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Retail sales fell during April, despite economists' predictions of a 0.2% rise, according to the latest figures available from the Australian Bureau of Statistics. 
The figures show the trend estimate for retail sales in April grew by 0.3%, but the seasonally adjusted measure fell by 0.2% to $21.2 billion.
This follows a rise of 1.1% in March and 0.2% in February.
The food retailing industry rose by 0.4%, while cafes, restaurants and takeaway food services also rose by 1%, followed by other retailing up 0.5%, and clothing, footwear and personal accessory retailing up 0.3%. Department stores also rose 0.3%.
Household goods retailing fell 0.4%.
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>. 
 
 
 
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Retail sales fall in April against predictions

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The auctions market has continued to perform reasonably well during the autumn slowdown, with experts and analysts saying the industry may have enough momentum to push through the next few months with a better result than last year.
The comments come after <a target="_blank" href="/news">ANZ slashed its mortgage rates last Friday by 37 basis point</a>s, following the other big three banks in cutting rates after the Reserve Bank's shock decision two weeks ago.
According to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria, Melbourne recorded a clearance rate of 63% out of 591 properties on the market, compared to 61% last week and 52% the same time last year, with 581 properties.
REIV chief executive Enzo Raimondo said in a statement that this weekend last year represented a "turning point", when sales started to decline: "At this point, that outcome looks unlikely [to be] repeated this year, which is positive news for vendors".
Analysts are inclined to agree. Andrew Wilson of Australian Property Monitors said this morning the auction market has certainly remained more active, "but we have to take this all in context of what's happening in the broader economy".
"Last year, after a reasonable autumn period, we started to get some broader economic impacts on the housing market. The European debt crisis, the tsunami in Japan and other issues impacted confidence and moved its way through the spring period a well."
Now, he says, it's a very different situation.
"We've had a growth in auction clearance rates in Melbourne and Sydney, and these rates have improved, in all cities. Numbers are still low in terms of properties being offered, but not far off last year."
"The signs are positive the momentum can continue through what is normally a quieter, winter period. That's because the economic dynamics are different, and confidence is lifting as well. We're more optimistic than a year ago."
Interest rate cuts don't hurt, either, especially after ANZ's move last Friday. But Wilson says while this is true, it'll take a few more months for the cuts to seep into the market.
"That definitely improves housing affordability, and some more encouraging numbers are certainly there."
"But the full impact of those falls won't be felt for a month or two."
Results were equally positive in Sydney, with a 61.8% clearance rate from 359 properties, along with 36% in Adelaide and 50% in Brisbane.
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/">SmartCompany</a>.
 
 
 
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Auctions market could maintain momentum through winter, sales figures suggest

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The competition watchdog has contacted 2,500 building industry executives in the past few weeks, warning them of the potential consequences of engaging in price cartel behaviour.
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chair Rod Sims revealed the move in a speech to the Competition Law Conference, saying many businesses are still unaware that price-fixing or agreeing to restrict supply constituted cartel activity.
Sims also warned the banks about price-signalling ahead of a change to the Competition and Consumer Act that outlaws such practices.
Sims was contacted this morning, but was unavailable to reply prior to publication.
The announcement surprised the building industry; with representatives of industry bodies contacted by SmartCompany this morning saying they were not aware the speech had been made.
However, Brian Welch, chief executive of Master Builders’ Association Victoria, says he has no knowledge of any cartel behaviour occurring in the past 15 years.
“I think if you look at the profit margins of these larger businesses, they’re really quite low, so this doesn’t necessarily smack of higher margins where you’d imagine cartels would be successful.”
“Obviously, we would certainly oppose such behaviour and we’d do anything to stop it.”
Sims said in the speech the organisation is currently investigating a number of important cartel operations, including some that could contain criminal conduct. However, he said the executives who had been contacted would be given a choice.
“We’ve written to 2,500 executives in the last few weeks - in the heavy construction and construction supply industries - providing a reminder about the potential sanctions for cartel conduct, and alerting them to our dedicated web pages.”
“We also provided the name of someone they can contact if they want to report their involvement in a cartel and apply for immunity.”
Sims said the letters were part of a move by the watchdog to raise awareness of cartels. However, no actual companies were named, and industry bodies suggest the organisation is keen to hit the top end of town, rather than smaller operators.
Sims also pointed to the organisation’s own research, which showed 58% of respondents don’t know that cartel conduct is a criminal offence.
“And, amazingly, although 42% of businesses were aware that cartel conduct is now a criminal offence, almost one in 10 of the survey respondents admitted they’d still be likely to join a cartel if the opportunity arose.”
“You will see further high-profile initiatives from the ACCC in this area.”
Sims also put the major banks on notice, saying that under new regulations it will be against the law to disclose prices to competitors in private when it’s not “in the ordinary course of business”.
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php">SmartCompany</a>.
 
