are&nbsp;renowned for maintaining a strong sense of community, with the key to Melbourne north&#39;s lasting appeal being&nbsp;the combination of a&nbsp;laid-back village feel and utmost convenience.

Together they combine iconic locations while ideally placed to take advantage of both the&nbsp;city just a short commute away as well as more local secrets.

Urban checked out four&nbsp;of the hottest developments to consider when&nbsp;looking to buy&nbsp;in Melbourne&#39;s North-East.

1. <a href="/buildings/valia-residences-ivanhoe">Valia, Ivanhoe</a>

Two-bedroom apartments&nbsp;start&nbsp;from $869,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4432 project_image_fid=55251]

Valia&nbsp;is a new residential offering in Melbourne&rsquo;s Ivanhoe, boasting an exclusive collection of 14 luxury residences.

Developed by Prestige Ivanhoe, the two and three-bedroom offerings are set over five floors on the tightly-held&nbsp;Upper Heidelberg Road.

Blending into the leafy suburb,&nbsp;Valia&nbsp;delivers a soft concrete and glass exterior, as well as&nbsp;verdant&nbsp;wrap-around balconies incorporating overhanging plants.

Designed by WMK, the expansive garden terraces provide space for entertaining friends and family with views over the green streetscapes of Melbourne&rsquo;s north-east.

The interiors of the residences are designed by&nbsp;SJB&nbsp;Interiors in collaboration with IDLE Architecture Studio

2. 15 Herlihys Road, Templestowe Lower

Four-bedroom townhomes start&nbsp;from $1,099,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25382 project_image_fid=154166]

Located in one of Melbournes best green suburbs&nbsp;and developed by Unison Residential every residence in the 14 townhome development has&nbsp;been designed with low maintenance objectives in mind

ESD features of the 6-star green energy rating development&nbsp;include but are not limited to, LED downlights, quality water-saving fixtures and solar hot water.

All homes are north to south positioned, providing beautiful direct sunlight. With generous private open space and carefully-designed floorplans, enjoy a seamless flow of internal and external living, air, and light.

3. <a href="/new-apartments/trilogy-place-360-mcdonalds-road-south-morang">Trilogy Place, South Morang</a>

Three-bedroom townhomes starting from $507,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29388 project_image_fid=95085]

Delivered by&nbsp;Gibson Property Corporation, Trilogy Place features range from&nbsp;stunning parkland views to solar power integration, with options to add a 10kWh battery storage system and 5kW solar panel array.

The 6 star green townhouse development was constructed in collaboration with Village Building.

Situated just 25 kilometres from Melbourne&#39;s CBD, residents can be in the city in minutes, or enjoy the local convenience of the Whittlesea area.&nbsp;

Trilogy Place is within walking distance to Westfield Plenty Valley, Pipetrack Park, Plenty Gorge Parklands, Morang South Primary School, Mill Park Secondary College, Marymede and Parade Catholic Colleges, RMIT, La Trobe University, local supermarkets, and great public transport options.

4. Olea Mason Point, Mill Park&nbsp;

Three-bedroom townhomes starting from $1,096,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26539]

Olea is located in Mill Park, one of Victoria&#39;s fastest-growing suburbs within the new Mason Point community. The residences are adjoined by vast reserves and parklands, nestled in a safe and lush botanic community combining amenities and effortless connectivity.

Mason Point is a mixed-use development located in Melbourne&rsquo;s north in the heart of the South Morang Activity Centre &ndash; situated on the corner of Plenty Road and Bush Boulevard.

The master planned community&nbsp;will be home to 400 residents, 1500 employees and is set to become a thriving part of the South Morang Activity Centre.&nbsp;

This development is truly reshaping Melbourne&#39;s affordable luxury residential future, with Olea being the first 6-level building in&nbsp;the Mason Point development.&nbsp;

Olea has also sold off large retail tenancies, meaning purchasers will have a range of lifestyle, retail and eateries available at their doorsteps.

Genteel East Melbourne is marked by stately Victorian terraces, art deco buildings and parks



Top developments for sale in Melbourne's north-east

Doncaster&nbsp;is a great suburb, with fantastic location to both the city and beautiful leafy green north eastern suburbs.

