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<p>Fashion giant H&amp;M has finally confirmed it will open its inaugural Australian store in Melbourne, in a high-profile location in the iconic GPO building.</p>
<p>The announcement confirms the company’s long-awaited search for a suitable property, having spent months scouting potential locations. But it also serves to show international appetite for Australian retail space is still going strong.</p>
<p>“A lot of international retailers still view Australia as somewhat of a beacon on the hill,” Simon Fonteyn, the managing director of Leasing Information Services, said this morning.</p>
<p>ISPT, the operator of the GPO building, announced yesterday H&amp;M’s flagship store would open with 5000m2 of space in the heritage-listed building.</p>
<p>In a statement, ISPT retail asset manager Sam Curry said the store would help boost the Melbourne CBD precinct.</p>
<p>“We are delighted to have this opportunity to introduce such a famous and highly anticipated international fashion retailer to the Australian market,” Curry said.</p>
<p>The company is the <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/retail/054768-h-m-expands-to-australia-five-things-you-didn-t-know-about-the-iconic-retailer/2-2">world’s largest clothing group</a>, and is still partly owned by the family of the original founder. The company has 2900 stores in 51 countries, and is still on an epic expansion plan – targeting 10-15% per year.</p>
<p>H&amp;M, which was founded in 1947, follows the model of several of its fashion counterparts by working closely with designers and using a rapid shipping model – much like its counterpart, Zara and Topshop.</p>
<p>The H&amp;M store will sit just metres from where the inaugural Australian Zara store opened in 2011.</p>
<p>The importation of international fashion to Australia has been a hot topic over the past few years, with the local industry complaining that while new entrants create foot traffic and draw attention, they also push up prices.</p>
<p>While the market has been quiet for some time regarding any new entries, Fonteyn says that environment shouldn’t last too long – plenty of retailers still view Australia as an opportunity.</p>
<p>“A lot of the international retailers use Zara as a benchmark for what’s possible, and now you have companies like TopShop as well.”</p>
<p>“Some of these stores are even quasi-anchor stores. There is a demand for these types of internationals within Australian centres.”</p>
<hr>
<p><em>This article was originally published on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.</em></p>
<p> </p>
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pmcstafford-pr9eMARWoN

H&M to open first Australian store in Melbourne GPO building

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<p>Coalition leader Tony Abbott has pledged to resurrect the Australian Building and Construction Commission within 100 days of winning government, but experts say the move is a step backwards.</p>
<p>The ABCC was absorbed into the Fair Work system in 2012, but a report prepared by Coalition MPs reportedly states the commission could be up and running shortly after the election, according to <em>Fairfax</em>.</p>
<p>But returning to the ABCC, industrial relations experts say, would be a backwards step.</p>
<p>“It’s not as though the ABCC was abolished and no one picked up its functions,” TressCox Lawyers partner Rachel Drew said this morning.</p>
<p>The Coalition has met with members of the Construction, Forestry, Mining and Energy Union, although Australian Council of Trade Unions assistant secretary Tim Lyons told <em>Fairfax</em> the meetings weren’t necessarily productive: “It’s fairly clear that they have got a fixed view about what they are going to do”.</p>
<p>While the Coalition has said for months it plans to reinstate the ABCC, this is the first indication it could do so extremely quickly.</p>
<p>Coalition MP Paul Fletcher, in charge of the report, was contacted but no response was available prior to publication.</p>
The report comes a week after the Master Builders Association released a new Econtech report arguing reinstating the ABCC <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/politics/057229-the-shaky-foundations-of-the-coalition-abcc-promise">would deliver $7 billion in benefits to consumers</a>.
<p>The ABCC attracted controversy during its time for extreme investigatory powers. Disbanded in 2012, the ABCC’s responsibilities have been handed to the Fair Work Building and Construction inspectorate, albeit with less wide-ranging powers.</p>
<p>Drew says there were good reasons why the ABCC was abolished, as there were “issues of whether or not it was acting impartially”.</p>
<p>“I could understand if they want to change the role of the current commission, or to make some changes,” she says.</p>
<p>“The building and construction industry is a big enough industry that it needs its own commission. But to return to the ABCC itself just seems like a backwards step.”</p>
<p>Reinstating the ABCC is just one part of the Coalition’s industrial relations policy, which includes changing bargaining rules, allowing more changes to individual flexibility agreements, creating an appeal division of Fair Work and ordering a Productivity Commission review of Fair Work laws.</p>
<p><em>
<hr>
This article was originally published on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au">SmartCompany</a>.</em></p>
<p> </p>
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Experts not to keen on the Coalition's plan to resurrect Building and Construction Commission

