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Not only can buyers select what they want upfront, they can sometimes make some changes to the floor plans so the property better suits their needs. Almost always the first units to be sold are those in the best positions, such as corners or penthouses. Some ground floor apartments have courtyards, too. It is first in, best dressed. Investors can be found looking for these units, since they usually bring in a greater rent.
Some buyers may pick up two apartments and amalgamate them into a large three-bedroom apartment, while others may turn a two-bedroom unit into a large one-bedroom apartment. Most developers can offer buyers choices of finishes and a variety of upgrades for additional costs.
A serious chef might want the dream <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/demographics/kitchen-appeal-women-outnumber-men-in-home-ownership-stakes/2013031959876">kitchen</a> with the best appliances and stone benchtops, while an asthmatic would probably opt for a timber or stone floor rather than carpet.
Bear in mind, though, that changes to the plan and to fittings and finishes might push up the price, but might not have as great an impact on end value. Also, if it is an investment purchase, consider who is likely to rent it and whether they would pay more for high-quality extras.
For great tips on buying off the plan, download Property Observer’s free ebook – <a target="_blank" href="https://propertyobserver.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=24bd0766a834290948593f5aa&amp;id=14e9848476&amp;e=7a53fc6dd9">14 tips for buying off the plan: The 2013 guide for investors and owner-occupiers.</a>
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Consider customisation: tips for buying off-the-plan

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In times past many savvy investors would buy apartments off-the-plan, leaving only a deposit of 10%, and sell them on before settlement to make a tidy profit.
It made many people rich. When the GFC hit these leveraged investments also made many people broke. Some speculators are tied up in court with developers chasing their money on units that have dropped in value to much less than the investor agreed to pay. This investment strategy is only for those who are willing to take big risks with a deep understanding of residential investment.
“You don’t see this sort of speculation now, and as a result it is a much more stable and realistic market,” says Rees.
Leveraging is simply using other people’s money, either as a mortgage from a lender or sometimes from the developer, to increase the potential gain from a property investment over a fixed period of time.
What separates leveraged investment from long-term investment is that it must have an end date that can be calculated. It is the opposite of taking a mortgage out to buy your house, paying it off over 25 years and owning the property.
For example, if you buy <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/don-t-underestimate-the-risks-in-off-the-plan-buying/2013031959692?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=off-the-plan" target="_blank">off-the-plan</a> and put a $10,000 deposit on a $100,000 property, you would need to borrow $90,000.
If the $90,000 borrowed costs you 5% in interest, it would add $4,500 to the entire cost, therefore the $100,000 investment is in fact $104,500, if you sell within that one-year period. To make a profit, the property must be sold for more than $104,500. If the property sells for $110,000 you have made of profit of $5,500.
The profit is impressive when calculated as a percentage gain on the capital, however take note: if the property sells for $102,000 it will cost you money rather than making it.
For great tips on buying off the plan, download Property Observer’s free ebook – <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://propertyobserver.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=24bd0766a834290948593f5aa&amp;id=14e9848476&amp;e=7a53fc6dd9">14 tips for buying off the plan: The 2013 guide for investors and owner-occupiers.</a>
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Weigh up leveraged investments carefully: Tips for off-the-plan