 
 
 
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ACCC warns construction industry on cartel behaviour

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Capital city house prices fell by 0.8% in April, according to the latest figures from RP Data and Rismark, leaving property values down by 0.7% compared with the same time last year. 
The disappointing figures offset gains made in February and March and come just a day after the Housing Industry Association revealed the number of new home sales in April fell to its lowest point in nearly 20 years. 
The results also come as the property industry all but begs the Reserve Bank for an interest rate cut when it meets this afternoon. 
The RP Data-Rismark Index showed values fell by 0.8%, although over the quarter values rose by just 0.3%. On a yearly basis, values are down by 0.7%. 
Five of the eight major capital cities saw values fall, with Hobart down 2.9%, Melbourne down 1.7% and Brisbane down 1.3%, while Sydney values fell by 0.3% as well. Darwin recorded the largest increase of 1.6%, while Canberra values rose by 0.2% as well. 
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/rp-data-rismark-march-1-daily-index/2012030153640">Over the year</a>, the largest decreases have been in Melbourne, down 7%, along with Brisbane down 6.4%, Hobart down 8.5%, and Adelaide down 4.2%. Sydney values have also fallen by 2.6%, along with Darwin prices, down 1.1%. 
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/rpmay1.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/rpmay1thumb.gif"></a>
No capital city has seen values increase over the past year. 
RP Data research director Tim Lawless said in a statement the two interest rate cuts in November and December are “yet to provide a sustained stimulus to the market”. 
He points out transaction volumes remain steady at about 31,000 sales each month, compared with the sales rate through 2009 when about 45,000 homes were being sold. “The slowdown in buyer activity becomes quite clear,” he said. 
Rismark managing director Ben Skilbeck also said the stability in the first quarter declined in the last two weeks of April, coinciding with the decision by ANZ to increase interest rates. 
“With inflation figures now behind us, if the Reserve Bank does cut interest rates today and then again in June … home buyers will benefit from considerable affordability gains and the housing market is likely to see improved conditions building off the stability evident in the first quarter.” 
The premium housing market remains weak. Dwelling values in the most expensive 20% of suburbs in the capital cities have fallen by 5.7% in the 12 months to March. The most affordable suburbs, however, have only seen values fall by 2.3%. 
Despite the poor price performance, rents have improved. In capital cities, the weekly rent on a detached house is up by 4.1% over the year to April and unit rents are now up by 3.7%.
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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Home prices fall 0.8% in April: RP Data-Rismark

