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The federal government’s off again, on again super tax grab has likely done irreparable damage to public confidence in Australia’s superannuation system and simultaneously created the likelihood of a future lose-lose environment for up to 50% of self-managed super funds.  
Many more Australian super fund holders will be hit both in short and long term bull and bear markets than the government has conceded and the short term ‘cash grab’ nature of this proposed legislation has ridden roughshod over much needed long term vision which will short change Australia of future infrastructure investment.  
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Whilst the government has argued it will only target super funds with balances of $2 million or more</a>, funds with just a quarter of this figure may in better years accrue earnings revenue that easily exceeds the $100,000 cap and therefore be subject to the punitive higher rate of tax. Case in point is the significant positive upturn seen in the Australian share market which over the last 12 months has exceeded the 20% growth necessary for someone with an investment balance of $500,000 in their super to see a return of $100,000 or more if cashed out for retirement purposes or to pay out home loans.  
Furthermore, for someone hitting the age of 60 there is now a strong likelihood of living a further 30 years and given the cyclical nature of investments many self-funded pensioners could see themselves selling down portfolios when entering downward markets only to be hit with taxes to safeguard their retirement funds. Conversely when they buy back in and in the next cycle sell will be hit with further taxes.  
This means the possibility of four to six tax penalties over their remaining life.  
The government’s lack of foresight will create a lose-lose situation whereby people entering retirement on this figure will over the next 30 years likely see their retirement fund slashed with cyclical downward directions and and then when the market corrects itself they will get slugged again. The super cash grab tax will not just hurt retirees but also small business owners wanting to sell their businesses  
In the current regime small business concessions allow business owners to roll between $500,000 and $1,200,000 of profits from sale of business into superannuation. Given this will automatically be subject to potentially higher tax, business owners are likely to reconsider where they put their funds and look instead at more risky mechanisms than the current relative safety of their super. The hot spots for proposed legislative changes will now see the possibility of the business owner having to pay more tax if they invest through superannuation than if investing outside.  
This is completely at odds with the purpose of superannuation. Small business, property owners and self-funded retirees are the hardest hit again. The compulsory contributions increase from 9% to 12% over time, younger Australians who indubitably will accumulate substantial funds in their super will find themselves in the $500,000 target ‘super pool’ many years before retirement.  
With approximately 50% of self-managed super funds having a balance between $200,000 and $1,000,000 (many more than advertised) hard working Australians will be hit by this regressive impost over time. We could even see the hard work of many experts that have successfully pushed financial literacy into the school curriculum negatively impacted by the constant change in what should be long term and stable financial legislation.  
The industry has talked about a class divide, but the reality is that here we have a government setting itself up against small business, property investors and SMSF trustees as well as every day Australians. This is almost a silent push to get people out of super, which is ironic given it was the same party that introduced the compulsive scheme in the first instance.  
Equally concerning is the lack of government acknowledgement, let alone vision, for the potential of wide scale super fund investment in domestic infrastructure projects, with the heads of large super funds readily admitting that they have funds to invest but no dedicated infrastructure assets in which to invest thanks to the government’s short-sightedness.  
There is no shortage of capital to invest and as a properly managed tool for the future, super should be a mechanism for large scale capital investments that deliver tangible community benefits. For example super funds could be invested into a national first time buyer mortgage scheme which would help many Australians get onto the property ladder and over the long term bridge the growing property gap.  
We should be thinking in terms of abundance instead of scarcity, but sadly the government can’t see can’t see the forest from the trees.  
National Property, Business Tax Accounting and Wealth Advisory Group Chan &amp; Naylor supports the Business Council of Australia’s call to action for the current and future governments to end short-term political fixes in favour of substantial economic reform.
Ken Raiss is a certified accountant and director of <a target="_self" href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/" title="Chan &amp; Naylor " rel="nofollow">Chan &amp; Naylor</a> national accounting firm. Chan &amp; Naylor offers a free five-minute question-and-answer session on its website under the<a target="_blank" href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/ask-the-experts/" rel="nofollow"> "Ask the Experts" section.</a>
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Government's SMSF changes a lose-lose situation for many funds: Ken Raiss

