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The recent implementation of the new Botany Bay Local Environmental Plan is pushing up land prices and benefiting owners of older-style industrial properties, according to CBRE.
Developer demand is at its highest level in a decade, with developers looking for opportunities and sites that can accommodate retail and apartment projects.
A 1,600-square-metre industrial building at 1144 and 1146 Botany Road owned by hang glider manufacturer Moyes sold for $3.65 million to Icon Construction Group.
"As an industrial building the property was worth $2.5 million to $3 million, but the potential to redevelop the site under the new LEP pushed the sale price to $3.65 million," says CBRE capital markets director Daniel O’Brien.
The site can accommodate a boutique development of around 18 to 20 units above ground floor retail space.
“Residential developers are being very bullish at present as they know that the end product, particularly in this style of boutique project, will virtually sell out on launch day,” says O’Brien.
Botany Road Project Pty Ltd recently pushed 767 Botany Road in Rosebery for $11 million.
A development application has been lodged to build 11,400 square metres of retail space and 88 apartments.
“The site had no approval or income, and we still had multiple purchases making offers,” says O’Brien.
“The potential for change of uses, proximity to rail and the end price point is driving demand for mixed use sites in this market.
“The strength of retailer interest for available opportunities is also underpinning demand,” says O’Brien.
O’Brien says the demand for retail space, especially food and liquor, is extremely competitive.
"So while we have seen considerable pain over the past few years at the discretionary end of the market, in areas such as fashion retailing, the convenience end of the market and non-discretionary retailing has been very resilient.
“We've also seen the major supermarkets and liquor stores completely shift their focus when opening new stores or assessing new sites,” says O’Brien.
O’Brien says planning constraints and increased competition from IGA and Aldi has seen major supermarket operators be more flexible with their requirements, adapting to much smaller format stores.
The Botany Bay LEP commenced on June 26 and is designed to encourage sustainable economic growth and development and to recognize the important of Botany Bay as a gateway to Sydney.
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Owners of older-style industrial properties benefitting from Botany Bay LEP

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Swimming pools are a point of contention for many property buyers. While in some neighbourhoods they are almost expected, and buyers may pay a premium for them, in others they are an unnecessary electricity and maintenance drain.  
Investors in particular are often warned to steer clear, frequently due to the safety warnings and concerns around tenants with younger children.  
This observer column by David Airey debated the common question <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/does-a-swimming-pool-increase-a-property-s-value-david-airey/2012121258438">'Does a swimming pool increase a property's value</a>?' still left it open to debate.  
In saying that, swimming pools are frequently advertised by real estate agents as a selling point for a property. These three current listings below, for instance, clearly position it as a positive.  
The infinity pool and stone outdoor terrace in this <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-palm+beach-106268790">Palm Beach residence</a> is advertised as “evoking the immediate feel of an endless summer”.
<img alt="whale_oct_2_one" height="353" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/10/02/whale_oct_2_one.jpg">
This <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-twin+waters-114136587">Twin Water’s residence</a> is listed as being an entertainer’s delight with its infinity pool with wet edge, timber deck and built in bar and BBQ, “send out the invitations now, you will want to host lots of parties in this house.”
 
<img alt="twin_waters_oct_2_one" height="353" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/10/02/twin_waters_oct_2_one.jpg">
 
Lastly, this <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-jollys+lookout-114196659">Jolly’s Lookout</a> residence, which has previously been <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/jollys-lookout-trophy-home-with-infinity-pool-stunner/2013082964640">featured</a> on Property Observer, is listed as having an “award winning infinity edge pool”and offers “maxiumum wow and maximum lifestyle.”
<img alt="jollys_lookout_oct_2_onbe" height="353" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/10/02/jollys_lookout_oct_2_onbe.jpg">
 
{module Would you invest in a property with a swimming pool? }
 
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Would you invest in a property with a swimming pool?

