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GUEST OBSERVATION
No doubt this is one of the toughest federal government budgets we have seen in a long time. It would appear that the Liberal government have been true to their calling and were happy to make sacrifices across the economy in order to balance the books at some point in the future. 
But just how does this budget affect property investors?
Well it’s with relief that no changes have been made to capital gains tax, depreciation or negative gearing. Now, I'm not a fan of negative gearing all that often, the purpose of investing in anything is to achieve good growth and income for the future.
However, I do like the little incentive us property investors are given when it comes to the all to controversial depreciation. Absolutely I'm biased. I benefit from depreciation so I'm not going to argue it shouldn't be in place.
Ultimately, I think it is a great way for the everyday Australian without a business to take advantage of some form of taxation benefit that the big guys get all the time. Currently $6 billion dollars a year is lost in tax revenue due to negative gearing.
However there was one sector in the property industry that got dealt the wooden spoon, and that’s the NRAS scheme. <a href="/expert-insights/finance/is-this-the-end-of-nras-frozen-fifth-round-of-applications">Round 5 of the National Rental Affordability Scheme will be frozen</a> pending a review. In my opinion this is a good move as it was lining the pockets of savvy developers and good property marketers while the everyday investor lined up to buy overpriced property to simply get some money from the government. Now I know there’s a lot more to it than that, however the scheme has been flawed in many ways. 
The property industries push for ASIC regulation of the industry is seemingly unlikely in the near future as large budget cuts to the ASIC budget are handed down forcing large scale job cuts within the organisation. It doesn't look promising that the team at ASIC will want to take on more work with less staff and money. 
Home owners or investors are generally a pretty small deal when it comes to federal budgets. It’s often the state budgets that can make big differences including stamp duty concessions and rates plus the ever tinkering of first home buyers grants. 
Outside of investing, first home buyers taking advantage of the Labor government's First Home Savers Account (FHSA) <a href="/expert-insights/investing/first-home-saver-accounts-scrapped-what-now">will no longer be able to get tax breaks and co-contributions</a> as the scheme will be closed starting 1 July.
I think if anything, this budget should send a reminder to Australians of why investing in assets (not just property) is a necessity to gain financial freedom and retirement when you want it. With the pension age pushed out even further, serious holes in the future funding for pensioners, its clear we need to invest.
JOSH ATHERTON is managing director of <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=123928559&amp;locale=en_US&amp;trk=tyah" target="_blank">Portfolio Property Investments</a>.
You can connect with Josh on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=123928559&amp;locale=en_US&amp;trk=tyah" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>.
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jatherton-AZUXX8vQA7

How does the budget affect property investors?

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Just this week a property investor contacted me, she wished to discuss our buyers agency service arm of our business. The conversation started with this statement: "I just want someone to tell me where to buy, can you do that."
I had not met this investor before, nor had they had anything to do with our financial planning services. So, initially I went to take the client back a few steps and obtain some more information before I had to tell her, unfortunately, I cannot tell you exactly where to buy with a simple phone call.
If you would like to know where I am personally buying I can give you that; however, none of us have any idea at this point if what I buy, or where I buy, is at all appropriate for you or your strategy.
The client pushed even further and mentioned some competitors who have told her where to buy and was frustrated I too could not give her my opinion. Chances are she was going to make a very large financial decision based on the opinion of the best salesman she talks too.
You see, I rate my sales skills, but there are certainly better salespeople in the industry. I guess this particular client will follow the person that instils the most confidence into her situation.
For too long we have been hearing about unlicenced people providing advice to investors. I get that many people put on the shiny suit and hit the road to convince people that the opportunities they present are the best the market has seen for years, but lets be honest, this is the minority of property buyers that accumulate property this way. Whilst I’m not for it, you have to take a moment to understand why sellers would choose this path to make commissions; there are far too many investors that will trust anyone and make financial decisions from a vulnerable and uneducated position.
I would like to see consumers smarten up a bit, which could change a few aspects of the industry. Financial advice has been strictly governed for years. However, we all too often see businesses take advantage of consumers in many ways; including unrequired insurances, excessive hidden trails on products, SMSFs when they are not suitable for the client, and the list goes on.  
We put too much trust in other people too easily when it comes to investing. Financial literacy is not taught in our educational system and we often rely on anyone that can make us feel good when investing. Thus, it is often the greatest salesman that wins, not the greatest product or service.
The industry plays on fear when people are investing, it's human nature. When we're fighting for our financial future we don’t want to miss out. Our emotions are running wild at this point.
If anyone wants to take investment advice from a real estate agent, I say go for it. It would appear that there might only be one way for that person to become smart at their investing and that’s by learning the hard way. If a silly person is going to ask for advice from someone who isn’t even clearly qualified to give it, they’re going to get the answer they deserve, full of nonsense.
Josh Atherton is managing director of <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=123928559&amp;locale=en_US&amp;trk=tyah" target="_blank">Portfolio Property Investments</a>.
You can connect with Josh on <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/profile/view?id=123928559&amp;locale=en_US&amp;trk=tyah" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>.
          