A great investment area as there is plenty of room for growth, and public transport will continue to improve as population demands it.

Friendly, safe and with great dining and shopping options, the suburb&nbsp;locally known as &quot;Donny&quot;, just as its namesake in Great Britain, is situated around the top of the 120 m high Doncaster Hill.&nbsp;

The suburb is very hilly and due to its location it has panoramic views in every direction with the view to the west through the city stretching out to Bacchus Marsh on a clear day and the Macedon Ranges, to the north the Kinglake Ranges, to the east the Dandenong and Healesville ranges and south across the eastern suburbs to Glen Waverley/Mt Waverley.

A small bonus is the fact that summers are slightly warmer than areas to the south and south west.

With all those positives Urban took a closer look at some of the top developments on offer in Doncaster:

1. <a href="/buildings/folia-59-stables-circuit-doncaster">Folia, Doncaster</a>

Two-bedroom apartments from $580,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22584 project_image_fid=71763]

Situated on&nbsp;Doncaster Road, Folia forms part of&nbsp;Mirvac&rsquo;s larger master-planned community, Tullamore.

Achieving the highest environmental certification in Australia, the development has achieved a six-leaf EnviroDevelopment accreditation, thanks to its many sustainable features.

These include a 70kWh solar panel array, renewable energy and battery storage and the possibility of including a Tesla Powerwall II battery within each residence.&nbsp;

The broader development site also boasts 20 per cent open green&nbsp;spaces with adventure playgrounds, walking and cycling trails, and fitness stations&nbsp;dotted throughout the community.

2. <a href="/developments/doncaster-vic-3108">Tullamore Homes, Doncaster</a>

Four-bedroom townhomes from $1,450,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22803 project_image_fid=90744]

Another stage in the masterplanned Tullamore development, Tullamore Homes&rsquo; many sustainable features align with the increasing importance homebuyers place on environmental credentials.

Sharing the same space as Folia, Tullamore Homes also benefits from the vast open space in the masterplanned community, accounting for more than 20 per cent of the estate.

As well as pocket parks providing beautiful walking environments, a large nature reserve will be retained within the project, to protect the homes of local Rosellas and other birdlife.

The parks will include a fitness trail and fitness stations to invigorate the lives of local residents while play equipment, shelters bench seats and informal gathering spaces deliver the environment to play, meet and relax.

3. <a href="/buildings/28-bordeaux-28-bordeaux-street-doncaster">28 Bordeaux, Doncaster</a>

Three-bedroom townhomes from $988,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13220 project_image_fid=77350]

Delivered by Auwa Group, 28 Bordeaux is&nbsp;boutique collection of just ten three-bedroom&nbsp;luxury residences.

Designed by&nbsp;Autumn Atelier, every&nbsp;townhome&nbsp;boast stunning city views, which can be enjoyed from your own private balcony or terrace garden.&nbsp;

The design of each home has been carefully considered for modern living, with spacious open plan living areas, and adjoining kitchens giving you the flexibility to entertain with ease.

The development is located within walking distance to Westfield Shopping Centre, world-class public transport plus excellent parks and schools.

4. <a href="/new-townhouses/doncaster-east-vic-3109">6 Calvin Crescent,</a><a href="/new-townhouses/doncaster-east-vic-3109"> Doncaster</a>

Five-bedroom townhomes from $1,899,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27321 project_image_fid=154838]

A magnificent expression of cutting-edge flair and impressive liveability, the&nbsp;newly completed family residences are inspired entertainers spread across three levels.

Host guests on the airy tree-top terrace or alongside the sleek lines of the stone island, dramatic Miele kitchen and second kitchen. Below, the vast rumpus room features double sliding doors out to an under-cover alfresco with outdoor kitchen and a private garden lawn.

Ideal for multi-generational living, the five bedrooms and four bathrooms are spread over all levels with highlights being the ground floor guest suite, top floor master suite and one bedroom boasting views of the Dandenong Ranges.