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Properties in the ACT are forecast to experience greater discounts in the next six to 12 months, as a result of government jobs been slashed and an “exodus of residents,” says SQM Research.
SQM says the top ten most discounted properties in the ACT are relatively low when compared to other states, but the prediction of house price declines in 2014 will not be a direct reflection of the current market.
The most discounted property on SQM’s list is <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/apartment-downer-act-2602/171527" target="_blank">8/43 Gardiner Street</a> in the suburb of Downer, which slashed its price by 27%, after spending 279 days on the market.
It was initially listed for $296,000 and is currently seeking $215,000.
A property on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-act-kingston-110114629" target="_blank">Kennedy Street</a> in Kingston has spent the longest time on the market of 539 days but has only slashed its asking price by 13% to $400,000.
The other eight properties on the list have slashed their asking price by 11% to 14% and have spent a range of time on the market from 196 days to just under 400 days.
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An "exodus of residents" to cause price declines in ACT: SQM 

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A new approach has been taken for Mornington Peninsula’s $650 million Martha Cove development, with an alliance forming between three stakeholders – development company Three Pillars and receivers and managers KordaMentha and PPB Advisory.
Set on Safety Beach, the 94-hectare residential marina development offers house and land packages and will consist of around 1,100 residential dwellings upon completion.
Martha Cove will also include 750 marina berths, a commercial precinct and aged care facility.
Broken into three precincts, PPB Advisory will develop Sovereign Point, KordaMentha will look after Hidden Harbour and Three Pillars will develop Harbourside.
<img alt="Martha_Cove_three_key_stakeholders_L-R_Tom_Hoogenbosch_Three_Pillars_Berrick_Wilson_KordaMentha__Ian_Carson_PPB_Advisory_2" height="315" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/10/04/Martha_Cove_three_key_stakeholders_L-R_Tom_Hoogenbosch_Three_Pillars_Berrick_Wilson_KordaMentha__Ian_Carson_PPB_Advisory_2.jpg">
Martha Cove key stokeholder: (left to right) Tom Hoogenbosch Three Pillars, Berrick Wilson KordaMentha &amp; Ian Carson PPB Advisory
“The stakeholders are working towards common outcomes so it made sense to work together to create harmony, synergies and economies of scale,” said Berrick Wilson, national head of real estate at KordaMentha,
“We all benefit from a joint approach and marketing initiative, and individual precincts will draw in inquiry to provide purchasers with ample choice.
“This project has been a decade in the making and is unlikely to be repeated any time soon as you simply can’t find a site like this with direct access to the Bay. When it’s gone, it’s gone,” says Wilson.
Three Pillar’s Harbourside development offers three-bedroom house and land packages from $429,000 and four-bedroom homes from $499,000.
Hidden Harbour offers house and land packages from $395,000 and Sovereign Point offers house and waterfront luxury from $960,000.
The first stage of Harbourside was released four months ago and so far 55 terrace homes out of 80 have sold.
Sovereign Point was released this week and so far one house and land package has been snapped up, out of 30 on offer.
“There is a limited number of absolute waterfront houses and land blocks available in this unique peninsula location,” says Ian Carson, chairman of partners from PPB Advisory.
“It’s still possible to buy a waterfront home for less than $1 million – that is rare and very appealing to a wide range of buyers,” says Carson.
The first stage of Harbourside began construction in July and is scheduled for completion by March next year.
Hidden Harbour and Sovereign Point completion dates are subject to settlements.
The median house price in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Safety Beach</a> is $520,000, an 18.6% change in the past five years, according to RP Data.
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Alliance forms for Mornington Peninsula's $650m Martha Cove development

