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Preliminary clearance rates in Melbourne came in at 63% for the week ending 6 December, down from the previous week's clearance rate of 65.9%, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
The best performing clearance rates were found in the Mornington Peninsular, 69.4%, and North East Melbourne, 68.4% from 152 auctions.
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North East Melbourne posts 68.4% clearance rate: CoreLogic RP Data

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Sydney's preliminary clearance rate has fallen for the tenth consecutive week, according to CoreLogic RP Data, with this week's fall down to 55.6% making for the fifth week in a row under 60%.
1,051 auctions were held across Sydney for the week ending 6 December, with five regions posting a higher than 60% preliminary clearance rate - the Inner West (66.1%), Eastern Suburbs (65.2%, City and Inner South (64%) and Northern Beaches and North Sydney and Hornsby (both 62.5%).
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Sydney's clearance rate falls for tenth consecutive week: CoreLogic RP Data

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New South Wales auction results for week ending Sunday 7 December show a preliminary clearance rate of 56% from 1051 scheduled auctions.
<div class="reported-auctions">
<div class="num">According to data from realestate.com.au, 294 were sold at auction within NSW, 222 passed in and 135 sold prior to auction.</div>
<div class="num"> </div>
<div class="num">One standout property in the Sydney suburb of St Ives - a three bedroom deceased estate at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-st+ives-121295810" target="_blank">29 Memorial Avenue St Ives</a>, sold at auction for $1,650,000</div>
<div class="num"> </div>
<div class="num"><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/auction-results/nsw?rsf=edm:auction:nsw" target="_blank">Click here to see the full state breakout.</a></div>
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NSW auction clearance rate at 56%: Realestate.com.au

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Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of auction results in Sydney for Saturday 5 December. 
<a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.
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APM's Sydney auction results for Saturday 5 Dec

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The national preliminary auction clearance rate for the week ending 6 December is at its lowest in 2015 at 59.2%, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
According to CoreLogic RP Data over the same weekend last year, 3,507 homes were auctioned with a clearance rate of 63.7%
Auction numbers this week were 3,209, down for last week's yearly high of 3,729.
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National auction clearance rate lowest in 2015: CoreLogic RP Data

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The number of national residential listings fell 0.4% from October to November, according to new figures from SQM Research.
Listing numbers in Adelaide, Melbourne and Canberra had a monthly rise with falls recorded for Darwin, Sydney, Perth and Brisbane.
SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher said Sydney residential property listings weighed down the national figure this month. 
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"It is a little abnormal to record falls in listings during November as the annual spring selling season reaches a peak during this month. Nevertheless we were expecting a pullback of sorts due to the massive surge in listings recorded in October," he said.
"Overall I think it is a mixed property market and nothing released today has changed my view on this.
"Sydney experienced a yearly rise of 11.8%, with residential property listings climbing from 25,577 to 28,597. Darwin also experienced excessive yearly growth with sale listings up 11.4% based on a total 2,042 listings. These figures indicate that the number of property sellers in both residential markets has increased."
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The October listings surge backs off in November: SQM Research