Doncaster is a great suburb, with fantastic location to both the city and beautiful leafy green North eastern suburbs

Top apartments and townhouses you can buy in Melbourne's Doncaster

Longstanding Gold Coast and Canberra developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/morris-property-group">Morris Property Group</a> is continuing to roll on with its Glitter Strip apartment pipeline, seeking to return to Mermaid Beach with a new 68-apartment development.

Morris, founded by Barry Morris in 1978 and one of the Gold Coast’s most prolific apartment developers over the past two decades, has filed plans for a 12-storey mixed-use building at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/36-seabeach-avenue-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">34-36 Seabeach Avenue</a>, on the prized eastern side of the Gold Coast Highway.

The 1,227 sqm site occupies a prominent corner position at Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway, opposite the Mermaid Plaza retail and office precinct and around 140 metres walking distance from the future Mermaid Beach South light rail station.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser &amp; Partners</a> has designed the project, which will comprise 68 apartments across a mix of 48 two-bedroom and 20 three-bedroom residences.

The building will rise 12 storeys, reaching a maximum height of 36 metres, with the apartments accounting for a total of 156 bedrooms. The development application also seeks approval for short-term accommodation across the 68 apartments, while two office tenancies are proposed at ground level.

The plans show 108 car spaces across the development, with parking accommodated at ground level and within a three-level basement accessed from Seabeach Avenue.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c2175c99-12fd-4a3c-9be1-89bbf258a90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.41%E2%80%AFPM_0.png?VersionId=iNLzWcE6gaAE76rafhEXfHve.4g4Se0p" />

Resident amenity will be concentrated on level two, where Fraser &amp; Partners has designed a recreation deck with a swimming pool, 90 sqm pool terrace, outdoor barbecue area and gym.

The broader communal offering will also incorporate landscaped spaces, with the planning documents noting the amenity has been designed to provide areas for recreation, social interaction and outdoor living.

The proposal would continue the transformation of the Gold Coast Highway corridor through Mermaid Beach ahead of the arrival of the light rail.

The site is zoned Neighbourhood Centre and sits within the Mermaid Beach/Broadbeach Light Rail Corridor neighbourhood plan. While the prescribed building height is 24 metres, the site is identified within an Urban Neighbourhood context providing for a 50 per cent height uplift to 36 metres.

Planning documents describe the stretch of the Gold Coast Highway between Broadbeach and Nobby Beach as increasingly characterised by medium and high-rise development, with the proposed Morris tower joining projects including Ventura, The Alfred, Oceans and Otto.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="911f193f-e381-4a55-be08-58be87fcf978" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%202.59.48%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=oxVvLJaY.SOXEdXrIcogfyEXDfvCmmpM" />

The development would mark Morris Property Group's latest investment in Mermaid Beach, where it has already delivered two apartment projects.

Otto, at 1 Bondi Avenue on the western side of the Gold Coast Highway, comprises 70 apartments across nine storeys. The project was completed in 2019 and includes a residents' gym, recreation deck and swimming pool.

Morris also developed Oceans at 46 Ocean Street, a nine-storey, 70-apartment build-to-rent development completed in 2019. Oceans was the group's first build-to-rent project and incorporates commercial space at ground level.

The two existing Morris projects sit further north along the same Gold Coast Highway corridor as the proposed Seabeach Avenue development. Fraser &amp; Partners' planning analysis specifically identifies both Otto and Oceans among the established built-form precedents surrounding the site.

<img alt="Seabeach Avenue and the Gold Coast Highway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14925119-7b71-4812-8149-340317512c7c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-20%20at%203.00.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=aEJqYuw_nTCjcin17BSD0piB1EFotTlj" />

Mermaid Beach represents only part of Morris' considerable Gold Coast footprint.

The family-owned developer has been particularly active in neighbouring Broadbeach, delivering projects including Sierra Grand, Eclipse, Synergy, Qube, Koko, Opus and Malo, while its current pipeline includes Maison and the two-tower Crest development.

Further south, Morris has also developed a string of projects in Burleigh Heads, including Element, Boardwalk and Sandbar, while Essentia expanded its footprint north into Surfers Paradise.