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Metro Property Development has released its third Fortitude Valley Apartment complex, Broadway on Ann.
The $107 million development comes as Metro views Fortitude Valley as having strong investment potential, joining Metro’s other developments, Brooklyn on Brookes and Central Village.
“As well as all the obvious lifestyle and entertainment assets Newstead and Fortitude Valley have emerged as incredibly strong employment hubs,” says Metro property development founder David Devine
“We estimate there is already 42,000 works in the immediate area and more to come with Bank of Queensland’s new headquarters and a range of other commercial developments planned or under construction.
“From an investment point of view the Fortitude Valley area is very appealing with rental yields now being achieved in excess of 6% and vacancy rates sitting under 1%,” says Devine.
The 2,553-square-metre site - located between Commercial Road and Ann Street - is currently occupied by Audi and the International City Church.
{qtube vid:=bypBJ7rStug}
Broadway on Ann will feature 247 one- and two-bedroom apartments.
One-bedroom apartments range in size from 40 square metres to 79 square metres and range in price from $335,000 to $465,000.
Two-bedroom apartments range in size from 60 square metres to 137 square metres and range in price from $455,000 to $630,000.
Designed by Woods Bagot, residents will have access to a rooftop entertaining area, including a 15-metre pool, gym and bbq area.
“Fortitude Valley has become one of the most popular inner-city suburbs in Brisbane thanks to its vibrant dining, shopping and entertainment precincts,” says Metro property developments co-founder and marketing director Ken Woodley
“More and more people want to buy here - In fact, the north of the river apartment market recorded the highest levels of unconditional new and off the plan apartment sales across the inner city market in the March 2013 quarter,” says Woodley.
Metro’s Central Village has totaled $58 million in sales and is currently 86% sold.
Construction of Broadway on Ann is due to commence in early 2014 and has an estimated completion date in the second half of 2015.
The median apartment price in <a href="/news">Fortitude Valley</a> is $410,000, a 12.3% change in the past five years, according to RP Data.
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Metro Property release third development in investment hotspot Fortitude Valley

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Construction on the $7 million North Bondi Surf Live Saving Club’s new clubhouse is now complete.
Architecturally designed by Sydney architects Durbach Block Jaggers and constructed by North Sydney based construction company Taylor, the four-level clubhouse has been designed to blend with its coastal setting through curved lines and sparkling, mottled Trencadis mosaic cladding.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/10/01/north-bondi-clubhouse-oct-1-one.jpg" width="470" height="624" alt="north-bondi-clubhouse-oct-1-one">
Mark Taylor, principal of Taylor says the clubhouse will become an architectural icon.
“Our project team has worked closely with the Club, Council and Durbach Block Jaggers in association with Peter Colquhoun, to create an aesthetically appealing and highly functional public building that will become an architectural icon.
“The state-of-the -art clubhouse sets a new benchmark for life saving facilities in Australia,” says Taylor.
The clubhouse provides more accommodation than the original building and includes change rooms, first aid facilities and a gym with a sauna.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/10/01/north-bondi-clubhouse-oct-1-tewo.jpg" width="470" height="267" alt="north-bondi-clubhouse-oct-1-tewo">
The two top floor function rooms include a kitchen, bar and a member’s lounge.
“It was a complex and at times challenging project, however we were determined to overcome the challenges to construct an outstanding building for the Club’s members, who have worked tirelessly for this project,” says Taylor.
The project was completed within a 60-week timeframe.
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$7 million North Bondi lifesaving clubhouse to become architectural icon

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Sydney’s inner south-east suburb of Mascot is due to get a whole lot busier with Harry Triguboff's Meriton Group announcing the first master planned community for the area.
Located at 19 – 33 Kent Road, Mascot Central will consist of residential apartments, accommodation and a retail complex.
Designed by PTW Architects, Mascot Central will house 1,000 residents in a mix of studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments across eight buildings, ranging in height to 14 levels.
The development will also include 255 fully serviced apartments and a neighbourhood shopping centre including Woolworths, a childcare centra and 15 specialty stores.
Other facilities include a 25-metre lap pool, children’s pool, spa and sauna and a gymnasium.
Meriton Group says Mascot has benefited from a mini baby boom in Sydney’s inner city and an influx of affordable housing in the inner south.
The suburb has continued to grow with new restaurants, café and bike baths emerging in recent years. 
Meriton bought the 31,500-square-metre site for $100 million in 2013 from the Goodman Group.
Meriton has another development planned for Mascot, alongside development projects in <a href="/news">Waterloo</a>, <a href="/news">Ryde</a>, <a href="/news">North Sydney</a>, <a href="/news">Chatswood</a>, <a href="/news">Pagewood</a> and <a href="/news">Warriewood</a>. 
The medium apartment price in <a href="/news">Mascot</a> is $595,200, according to RP Data.
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Sydney's Mascot to get first master planned community