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GUEST OBSERVER 
Dwelling approvals: Dwelling approvals rose by 3.9 % in October, boosted by a 10.6 % increase in apartment approvals. Over the past year a record 233,180 new homes were approved.
The terms of trade (ratio of export to import prices) fell by 2.4 % to a 9-year low of 83.3 in the September quarter. But the terms of trade is still up 4 % on the 20-year average.
Record foreign debt: Net foreign debt rose by $25.5 billion to a record $993.8 billion as at the end of the September quarter.
Trade sector adds to economic growth: Net exports (exports less imports) will add 1.5 percentage points to economic growth in the September quarter. CommSec estimates that the economy grew by 0.9 % in the September quarter to be up 2.5 % over the year.
China purchasing manager indexes: The National Bureau of Statistics measure for manufacturing fell from 49.8 to 49.6 in November; the services index lifted from 53.1 to 53.6.
What does it all mean?
Courtesy of stronger demand for our exports, we expect the economy grew by almost 1.0 % in the September quarter. Last quarter media were comparing Australia to Greece after the economy grew by just 0.2 %. Will we see media comparing our economy with India or China if the economy grows as expected in the September quarter?
We can never become too complacent with our foreign debt position. In the past quarter our debt levels rose to almost $1 trillion dollars – not an event we should celebrate. The good news is that Australians are also investing overseas with latest data at record highs.
Dwelling approvals lifted by healthy 3.9 % October. From a longer term sense the lift in home building over the past couple of years has been extraordinary. Over the past year a record 233,180 new homes were approved – a boom that will continue to support economic activity over the next 12-18 months. Interestingly with the tightening in bank lending standards, it is pretty clear that the lift in supply should result in a much more balanced housing sector - as was highlighted by the pullback in home prices in five of the eight capital cities last month.
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What do the figures show?
 Building Approvals:
Dwelling approvals rose by 3.9% in October after rising 2.3% in September.  Over the past year a record 233,180 new homes were approved.
House approvals fell by 2.1% in October (private sector fell by 2.1%). Meanwhile ‘lumpy’ apartment approvals rose by 10.6% in October after rising by 7.5% in September. Private sector apartment approvals rose by 10.6% in October.
Dwelling approvals are up 12.3% on a year ago with house approvals down by 2.3% while apartments are up by 30.2%.
Across states and territories in October: NSW approvals rose by 22.0%; Victoria rose by 21.2%; Queensland fell by 28.7%; South Australia rose by 23.4%; Western Australia fell by 1.1%; Tasmania fell by 41.6%. In trend terms, approvals rose by 7.1% in the Northern Territory and fell 10.8% in the ACT.
The value of all commercial and residential building approvals rose by 6.4% in October after falling by 2.7% in September. Residential approvals rose by 9.8% with new building up by 10.5% while alterations &amp; additions rose by 3.7%. Commercial building fell by 1% in October to be up 19.6% over the year.
 Balance of Payments
The broadest measure of Australia's external position -  the current account – improved in the September quarter (smaller deficit), with the deficit falling from $20,506 million to $18,104 million.
The balance of goods and services was in deficit by $7,438 million after a $10,946 million deficit in the June quarter. Exports rose in real terms by 5.4% while imports fell by 1.8%.
At the end of the June quarter,  net foreign equity was $70.99 billion – essentially Australians own more assets overseas than foreign investors own here in Australia. And the positive net foreign equity position rose by $7.37 billion over the September quarter.
The trade sector (exports less imports) will add 1.5 percentage points to economic growth in the September quarter.
Terms of trade (ratio of export to import prices) fell by 2.4% to 83.3 in the September quarter – lowest level since June quarter 2006. But the terms of trade is still up 4.0% on the 20-year average.
Net foreign debt rose by $25.5 billion to a record $993.8 billion as at the end of the September quarter.
The debt servicing ratio (net income on foreign debt to goods and services credits) worsened from 7.4% to 7.7% in the September quarter.
 Government Finances
Government consumption spending rose by 0.7% in the September quarter after a 1.7% increase in the June quarter. But total public investment fell by 9.2% in the September quarter after rising by 2.1% in the June quarter. Overall, spending by the government sector  fell by 1.2% in the September quarter after rising 1.8% in the June quarter.
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 Consumer sentiment
The weekly ANZ/Roy Morgan consumer confidence rating fell by 1.7 points (1.5%) to 112.8 in the week to November 29 Confidence is down 1.0% over the year but above the average of 111.7 since 2014.
Just two of the five components of the index rose in the latest week:
The estimate of family finances compared with a year ago was  down from +9 to +4;
The estimate of family finances over the next year was  up from +23 to +25;
Economic conditions over the next 12 months was  down from +2 to -2;
Economic conditions over the next 5 years was  down from +10 to +6;
The measure of whether it was a good time to buy a major household item was  up from +28 to +31.
What is the importance of the economic data?
The Bureau of Statistics' monthly  Building Approvals release contains figures on local council approvals to build residential structures such as homes and units as well as commercial premises such as offices and shops.
Approval is one of the first stages of the construction ‘pipeline’ and is thus a key leading indicator of future activity.
An increase in approvals would point to stronger future activity for construction-related companies.
The quarterly Balance of Payments figures have few short-term effects on financial markets. The importance of the data is merely to highlight Australia’s trading position with the rest of the world as well as the contribution of foreign trade (exports less imports) to the latest estimates of economic growth.
The ANZ/Roy Morgan weekly survey of consumer confidence closely tracks the monthly Westpac/Melbourne Institute consumer sentiment index but the former measure is a timelier assessment of consumer attitudes and is now closely tracked by the Reserve Bank.
What are the implications for interest rates and investors?
The near $1 trillion in foreign debt will serve as a brake on the Aussie dollar, which at present seems a little high compared with the level of commodity prices.
A solid reading on economic growth in the September quarter will ensure that the Reserve Bank stays on the interest rate sidelines.
 
Craig James is the chief economist at <a href="https://www.comsec.com.au/default.aspx" target="_blank">CommSec</a>.
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Exports to lift growth, record building approvals: CommSec's Craig James

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Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of auction results in Sydney for Saturday 28 November. 
<a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.
 
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APM's Sydney auction results for 28 November

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Sydney recorded a preliminary clearance rate of 56.3% from 954 auction results for the week ending 29 November, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
North Sydney and Hornsby region held 185 properties taken to auction, the highest of the sub-regions. 
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North Sydney, Hornsby leads Sydney auction pack: CoreLogic RP Data

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Last week Melbourne saw the highest volume of auctions it has seen throughout 2015, with 1,828 auctions held across the city and a preliminary clearance rate of 64.7%, according to CoreLogic RP Data. 
The strongest sub-region was Inner Melbourne, which had the highest number of auctions at 347 and a preliminary clearance rate of 71%.
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Inner Melbourne region takes clearance rate of 71%: CoreLogic RP Data

Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

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Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

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Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

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All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

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Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

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"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

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The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Michael Crawford

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