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Property advice regulation - What we really need is smarter investors: Josh Atherton

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> is bringing some of the largest apartments ever delivered to the sought-after Domain Precinct, directly facing Albert Park Lake.

H&amp;F has recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-queensbury-melbourne-71-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">The Queensbury</a>, inspired by London’s Queens Club, the historic home of the prestigious Wimbledon, the world’s oldest tennis tournament. The opportunity for apartment buyers is as rare as securing a ticket to the finals at the All England Club, with the site being one of the very few remaining positions offering uninterrupted, never-to-be-built-out views across Albert Park Lake.

The building has been designed to maximise the unique nature of the site and its prominent parkside position. Architecture firm Forum has crafted a design that responds directly to its setting. Its façade is defined by strong vertical elements and expansive glazing, oriented to capture the unrepeatable views over Albert Park Lake, the city and the bay.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151832 project_image_fid=359764]

There will be 141 two- and three-bedroom apartments in The Queensbury, many of which have already been snapped up during the early marketing stage.

The apartments have been planned to maximise natural light and visual connection to the surrounding landscape. Living areas extend to private balconies, reinforcing the relationship between interior spaces and the lake or city beyond. Bedrooms are oriented to draw in daylight, while material selections focus on natural stone, porcelain tiles and brushed nickel fixtures.

Purchasers can choose between two interior schemes, Augusta and Ascot, which interpret neutral and earth-toned palettes across kitchens and bathrooms. Kitchens incorporate natural stone benchtops, integrated Miele appliances and panelled cabinetry, with detailing designed to balance durability and everyday functionality.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151832 project_image_fid=359771]

Much like the private clubs that define Wimbledon’s tradition and prestige, The Queensbury has been designed to embody an exclusive, club-style way of living.

Its resident amenities are curated to mirror the refined atmosphere of a members’ club, with spaces to gather, unwind and entertain, delivering an elevated lifestyle that feels both rare and enduring.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151832 project_image_fid=359772]

“The ground level is designed as an open lounge that brings the outdoors in,” says David Harrap, Director at Forum.

“The wellness centre is a sanctuary and spills out towards the garden, creating a sense of calm.”

The wellness centre comprises a fully equipped gym, spa, cold plunge pool and sauna. A resident lounge and dining space opens to an outdoor pickleball court, aligned with the sporting culture of London’s Queens Club and a first for a Melbourne multi-residential apartment development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151832 project_image_fid=359748]

While the proximity and orientation of the site and building are unmatched, future residents will also be within walking distance of ANZAC Station and multiple tram connections along St Kilda Road. The development is also close to the NGV, Arts Centre Melbourne and major sporting venues including the MCG and Rod Laver Arena.

St Kilda Beach, along with the hospitality venues that line the foreshore, is just over two kilometres from the front door.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151832 project_image_fid=359764]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> has been developing a mix of commercial and residential projects since it was founded in 2014 by Daniel Faigen and backed by Eddie Hirsch, co-founder of United Petroleum.