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The Western Australian economy is performing so well it’s leaving the rest of the country behind, according to the latest CommSec report into the states’ economies, although it warns the Australian Capital Territory is at the highest risk from spending cuts in next week’s budget.
The quarterly report into the country’s state-based economies reveals some disturbing trends – the Queensland economy in particular is suffering due to a lack of support for housing, while Tasmania’s economy has experienced the “greatest slippage”.
However, the rest of the country is still performing well, with each state shining in different metrics.
The Western Australian economy is performing so well, CommSec economist Craig James says the country needs to be evaluated in two separate metrics – with Western Australia, and without.
“In the last two quarterly reports, we judged that Australia’s multi-speed economy could more accurately be described as a three-speed economy,” James says.
“But in the latest report the best way to describe the situation is Western Australia first and daylight second.”
Western Australia leads the way on economic growth, construction work, unemployment, retail trade and equipment investment – and second when it comes to population growth.
Dwelling starts and housing finance were the only black spots on WA’s record, out of the eight metrics used to judge each economy. ACT and Victoria were in the “second tier” of economies, with both out-performing housing indicators and Victoria positive on retail spending.
Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia are all in the next “tier”. Queensland is benefiting from restructuring work, while New South Wales is growing strong on population growth.
Tasmania has suffered the worst, lacking momentum in “key areas”, with the state now alongside the Northern Territory, which has strong retail spending but low population growth.
However, there are bright spots. Both Victoria and the ACT are winning when it comes to housing indicators, and Victoria’s retail spending remains high, and Queensland is still enjoying a significant amount of rebuilding work.
<h3>Western Australia</h3>
The state is leading the rest of the country in most metrics. Economic output was just over 32% higher than the state’s decade average, while it’s also taken the top ranking for retail trade with spending in the December quarter almost 21% above decade average levels.
It also remains “well above” other states and territories with equipment investment, and a strong jobless rate of 4%. Construction work is 82% above decade averages, although it’s second for population growth, at 2.63%.
It’s also equal third for housing finance, alongside New South Wales. Dwelling starts were also 15.2% below decade averages.
<h3>Victoria</h3>
Victoria’s jobless rate may be increasing, but its retail trade is 14% above decade averages. And
equipment investment was down by 3.2%.
However, construction activity is increasing, with the state in the second place for housing finance, and dwelling starts 14% above decade averages.
Victoria’s set to hold its spot in the top three despite that slowdown in the housing market, although CommSec says greater investment from public and private sectors could help it maintain momentum.
<h3>ACT</h3>
Economic growth in the ACT is up 18.2%, although retail trade is poor – below all other states. The jobless rate is 3.6%, although that’s actually 5% higher than the normal or decade-average level.
Housing finance commitments are actually strong, however, with the number 6.2% above the decade average, with commitments also 3.3% higher than a year ago. Dwelling starts are also “head and shoulders” above the rest of the states, based on strong population growth – one key area of hope.
<h3>New South Wales</h3>
New South Wales joins the ACT with the weakest retail trade in the country, and economic growth is also poor.
However, there are bright spots. The jobless rate of 5% is below the decade average of 5.3%, and housing finance is also equal third with Western Australia.
<h3>Queensland</h3>
Despite some of Queensland’s economic troubles the state is actually performing extremely well, with economic growth at the fastest rate in the country at 9.8% – even ahead of Western Australia.
Retail trade is also strong, although it comes under Victoria’s level of 14% above decade averages. Equipment investment is up 40%, the population growth is the highest recorded over the past year – although housing finance is down 22%.
Dwelling starts were also down 34.9% below decade averages, and starts in the December quarter were down 12.1% than a year ago – CommSec notes housing is the state’s biggest weakness.
<h3>South Australia</h3>
Retail trade remains strong, alongside Queensland after Victoria at the top, and the jobless rate is actually quite strong at 5.1% – 6.6% below the longer-term average of 5.45%.
However, South Australia remains one of two states where real wages were negative – along with the ACT. Retail spending is up, but only by 0.3%.
The state seems to be performing well with no major negative or positive factors, CommSec says, although that’s due to the relatively low unemployment.
<h3>Northern Territory</h3>
Economic growth has remained weakest in the Northern Territory, alongside New South Wales and Tasmania.
However, retail trade has remained high, in second place, due to low unemployment with just a 4% jobless rate. That’s 9.9% below the long-term average.
And while construction work is above the long-term average, it’s only up by just 0.6%. Engineering work – a driving force for several economies including Queensland and Western Australia – is down by 4.6%. However, CommSec expects that to improve.
Construction work hit a two-year high in the December quarter, and is actually up 43% from last year, which is the fastest rate in the country.
CommSec notes it has the potential to climb its way back up, with the $34 billion LNG Inpex project to have “enormous multiplier effects” on the economy.
<h3>Tasmania</h3>
The island state is performing poorly. Economic growth is the weakest, at negative 1.6%, while retail trade is also at the slowest in the country.
Equipment growth is strong, up 45%, although the jobless rate has risen from 5.1% to 7.2% in the space of just seven months – that’s 18% above the decade-average.
Construction spending is down 12.2% from last year, and population growth is up just 0.55%.
However, there is some good news, with dwelling starts and equipment investment suggesting higher growth in the pipeline.
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
 
 
 
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Western Australia first, daylight second in CommSec “state of the states” report