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<p>The property market is in for an unusually hectic month with a federal election and football grand final effectively wiping out too whole weekends – but the spring selling season is still off to a roaring start.</p>
<p>Over the weekend, Melbourne recorded a clearance rate of 71.8% from 330 auctions, while Sydney cleared 84% from 413 reported auctions, according to Australian Property Monitors.</p>
<p>While September usually hails the start of the spring selling season, this year brings two obstacles: this week’s federal election and the AFL Grand Final, set for September 28.</p>
<p>Two whole weekends are completely wiped out, which according to SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher, could see a surge in October.</p>
<p>“It’s going to be a very busy October,” he says. “There will be a surge of listings after the election, as we’ve seen over the past few weeks a holding off of vendors not listing.</p>
<p>“They’re waiting for the election, and we’ve seen pretty good evidence of that.”</p>
<p>Even a disruption of one weekend during the season can be upsetting. Three years ago, the market was given a shot of confusion after the Grand Final resulted in a draw – rescheduled <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/property/040640-20101001-auctions-to-go-ahead-despite-afl-grand-final-but-property-experts-clueless-on-how-market-will-perform-2" target="_blank">for the following Saturday</a>.</p>
<p>With the market steadily recovering, sellers will want the best possible chance of a good price – which means they may wait until October.</p>
<p>“It’s going to be very busy,” says Christopher.</p>
<p>However, the property market has been left out in the cold regarding the election. While in the post-financial crisis market the government was eager to provide support for housing construction, there has been no such support this year.</p>
<p>Christopher says the mood is “very quiet”, and subsequently, disappointing.</p>
<p>“There’s nothing on property at all this election,” he says. “There used to be quite a lot of talk, but this year it’s practically nothing.</p>
<p>“It’s very disappointing.”</p>
<p><em> </em></p>
<hr>
<em> This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au" target="_blank">SmartCompany. </a></em>
<p> </p>
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Don't mind the footy or the election, spring auctions start with a bang