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With personal finances left looking fragile after the annual Christmas spending splurge, I thought it best to offer a list of simple strategies that can help Australians improve their financial fitness in 2013. 
If done properly, this includes assessing all aspects of personal finances, including strategies to boost retirement investments, such as including property and super, savings, a review of insurance policies, staying ahead of tax obligations and making an effort to improve financial literacy as more and more Australians take more control of planning their financial future.
1. Maximise the potential of any investment properties. Renovations to an existing property can reap huge rewards in the long run, with even the addition of air-conditioning dramatically increasing a property’s yield in terms of the amount you are able to receive in rent. Also, holding an investment property within a self-managed super fund trust is one of the most tax-efficient ways of managing these types of assets.
2. Ensure your property agents cover all property investment expenses (excluding interest). After all, you are paying them. This will greatly reduce your accountant’s costs and reduce your administration, as the agent will give you monthly and annual statements showing all income and expenses and will attach relevant invoices to each statement for your compliance needs.
3. Ensure loans are properly structured. Interest rates are near all-time lows, so while this is not great for savers, it is terrific for borrowers, who should ensure that their loans are properly structured and rates are in line with the competitive market rate. Many borrowers have not been given access to what is called the professional discount, although most are eligible. This potential  0.7% rate decrease applied to pay down a loan reduces the average loan by over $2,300 per year which equates to an overall saving of over $104,000 and reduces the term by nearly 6.5 years. The use of honeymoon credit card rates can also be very beneficial to enhance the faster payment of credit card debt while not increasing actual cash requirements.
4. Be aware of tax deductions. The use of a specialist property accountant will be able to show you all the legal tax deductions available to you, including the proper set-up of loans and the use of trusts for the astute property investor. Many investors forget to claim depreciation, which is a non-cash expense relating to the wear and tear of the building and fixtures and fittings. When doing a renovation, you should also prepare a scrapping schedule, which puts a value on everything you rip out and throw away. The taxman will pay you for your junk via an expense in the year of renovation and then allow depreciation on the new work. Remember depreciation and scrapping schedules must be prepared by a qualified quantity surveyor.
5. Ensure your will and enduring power of attorney are up to date. We have all heard of the horror stories of the wrong people getting your assets or, even worse, the government. Wills are a way to protect family wealth, and the common will, where assets are bequeathed to your children or surviving spouse, can have dire consequences if the receiver becomes bankrupt, has a family dispute, or has other medical issues. For many, a better alternative is required and therefore a different type of will is needed. This is normally referred to as a testamentary will. In this scenario, your will makes provision for your assets (such as property) to go to a trust set up after your death and you have your loved ones in control of the trust. This protects the assets from divorce, bankruptcy and taxes minors at adult tax rates and not the dreaded 66% on income generated from a normal death distribution. An enduring power of attorney (EPOA) is also recommended as the will does not take effect until death. If in a coma, access to bank accounts or the ability to sell assets for your medical treatment may be delayed or stopped without the EPOA. Remember your will only looks after what you own in your name and does not cover your superannuation or trust assets. Other documentation is required for these.
6. Consolidate super. Many of us have held a number of super funds over our working lives. These various superannuation balances can be quickly identified by visiting <a href="https://www.findmysuper.com.au/">www.findmysuper.com.au</a>, then consolidating these funds within one appropriate fund will ensure that you have the maximum amount of capital working, while cutting out multiple administrative fees, reducing costs and increasing retirement benefits.
7. Have your life insurance in your superannuation. Life insurance in this day and age is a necessity. However, it must be purchased with after-tax dollars when held in your name, yet if life insurance is held in super, payment is tax-deductible, resulting in large savings. Payments can be funded either out of your super guarantee (9%), improving your weekly cashflow, or as an additional salary sacrifice, which is tax deductible.
8. Consider moving your super into pension stage. The trigger for this is your age, not whether you are working. It is understandable that for any number of reasons many of us are happy or need to continue working slightly longer than traditionally we would have in previous times. Many super trusts allow the option to trigger retirement in super while you are still working (a simple deed amendment will allow this if not currently available). The benefit of this strategy is that your super fund will no longer be taxed on income or capital gains from your pension balances. You will need to draw an annual pension, but this can be re-contributed if not needed. In your hands, the pension will not be taxed if you are over 60 and taxed at your marginal tax rates less 15% if you are between 55 and 60, greatly increasing cashflow.
9. Ensure tax returns are up to date. The ATO is increasingly clamping down on late tax returns, but tax office penalties should not be the only incentive to avoiding tardiness. Delaying your income tax returns can add additional costs and deprive you of funds if a refund is expected. Even if you are required to pay additional tax, it is recommended to start early and withhold lodgment until your due date. Working through a registered tax agent can allow you up until May 15 in the next year for lodgment.
10. Savings can be made by reviewing and consolidating existing insurance policies. Many Australians do not consider changing their existing insurance policies for a better deal, normally because they are concerned that they will need to undergo a new medical examination, which may impact costs or benefits of that policy. However, if you have undergone a medical in the past five years, in most cases there is no requirement to undergo another if there is no loading applicable and the same amounts are carried to a new insurer who in turn may be able to offer you a more competitive deal. There could also be benefits in having different policies with the one provider so as to source discounts.
11. Invest in your own financial education and literacy. There is an increasing amount of scrutiny on the financial services industry and the big super funds in terms of the value of their advice and returns in recent years. Many Australians are now opting for a more independent route in order to maximise their future financial wellbeing. A self-managed super fund may be the right option for you. Talk to a specialist SMSF adviser, who can not only discuss the normal areas such as insurance and investment plans but also understands the law and tax applicable to these funds. Many people are now using their SMSFs to purchase property with debt, but if poorly executed, this brings unintended penalties so work with a specialist to maximise your returns. Other useful sources of information include joining specialist associations such as the Australian SMSF Members Association, which is a voice for members and not driven for the benefit of the profession.
There is a lot of value in investing in improving financial literacy. Not knowing is like throwing money down the drain; as many of these steps show, simply altering the way existing finances are structured can dramatically increase your cashflow, giving you that added flexibility to generate more wealth, whether that be through property or other investments.
Ken Raiss is a certified accountant and director of <a title="Chan &amp; Naylor " href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/" target="_self">Chan &amp; Naylor</a> national accounting firm. Ken’s experience lies in working with large publically listed multi-national companies, which gives Ken excellent insight into international market trends. Ken specialises in educating “mum and dad” property investors and small business owners with advice on wealth creation, asset protection, taxation, superannuation and compliance.
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Maximise your investment properties and 10 other ways to improve your financial fitness in 2013: Ken Raiss

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How to best use your self-managed super fund to invest in property
How can the astute property investor combine the benefits of low tax in super and the benefits of leverage?
Superannuation’s prime responsibility is to provide a member with retirement income. With increasing regularity people are seeing their superannuation funds declining either from poor investments or spiralling costs. To get more control many people are moving to self-managed superannuation.
Since mid-2007 self-managed superannuation funds have had the ability to invest in property, with bank debt.  Many see investing in property as less volatile, unlikely to reduce in value over time and importantly as an asset that is in limited supply and one that everyone needs. Thus market values (capital and rents) are more likely to grow over time.
Property in a SMSF allows investors to accumulate property using bank debt that will be tax free in pension stage for both rental income and any capital gains on sale. At the same time, it allows the full benefits of negative gearing at the individual’s marginal tax rates while still working. This is like having multiple tax-free principal places of residences. Who says you can’t have your cake and eat it too?
Many people argue that with leveraged property in a super fund there is less likelihood of an overall loss of superannuation, as the ability to borrow to increase the asset size allows more funds to be accumulated and grow in a less volatile asset class than maybe shares.
 