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The ING Direct financial wellbeing index has improved in this quarter from 105.6 to 106.9, and more people are increasing their savings rate to pay down debt.
However, 24% of households said their income had decreased in the past 12 months.
The number of people looking to start an online business in the next 12 months increased from 1% to 7%, with 6% of people also saying they want to start a business in general, up from the previous result of 2%.
The survey<a target="_blank" href="/news"> also showed that Victorian borrowers were most comfortable with their level of mortgage debt</a>.
ING Direct executive director Rob Hendriks says that although some Australians feel they remain under financial pressure, they are "very clever" at finding ways to make money.
"Australians are very creative in boosting their income. We see an increased effort in selling goods online, taking additional jobs, and especially in New South Wales we see a lot of women entering the workforce."
"People are creative in finding ways to make money, and especially, people are looking for opportunities in online stores."
Hendriks says online stores are attractive, as people can potentially work part-time, without requiring a lot of investment.
He also points out one in 10 households are finding ways to sell household possessions without buying new ones, earning cash through sales. Also, 9% say they sell goods for extra cash, while 8% are doing odd jobs.
The results reveal a positive picture overall, with 46% of households saying they earn more than they did a year ago – and that increases to 55% in Western Australia. 68% of households say they are comfortable about savings – the median rate is $7,500 – although 20% of households have no savings at all.
Hendriks says although there are some downsides, such as 29% of 55-69 year olds having lower incomes than they did last year mostly due to cuts in working hours, the overall picture is good.
"There is some obvious negative news for some direct groups, but I think definitely the picture has improved."
"One in four are facing reduced incomes, yes, but the positive news is that 46% are earning more than they did a year ago."
Hendriks says while the overall economic situation is challenging, consumers are focused on savings and paying down debts.
"That's a mature response, and the overall Australian situation is still positive."
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/">SmartCompany</a>.
 
 
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Australians increasing savings to pay down debt: ING Direct

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Industrial property is on the rise as more online businesses start searching for massive properties to hold inventory, along with a general improvement in market conditions, experts say.

This comes as a new report suggests online book retailer Amazon is searching the east coast for a suitable warehouse that could serve as an Australian base – it comes after several other reports have indicated the retail giant is opening a local warehouse.
Ben Hegerty, an associate director of industrial property at Savills, told SmartCompany this morning he’s “definitely” seeing some improvement in the market connected to eCommerce.
“You look at the reports of Amazon, Catch of the Day doing a big deal last year, and there are others as well.”
Catch of the Day moved into a massive new property last year in Melbourne, as it quickly grew out of its previous warehouse.
Recent research suggests the industrial market is ticking up after a lean few years. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industrial/low-industrial-vacancy-rate-in-melbourne-encouraging-speculative-developments-knight-frank/2012041754327" target="_blank">According to the latest Melbourne analysis by Knight Frank</a>, the amount of industrial space available for rent fell by 16% during the first quarter of the year.
Knight Frank said both prime and secondary buildings in “key locations” were leasing well.
Hegerty suggests at least some of the uptake has to do with the rise in the number of eCommerce stores searching for larger distribution centres.
“Even the cheaper importers such as Sonic, they’re in the market in a big way. It’s pretty simple, in that you have less manufacturing on shore. Goods have to come from somewhere to service a market, and they need to be stored.”
“We’ve seen that affect the market.”
Meanwhile, a new report suggests Amazon is taking more action to buy an Australian warehouse, with representatives travelling to the east coast to scout locations.
According to Fairfax, company officials will be visiting in the next few months to tour properties, or even sign up as a pre-committed tenant.
Amazon is one of the most popular online retail destinations for Australians, who browse to buy cheaper books, DVDs and other retail items. The company’s entry into Australia would allow it to operate a local warehouse, ensuring faster shipping times and lower costs.
It would also pose a threat to bricks and mortar business, as the company deals in a huge number of categories.
Hegerty says any move to Australia would “make sense”.
“They’re popular here… They could cut down on costs.”
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
 
 
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Rise of online business giving industrial property a boost as Amazon eyes local market