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<p>Kitchenware chain King of Knives, which has operated for 25 years and counts 60 locations across Australia and New Zealand, has been placed in administration.</p>
<p>While the reasons behind the insolvency remain unclear, the retail industry remains under intense pressure. The sector is one of the biggest sources of administration and insolvency appointments – and the kitchenware market is heating up.</p>
<p>King of Knives was placed in administration on August 15, with BRI Ferrier appointed. Administrators Andrew Cummins and Antony Resnick were contacted, but no reply was available prior to publication.</p>
<p>King of Knives, which continues to trade, was also contacted, but no reply was available.</p>
<p>The chain has an extensive history. Founded by retail veteran Ron Baskin in 1987, the business grew steadily and was sold to the ASX-listed RCG in 2004, which also owns and operates the successful Athlete’s Foot.</p>
<p>However, in 2007 RCG sold off the King of Knives chain for $4.5 million – discounted from the original price – back to a consortium led by the Baskin family. In a statement at the time, RCG head Ivan Hammerschlag said the business “absorbed a disproportionate amount of management time for insufficient upside”.</p>
<p>In the company’s report for the year ending June 2003, RCG said King of Knives had $22 million in revenue.</p>
<p>Baskin has an extensive amount of retail experience, and has been involved in several businesses including Sunglass World and Speciality Fashion Group.</p>
<p>The King of Knives chain is divided into separate entities, including the franchising group, which houses 14 locations. The business also operates stores under the Chef King brand, and has locations in New Zealand, which were significantly affected by the Christchurch earthquake in 2011.</p>
<p>A creditor’s meeting will take place on August 22.</p>
<p>While there is little information regarding the collapse, competition within the kitchenware market has increased over the past few years due to several factors, including the growth of online sales.</p>
<p>The popularity of cooking shows including <em>Masterchef</em>and <em>My Kitchen Rules</em> has led to a resurgence among kitchenware sales – according to IBISWorld, revenue has grown 0.8% each year across 2008-13, although growth increased after 2010.</p>
<p> </p>
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<p>King of Knives Store Locations:</p>
<div style="font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline; color: #646257; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;" class="head">
<div class="store" style="border: medium; width: 340px; margin-top: 24px; margin-bottom: 18px; font-size: 12px; color: #646257; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">KING OF KNIVES BELCONNEN
<div>Shop 145, Westfield Belconnen</div>
<div></div>
<div>Belconnen 2617 ACT</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES WODEN</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop G107,</div>
<div>Westfield</div>
<div>Woden Phillip 2606</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">CHEF KING CHATSWOOD CHASE</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop B007 Chatswood Chase Shopping Centre</div>
<div>345 Victoria Avenue</div>
<div>Chatswood 2067 NSW</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">CHEF KING RHODES</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 61, Rhodes Waterside 1 Rider Boulevarde, Rhodes NSW 2138</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">CHEF KING SUPACENTA</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop T16, Homemakers SupaCenta Moore Park Todman Ave, Kensington NSW 2033</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES BLACKTOWN</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 1018 Westpoint Shopping Centre 17 Patrick Street, Blacktown NSW 2148PO Box 8405 Blacktown NSW 2148</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES BONDI</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 1043 Westfield Bondi Shopping Centre 500 Oxford St Bondi Junction NSW 2022</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES CASTLE HILL</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 314, Castle Towers Shopping Centre Castle Street, Castle Hill NSW 2154</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES CHARLESTOWN</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop G8035, Charlestown Square Shopping Centre</div>
<div>048/30 Pearson Street</div>
<div>Charlestown 2290 NSW</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES ERINA</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 91A, Erina Fair Shopping Centre</div>
<div>620-658 Terrigal Drive</div>
<div>Erina 2250 NSW</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES HORNSBY</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 1026, Westfield HornsbyHornsby NSW 2077</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES KOTARA</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 1-32, Garden City Shopping Centre, Cnr Park Avenue &amp; Northcott Drive, Kotara NSW 2289</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES MIRANDA</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 1031A, Westfield Miranda, The KingswayPO Box 115, Miranda NSW 2228</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES PENRITH</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 48B, Penrith PlazaHenry Street, Penrith NSW 2750</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES QVB</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 8, LGF QVB 455 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES SHELLHARBOUR</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 31A, Stockland ShellharbourLake Entrance Rd, Shellharbour NSW 2529 PO Box 288 Stockland Shopping Centre Shellharbour NSW 2529</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES TUGGERAH</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 2047, Westfield Shopping Town, Wyong Road, Tuggerah NSW 2259</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES WARRINGAH MALL</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 218, Warringah MallBrookvale NSW 2100</div>
</div>
KING OF KNIVES DARWIN
<div>Shop 7, Casuarina Shopping SquareCasuarina NT 0810</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES CAIRNS - EARLVILLE</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 82 Stockland Shopping Centre</div>
<div>537 Mulgrave Road</div>
<div>Earlville, Cairns 4870 QUEENSLAND</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES CAIRNS CENTRAL</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 60, Cairns Central Shopping Centre Cairns QLD 4870</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES CARINDALE</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 2006, Carindale Shopping Centre Carindale QLD 4152</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES CHERMSIDE</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 180A, Westfield Chermside Chermside QLD 4032</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES GARDEN CITYBRISBANE</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 2127A, Garden City Shopping Centre Upper Mt Gravatt QLD 4122</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES INDOOROOPILLY</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 3083, Indooroopilly Shopping Centre Indooroopilly QLD 4068</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES MACKAY</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 16, Caneland Shoppingtown Mangrove Road, Mackay QLD 4740</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES MYER BRISBANE</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 78, Myer Centre Queen Street Mall, Brisbane QLD 4000</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES NOOSA</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop T1066 Noosa Civic Eenie Creek Road Noosaville QLD 4566</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES PACIFIC FAIR</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 17, Pacific Fair Shopping Centre PO Box 517, Pacific Fair QLD 4218</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES ROBINA</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop No 2006, Level 2 North Mall</div>
<div>Robina Town Centre, 176 Robina Drive</div>
<div>Robina 4226 QLD</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES ROCKHAMPTON</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 95, Stockland Rockhampton Rockhampton QLD 4701</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES TOOWOOMBA</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 112, Grand Central, Cnr Margaret &amp; Dent Sts PO Box 6588, Toowoomba West QLD 4350</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES TOWNSVILLE DOMAIN</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 15, Building I, Domain Central, 103-141 Duckworth Street</div>
<div></div>
<div>Garbutt 4814 QLD</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES TOWNSVILLE STOCKLAND</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 139, Stockland Townsville 310-330 Ross River Road, Aitkenvale QLD 4814</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">MAROOCHYDORE</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 111A, Sunshine Plaza, Maroochydore Road</div>
<div></div>
<div>Maroochydore 4558 QLD</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES CITY CROSS ADELAIDE</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop T45, City Cross Arcade</div>
<div>32 Grenfell St Rundle Mall</div>
<div>Adelaide 5000 SA</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES MARION</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 2012, Westfield Marion</div>
<div>297 Diagonal Road</div>
<div>Oaklands Park 5046 SA</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES WESTLAKES</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop T253A, Westlakes Mall</div>
<div></div>
<div>Westlakes SA 5021</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES CHADSTONE</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 255 Chadstone Shopping Centre</div>
<div></div>
<div>Chadstone 3148 Victoria</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES EASTLANDS</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop L69, Eastland Shopping CentreRingwood VIC 3134</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES FOUNTAIN GATE</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 2095, 352 Princes Highway</div>
<div></div>
<div>Narre Warren 3805 VIC</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES FRANKSTON</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 187, Bayside North Shopping Centre Frankston VIC 3199</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES HIGHPOINT (Trading as Chef King)</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop L02.2058, Highpoint 120-200 Rosamond Road</div>
<div></div>
<div>Maribyrnong 3032 VIC</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES MELBOURNE CENTRAL</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop GD 020 Melbourne Central211 Latrobe Street, Melbourne VIC 3000</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES NORTHLAND</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop W001A, Northland Shopping Centre 2-50 Murray Road, East Preston VIC 3072</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES SOUTHLAND</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 3053, Westfield SouthlandNepean Highway, Cheltenham VIC 3192</div>
</div>
<div class="storelist" style="color: #646257; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">
<div id="state2" class="storelist">
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">CHEF KING HARBOUR TOWN</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop A29, Harbourtown 840 Wellington Street, Perth WA 6000</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES BOORAGOON</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 19, Garden City Shopping Centre 125 Riseley St, Booragoon WA 6154</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES CAROUSEL</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 1082, Westfield Carousel Albany Highway, Cannington WA 6107</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES KARRINYUP</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop G60A, Karrinyup Shopping Centre Karrinyup Road, Karrinyup WA 6018</div>
</div>
<div class="head" style="font-weight: bold; margin-top: 24px; text-decoration: underline;">KING OF KNIVES MORLEY</div>
<div class="description">
<div>Shop 1056, Centro Galleria Collier Road, Morley Perth WA 6062</div>
</div>
<div class="store" style="border: medium; width: 340px; margin-top: 24px; margin-bottom: 18px;">KING OF KNIVES WHITFORD
<div class="description">
<p>Shop 118 Westfield Whitford Cnr Marmion &amp; Whitfords Ave Hillarys WA 6025</p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="color: #646257; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" class="description">
<div></div>
</div>
<p> </p>
<p><em>This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.</em></p>
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Knives out for King of Knives as retail chain enters administration