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Following a quiet week in Melbourne due to the AFL Grand Final, auction volumes are yet to pick back up with 1,400 auctions scheduled around the capital cities this week, according to RP Data.
Auctions volumes were down last week from 2,109 the previous week to 1,217 last week.
However, the national clearance rate increased from 73.1% the previous week to 75.9% last week.
At the same time last year, the clearance rate was substantially lower at 50.1% from 746 auctions.
Melbourne experienced a quiet week as a result of the Grand Final, with only 89 auctions held, down from 984 the previous week.
Melbourne’s preliminary clearance rate was 84.1%, up from 75.9% the previous week.
Melbourne has its auction stride back with 826 auctions scheduled this week.
Sydney had a busy week last week with 872 auctions, up from 766 the previous week.
The clearance rate remained unchanged at 81.4%.
At the same time last year, Sydney held 491 auctions and had a clearance rate of 55.2%.
It’s Sydney’s turn to quiet down this week, a possible result of the public holiday on Monday, with only 364 auctions scheduled.
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Sydney's public holiday holding back scheduled auctions: RP Data

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A seven-bedroom Hampton-style residence owned by businessman Dino Focas was an interesting case this week, passing in at auction.
Located on Monaco Street in Broadbeach Waters, the property has been visited  by stars Kate Hudson and Matthew McConaughey, who were in Queensland for the filming of  <a target="_blank" href="https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0770752/">Fool’s Gold</a>.
Situated on 2,800 square metres, the property features riverfront terraces, balconies off every bedroom and a media room and library.
The home also boasts a pool, tennis court and pontoon.
Focas bought the property for $6.5 million in 2010 off Louise Morris, who paid $7.35 million in 2005.
The home was sold through <a target="_blank" href="https://raywhiteprestigegoldcoast.com.au/qld/broadbeach-waters/982690/">Sherry Smith of Ray White Prestige Gold Coast</a>.
The median house price in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Broadbeach Waters</a> is $710,000, a 19.1% decline in the past five years, according to RP Data.
Most expensive sales:
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/12_john_dykes_avenue_vaucluse_nsw_2030/7141420">12 John Dykes Avenue, Vaucluse, NSW, 2030,</a> six-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on September 25 by Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay for $5.098 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/4/69_kirribilli_avenue_kirribilli_nsw_2061/3434240">4/69 Kirribilli Avenue, Kirribilli, NSW, 2061,</a> three-bedroom unit, sold at auction on September 28 by McGrath Estate Agents for $4.7 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/10_norma_road_palm_beach_nsw_2108/5302780">10 Norma Road, Palm Beach, NSW, 2108,</a> four-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 26 by L J Hooker Palm Beach for $2.725 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/22_ray_avenue_vaucluse_nsw_2030/7145313">22 Ray Avenue, Vaucluse, NSW, 2030,</a> three-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 24 by BradfieldCleary Double Bay for $2.7 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/18_gow_street_balmain_nsw_2041/1256282">18 Gow Street, Balmain, NSW, 2041,</a> two-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 28 by L J Hooker Balmain for $2.515 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/36_victoria_avenue_canterbury_vic_3126/10259107">36 Victoria Avenue, Canterbury, VIC, 3126,</a> four-bedroom house, sold on September 28 by Kay &amp; Burton Hawthorn for $2.465 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/4_delmar_parade_gladesville_nsw_2111/2398991">4 Delmar Parade, Gladesville, NSW, 2111,</a> four-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on September 28 by McGrath Estate Agents for $2.35 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/38_riverview_parade_north_manly_nsw_2100/4985253">38 Riverview Parade, North Manly, NSW, 2100,</a> four-bedroom house, sold at auction on September 28 by Belle Property Manly for $2.3 million
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/18/50_upper_pitt_street_kirribilli_nsw_2061/3435732">18/50 Upper Pitt Street, Kirribilli, NSW, 2061,</a> two-bedroom unit, sold prior to auction on September 28 by Ray White Lower North Shore for $2.255 million
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This week's most expensive sales: RP Data