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People opening self-managed superannuation funds need to be aware of their legal obligations and requirements, experts have warned, as new statistics from the Australian Taxation Office show a big jump in the number of workers shifting to SMSFs. 
The figures show that between the years 2007 and 2011, the number of self-managed superannuation funds grew by 31%, and more than 29,500 a year were started on average.
"SMSFs are not for everyone," says Peter Burgess, technical director of the Self Managed Super Fund Professionals' Association. "Obviously, everyone needs to have an understanding of their roles and responsibilities in being a trustee."
"So while you do have some flexibility and control, you need to invest a bit more time in managing everything."
The ATO statistics reveal that in the five year period to June 30, 2010, contributions averaged $34.2 billion ever year. Contributions peaked in 2007, and most member contributions were to SMSFs with assets worth between $500,000 and $5 million.
However, total contributions to SMSFs have fallen over the past five years. In fact, SMSF contributions as a proportion of contributions to all funds fell from over 40% in 2007 to 20% in 2010, which is below the level recorded in 2006.
Some Government intervention, including halving concessional contribution caps, has been associated with the decline. But the ATO notes that after the financial crisis, growth returned to an average level.
Statistics also showed there were 8,792 SMSFs that had to lodge Auditor Contravention Reports in the year ending June 30, 2011. That's up by 8% from the previous year, while the number of contraventions rose by 20%.
Burgess says people opening up SMSFs need to be aware of their obligations as opposed to operating a fund from one of the major institutions.
"There are rules that need to be followed, and so while you do get flexibility, you need to be aware of everything that's going on."
"You need to have your fund audited every year, those statements audited every year, and you need to lodge an annual return and keep up the records of your transactions."
Burgess also says anyone opening an SMSF needs to be on top of all the legislative changes, whether they are in effect or pending, as the Government is keen to crack down on any rorting in the system. The industry has already been involved in disputes with the Government this year over the way certain assets are calculated.
The figures show more and more people are opening SMFS for retirement purposes, with about 30% of SMSFs starting pension payments in 2010 being less than two-years-old.
Burgess says this is a surprising indication that more retirees want a greater feeling of control over their finances when they retire.
"People believe they can do it better themselves by taking control of their investments and setting up more flexible options."
"With a market downturn, that sort of shift makes sense. People are turning to self-managed funds in order to draw a retirement income."
"This suggests they see self-managed funds as delivering a more appropriate retirement product solution."
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php">SmartCompany</a>.
 
 
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Surge in number of self-managed super funds sparks warning from experts to stay on top of the legal obligations

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A private equity firm has paid over $133,000 for the homeloan.com.au and homeloancalculator.com.au URLs, in yet another sign the market for URLs is continuing to grow even more important and lucrative.
Both purchases come after a string of expensive purchases in the past year. Woolworths reportedly bought Hardware.com.au for $33,000, while Zoupon turned into Deals.com.au after a $100,000 transaction.
The real estate market for URLs is also heating up, after investmentproperty.com.au sold for $125,000 last year – although a failed bidder criticised the transaction and said it was overvalued.
Aura Capital has confirmed to SmartCompany it spent over $100,000 for homeloan.com.au last week. It also spent $33,000 to buy homeloancalculator.com.au, after the previous owner let the name lapse. This is the second-highest price ever paid for a URL bought after a name lapse.
Aura Capital director Calvin Ng told SmartCompany both purchases were “purely opportunistic”, although the business does have investments in home loan companies and services.
“We haven’t determined the exact strategy for these yet, it’s opportunistic,” he says. “The guy who owned the calculator URL had let it lapse, and so we just snapped it up.”
“Two weeks prior to that we were contacted about the homeloan.com.au URL, and the two URLs together made the transactions more attractive.”
Aura Capital, which has investments in the minerals, insurance and hospitality industries, has dealt with large URL transactions before. In 2007, it spent over $1 million on 1300homeloan.com.au, and was also involved in the sale of electricity.com.au, which sold for about $30,000.
“This space is really heating up,” Ng says. “It’s just becoming more competitive.”
Buying a simple and memorable URL is essential for any successful business. But as so many of them have been scooped up since the late 1990s, buying the most popular website names becomes an expensive proposition.
Some businesses view it as an investment. Last year, Zoupon purchased Deals.com.au for over $100,000, although co-founder Adam Schwab told SmartCompany at the time he felt it was an investment in the business.
Many businesspeople are also finding it lucrative to become individual domain traders, recognising URLs that are likely to become popular and then selling them for a premium.
Ng says about 35,000 people search for “home loan calculator” every month, and about 200,000 search for “home loan” every month, all but guaranteeing high Google rankings for these URLs.
And although he says the exact opportunity for these URLs hasn’t been confirmed yet, it’s an example of how businesses should be paying attention to movements in the URL space if they want to scoop up a bargain.
“This is a very competitive space, and we’re also watching to see what happens.”
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
 
 
 
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Private equity firm spends over $133,000 on homeloan.com.au, homeloancalculator.com.au domain names

Campbelltown, Mandurah, Toowoomba and south-eastern Victoria – The worst 10 postcodes in each state for insolvencies

Buyers considering a residence at boutique Gordon townhouse development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/lume-gordon-43-47-dumaresq-street-gordon-nsw-2072">Lume</a>&nbsp;now have another reason to bring forward their decision.