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<p>The department store sector has been under an intense amount of pressure during the past few years, with Myer and David Jones feeling the majority of it.</p>
<p>But the recent moves by David Jones provides some insight into the company’s strategy – and it may just be what the company needs to survive.</p>
<p>Chief executive Paul Zahra said that the company had entered into an agreement with Dick Smith Electronics – recently sold to private equity group Anchorage by Woolworths – to operate the existing electronics business under the Dick Smith banner.</p>
<p>Specifically, the products will be branded under “David Jones Electronics Powered by Dick Smith”.</p>
<p>Under the terms of the agreement, Dick Smith will acquire all of David Jones’ electronics inventory, as well as fittings. Dick Smith will be responsible for fulfilling all orders.</p>
<p>“Dick Smith will…pay to David Jones on a monthly basis a fixed percentage of the sales generated by the David Jones Electronics Business,” the company said.</p>
<p>This gets rid of a lot of problems for David Jones. It no longer has to deal with a low-margin business and it can focus on what it does best in other categories. At the same time, it provides Dick Smith with a good way to start expanding after a recent downsize.</p>
<p>David Gordon, partner at Lowe Lippmann, said that the move makes “complete sense”.</p>
<p>“To bring in a partner that has expertise in those categories is a good move,” he says. “Their position is that they’re turning around – and so they need to focus on what they’re good at.”</p>
<p>The David Jones-Dick Smith partnership is a great move at turning the department store’s fate around. But more than that – it’s just a great business move.</p>
<p>So here are five lessons smart businesses should take away from this deal – lessons they should implement in their own companies:</p>
<p><img alt="numberonejuly11" height="32" width="25" src="/images/stories/2013/07/NUMBERS/numberonejuly11.jpg"></p>
<p>Focus on what you’re good at</p>
<p>David Jones is traditionally good at a few things – selling fashion and high-end consumer goods.</p>
<p>Televisions and electronics equipment aren’t in this category. It doesn’t employ specialists who know all there is to know about every product, and worse than that, the stores don’t even stock a lot of inventory in these categories.</p>
<p>When consumers head to David Jones, they want to buy dresses, suits, cosmetics and higher-priced homewares goods. Focusing on those categories is a solid move.</p>
<p><img alt="numbertwojuly11" height="29" width="25" src="/images/stories/2013/07/NUMBERS/numbertwojuly11.jpg"></p>
<p>Get rid of low margins</p>
<p>Televisions and electronic equipment is a notoriously low-margin business. Earlier this year the company even said it would stop selling games, music and DVDs as a first step towards transforming its electronics category.</p>
<p>JB Hi-Fi may have delivered an 11% profit increase yesterday, but its chief executive Terry Smart will no doubt say televisions are a low-margin game. David Jones is already heavily invested in fashion, an industry which has suffered in recent years.</p>
<p>Losing a low-margin category is always a good decision.</p>
<p><img alt="numberthreejuly11" height="33" width="25" src="/images/stories/2013/07/NUMBERS/numberthreejuly11.jpg"></p>
<p>Keep control of your brand</p>
<p>David Jones has a solid brand – at first glance it seems partnering with Dick Smith is a combination that doesn’t quite gel.</p>
<p>But note the branding chosen under the deal – “David Jones Electronics Powered by Dick Smith”. This is an operation run by Dick Smith, but David Jones keeps its name square in the centre of that title.</p>
<p>Protecting your brand is paramount. David Jones’ insistence upon such a name indicates it realises just as much.</p>
<p><img alt="numberfourjuly11" height="32" width="25" src="/images/stories/2013/07/NUMBERS/numberfourjuly11.jpg"></p>
<p>Use as much data as you can</p>
<p>There is a key part of the David Jones-Dick Smith agreement which provides the department store with quite a bit of power:</p>
<p>“The Electronics business customer database will continue to be owned by David Jones and used by the Company for marketing purposes,” it says.</p>
<p>Data is king. By keeping control of its database, David Jones has allowed itself a significant amount of power. Clever businesses would ensure the same.</p>
<p><img alt="numberfivejuly11" height="27" width="25" src="/images/stories/2013/07/NUMBERS/numberfivejuly11.jpg"></p>
<p>Partners can be beneficial</p>
<p>This isn’t the first time David Jones has partnered up. Recently the company <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/retail/053871-online-retailer-shoes-of-prey-teams-up-with-david-jones-to-launch-in-store-sales-booths-2">launched a deal with online retailer Shoes of Prey</a> to set up a booth inside the department stores. There customers can use tablets to customise shoes on the website.</p>
<p>When a partnership is a good fit from a branding perspective, there’s no reason not to explore or experiment. Clearly allowing different companies to set up shop in David Jones is a way the department store can hedge its losses – there are almost certainly more on the way.</p>
<p><em style="font-size: 14px;">This article originally appeared on <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.</em></p>
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Five key lessons from the David Jones and Dick Smith co-branding deal