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There has been a strong move in the market with young first home buyers choosing acreage over an inner city dwelling, according to QM Properties outer north side Brisbane office.
Acreage sales comprise of 35% of all QMs land sales, compared to only 25% in the 12 months prior.
“Over 50% of our sales in Springbrook Estate are to young couples in the <a href="/news">Burpengary</a>, <a href="/news">Caboolture</a> and <a href="/news">Dayboro</a> areas,” said Northside Sales Manager Scott Valentine.
“In the past, acreage was the choice of second or third home buyers with older children.
“But it is all changing now,” says Valentine.
A 3,000-square-metre block can be bought for an entry-level price of $189,000 and a single-storey, four-bedroom home can be built for $170,000 with local builders.
“Estates in such suburbs as <a href="/news">Narangba</a> in the area are still charging $205,000 to $207,000 for a tiny 375-square-metre block,” says Valentine.
“The figures just don’t add up and this is the most price sensitive market segment.
“This market is also well educated and researched due to social media and the Internet, and they know that acreage is disappearing,” says Valentine.
“Residents on acreage feel secure, which is strange to city dwellers.
“It’s remote, and your neighbours are a fair distance away, but it is safer with less crime than in built up areas,” says Valentine.
Valentine looks after areas including Ocean View, Springbrook Estate, Sanctuary Grove and Westwood.
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First home buyers opting for acreage blocks

Perth’s new apartment market recorded its strongest quarter of sales since Q4 2021, with 412 apartments sold in Q1 2026 and a record quarterly sold value of $537 million, according to Urbis’ latest Apartment Essentials results.

Urbis said the March quarter result reflects strong, highly product‑specific demand across both ends of the market, from more attainable projects delivering at scale, through to premium stock being absorbed by equity‑rich downsizers.&nbsp;

David Cresp, Partner at Urbis, said the key story in Perth is not demand, it is the market’s ability to convert demand into delivered housing.&nbsp;

“This is the strongest sales quarter since Q4 2021, and it reinforces that demand in Perth is real and it’s local,” David Cresp said. “But the task now is delivery, turning that demand into projects that can actually be built and completed.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=302785]

<h2>Affordable product leads, premium demand remains resilient</h2>

Sales in Q1 were led by more affordable projects, with The Boulevard (SKS Group) recording 115 sales in the quarter, the presentation noting this is only the second time a single project has surpassed 100 quarterly sales. The project was able to offer more affordable housing product right next to a train station.&nbsp;

Palmyra West (Finbar) also delivered strong results with 28 sales in Q1, following 84 sales in Q4, with an average price of under $800,000, underscoring depth of demand for well‑located, attainable new stock.&nbsp;

At the premium end, Urbis said downsizer demand is continuing, with the results highlighting Romeo (Applecross, Finbar) recording 75 sales and reaching almost 50% sold in one quarter.

Jual (Shenton Park, Celsius Property) also posted a strong quarter with 28 sales, reaching 39% sold in one quarter.

Urbis noted that Perth apartment demand is not speculative, not investor‑led, and not uniform, describing it as localised, often equity‑driven and highly product‑specific, a pattern reflected in the polarisation between strong “attainable” performers and premium downsizer product.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148957 project_image_fid=364102]

<h2>Prices underpinned by costs, and the delivery risk is growing</h2>

Urbis said pricing pressure is cost not demand‑driven: construction costs and delivery risk are now a central constraint, with the results noting build costs remain elevated and volatile, and that energy, fuel and labour uncertainty weigh on feasibility.

David Cresp said a growing challenge for private Build‑to‑Sell developers is simply securing a builder in the current environment.