For a limited time, purchasers of a residence at Lume will receive a BMW iX3 50 electric SUV, valued at more than $120,000, as part of their purchase. The offer is designed to add value for buyers while complementing the lifestyle envisioned for the architecturally designed Upper North Shore development.

Scott Timmins, Development Manager at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/winim">WINIM</a>, said the partnership was created to provide buyers with a compelling reason to act.

"In today's market, buyers need a compelling reason to act now, and the BMW partnership was designed to create that catalyst. We wanted to add genuine value for our future purchasers. Choosing the all-electric BMW iX3 50 also reflects the values behind LUME, forward-thinking design, innovation and a more sustainable way of living. It's a premium incentive that complements the lifestyle our buyers aspire to and rewards those who commit early."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374893]

Delivered by WINIM in partnership with Burtonwood Investment Partners, Lume comprises 14 architecturally designed two, three and four-bedroom townhomes created for families seeking the space of a freestanding house with the ease of modern, low-maintenance living.

The three-storey residences, designed by award-winning architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, have been tailored for families and multi-generational living, featuring private internal lifts, flexible lower-level spaces, generous open-plan living and entertaining areas, media rooms, and landscaped outdoor spaces with custom outdoor kitchens.&nbsp;

Inside, engineered oak flooring, bespoke dining joinery with integrated wine fridges and backlit bars, sculptural porcelain bathrooms, Parisi freestanding baths and Astra Walker tapware create interiors that balance functionality with refined finishes.

Each townhome has been designed to combine generous internal spaces with sustainability initiatives such as EV charging infrastructure, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>'s landscaped communal areas, centred around a restored creek line and native planting, encourage residents to connect with nature and spend more time outdoors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=269527]

Rothelowman's Gary Tsui said the architecture was conceived to respond carefully to its Upper North Shore setting.

"Our vision was to create elegant, uplifting homes that draw on and positively contribute to the local character through meticulously considered design and an interaction with the surroundings."

The communal landscape has been designed as more than an open space between homes. Arcadia's Ben Newell and Kate Phillips said the adjoining reserve provided an opportunity to create a distinctive natural retreat for residents.

"Just as waterways carve their way through Ku-ring-gai's landscape, a raised boardwalk weaves through the reserve, connecting the homes to this tranquil oasis."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7354 project_image_fid=374892]

Located just 300 metres from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gordon-nsw-2072">Gordon</a> Village and Gordon railway station, Lume offers convenient access to Sydney's CBD while placing residents close to some of the North Shore's leading schools, including Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College and Knox Grammar. Lane Cove National Park, Gordon Golf Club and a range of cafés and restaurants further reinforce the family-focused lifestyle on offer, with the BMW iX3 50 complementing everything from local trips around Gordon to weekend drives and city commutes.

Construction is underway with completion expected in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7354]

Joel Robinson

Boutique Gordon townhomes now come with a BMW iX3 50

Two apartments have sold for more than $10 million at EADE Byron Bay, setting some of the highest apartment prices ever achieved in the coastal town and underlining the growing appetite for luxury beachfront apartments in Australia's most popular coastal locations.

The $210 million project by Vitale Property Group has now secured more than $70 million in sales, led by residences that changed hands for $12.75 million and $11.75 million.

The record-breaking transactions reinforce the shift occurring in Byron Bay's premium property market, where affluent downsizers and lifestyle buyers are increasingly opting for high-end apartments over large beachfront homes.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/eade-byron-bay-29-shirley-street-byron-bay-nsw-2481">EADE Byron Bay</a> occupies a rare 6,000 sqm absolute beachfront site on the corner of Shirley and Milton Streets overlooking Main Beach and The Wreck surf break, just 350 metres from Byron Bay's town centre.

The 25-residence development is the first beachfront apartment project approved in Byron Bay in more than a decade and is currently under construction, with completion expected in May 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359521]

The project has attracted a mix of local Byron Shire residents downsizing from larger homes, alongside interstate buyers from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane seeking a permanent coastal lifestyle without compromising on space.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a> and with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/alexander-co">Alexander &amp; Co</a>, EADE comprises&nbsp;10 garden apartments ranging from 284 sqm to 622 sqm, nine with private pools, five full-floor apartments and 10 rooftop residences with private plunge pools, expansive outdoor entertaining areas and uninterrupted ocean views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145590 project_image_fid=359527]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/vitale-property-group">Vitale Property Group</a> Managing Partner Chris Vitale said the project's combination of scale, location and limited future supply was driving buyer demand.