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<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">The property market is set to deliver a bumper year, following yet another week of solid auction clearance rates.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">The sector is increasingly confident ahead of the spring selling season, with the Reserve Bank likely to keep reducing official rates.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Australian Property Monitors economist Andrew Wilson says Sydney recorded an 81.4% clearance rate over the weekend, up from 75% last week – the highest for this time of year in over a decade.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">SQM Research director Louis Christopher said that while number is not likely to be that high – “normally when you get a high clearance rate you see high double digital capital growth” – he also believes the recovery is picking up steam.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">“Sydney is having a housing recovery, and it’s picking up pace,” Christopher says.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Until now, Christopher says, investors have been driving most of the market activity. With low interest rates, owner occupiers will be more willing to have a go.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">“Agents are definitely seeing more activity, and the sales activity is picking up for all capitals except for Hobart and Canberra,” he says.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">“I think we’ll start to see more first time buyers enter the market this year.”</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Melbourne is doing just as well. According to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, clearance rates reached 70%.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Christopher says the only thing that can stop the property market at this point now is higher interest rates, “which won’t happen”.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">The Reserve Bank of Australia is expected by some economists – including those from Westpac – to cut rates at next month’s meeting.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">Christopher says with higher capital growth and sustained sales, the spring selling season could be a strong one.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 10px; padding: 0px; font-family: 'Open Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 20px;">“We’re seeing things pick up more and more now. The market is accelerating.”</p>
<em>This article oringally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/property/056620-property-set-for-a-bumper-year-with-auctions-remaining-strong-in-sydney">SmartCompany</a>.</em>
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Sydney auction clearance rates set the scene for a bumper spring selling season