After recently launching its fourth Gold Coast project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> has also delivered local developments including Central Park in Box Hill and 107 Darling Road in Malvern East.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151832]

Joel Robinson

The Queensbury brings Wimbledon-inspired living to Albert Park Lake

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pdg-corporation">PDG Corporation</a> has been appointed by the Victorian Government and Development Victoria to transform a long-unused infrastructure site in Ivanhoe into a new residential precinct, delivering 275 homes alongside a 2,000 sqm public park.

The project will redevelop the former water tank site on Upper Heidelberg Road, which has been unused since 2004. The appointment follows an eight-year planning process and marks the start of detailed design, with a planning application expected to be lodged in mid-2026.

The redevelopment will introduce a new residential community in one of Melbourne’s established inner-north suburbs, with at least 10 per cent of the homes allocated as affordable housing. In addition to new housing supply, the project will expand local open space through the delivery of the public park, which will be accessible to the broader community.

PDG Managing Director and Founder Vince Giuliano said the partnership with Development Victoria presented an opportunity to deliver a housing outcome aligned with the character of the area.

“PDG is thrilled to partner with Development Victoria to bring new housing options to this popular part of Melbourne,” Giuliano said.

“This exceptional location offers a rare opportunity to create a vibrant, connected community, and we look forward to working closely with Development Victoria and other stakeholders to bring their vision to life.”

The Ivanhoe project continues PDG’s track record of delivering mixed-use and community-focused developments in Melbourne.

PDG has just sought to upscale its plans for its prime Southbank site on Queens Bridge Street. They are seeking to developer 637 apartments across a 71-storey tower.

PDG appointed to develop Ivanhoe water tank site by Development Victoria

National developer Fortis has received development approval for Crest &amp; Walker, its Newstead apartment development on Kyabra Street.

Construction by Binah is expected to commence on the 20-storey, Bureau^Proberts-designed building soon. There will be 65 two- and three-bedroom apartments on offer, starting at $1.8 million.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> marks the fourth active development to be delivered by Fortis in Brisbane, following River House, now nearing completion, a residential project in New Farm, and a mixed-use development in Hamilton. Several additional projects remain in the pipeline as the development manager continues to grow its footprint across South-East Queensland.

&nbsp;

Dan Boman, General Manager – Development, Queensland, said the continued expansion in Brisbane projects managed by Fortis reflects the company’s commitment to design-led development and thoughtful placemaking.

“We’re proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such lifestyle destination as Newstead," Bonman says.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves."

Bonman believes Crest &amp; Walker will&nbsp;attract a discerning buyer who values design, thoughtful amenity and a lifestyle that captures the best of contemporary Brisbane.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane’s most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

&nbsp;

The building’s design features a contemporary brick podium softened by vertical greenery, creating a distinctive architectural expression within the Newstead streetscape. Positioned between Gasworks and James Street, the project sits within one of Brisbane’s most coveted lifestyle precincts, surrounded by dining, retail and cultural destinations.

A communal rooftop will feature a sun lounge and pool, BBQ facilities and a sauna, all set against panoramic views across Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

Slaite Projects will handle the sales campaign, which will kick off in May.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Fortis to launch Crest & Walker, Newstead following development approval

Ahead of the completion of several projects in 2026, Justin Brown’s Abadeen Group is working on the next phase of its boutique residential pipeline.

<article data-scroll-anchor="true" data-testid="conversation-turn-10" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:4ca9c789-6d9f-4fea-860a-8e6ce96c2acc-4" dir="auto" tabindex="-1">
Abadeen, which has recently sought approval to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-woollahra-development-wave-continues-as-abadeen-plots-six-storey-apartment-block">develop 29 apartments in Woollahra</a>, will also be returning to Neutral Bay, where it has just completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/enso-neutral-bay-34-grosvenor-street-neutral-bay-nsw-2090">ENSO</a> and is putting the finishing touches on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-villas-neutral-bay-7-11-premier-street-neutral-bay-nsw-2089">The Villas</a> nearby. Abadeen first developed in the suburb back in 2019 when they completed No.1 Premier.