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Four key steps to maximising your property investment through your SMSF
 
With the ability to negatively gear property in superannuation while still at work against your personal tax, more people are looking at this strategy to improve their lifestyle in retirement.   This ability to buy property, which will be tax free in your retirement, can greatly boost your future income. However, many people take shortcuts that reduce the upside of this strategy and unfortunately,  in some cases, unintended costs are triggered. To maximise the strategy, four key steps are necessary.
<ol>
<li>
Talk to your specialist SMSF accountant or financial planner to ensure the property you are looking at is allowable. In summary, borrowings can be used to purchase, repair, and fund interest expenses. Cosmetic renovations (not an improvement) are permitted with borrowings, and while you can improve a property by adding floor space, granny flat, etc, this must be done using SMSF cash. Off-the-plan purchases are allowable, but not the purchase of land and the subsequent construction of the building. During this talk you can discuss the rollover from other super funds and any insurances etc., you may need.</li>
<li>
Get pre-approved finance. In many instances the banks will require a financial planner to sign off on your SMSF strategy, but this is normally a relatively simple thing. You may need to top up your super if you do not have sufficient deposit etc., but you can lend money to your SMSF from say cash or equity from outside super. As this is not a super contribution, there is no limit on the amount, and it can be repaid prior to retirement.</li>
<li>After steps one and two are complete you can then put in place the paperwork. Caution is needed, as not all suppliers of the required documents are equally skilled. If you are lending money to your SMSF then you need these documents, and it is also advisable to complete additional documents as in many states a future second stamp duty on the property may be payable if all required documents are not completed.</li>
<li>Now the fun stuff: go out and secure the property.</li>
</ol>
 
The above may look intimidating, but it is just administration that your specialty advisor will help you with and for most people, it’s no more daunting than the process of purchasing the property; it’s simply just some “extra paperwork”. The ability to leverage property in super can be very beneficial, but ensure you follow these relatively simple rules to maximise your benefits.
 
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How to use your super to buy a tax-free investment property
 
This tax pearler is normally associated with the family home, but the federal government eliminated all taxation within superannuation when in the pension stage many years ago.  With the ability to now borrow in superannuation, the astute investor can now leverage his or her superannuation and borrow to purchase property that will become tax free.
While working and paying tax the investor can negatively gear a good capital growth property out of his or her pre-tax income in the same way as if it was purchased outside super. The 9% superannuation guarantee can even be used to fund the negative gearing. The big difference occurs after age 60 when the property in super will attract no tax on rental income or capital gains on sale. Payments from the super fund to the investor are also tax free, and in fact it does not even need to be itemised in the individual’s personal tax return. Outside of super the cashflows would be fully taxable on both the rental stream and any capital gains. This superannuation treatment allows the individual to effectively have the taxation benefits as if they had multiple family homes.
Many people are sceptical about investing in super and argue they are too young, the rules may change and it is too confusing. All valid concerns, but the primary aim of all investors is to make money, and this task is made easier if no taxes are paid. An investment property needs time to do “its thing”, i.e. capital growth, so even the younger generations can benefit. How good would it be to have some of your investments in the “pay no taxes” basket?
This strategy can in some instances apply even before age 60 and has the added benefits of creating an additional land tax threshold and improved asset protection. The benefits are many.
Ken Raiss is a certified accountant and director of <a target="_self" href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/" title="Chan &amp; Naylor ">Chan &amp; Naylor</a> national accounting firm. Ken’s experience lies in working with large publically listed multi-national companies, which gives Ken excellent insight into international market trends. Ken specialises in educating “mum and dad” property investors and small business owners with advice on wealth creation, asset protection, taxation, superannuation and compliance. 
These articles appeared on Property Observer throughout 2012.
 
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Investing a property through your self-managed super fund: Three of the best of Ken Raiss

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With the ability to negatively gear property in superannuation while still at work against your personal tax, more people are looking at this strategy to improve their lifestyle in retirement.   This ability to buy property, which will be tax free in your retirement, can greatly boost your future income. However, many people take shortcuts that reduce the upside of this strategy and unfortunately,  in some cases, unintended costs are triggered. To maximise the strategy, four key steps are necessary.
<ol>
<li>
Talk to your specialist SMSF accountant or financial planner to ensure the property you are looking at is allowable. In summary, borrowings can be used to purchase, repair, and fund interest expenses. Cosmetic renovations (not an improvement) are permitted with borrowings, and while you can improve a property by adding floor space, granny flat, etc, this must be done using SMSF cash. Off-the-plan purchases are allowable, but not the purchase of land and the subsequent construction of the building. During this talk you can discuss the rollover from other super funds and any insurances etc., you may need.</li>
<li>
Get pre-approved finance. In many instances the banks will require a financial planner to sign off on your SMSF strategy, but this is normally a relatively simple thing. You may need to top up your super if you do not have sufficient deposit etc., but you can lend money to your SMSF from say cash or equity from outside super. As this is not a super contribution, there is no limit on the amount, and it can be repaid prior to retirement.</li>
<li>After steps one and two are complete you can then put in place the paperwork. Caution is needed, as not all suppliers of the required documents are equally skilled. If you are lending money to your SMSF then you need these documents, and it is also advisable to complete additional documents as in many states a future second stamp duty on the property may be payable if all required documents are not completed.</li>
<li>Now the fun stuff: go out and secure the property.</li>
</ol>
 