“Developers are really feeling the pressure from a building market that was operating at capacity and securing a builder is challenging,” David Cresp said, adding that even where a builder can be secured, “trying to get to the price that makes the development financially viable is incredibly challenging in the current market.”&nbsp;

Urbis’ broader WA commentary also notes that industry remains at or above capacity with lot and housing creation, and that many builders are limiting new sales to manage stretched workforces and fixed‑price contract pressures, conditions that flow directly into apartment feasibility and delivery timing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108869 project_image_fid=317905]

<h2>Supply: improving later, but still constrained, and Perth lags eastern benchmarks</h2>

While near‑term supply remains constrained, Urbis’ forecast shows completions lifting “Supply is forecast to be back above 1,500 apartments per annum for the first time since 2019”, with 1,775 completions forecast for 2026, and volumes remaining above that level over the following years.&nbsp;

Looking further ahead, completions are forecast to reach 2,500 in 2028, with the report noting 32% of that total is social/affordable, reflecting the role of government‑supported delivery in rebuilding the pipeline.&nbsp;

However, Urbis said Perth remains behind comparable markets on pipeline scale. In a national comparison of projects under construction, the report shows under construction Perth Build‑to‑Sell (BTS) at 3,446 apartments versus the Gold Coast at 7,922. Mr Cresp said “The challenge for Perth is how to we grow the delivery pipeline”.

Urbis’ conclusion is that Perth’s market is increasingly defined by product discipline and delivery certainty, with the research identifying “delivery certainty is key” and calling out builder risk and procurement models as core success factors, alongside “timing and staging”.&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Perth apartment sales hit strongest pace since late 2021 as builder capacity tightens

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sammut-developments">Sammut Group</a> has secured development approval for its latest Brisbane apartment project, marking the Sydney developer’s next step in expanding its Queensland pipeline following the success of its debut Gold Coast development, Coast.

The approved project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/44-glen-road-toowong-qld-4066">44 Glen Road, </a><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> will deliver a 15-storey riverfront apartment building with 42 residences, significantly increasing the scale of the site’s previous approval for a smaller luxury scheme. Designed by Bureau^proberts, the development will comprise a mix of predominantly four-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments positioned to maximise Brisbane River and city views.

Sammut Director Julian Sammut said the group had been actively searching Brisbane for several years before identifying Toowong as the right fit.

“Brisbane was the right step for Sammut,” Sammut said.

“With the success of Coast we thought we should definitely look to do more in Queensland alone. We then pushed up to look at Brisbane. We've been looking for I'd say two to three years actually and it was hard to find the right location.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.14%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dYAVIL7qdcGA8ojvkslSrLjczXFejSSx" />

Sammut said suburbs including New Farm and Teneriffe were considered before the group ultimately focused on Toowong due to its strong downsizer demographic and limited supply of developable riverfront land.

The site was acquired off-market after what Sammut described as a lengthy negotiation and planning process, with the developer pursuing an uplift to the original approval.

“We are DA approved now which is very exciting,” Sammut said.

“We've had our change approval come through and we've obviously doubled the height, 15 storeys plus rooftop. We've got 42 amazing apartments that are going to be coming to market soon.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ohkRkY0dIZlqdfME2EZePsCQavRiBadE" />

Bureau^proberts said the design responds to Toowong’s evolving urban character, balancing contemporary apartment living with the area’s established residential identity.

“A place where traditional Queensland living has taken place for centuries; Toowong is seeing a shift of contemporary influence, commercial and retail hubs mixed with well-considered residential offerings – all the while maintaining its character and charm,” the architect noted in planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council.

The architecture practice said the project’s form was shaped by its riverfront setting, flood considerations, neighbouring building scales, and view corridors.

“They said the mix of four and two-bedroom apartments capture the ‘fundamental qualities of Queenslander living,’ translated into the context of a contemporary subtropical building.”

The development sits just off Coronation Drive within walking distance of Toowong’s retail precinct and the upgraded Regatta ferry terminal, while also benefiting from proximity to the incoming green bridge connection to West End. Sammut said the accessibility and amenity offering were central to the site’s appeal.