Its newest development will be located at the southern end of Barry Street, a stone’s throw from Ilbery Reserve and the Neutral Bay Social Club. Closer in scale to The Villas than ENSO, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19-21-barry-street-neutral-bay-nsw-2089">Barry St project</a> will comprise 20 large-scale apartments, a typology synonymous with Abadeen’s development ethos. 
 
<img alt="First Look: Abadeen plots six-storey apartment development in Neutral Bay’s Barry Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d96caa0-89fc-4751-b046-cad872025c73" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Barry%20street%20pers.png?VersionId=h6zHBVcEkmN0bQOSBebQA.n6F3vRHUm6" />
</article>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a>&nbsp;said in its Design Report that the proposed multi-residential development in Neutral Bay contributes positively to the area’s established residential character, aligning with the objectives of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy and relevant local planning controls.

"The building is carefully scaled to sit comfortably within its context, with articulated massing and generous setbacks that reduce perceived bulk and ensure a respectful transition to neighbouring properties.

"Through a clear response to surrounding building heights, streetscape patterns and landscape character, the proposal reinforces Neutral Bay’s reputation for high-quality residential development within a well-defined urban setting."

The report also said apartment planning prioritises outlook, sunlight and environmental performance.

"Living spaces are oriented to maximise views to the south while maintaining excellent solar access throughout the day. Dual-aspect apartments and carefully positioned openings promote natural cross-ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems and supporting sustainable living outcomes."

<img alt="Abadeen" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c2b0ba6-583f-4ea4-9069-4773b5169e14" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-03-09%20at%203.02.02%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=LfP0A9iwT_gPnJeP6_uvkWvqDipuWN3I" />

Abadeen is on track to complete several projects this year across Sydney's Lower North Shore. Late last year it completed ENSO, a nine-apartment development toward the northern part of Neutral Bay, around 750 metres from the new Barry Street plans. The Villas, which will comprise 17 apartments, is approaching completion and is around 450 metres away.

“The Villas is an exceptional project in a highly desirable Lower North Shore location," Brown said when the building topped out in October last year.

"We’re creating homes that allow residents to feel genuinely connected to one of Sydney’s most prized harbourside communities."

First Look: Abadeen plots fourth Neutral Bay apartment development

Singaporean developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/centurion-global">Centurion</a> has unveiled plans for a major mixed-use redevelopment of the former John Martin &amp; Co warehouse building on Adelaide CBD's dress circle North Terrace.

The $300 million redevelopment will comprise three towers, rising behind and above the preserved 19th-century sandstone façade. The proposal would retain and integrate the heritage-listed structure while introducing a trio of contemporary towers that combine student accommodation, residential apartments, and commercial uses.

There will be apartments to purchase, as well as a 30-storey, purpose-built&nbsp;student accommodation tower, designed to respond to growing demand for dedicated student housing in Adelaide’s CBD.&nbsp;Ground and podium levels across the development are expected to host retail, food and beverage, and entertainment uses, helping to activate the street edge and create stronger pedestrian connections between North Terrace and the nearby Rundle Mall retail precinct.

A key element of the proposal is the preservation of the site’s historic sandstone building, constructed in 1867 and designed by prominent colonial architects Edmund Wright, Edward John Woods, and Edward Hamilton. The building originally operated as a warehouse for the well-known Adelaide department store John Martin &amp; Co before the retailer closed in 1998.

&nbsp;

The site sits opposite several of Adelaide’s most significant cultural institutions, including the Art Gallery of South Australia, the South Australian Museum, the State Library, and the university precinct. Its location places it within a corridor that connects the city’s cultural, education, and retail destinations.

It is the second redevelopment proposal on North Terrace in recent months, with Palumbo Group set to redevelop the heritage-listed former Royal Hotel which has laid vacant for over a decade.

They are planning 211 apartments across two towers, just over a kilometre from Centurion's project.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/sa/palumbo-group-to-redevelop-kent-town-pub-into-new-apartment-development">Palumbo Group to redevelop Kent Town pub into new apartment development</a>

Josh Atherton

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