The above may look intimidating, but it is just administration that your specialty advisor will help you with and for most people, it’s no more daunting than the process of purchasing the property; it’s simply just some “extra paperwork”. The ability to leverage property in super can be very beneficial, but ensure you follow these relatively simple rules to maximise your benefits.
Ken Raiss is a certified accountant and director of <a title="Chan &amp; Naylor " href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/" target="_self">Chan &amp; Naylor</a> national accounting firm. Chan &amp; Naylor offers a free five-minute question-and-answer session on its website under the<a href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/ask-the-experts/" target="_blank"> "Ask the Experts" section.</a>
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Four key steps to maximising your property investment through your SMSF

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Amid increasing pressure on trustees of self-managed super funds (SMSFs) to keep pace with the steady stream of quiet pronouncements from the ATO, we turn the spotlight on some overlooked SMSF guidelines in need of urgent reform in 2013. As a relatively young but rapidly evolving model, SMSF compliance guidelines contain more than their fair share of unnecessary and arbitrary rules. Some of these are discriminatory, lack logic or simply make the process of providing for independent retirement unnecessarily difficult. Chan &amp; Naylor has compiled the following list of 10 SMSF rules that themselves either require retirement or modification. The ATO must broaden the net of reform to ensure arbitrary SMSF ruling is afforded urgent review and the best interests of Australian investors are put first. 1) An SMSF must have no more than four members.
SMSFs are most often used to provide for retirement income for all family members, yet four trustee positions would not be enough to cater for the average Australian household. The figure should respond to the nation’s needs as opposed to forcing families to either leave family members out of the SMSF or pay to set up an additional fund. 2) An SMSF cannot borrow money to pay for improvements to a single acquirable asset.
Should a trustee require money to renovate a property, it cannot be loaned in an SMSF because it is considered to increase risk, though trustees are still allowed to borrow money to purchase that property or asset in an SMSF. 3) A person must pay to set up separate holding trusts per single acquirable asset with debt.
Instead of adding acquirable assets with debt into the same trust structure, trustees must pay to set up another. 4) Life insurance (which is tax-deductable in super) cannot be moved from an individual name to a self-managed superfund unless the existing policy is cancelled and reissued.
Those who experience a change in circumstances while doing so, such as entering a new age group or different health, could find their new policy does not provide the same cover as their previous insurance policy, or worse still, cannot be re-written. 5) If a person is insured in super, they can only claim tax deductions for TDP (total and permanent disability) provided they are unable to work in any occupation. 
This should also apply for a person’s own occupation. 6) It is prohibited to buy residential property or unlisted shares through an SMSF from a related party (wife, family member, etc.), even if supported with a registered valuation.
It is, however, acceptable to do the same with commercial property or shares. As long as the sole purpose test is passed there should be no limitation on from whom the asset is purchased if executed at arm’s length. 7) After the age of 65, a trustee is no longer entitled to the three-year average contribution.
This is age discriminatory. Anybody should be able to benefit from the three-year average contribution entitlement regardless of age. 8) Once a trustee reaches the age of 75, he or she may no longer contribute the full super contribution limit of $25,000 per annum.
This rule is discriminatory, especially as more Australians are both living and working for longer. 9) SMSFs must pay for manual amendments with each change to the SIS Act.
However, the big superfunds, covered by their associations, adopt legislation changes automatically. An SMSF deed, through legislation, should automatically pick up any changes to the SIS Act. 10) Trustees can suffer destructive penalties of up to 93% on over-contributions.
Excessive penalties should be axed for genuine errors.
Ken Raiss is a certified accountant and director of <a target="_self" href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/" title="Chan &amp; Naylor ">Chan &amp; Naylor</a> national accounting firm. Chan &amp; Naylor offers a free five-minute question-and-answer session on its website under the<a target="_blank" href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/ask-the-experts/"> "Ask the Experts" section.</a>
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The 10 SMSF rules that need urgent reform: Ken Raiss