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<p>Consumer sentiment has remained mostly steady during July but remains downbeat overall compared to the same period in 2012, according to the latest Westpac Index of Consumer Sentiment.</p>
<p>But even though the overall confidence level has remained steady, there has been some movement within certain subsectors – with large decreases among renters, while those in the "managers and professionals" group recorded large increases.</p>
<p>The index fell 0.1% from 102.2 to 102.1 in July.</p>
<p>Westpac senior economist Matthew Hassan said in the report the survey suggests economic news such as the official cash rate remaining steady at 2.75%, and the falling dollar, could have boosted optimism about the future.</p>
<p>"The improved view on economic prospects, for example, may reflect shifting expectations for the US economy that have become more visible with the US Fed now contemplating 'tapering' its QE policy stimulus," he said.</p>
<p>"It may also reflect clearer signs of an upturn in parts of the local economy, the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/economy/056426-property-warms-up-as-mining-goes-off-the-boil">housing sector </a>in particular."</p>
<p>However, there were some disappointing results. Consumer confidence is weaker than at the start of the year – about 7.6% below the March peak.</p>
<p>The index tracking thoughts on "family finances versus a year ago" fell 5.6%. But the index tracking thoughts for economic conditions over the next five years rose 9.2% to above the average level over the past two years.</p>
<p>Hassan points out the downfall in consumers' thoughts about their own finances "highlights the fragility of sentiment".</p>
<p>"It is also somewhat concerning given that these components tend to be better predictors of shifts in actual spending," he said.</p>
<p>Of similar concern, Hassan said, is a downgrade in the "time to buy" index, which measures whether now is a good time to buy a household item. That index has fallen 1.7% overall, but the "time to buy a dwelling" index, and the "time to buy a car" index have fallen 8.4% and 10.3% respectively.</p>
<p>Given the lackluster demand, Hassan says it's time for another interest rate cut – and the bank expects one.</p>
<p>"We expect the Bank to cut rates by 25 basis points at its August meeting with two further 25bp reductions coming in the December and March quarters", he said.</p>
<p><em>This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/">SmartCompany</a>.</em></p>
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Consumer sentiment downbeat compared to same time last year: Westpac index