The approval adds to growing residential activity along the Toowong riverfront, joining nearby projects including Consolidated Properties’ Monarch Residences and Spyre Group’s ARC Residences.

Sammut secures approval for debut Brisbane apartment development in Toowong

Developer Lanevick is heading back into Sydney’s apartment market after focusing more heavily on the luxury townhouse and terrace sector in recent years.

Lanevick, founded and directed by Steve Maroun, is expecting to receive approval in the coming months for a new apartment development in Gladesville, with the aim to launch it to the market later this year.

The 51-apartment project, designed by Studio Johnston, will comprise a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments positioned toward the Hunters Hill downsizer market.

“Traditionally it’s been difficult for people in that market to downsize because there just hasn’t been the right product available,” Maroun said.

“We’re targeting buyers who might have 30 to 40 per cent of their house value sitting in the bank after downsizing.

“They still want good spacious entertaining areas, they still want quality design, but they also want flexibility and the ability to enjoy life a bit more after working hard for a long time.”

The project sits near Boronia Park and within close proximity to the Parramatta River foreshore, an area Maroun says offers more of a Hunters Hill lifestyle than a traditional apartment precinct.

“From a lifestyle perspective, it’s really more Hunters Hill than Gladesville,” Maroun said. “You’re close to the foreshore, close to parklands, and still connected back into the village precinct.”

From level four and above, apartments will capture water views&nbsp;toward Sydney Harbour. Communal amenity will include rooftop entertaining areas, wellness spaces, and a gym tailored toward owner-occupier buyers.

“We’ve really designed these apartments around that buyer coming from the Hunters Hill LGA and what they’re actually looking for in their next chapter.”

The proposed development has also been designed to respond to the changing character of the broader Gladesville town centre, where a growing number of mixed-use and residential proposals are expected to emerge over the coming years.

“Gladesville presented a rare opportunity to deliver a genuinely design-led residential project within an evolving lifestyle precinct, just moments from the growing Gladesville town centre, and we’ve approached the project with a strong focus on architecture, liveability and long-term community value,” Maroun said.

Maroun said Lanevick saw a first-mover advantage within the precinct as planning controls continue to evolve to accommodate greater housing density.

“We think there’s a real opportunity there that hasn’t really been serviced properly yet,” he said.

“There’s going to be a broader evolution of the whole Gladesville village precinct over time, particularly with more activation and mixed-use outcomes.”

The Venus Street proposal will include a commercial and retail component at ground level designed to contribute to that evolving streetscape activation.

“A big part of the thinking was how do you activate that area properly and create more vibrancy and amenity, which is what Hunters Hill has been looking for,” Maroun said.

Lanevick’s focus since 2020 has largely been on smaller-scale luxury townhouse and terrace developments. The developer recently completed Royale Randwick, also designed by Studio Johnston, where prices reached $3.65 million. The project was featured in the UDIA NSW 2026 Professional Development Prospectus and was also named a finalist for Development of the Year.

&nbsp;

Lanevick to cater for Hunters Hill downsizers with new Gladesville apartment development

Property developer One Living, backed by former Macquarie banker turned investment manager Chris Green’s investment firm, has unveiled plans to bring more institutional capital into housing to help address the national supply crisis.

The New York-based investor has focused his firm, GreenPoint Partners, on addressing the supply shortage hitting middle market housing in Australia.

It is backing the new One Living business to develop more than 1000 units along the eastern seaboard. The new firm is starting with a development on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, in Sydney’s Northern Beaches, with around 140 apartments planned. They are eyeing off more sites across the city.

With cost pressures rising in the industry, One Living’s model is to be a vertically integrated developer-builder, so it can respond directly to the housing gap by removing the cost inefficiencies embedded in traditional residential delivery.

“We are building a platform designed to operate at scale and starting in a market where there’s a clear need for quality, attainable housing,” One Living joint managing director Joseph Scuderi said.

“It’s that missing middle – it’s that attainable end of housing… that’s what most Australians invest into and what Australians can actually afford.”