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We have all heard the old saying about death and taxes being the only two certainties in life. This may not be the case when you take superannuation into account, but that is for another article. Having said that, you should claim all legitimate property deductions so as to maximise the return on your investment.
For property investors, that means treating your investments as a business (notwithstanding the ATO does not recognise passive property investing as a business, which has certain tax treatments available) and claiming all deductions against your rental income or capital gains if the property is sold.
You also need to ensure that you do not arbitrarily create situations just to get a tax deduction, as this will be seen as tax avoidance and taxed anyway. Your dominant purpose cannot be for tax a benefit.
“Claim all legitimate tax deductions” may sound straightforward. The problem is, however, that the tax law is complicated and constantly changing. Indeed even the ATO may have a change of position in its thinking. It is therefore critical that property investors do not “under claim”, or claim for ineligible expenses (leading to a very emotive time if audited). 
To maximise your allowable deductions you must first understand what you are entitled to and then make sure you claim it. The concept of stopping the leakage is critical, as the word leakage implies losing what you have or are entitled to, which is exactly what happens if you do not claim all allowable deductions. 
There are several types of expenses that are deductible immediately.
In simple terms, these are costs that are created and paid for in the one year relating to the ongoing ownership of your investment property. You should in all cases be able to prove to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) that the expenses that you are claiming relate to legitimate business expenses for the investment property.
It should therefore go without saying that you must keep all records of payments whenever you incur an expense. These expenses should not be guessed or inappropriately apportioned. This will save you a great deal of time and money when you submit your tax return and any subsequent ATO review or audit as the ATO can legally refuse unsubstantiated claims.
Ken Raiss is a certified accountant and director of <a title="Chan &amp; Naylor " href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/" target="_self">Chan &amp; Naylor</a> national accounting firm. Chan &amp; Naylor offers a free five-minute question-and-answer session on its website under the<a href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/ask-the-experts/" target="_blank"> "Ask the Experts" section.</a>
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Claim all you can on your property investment, but don't invest just for the tax benefit

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After a sluggish winter, spring brings hope of fresh movement in Australian property sales. According to the nation’s leading property, accounting and wealth financial advisory group, Chan &amp; Naylor, this is a great time for those with investments in housing, but anybody hoping to join the property ladder down the line now has a conundrum to face: Australian property is high in demand and supply is low.
Despite recent figures from The Economist stating the Australian housing market is overvalued by 36%, and reports locally and abroad concerned over an apparent property bubble in Australia, now is the time for hesitant property investors, including first-time buyers, to make their move if they want in on the Australian dream.
Moreover, if Australia is to avoid the boomerang effect taking place around the world, whereby millions of adult children are returning home to reside with parents into their 30s, it is crucial that first-time buyers start considering property investment as a way into the market rather than focusing initially on home dwelling options.
Potential investors sitting tight for a bubble to pop could be waiting a long time.
According to a recent study by KPMG, 60 years ago house values in Australia stood at roughly seven times the yearly household income and today that figure stands at a very close 6.9%.
Property values have remained on an upward trend with modest corrections within a cycle, and there are no signs to suggest we are heading for a major downward turn.
High living standards, low and controlled interest rates, relatively high population growth, undersupply and a healthy banking system are only a few reasons why buying property in Australia is an attractive option for personal occupancy or investment. In fact, demand is undeniably set to grow.”
Some of the key drivers contributing to the rise in housing demand include:
<ul>
<li>Retirement of the baby boomer generation and the widening skills gap left behind require further skilled talent to replenish skills and the tax base, which will inevitably come from abroad;</li>
<li>The wealth and opportunity offered by Australia, which attracts skilled migrants from neighbouring countries each year;</li>
<li>The steady entry of five million Generation Ys into the market, which, according to projections by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, will raise the demand for housing by 15% on the previous generation, as more attempt to edge away from the family home; </li>
<li>A diminishing amount of available land for new housing, as people flock to city hubs;</li>
<li>A lack of government initiatives to ensure Australia has an adequate housing supply; and </li>
<li>The sum of these things will keep the value and cost of existing housing high.</li>
</ul>
 
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Given growing demand, smart buyers will invest now, but too many assume the first property they buy is going to be the one in which they live and grow old and so they hold out for the Australian dream to come along and potentially either miss the boat or pay a higher entry price.
In the current landscape, investors – particularly those buying for the first time – become more strategic in their approach. For example, a first property could be used for rental purposes as opposed to becoming a buyer’s first home.
This would not only generate income, but allows investors to use that property as a security for funds to buy a more desirable home down the line. These investors must do the numbers as the ability to purchase a more strategic property may outweigh any grants available. The tail should not wag the dog.
Property acquisition should be treated as a business process as opposed to an act of the heart and realise that it can be a stepping-stone towards acquiring the perfect home later in life.
Property is the biggest asset most people will own, and so they need to surround themselves with professionals who can offer advice in making considered and informed decisions, such as buying in the right market and property cycle or choosing a property with the opportunity to create equity through renovation or improvement, boosting both capital value as well as rental yield.
Parental support may be an option for adult children lacking sufficient funds to get on the property ladder, but this requires caution. A simple and formal loan agreement to help with a deposit is considered safer than becoming co-guarantor – 100% liability for the debt and no assets can lead to a negative equity trap in cases of bankruptcy or where the child splits from a partner the guarantor could be left holding the debt with no asset.
While for the likes of the UK, the rise of the ‘boomerang generation’ is driven predominantly by high levels of unemployment and a poor economy, Australia could find itself experiencing a similar effect, not because our economy is weak, but because not enough is being done by the government to prevent a housing shortage.
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Now is the time for hesitant property investors to make a move

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All members of a self-managed super fund must be trustees and legislation only allows a maximum of four people in an SMSF. With a sole member fund you need a family member to sit alongside you. If this is not practical you can have a company as a trustee and be the only shareholder and director. There are many other reasons why a corporate trustee is recommended over individuals including:
<ol>
<li>
Administrative: When members come in or out (including death), there is a need to change bank account and other asset ownership details, which can be expensive and time-consuming and is not necessary with a company. </li>
<li>
Lump sum payments can only occur with a company trustee. </li>
<li>
Asset protection: While super is protected a pension may not be. But with a company a lump sum can be paid, which is protected in bankrupcy. </li>
<li>
Power of attorney: A legal personal representative can be put in place if the member is incapacitated without changing members’ details.</li>
<li>
Most banks require a corporate trustee if the fund is borrowing to purchase property.</li>
</ol>
With multiple members we would recommend that the SMSF and company be written in such a way as to give the directors and therefore memebers proportional voting rights to ensure people with higher balances are not taken advantage of by members with low balances, as the case is normally – one person, one vote.
Ken Raiss is a certified accountant and director of <a title="Chan &amp; Naylor " href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/" target="_self">Chan &amp; Naylor</a> national accounting firm. Chan &amp; Naylor offers a free five-minute question-and-answer session on its website under the<a href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/ask-the-experts/" target="_blank"> "Ask the Experts" section.</a>
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Why self-managed superannuation funds should have corporate trustees

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What is land tax? Who should pay it? And can I reduce this major property cost, which seems to eat into my rental income disproportionally?