The Seabeach Avenue application has been lodged by PMM Broadbeach Pty Ltd and seeks a development permit for a Material Change of Use for multiple dwellings, short-term accommodation and office uses. Zone Planning Group prepared the planning application, with Fraser &amp; Partners commissioned as architect.

The project comes as the developer continues to expand its Gold Coast pipeline while retaining a significant presence in Canberra. Morris now has more than $2.5 billion of development in its national pipeline and has delivered more than 7,000 homes during its near five-decade history

Joel Robinson

First look: Morris Property Group returns to Mermaid Beach with new Seabeach Avenue apartment development

<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw3hvFB2uWTRfEyEcpTSnnK9" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis" target="_blank">Fortis</a>&nbsp;is continuing its stronghold on Sydn​ey’s eastern suburbs apartment market, launching&nbsp;in September&nbsp;its latest boutique&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw0GI5S9-wNeiLUnM-d1uYkw" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">Double Bay</a>&nbsp;development,&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1787272340808000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2YNouJQcFjiTTgVHbgDLA-" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-william-double-bay-55-william-street-double-bay-nsw-2028" target="_blank">55 William</a>.

55 William presents&nbsp;just eight north-facing&nbsp;two-bedroom, three-bedroom and full-floor&nbsp;residences to the market, priced from $4.5 million.

The upcoming launch comes just weeks after Fortis secured approval for the $80 million development, its third eastern suburbs approval in two months. Construction is already underway, with completion targeted for 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376250]

55 William adds to a growing concentration of Fortis projects in and around Double Bay, a market the developer has become increasingly active in over recent years.

Fortis previously completed the nine-residence Marmont on New South Head Road, while it is currently developing a mixed-use residential and retail project at 12 Cross Street. Its wider Double Bay footprint also extends into commercial and retail development.

The developer's broader Sydney residential pipeline is particularly concentrated across the eastern suburbs, with projects spanning Doub​le Bay, Ro​se Bay, Wo​ollahra, Dar​ling Point, Poi​nt Piper and Eli​zabeth Bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376253]

At 55 William, Fortis has again turned to MHN Design Union, the architecture practice behind several of its eastern suburbs projects, while London-based 1508 London has been appointed to handle the interiors and Wyer &amp; Co the landscaping.

The six-level building will comprise a combination of two and three-bedroom apartments, including a garden residence, full-floor apartments, a sub-penthouse and penthouse. Each residence will have secure basement parking and private outdoor space.

A rooftop terrace for all residents, along with select apartments, enjoys views across Double Bay Harbour and toward the Sydney skyline.

Ceiling heights will reach up to three metres&nbsp;in select residences, while the kitchens will feature natural stone and integrated Gaggenau appliances.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

The boutique nature of the project reflects the type of stock Fortis has increasingly targeted across Sydney's eastern suburbs, where larger apartments and smaller buildings are being pitched primarily toward local owner-occupiers and downsizers.

Fortis Group General Manager Ed Eve said the developer continues to see demand from buyers wanting to remain in the eastern suburbs but move into newer, lower-maintenance housing.

“We're seeing continued demand from local owner-occupiers and downsizers looking for high-quality homes that allow them to remain in the eastern suburbs, close to the lifestyle and community they know,” Eve said.

55 William is also one of the early projects to respond directly to the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms. Fortis had previously secured approval for just two townhouses on the 599 sqm site before revising the scheme to eight apartments following the planning changes.

Situated one street back from Double Bay's water's edge, the project enjoys an enviable harbourside setting within walking distance of Double Bay Village and the ferry wharf.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152579 project_image_fid=376252]

Fortis has increasingly made the eastern suburbs a major focus of its Sydney pipeline. Beyond Double Bay, it recently completed the 14-residence Piper in Point Piper and has projects underway or planned across Rose Bay, Woollahra and Darling Point.

The developer recently secured approval for Verano in Rose Bay, a six-level development comprising 21 two, three and four-bedroom apartments, also designed by MHNDU.