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<p>The property industry should brace for impact if Prime Minister Kevin Rudd decides to postpone the September election date to later in the year – and into the spring selling season.</p>
<p>The warning comes even though the property market has continued to perform quite strongly over the past few months, indicating a slow and steady recovery is at hand.</p>
<p>There is speculation among political circles Kevin Rudd could change the date, as after he took the leadership position he commented the September 14 date was not set in stone.</p>
<p>Andrew Wilson, chief economist at Australian Property Monitors, said while cyclical factors in the property market are likely to outweigh any political impact, “certainly things have changed”.</p>
<p>“We have less certainty now than we had a few weeks ago,” he says.</p>
<p>Wilson explains political elections tend to have more of an impact when there are major issues at stake – such as the 2007 election which is widely attributed to the introduction of the WorkChoices system.</p>
<p>The upcoming election features no such polarising issue, Wilson explains, but the return of Kevin Rudd to the prime ministership is a wild card. With several weeks until the election, there is still time for those issues to present themselves.</p>
<p>This means there is a possibility the property industry could still feel the impact of an election. During uncertain times, potential buyers are more likely to delay any purchasing decision.</p>
<p>“Given that we may now push the election into the spring season, we may see some moderating impact particularly if we see bigger policy differences, which now may be more likely,” he says.</p>
<p>“The game has changed.”</p>
<p>However, as Wilson points out, the property market has continued in its steady recovery.</p>
<p>According to the Real Estate Industry of Victoria, Melbourne recorded a 71% clearance rate this past weekend, compared to 58% in the same weekend last year. In Sydney, the city recorded a 77.5% clearance rate.</p>
<p>Wilson says given the strong recovery of the market the election won’t have much of an impact on sales overall, but acknowledges there could be some movement.</p>
<p>“There is a lot of enthusiasm and confidence in the market generally…but we just have more uncertainty now than we did a few weeks ago. There could be an impact.”</p>
<em>This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/">SmartCompany</a>.</em>
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Election date change could impact property market: APM's Dr Andrew Wilson

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<p>RM Williams Agricultural Holdings, which spent several million dollars buying a cattle station in the Northern Territory back in 2007 as part of a plan to build the world's largest carbon farm, has been placed in receivership.</p>
<p>The company was founded and is run by former News director Ken Cowley and counts Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chairman Rod Sims as a shareholder – although Sims was trying to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/economy/20110923-accc-chairman-rod-sims-to-sell-stake-in-agribusiness-group-part-owned-by-news-corporation">sell his stake as long ago as 2011</a>.</p>
<p>The ACCC was contacted, but no reply was available prior to publication.</p>
<p>PPB was appointed as receivers last week, at the behest of Westpac. Partner Steve Parbery said the investigation is still in its "early days".</p>
<p>The appointment comes as the company was attempting to build the world's largest carbon farm – it actually won a $9 million grant from the federal government to do so.</p>
<p>But the apparent failure of this project has sparked a warning from the Australian Farm Institute, which says the company's situation raises questions about the government's "Carbon Farming Initiative".</p>
<p>The CFI allows farmers and land managers to earn carbon credits by "storing" carbon or emissions in large areas of land. These credits can be sold to businesses wanting to offset their emissions.</p>
<p>RM Williams Agricultural Holdings was created, in part, to take advantage of the CFI. The business bought the Henbury Station in the Northern Territory for several million dollars, and received a federal grant in order to build the world's largest carbon farm.</p>
<p>News Corporation put $30 million into RM Williams Agricultural Holdings back in 2009.</p>
<p>Mick Keogh, executive director of the Australian Farming Institute, said it was never clear how the RM Williams project was ever intended to produce carbon credits.</p>
<p>"We've just remained completely confounded about it and why the Commonwealth put millions of dollars into it."</p>
<p>"We've never been able to sort out exactly how the project, under the known rules, was able to make credits."</p>
<p>In a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.farminstitute.org.au/_blog/Ag_Forum/post/need-for-carbon-caution-confirmed/" rel="nofollow">blog post on the AFI's website</a>, Keogh said the receivership should serve as a warning to any company involved with the Carbon Farming Initiative.</p>
<p>He writes that "in the absence of considerably more clarity about carbon prices and future carbon trading rules", the best option for landholders getting involved in a carbon project is to ensure the project structure transfers risk to the buyer of any carbon offsets generated.</p>
<p>However, Keogh says it is unknown whether the company collapsed due to any issues regarding the structure of the carbon deal.</p>
<p>"The fact that the Henbury project seems to have encountered difficulties should serve as a caution to landholders contemplating getting involved in a carbon project, but does not mean that the opportunities presented by the development of a carbon market should be completely ignored."</p>
<p>Parbery said it would be premature to determine whether RM Williams Agricultural Holdings had entered difficulties because of problems with the carbon farming plan.</p>
<p>"The shareholders and directors having been going through a capital raising which was unsuccessful...at that stage they called in the bank to seek the appointment of receivers."</p>
<p>"Our role at the moment is to keep things operational, and to keep the subsidiary companies operational. We are investigating those businesses as we speak."</p>
<p>RM Williams Agricultural Holdings also owns the Labelle Downs and Welltree stations in the Northern Territory, and the Mirage Plains and Inglewood Farms stations in Queensland.</p>
<p>The company is not related to its namesake fashion chain RM Williams, which was recently <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/retail/055119-rm-williams-sold-to-louis-vuitton-five-things-you-didn-t-know-about-the-iconic-company">sold to Louis Vuitton</a>.</p>
<em>This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au">SmartCompany</a>.</em>
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RM Williams Agricultural Holdings is put into receivership