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="798dfa93-4941-4db6-a696-31e9dc18e81c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.31.50%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=mKBqi5C_DmeiXS.AtJkcR8LQIxqCqmFi" />

GreenPoint Partners brings years of experience assembling and scaling real estate operating businesses across major markets. And Green sees a big opportunity in Australia.

“For its size, sophistication and importance to the community, Australia’s living sector has remained largely under-institutionalised, which represents significant opportunity,” Green said. “GreenPoint identified that gap, assembled the right team, and is backing One Living to build a platform that is aligned to market needs.”

Green said being a builder-developer would give the company the capacity and flexibility it required to deliver reasonably-priced homes.

“We want it to be at that attainable level; not super high end luxury but at that attainable level,” he said.

<img alt="Mona Vale" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74a5344a-4b26-4d4a-ada3-056b1220be77" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-28%20at%202.32.15%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=vY8hXHO4reBMdO8ZXMWCNtGZJofUPQ3j" />

&nbsp;

One Living will undertake a component of affordable housing in its schemes, which it will own and operate, and it could also run build-to-rent on some sites.

Green praised local policy settings.

“The NSW government is being very supportive, strategic and pragmatic in terms of how do we generate more supply of housing,” he said. “We think it’s actually positive for development and the bit that’s been lacking at that attainable level is that it’s lots of relatively small private developers, whereas we want to create an institutional platform.”

One Living is also&nbsp;looking at high-density projects and could take on more institutional funding in the future.

“The way we will be able to achieve economies of scale is through size,” Green added.

One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition

It's been several years since there's been an opportunity to buy a brand new townhome in Melbourne's coastal suburb of Mordialloc. Even apartment developments in recent times have been few and far between in the area.

Local developer LDS Property identified the gap in new housing, securing a site on White Street, directly opposite&nbsp;Woodlands Golf Club Mordialloc. They've recently launched&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/wm-residences-mordialloc-102-white-street-mordialloc-vic-3195">WM Residences</a>, just 13 townhouses which they have already started building.

Projects by Buxton Director Heath Thompson, who is selling WM Residences, says the townhouses x that perfect middle ground be

"Mordialloc residents have had limited options to downsize within the suburb, often forcing them to look elsewhere despite long-standing ties to the area," Thompson says.

"With very little comparable new supply coming to market, projects like WM Residences are well placed, particularly as buyers look to capitalise on current conditions amid constrained supply."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6109]

The development, designed by regarded architecture firm&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a>,&nbsp;adopts a deliberately restrained architectural approach, focusing on simplicity, durability and liveability rather than overt design gestures.

The boutique scale is central to the offering. With only 13 three-bedroom residences, each home is configured to prioritise functional layouts and everyday use, supported by private terraces and secure two-car garages.

Ewert Leaf’s design response leans into a calm, neutral material palette. Interiors are defined by oak flooring, white walls and soft finishes, creating a consistent and understated backdrop. The approach avoids trend-driven detailing in favour of longevity, with an emphasis on natural light and spatial clarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6110]

Beyond aesthetics, the homes are designed to meet contemporary performance expectations. Each residence targets a minimum 6-star energy rating, incorporating double glazing, comprehensive insulation and all-electric Bosch appliances.

The project’s location supports a walkable coastal lifestyle, sitting within close proximity to Mordialloc’s foreshore, Main Street retail strip and the train station. Local cafés and dining venues, including Suburbia Deli and Hendriks Café, are within a short walk, reinforcing the area’s established neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134646 project_image_fid=6116]

While <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/mordialloc-vic-3195">Mordialloc</a> is often defined by its beach and pier, the project taps into other areas of day to day living, offering easy access to local food, casual dining and transport, rather than positioning itself purely as a lifestyle retreat.

WM Residences reflects a continued trend across Melbourne’s coastal suburbs towards smaller-scale, design-led townhouse developments, particularly on infill sites where proximity to amenity is already established.

With construction commenced prior to its market entry, the project aligns with a growing preference among buyers for developments with visible progress and defined delivery timeframes.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134646]

Nicola Trotman

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