55 William&nbsp;is soon to be release to the market with VIP appointments commencing early September,&nbsp;with residences priced from $4.5 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152579]

Fortis continues eastern suburbs push with 55 William launch

UAE-based developer Arada has unveiled plans for a $2 billion twin-tower apartment development in Broadbeach, marking its first move into Queensland as it continues its rapid expansion across Australia.

Arada will develop 952 apartments across two towers on a prominent site opposite the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the project targeted for completion ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The project represents Arada's largest commitment to the Australian market since arriving in the country in 2024 and significantly expands a local pipeline that has now grown to eight projects and more than 5,000 homes.

It will also be the first major Queensland project delivered by Roberts Co since the tier-one contractor was acquired by Arada Group in 2025.

Plus Studio has designed the Broadbeach development, which will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two towers connected by a landscaped podium.

A significant resident amenity offering will include lagoon and lap pools, a gym, sauna and steam room, alongside a mist room, infrared room and salt scrub facilities. Communal terraces, private dining areas, a library, residents' lounge and work-from-home spaces are also planned. Around 1,200 sqm of retail and hospitality space will occupy the ground floor.

The site puts Arada in one of the Gold Coast's most active apartment markets, directly opposite the convention centre and within walking distance of Pacific Fair, The Star Gold Coast and Broadbeach's dining and retail precinct.

It also has immediate access to the Gold Coast light rail network and sits just a few blocks from the beach.

Arada Group Chief Executive Ahmed Alkhoshaibi said Broadbeach represented an opportunity for the developer to expand beyond its initial NSW pipeline.

“Broadbeach is a world-class address that gives us the canvas to create a community of exceptional design and lifestyle quality that genuinely enriches the daily lives of the people who call it home,” Alkhoshaibi said.

“This is our first development outside New South Wales, and it reflects our growing ambition to grow in key urban markets around the country.”

Alkhoshaibi said bringing Roberts Co into the project would give Arada greater control over the development and construction process.

“Delivering this project through Roberts Co, our own tier-one construction business, means we can bring the quality, pace and accountability that our buyers expect.”

The move into Broadbeach comes as Arada accelerates its Australian expansion following its entry into the market two years ago. The developer has assembled a pipeline of eight projects comprising more than 5,000 homes, while the acquisition of Roberts Co last year gave the group its own Australian construction capability.

Globally, Arada has a development portfolio valued at $50 billion comprising more than 55,000 homes across the UAE, United Kingdom and Australia.

The Gold Coast is emerging as the next major market for the developer, with strong population growth and infrastructure spending ahead of the 2032 Games continuing to underpin significant apartment development across the coastal strip.

Arada plots $2 billion Broadbeach towers in major Queensland move

Sydney’s downsizer market is changing, with a growing cohort of buyers prioritising the right home over simply finding a smaller one.

Coronation Property Head of Sales Cam Porter says the traditional idea of downsizing does not necessarily reflect what many buyers are now looking for, particularly those moving from established family homes across Sydney.

Instead, he says they are increasingly becoming “right-sizers”, seeking lower-maintenance homes without sacrificing the space, amenity or quality they have become accustomed to.

“We are increasingly seeing buyers who are not motivated by the idea of simply moving into a smaller property,” Porter says.

“They are right-sizers. They want a home that is easier to manage and better connected, but they still expect generosity, quality and a floorplan that supports the way they live.”

It is a subtle but important distinction in a market where apartment developers are increasingly targeting established owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377495]

For many of these buyers, moving from a house to an apartment is not driven by a desire to dramatically reduce their living space. Instead, the appeal is in removing some of the maintenance associated with a larger home while retaining generous living areas, storage and enough flexibility to accommodate family and friends.

Coronation’s sales team is seeing buyers place particular importance on natural light, practical storage and additional rooms that can be used as guest bedrooms, home offices or secondary living spaces.

Kitchens and dining areas are also playing an increasingly important role, particularly for buyers who regularly entertain or have children and grandchildren visit.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377494]

“These buyers still want their home to feel generous,” Porter says.

“They may want less maintenance, but they are not looking for less life.”

The challenge for the broader housing market is providing enough of the right stock to encourage that move.

While much of the discussion around Sydney’s housing shortage has centred on the number of homes being delivered, Porter says the diversity of those homes is equally important.