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<p>The auctions market has ended the financial year on a solid note, with first-home buyers rushing to take advantage of federal and state-based grants before they are downgraded.</p>
<p>But one expert says the next financial year may not differ so much from the last, in that investors and buyers should expect a slow, drawn-out recovery rather than any short, frantic bursts of improvement.</p>
<p>"We're not expecting any major recovery for the Melbourne market," SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher said.</p>
<p>As for the rest of the country, Christopher's opinion was unwavering – most capital cities will perform over the next 12 months as they have in the past year, assuming interest rates and the dollar remain relatively stable.</p>
<p>"We're still expecting any recovery to be modest and moderate," he says.</p>
<p>According to the Real Estate Industry of Victoria, Melbourne recorded a clearance rate of 73%, compared to 69% last weekend and 55% during this weekend last year.</p>
<p>"The slight increase in the clearance rate this week may be due to the first-home owners grant for established dwellings coming to an end on the 30th, June 2013," chief executive Enzo Raimondo said in a statement.</p>
<p>Various changes are being made to state-based first home owners' grants, including in Victoria and Queensland.</p>
<p>Such changes mean the first home owners' market is likely to taper off over the next few months, Christopher says.</p>
<p>"Melbourne is likely to track Sydney's changes in that regard, meaning there was a drop off in first-home buying over the few months after those changes came into effect.</p>
<p>"There was also a slow and gradual build up after that period."</p>
<p>As for the rest of the year, Christopher says there isn't much reason to expect anything other than what we've seen in 2012-13. Melbourne is tipped to record 2-5% capital growth during this calendar year, while Sydney "is the market we're most bullish about".</p>
<p>"We're seeing fairly strong pricing action now," he says, with more expected in the next few months.</p>
<p>Canberra, however, is expected to remain under pressure, while Christopher says Brisbane is simply "treading water".</p>
<p>"There is no major recovery with lots of stock in the market...and that's likely to continue in the remaining half of the year."</p>
<p>This article first appeared on<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/property/056271-auctions-strong-as-first-time-buyers-spend-big-for-last-minute-grants"> Smart Company</a>.</p>
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Victorian first home buyer's market set to taper off: SQM

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


Joel Robinson

First look: HSN, Rebel, advances Woolloomooloo precinct plans

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


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

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


Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

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


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

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


Patrick Stafford

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