These questions are often asked by the serious property investor who already has or is in the process of building a significant property portfolio.

The following article considers some of the traps and pitfalls while offering some suggestions on how to minimise this state-based tax.

In general, land tax is not levied on the property if it is your principal place of residence (PPR).

Land tax is an annual tax based on the ownership and usage of land owned at midnight on the land tax anniversary date of the state, which is usually either June 30 or December 31. It is levied in respect of the financial year immediately following that date. All states other than the Northern Territory apply land tax. This tax should be seen as a cost of doing business and is tax deductible.

As is the case for most taxes it is up to the taxpayer to advise the relevant state department that they are subject to land tax based on self-assessment by submitting either a land tax registration form or a land tax variation form. This will trigger land tax assessment notices to be issued if and when appropriate. Failure to advise can lead to significant penalties and back dated charges which the land owner may not be able to claim as a tax deduction.

Land tax is generally levied on the unimproved capital value of the land (not the total property value). Each state has different rules and thresholds of when the land tax will be applied. The threshold is the dollar value at which land tax will become payable. Below that figure no land tax is levied, and above it land tax commences at the prescribed rates. Most states have escalating rates as the land value increases so it is not proportional. In general there is a different rate and threshold for individuals and companies and a different set of rates for trust although in some states trusts are treated the same as individuals. The full land tax liability is therefore the land value multiplied by the applicable rate.

Exemptions are normally applicable to the principal place of residence, but only if it is being occupied as the PPR. If the taxpayer moves out (land tax form variation required) and uses the property as an investment property then land tax may be due even if it is still within the main residence six-year rule for ATO purposes. Other exemptions are normally available to agricultural use land and charities.

A PPR held in a trust may in some cases still be exempt if being used by a person with an approved disability and in some states an exemption or threshold is applied if the property in the trust is nominated as a PPR of the taxpayer. The rules for a PPR benefit within a trust are strict and need to be fully understood and met or the imposition of land tax will apply. Queensland has the easiest procedure (tick the box on the registration form), but while the property may be exempt from land tax it is not exempt from CGT on a sale, as this exemption normally only applies to individually held property. There are certain circumstances where the main residence exemption is applicable when a property is held in a trust but this is not discussed in this article.

In NSW and Victoria trusts with any discretionary capabilities do not get a threshold but in these states an approved fixed trust does receive a threshold if correctly worded and administrated. Superannuation funds in all states also receive the benefit of the threshold for property in that state.

An opportunity, however, does exist to manage the land tax liability for landholders by holding land in various individual, company and trust structures that are each entitled to a threshold. As land tax is state-based the tax is levied by the state where the property or land is located and a state does not aggregate land from other states when assessing. For example, land held in different companies would each be entitled to a threshold as long as management and control is different. Various states have grouping provisions which would also apply to trusts. Note that assets held in a company if sold do not get the 50% CGT general discount and for a waged employee negative gearing on a property held in a company cannot be claimed against personal income. Negative gearing against personal income is however available if the property or land is held in a Property Investor Trust®, which has an ATO Product Ruling (PR 2011/15).

 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
Another trap is when property is in the name of more than one entity, say for example a couple. The couple are seen as a partnership and only one land tax threshold is available. If either of the people has land in their own right then at the secondary level only the proportion held together is included when determining the liability in total. No credits are available if the total liability at the secondary level is less than paid as a couple. For people with access to ongoing income (if negatively geared) it may be better to buy property in just one person’s name in order to get multiple thresholds. Long-term planning is therefore essential.

Land tax is payable by the current owner and not when it may have been applicable or levied. This can give rise to the new owner being liable for land tax when he or she did not “own” it. When purchasing land or property it is important to apply for a land tax clearance certificate to ensure you will not be liable for someone else’s tax or to give you the opportunity to have any liabilities adjusted at settlement.

Trusts can be a useful tool for both asset protection and estate planning. Widely used to hold property and with the ability to claim negative gearing against personal income (for some trusts), they have become a strategic tool for many property investors. States such as QLD, SA and WA have a relatively acceptable land tax threshold. While NSW does not give a threshold to a trust with a discretionary capacity this sort of trust may be useful when the individual exceeds the threshold in their own right. Most states have an upper limit on the total value of land held in an entity before they impose a surcharge on top of the normal land tax rates applicable, and so it may be beneficial to spread ownership between various entities if possible so as to not attract the surcharge. For example, in NSW the rate increases from 1.6% to 2% when the aggregate land value exceeds the premium rate threshold of $2.421 million (2012 year).