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One of the biggest risks is that a developer or builder will go under before completion or that a project will fail to get off the ground, but this should result in no financial loss for the buyer.
When you pay your 10% deposit to secure your property it is held in trust either by the selling agent or vendor’s solicitor.
If the developer is unable to go ahead for whatever reason buyers will get their money back.
Another big issue is often the final product. Carolyn Chudleigh, a partner at law firm Holding Redlich, says the best way to protect yourself from a nasty shock is to check every detail on the sale contract, particularly regarding the finishes.
“Most disputes arise from a buyer not being happy with the end product. The best way to avoid this is to be aware of exactly what all of the finishes should be,” she says.
“You should look at the schedule of finishes for all parts of the property, including floor coverings, colour schemes and kitchen appliances. Know everything about the interior, down to how many power points there will be in every room. All of this can be negotiated before exchange of contracts and should be included specifically in the contract if you want to be able to enforce performance against the vendor. If a contract is skinny on detail, there may be little room for complaints at the end of the day,”she says.
Timing of delivery can also be an issue for people buying property <a href="/guides" target="_blank">off-the-plan</a>.
“Developers do need flexibility in the sale contract so they can ensure successful delivery of the apartments, and there are many situations that may cause the delivery date to be extended, such as wet weather.
“Become familiar with what is on the contract that will allow the ‘sunset’ completion date to be moved. Leave no room for surprises. If you do not understand the contract, take it to a conveyancer and have them read it and explain it to you. Do not cut costs, because with buying off the plan you cannot see exactly what you are signing up for,” Chudleigh says.
Purchasers have successfully been awarded large sums of money through the courts where their views have been built out contrary to assurances from marketing agents, so there is recourse.
In Victoria, a new consumer law aimed at improving transparency and disclosure for off-the-plan property came into force early 2012.
The front page of all sales contracts must state three things: that the amount of a deposit is negotiable but cannot exceed10% of the purchase price; a “substantial period of time” may pass between signing the contract of sale and when the buyer becomes the registered owner of the property; and the value of the property may change between the time the contract is signed and when the buyer takes ownership.
These detailed and clear warnings on the contract highlight the risks that are taken when buying off-the-plan.
When it comes to signing the contract you should be completely satisfied with all terms. If you are not satisfied by certain clauses, you should ask to have them amended, though the developer may refuse.
The bottom line is that if you are not happy with the contract, you should seek legal advice. If the developer adopts a “take it or leave it” approach, your best bet may be to leave it.
For great tips on buying off the plan, download Property Observer’s free ebook – <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://propertyobserver.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=24bd0766a834290948593f5aa&amp;id=14e9848476&amp;e=7a53fc6dd9">14 tips for buying off the plan: The 2013 guide for investors and owner-occupiers.</a>
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Don't underestimate the risks in off-the-plan buying

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Research the background of the developer and its track record.
Have there been court actions against the developer? Does it have a historyof delivering what has been promised and settling disputes quickly and neatly?
“Banks are strict on who they lend to. Banks also look for a good track record before handing over construction finance,”says Tim Rees, director of CBRE residential projects.
The internet is a good tool for research, and look for blogs and newspaper articles.
Do not judge a developer solely by its website, and ensure there is an office where you can meet people face to face.
It is also a good idea to visit the property site and check the location. You may find other construction in the area, which may affect your view.
You should also carefully inspect the display home, models and plans as well as the fixtures and fittings.
For great tips on buying off the plan, download Property Observer’s free ebook – <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://propertyobserver.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=24bd0766a834290948593f5aa&amp;id=14e9848476&amp;e=7a53fc6dd9">14 tips for buying off the plan: The 2013 guide for investors and owner-occupiers.</a>
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Make sure the property developer has a good reputation

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Not only can you often get first pick if you get in early, but there can be sound reasons for buying property off the plan.
Before a property is constructed developers look for presales to give to the bank so it will provide funding for construction.
The GFC has made it hard for developers to get construction finance, and many banks are not willing to part with money unless the majority of the proposed development has been sold.
Many developers are willing to give good deals upfront to secure sales.
Discounts can start from about 5% to about 10% on the completion price and usually the earlier you are in, the better price you can negotiate.
However, you should not rush in to secure an early purchase simply to get a discount until you are satisfied with your investment and the contract you are about to sign.
For great tips on buying off the plan, download Property Observer’s free ebook – <a target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://propertyobserver.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=24bd0766a834290948593f5aa&amp;id=14e9848476&amp;e=7a53fc6dd9">14 tips for buying off the plan: The 2013 guide for investors and owner-occupiers.</a>
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Buying early can have its advantages: off the plan

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<img src="/images/stories/flexicontent/s_listings.jpg"> Buyers’ agents name over-reliance on website photos as one of the biggest traps for expat property buyers.
“Wide-angle lenses make a property look as if it has more space than it does,” warns Rich Harvey of propertybuyer.
“There is no substitute for an on-the-ground inspection [by buyers or their representatives].
“You have to visit the home to see what the noise is like and what’s on the adjacent land,” Harvey emphasises.
And an inspection would show how the aspect of the land affects different rooms in a home.
For more tips for Australian expats buying back home this summer, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-20-top-tips-for-australian-expats-thinking-of-buying-homes-this-summer" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
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Treat website photos with caution: Tips for expat Australian property buyers

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Expat buyers should be aware that many of the homes available for sale are not yet listed on the internet or advertised elsewhere. These are properties that agents or buyers’ agents know that the owners are willing to sell for an acceptable price.
Peter Kelaher of PK Property Search and Negotiators says that a large proportion of the transactions negotiated by his firm are silent sales.
“Agents call us to say that a property is going on the internet in a month’s time,” says Kelaher. “And owners will call us about properties they want to sell privately.”
 