Older homeowners can remain in large family houses for longer when they cannot find an appropriate alternative in the neighbourhoods where they have built their lives.

“The decision is rarely as simple as wanting fewer bedrooms,” Porter says.

“People are weighing up their connection to a neighbourhood, the space they need for family, the quality of the home and whether it will continue to work for them over the long term.”

It also has implications beyond the downsizer market. Providing suitable apartments for smaller households can free up established houses for families who need the additional bedrooms and land, creating greater movement through the housing market.

<h2>Lillian targets the next stage of apartment buyer</h2>

It is a buyer Coronation is targeting at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, its new collection of apartments, terraces and penthouses at Erskineville Village.

Designed by Silvester Fuller, Lillian has been shaped around larger living spaces, natural light and flexible floorplans, alongside landscaped areas, wellness amenity and communal spaces for residents.

The development will form part of Coronation’s broader Erskineville Village precinct, which will combine new homes with green space, retail, hospitality and new pedestrian connections.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377688]

McPherson Park will sit at the centre of the precinct, creating a significant new green space alongside the project’s retail and hospitality offering.

For Porter, the opportunity is to give buyers another housing option without forcing them to leave the part of Sydney they already know.

“People should be able to change the type of home they live in without having to change their entire life,” he says.

“For many buyers, Lillian offers the opportunity to remain connected to the Inner West and the city, while gaining access to a more convenient, walkable and considered way of living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=377687]

Coronation will explore the changing <a href="https://lillianresidences.com.au/news/lillian-x-space-x-downsizers-event-27-august/">right-sizer market at an event on August 27</a>, bringing together experts across property, design and lifestyle.

Held in partnership with SPACE, Poliform and Downsizer.com.au, the event will include a property market outlook from economist Michael Blythe alongside discussion around the considerations facing buyers planning their next move.

Attendees will also be able to learn more about the residences and amenity planned at Lillian Erskineville.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135149]

From downsizing to right-sizing: What Sydney buyers want from their next home

Family-owned builder and developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/omaya">Omaya</a> is bringing its 27-storey The Maybelle development to market, with the 229-apartment tower rising alongside Ismay Reserve near North Strathfield.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-maybelle-21-parramatta-road-homebush-nsw-2140">The Maybelle</a> will comprise one, two and three-bedroom apartments, with its height providing elevated outlooks towards the Sydney skyline and Harbour Bridge, while other residences will look across neighbouring Ismay Reserve.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/squillace-architects">Squillace Architects</a>, the tower combines its parkside setting with proximity to the established retail, dining and transport amenity around North Strathfield.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376196]

Residences will feature open-plan living spaces and a choice of two interior schemes, while communal amenity is spread across two elevated levels of the building.

Level 8 will be home to the Garden Pavilion, a full-floor resident space incorporating communal entertaining and breakout areas, seating and recreation spaces. Further up the tower, a landscaped Sky Terrace on Level 14 will provide another communal area with panoramic views towards the Harbour Bridge and Sydney skyline.

At ground level, the development sits directly alongside Ismay Reserve, where lawns, walking paths, children's play areas, picnic spaces and recreational facilities extend the green space available immediately around the project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376194]

The Maybelle is also within walking distance of North Strathfield and the Bakehouse Quarter, which provides a mix of cafés, restaurants, shops and everyday services.

Existing rail and bus services provide connections across Sydney, while the future North Strathfield Metro and access to the M4 will add to the transport options available around the precinct. Walking and cycling routes also extend via Powells Creek towards Sydney Olympic Park and its sporting, entertainment and parkland precincts.

Families are also well positioned for access to a broad selection of established schools and education options across Strathfield and the surrounding Inner West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134873 project_image_fid=376181]

Omaya has operated in Sydney for more than 35 years, managing projects from acquisition and design through to construction and delivery. The family-owned company is both developer and builder of The Maybelle.

Apartments start from $560,000, with the development protected by 10-year Latent Defects Insurance.

Construction is well underway, with completion expected by the end of 2026 and move-in anticipated from Q1 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134873]

Jordan Fidler

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