While not directly related to this topic it is important to understand that at a certain dollar value within a company or trust full transfer stamp duty applies as if the property was sold and not the more favourable stamp duty applicable to shares or trust units being sold. The ability to change control of a trust without triggering stamp duty in most states (given no change to legal ownership) is attractive as is the ability for investors to move into and out of trust without triggering full stamp duty. This has allowed many investors to work in joint venture together knowing if circumstances change to one investor then stamp duty would be minimised as opposed to a wholesale change to the legal owner if some of the joint owners wish to “buy” out the exiting partner. Unfortunately most states have an upper limit at which time changes to the ownership of a trust or company will trigger full transfer duty. Each state has different tests but by way of example in NSW landholder duty is triggered when the unencumbered land value exceeds $2 million in the company or trust. Landholders must register when the gross land value exceeds $2 million but the duty will only be applied to the unencumbered amount.

All states have a process for objection to a land tax assessments but this must be submitted on the proper form to the relevant person within 60 days from the date the assessment was issued. Objections can relate to any approved reason normally ownership, valuation and exemption. The relevant state websites show the process and documentation needed and should be immediately accessed if you want to lodge an objection as there are limited opportunities for discretion by the relevant commissioner if the 60-day test is not met.

Ken Raiss is a certified accountant and director of <a title="Chan &amp; Naylor " href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/" target="_self">Chan &amp; Naylor</a> national accounting firm. Chan &amp; Naylor offers a free five-minute question-and-answer session on its website under the<a href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/ask-the-experts/" target="_blank"> "Ask the Experts" section.</a>
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How property investors can avoid the traps and pitfalls of land tax

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It’s winter, and most of us are not at maximum enthusiasm. On top of this it’s tax season. To make matters worse you have received a letter from the ATO advising they will be conducting an audit of your tax affairs.
For many this is a daunting task and dare I say it; even a visit to the dentist is looking better. With an increasing number of ATO audits it is imperative that as a property investor we prepare ourselves for an easy passage that can be achieved by following a few simple steps. 
<ol start="1">
<li>Audit insurance. A relatively inexpensive policy can at least assist with the costs of an audit.</li>
<li>Ensure that the name on the property contract (and therefore title deed) is the same as on the loan documents. The primary information is the title deed and if the loan is in different names then additional paperwork in the form of an “On Loan Agreement” may be required to substantiate the interest deductibility to the ATO.</li>
<li>Ensure all rents and property expenses pass through the bank account in the same name as the property title deed.</li>
<li>Your depreciation schedule must be prepared by a quantity surveyor.</li>
<li>If a renovation has been completed you should have a properly prepared scraping schedule to allow you to write off the value of the items you throw away.</li>
<li>All repairs and maintenance costs must be fully justified and you need to ensure that any costs of a capital nature are depreciated and not expensed. This can be tricky and a repair to the kitchen cabinets prior to the property being rented is deemed capital while the same repair during a rental period could be a repair.</li>
<li>Ensure all your records are easily accessible. The use of a rental agent can assist, as he should be authorised to pay all expenses (other than interest) and receive all rents. He will send you a monthly and annual summary with all supporting documents attached.</li>
<li>If you are using a trust you need to ensure that the trust has been correctly written and operated, especially if as an individual you are claiming negative gearing. Remember not all trusts are the same and many do not allow the taxpayer to claim negative gearing, which the Chan &amp; Naylor Property Investor Trust ® allows.</li>
<li>The use of a tax variation request will improve your cashflows and may reduce the risk of an audit especially if a large refund is envisaged.</li>
<li>If you have incorrectly made a claim in your tax return then a voluntary disclosure to the ATO prior to the tax office completing the audit could significantly reduce penalties. </li>
<li>Even if you are innocent of any wrongdoing an ATO audit can be nerve-racking. Above all work with an experienced property accountant who will help you through any audit or review. </li>
</ol>
Ken Raiss is a certified accountant and director of <a title="Chan &amp; Naylor " href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/" target="_self">Chan &amp; Naylor</a> national accounting firm. Chan &amp; Naylor offers a free five-minute question-and-answer session on its website under the<a href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au/ask-the-experts/" target="_blank"> "Ask the Experts" section.</a>
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How property investors can ease the pain of a tax audit

An entity directed by HSN's Rafi Assouline and Rebel Property's Allen Linz has filed plans for an impressive new precinct in Woolloomooloo.

The major mixed-use development would transform a prominent William Street site into a new residential village anchored by affordable housing and a large public park.

The proposal, submitted as a State Significant Development Application, covers 164-172 and 174-194 William Street, a 6,398 sqm site between Forbes Street and Dowling Street on the southern edge of Woolloomooloo.

Designed by fjcstudio in collaboration with Bangawarra, Studio Bright and Tribe Studio Architects, the scheme would deliver 227 apartments across four residential buildings ranging in height up to 18 storeys, alongside retail space, public domain improvements and a new publicly accessible park.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0eb59b7c-914a-4a5c-b849-3a56749f5e93" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.18.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=mxM6EEqeoLjrCiTlCzTKTvzpKuh6kSkH" />

It's another design scheme for Rebel, who took <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-rebel-property-group-takes-woolloomooloo-precinct-to-nsw-government">concept plans to the NSW Gov late last year</a>.

The latest plans will be a mix of 167 build-to-sell apartments and 60 affordable apartments, with the affordable housing component representing 15 per cent of the project's gross floor area. The apartment mix includes 12 one-bedroom, 53 two-bedroom, 89 three-bedroom apartments and 13 penthouses, while the affordable housing component would comprise 42 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3b3d4553-8a8c-4af5-aa8c-519ffb1e28c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.12%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=_Yb6ibN7eDnOtQjCNDK2eviORa4qzgv." />

Rebel Property is seeking to take advantage of the NSW Government's infill affordable housing bonus provisions under the Housing SEPP, which provide additional floor space and height in exchange for the delivery of affordable housing for a minimum of 15 years. The planning pathway allows a 30 per cent increase in floor space ratio and building height where 15 per cent of the development is dedicated to affordable housing.