 
For more tips for Australian expats buying back home this summer, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-20-top-tips-for-australian-expats-thinking-of-buying-homes-this-summer" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
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Track down 'silent sales': Tips for expat Australian property buyers

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Shayne Harris of Savills Australia advises expats to look for houses in good condition that can be rented immediately after settlement.
An expat can claim excellent negative-gearing tax breaks.
The tax breaks should help ease the reality that rents for top-end properties are significantly down.
Harris says that an apartment overlooking Sydney’s Circular Quay, for example, that would have rented for $5,000 in the past would now get about $2,500 to $3,000, depending on the particular property.
 
For more tips for Australian expats buying back home this summer, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-20-top-tips-for-australian-expats-thinking-of-buying-homes-this-summer" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
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Look for a property that's immediately rentable: Tips for expat Australian property buyers

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A location near a good private school heads the wish-list of most expats.
“Schools are very, very important to expat buyers,” says Ross Savas of Kay &amp; Burton Real Estate.
As Shayne Harris of Savills Australia emphasises, the need for their children to attend secondary school is often the trigger for expats to return to Australia.
And Angus Raine of Raine &amp; Horne says that as children reach secondary-school age, expats face a decision. They often have to “bite the bullet” and decide whether they will return to Australia or remain living overseas for the next 20 or 30 years.
David Morrell of Morrell and Koren points out that just because an expat has, say, $10 million to spend on a home, it doesn’t mean that a property can be bought near the school they want and that their children can get into that school.
For more tips for Australian expats buying back home this summer, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-20-top-tips-for-australian-expats-thinking-of-buying-homes-this-summer" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
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Understand the importance of schools: Tips for expat Australian property buyers

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You can use this checklist when identifying possible buys on the internet and for use by real estate agents, buyers’ agents and any relatives who may be inspecting properties on your behalf.
Before preparing the checklist, it is worth considering what types of properties and locations appeal to other Australian expats.
Shayne Harris of Savills Australia says expats typically want homes within five kilometres of the CBD near good schools, beaches, restaurants and cafes.
“They are going to be working long hours when they return to Australia and want to be in and out of the office in a reasonable time.”
And Harris says expats usually want north-facing backyards and quiet streets. He tells buyers that they can change almost anything with a house except the shape and the aspect of its block.
Peter Kelaher, managing director of Sydney buyers’ agent PK Property Search and Negotiators, says that expat buyers tend to want homes with “postcard” views.
“In Sydney, they really want water views, ideally including the iconic views of the Harbour Bridge and the Opera House.
“A lot of expats – particularly those posted in Hong Kong and Singapore – live in apartments,” Kelaher adds. This means many want Australian houses on big blocks of land.
Property specialists interviewed say expats returning to live in Sydney favour such suburbs as Mosman, Neutral Bay, Roseville and Lindfield on the lower north shore as well as such suburbs as Point Piper, Bellevue Hill and Potts Point in the eastern suburbs. And many expats like the eastern beach suburbs.
Rich Harvey of propertybuyer points to the “golden triangle” of top streets on Balmoral Slopes as a Sydney favourite among expats.
In Melbourne, Ross Savas of Kay &amp; Burton Real Estate names Toorak, South Yarra, Hawthorne, Canterbury, Brighton and Albert Park among the preferred suburbs of cashed-up expats.
“They want quality homes in quality suburbs.”
It should be emphasised, however, that there are two sides to the expat property market. While expats in senior positions are looking for properties typically costing upwards of $3 million, younger expats with less-senior jobs may be hunting for properties selling for $1 million plus.
 
 
For more tips for Australian expats buying back home this summer, <a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-20-top-tips-for-australian-expats-thinking-of-buying-homes-this-summer">download our free eBook.</a>
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Prepare a checklist of 'must-have' features: Tips for expat Australian property buyers

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

Joel Robinson

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

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Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

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Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

Michael Laurence

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