&nbsp;

At the centre of the development is a 1,356 sqm sunlit public park designed to become a new community gathering space at the gateway to Woolloomooloo. The park would be complemented by a network of pedestrian laneways connecting William Street with the surrounding streets, improving permeability through what is currently a largely impermeable block.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="257af931-a393-4007-8c6d-7219796df58d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=KAHy94GrhaReFsWTGDKfy39EDJ8gEEv4" />

The design team says the public domain has been heavily influenced by the site's topography and Aboriginal cultural heritage, drawing on the escarpments, gullies and landscape characteristics that historically defined the area before urbanisation. The landscape design has been developed in partnership with First Nations consultancy Bangawarra.

The project would be delivered across four separate buildings. The William Street East and William Street West buildings, designed by fjcstudio, would contain the majority of the apartments. Melbourne-based Studio Bright has designed the Forbes Street building, while Tribe Studio Architects is responsible for the Dowling Street building.

Rebel had secured approval for the concept plans late last year.

Joel Robinson

First look: HSN, Rebel, advances Woolloomooloo precinct plans

A locally heritage-listed furniture showroom on Water Street is set to become the centrepiece of a new mixed-use residential development as local developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/keylin-group">Keylin</a> seeks approval for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lotus-on-water-street-290-water-street-fortitude-valley-qld-4006">Lotus on Water Street</a>, a 15-storey project on the Fortitude Valley side of Spring Hill.

The proposal spans 290 Water Street and 137-141 Warry Street, combining several properties into a 2,869 sqm site that sits between Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill and the rapidly evolving Victoria Park precinct. Keylin's plans would deliver 132 apartments alongside new retail, hospitality and commercial space, while retaining and repurposing the historic Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom that fronts Water Street.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/jackson-teece">Jackson Teece</a>, Lotus on Water Street comprises a 12-storey residential tower rising above a three-storey podium and communal rooftop terrace. The development includes 76 apartments classified as multiple dwellings and a further 56 units proposed as short-term accommodation, designed to be flexibly used as either accommodation or permanent residences. The apartment mix comprises six one-bedroom, 54 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom homes.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9822bb79-6c49-49c9-95ba-319e8c8d81c3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20front.png?VersionId=ioW8zbN4UVebbLetTFuv92t.HkdgfR5e" />

Residents would have access to an extensive rooftop recreation level spanning more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space. Plans include a pool, gym, sauna, infrared sauna, yoga area, library, private dining room, barbecue facilities and landscaped entertainment spaces, making the rooftop the project's largest shared amenity offering.

At street level, the proposal focuses on the adaptive reuse of the heritage buildings along Water Street, where 518 sqm of retail and commercial space is planned across shop, office and food and drink outlet uses. A permeable residential lobby would be positioned between the retained heritage buildings, creating a pedestrian connection between the historic streetscape and the new tower behind.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="269cf3e0-7d13-48bf-a318-05a00deb5c10" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20podium.png?VersionId=DLXmTCLsp6GOcLpQ0h.0z7wKCw59EhN_" />

The heritage retention strategy is central to the scheme. The development application notes that the Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom and adjoining heritage buildings will remain, with only non-significant structures on the site earmarked for removal under a previously issued Heritage Exemption Certificate. Levels one and two of the new podium are recessed behind the heritage façades to maintain their prominence within the streetscape.

Jackson Teece has drawn inspiration from the site's manufacturing history when designing the podium. The planning documents state that the façade incorporates perforated metal screening that references the woven and rattan furniture historically produced on the site. Cascading and climbing plants are integrated throughout the podium to soften the building's presentation and screen parking levels behind. The landscape strategy also informs the project's name, Lotus on Water Street, drawing on the historic Spring Hollow waterholes that once ran through Spring Hill and the blue water lilies associated with Meeanjin, Brisbane's traditional name.

The proposal also incorporates the neighbouring property at 141 Warry Street, currently occupied by a healthcare service. The existing building would remain, with nine dedicated parking spaces allocated within the new development to support its ongoing operation. In total, Lotus on Water Street proposes 117 car spaces, including 110 resident spaces and seven visitor bays, alongside 100 bicycle spaces.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70cf07bc-4fd8-4e70-92dd-be8b21c4e4f0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20site.png?VersionId=txlxrJImM0Sm_vTzHVKh5DDUkyL_CiiA" />

The site sits within the Spring Hill East Precinct of the Spring Hill Neighbourhood Plan and is positioned around 650 metres from both Fortitude Valley Station and Exhibition Station. It is also within walking distance of the King Street precinct, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston Quarter and Victoria Park, which is earmarked to become a major venue precinct ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Planning documents describe the location as a key gateway between Spring Hill and Fortitude Valley and highlight the area's increasing importance as new transport infrastructure and Olympic-related investment reshape Brisbane's inner north. The development team argues the project will contribute additional housing supply while activating a section of Water Street that has historically received less investment than other parts of the Valley.

Keylin has become increasingly active across Brisbane and southeast Queensland, assembling sites in strategic inner-city locations. They are currently selling and delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/oria-spring-hill-447-gregory-terrace-spring-hill-qld-4000">Oria Spring Hill</a>, just over 140 apartments due for completion in 2027.

Keylin plans heritage-led Lotus on Water Street apartment development in Fortitude Valley

Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Ken Raiss

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