"There isn't another beachfront holding in Byron Bay of this size and position that could be developed again," Vitale said.

"Buyers are responding to the scarcity and the irreplaceability of a site of this calibre and to floorplans they can't find elsewhere in the market.

"We are seeing buyers place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of the location. The sales achieved to date demonstrate that discerning purchasers recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay.

"Many are coming from larger homes in the Byron region, or from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and are after the space, security and convenience, without the upkeep of a house."

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The Byron Bay project follows Vitale Property Group's delivery of the Mondrian Hotel and Private Residences at Burleigh Heads, with EADE continuing the developer's focus on luxury coastal developments.

Residents will have access to a resort-style swimming pool, gymnasium, sauna, cold plunge pool, concierge services and dedicated workspaces, while the project is targeting an 8-Star Green Star rating.

EADE Byron Bay is being exclusively marketed by Projx Australia in conjunction with WHITEFOX Projects.

WHITEFOX National Projects Director Phillip Rand said demand had been driven predominantly by owner-occupiers.

"We are seeing buyers at EADE place significant value on quality, space, design, resort-style amenities and the rarity of this location," Rand says.

"The sales achieved to date demonstrate that purchasers at this level recognise the long-term significance of what is being created at EADE Byron Bay."

Residences at EADE Byron Bay are currently priced between $4.75 million and $15.95 million.

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Vitale breaks Byron Bay records with EADE sales flurry 

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.

That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.

The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.

For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.

The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hg-developments">HG Developments</a> is doubling down on Maud Street in Newstead, filing plans for a new apartment tower just a few doors down from its under-construction Aire Newstead development.

Recently submitted to Brisbane City Council, the proposal is for an 18-storey building designed by bureau^proberts, which has drawn heavily on Brisbane's subtropical design principles while referencing the suburb's industrial heritage.

A total of 64 apartments are planned for the amalgamated 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-21-maud-street-newstead-qld-4006">17–21 Maud Street</a>, a short walk from the Brisbane River and Newstead Riverwalk.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a400c7fd-bd15-48f8-a63b-10ede92efe00" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20bldg.png?VersionId=.0vPmjpbC7CNP7kqGWa6L7rGIwsNExaw" />

"The building is defined by a series of vaulted motifs that reinterpret the arches, colonnades and layered facades evident throughout Newstead's historic built fabric," the Urban Design Report states.

"Combined with recessed glazing and generous balconies, these elements create a layered building envelope that provides shade, weather protection and opportunities for natural ventilation whilst establishing a distinctive architectural identity."

The proposal comprises 64 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 18 residential levels, positioning it alongside a growing number of taller residential projects transforming Newstead's northern precinct. The tower incorporates extensive subtropical landscaping, with cascading planter boxes, deep planting at street level and a landscaped rooftop recreation area.

<img alt="First look: HG Developments plans 18-storey subtropical apartment tower for Newstead" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1d8140f4-8b98-45cd-b1b8-1efe8c8e266b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Maud%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=VAZtbCoD44YCJ57N99fQCAKeSJx7ldZs" />

Bureau Proberts has prioritised passive environmental design throughout the project, with generous balconies, recessed glazing and operable façades helping reduce solar heat gain while maximising natural ventilation. River views become available from the upper levels, while the building has been orientated to capture prevailing breezes from both the Brisbane River and the west.

The architects say landscape is intended to be integral to the building rather than an applied element.

"Vertical greenery, cascading planter boxes and elevated gardens are woven throughout the architecture, softening the built form and strengthening the connection between residents and the subtropical environment."

"Through the integration of landscape, high-quality materials and passive design principles, the development delivers a refined residential address that celebrates Newstead's heritage character while contributing positively to Brisbane's evolving subtropical identity."

Newstead has remained one of Brisbane's most active apartment markets in recent years, with a number of developers continuing to back the inner-city suburb.

HG Developments is currently delivering the 40-apartment Aire Newstead at 25 Maud Street. Fortis recently launched the 65-apartment <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> on Kyabra Street, while builder-developer BPG and Don O'Rorke's Consolidated Properties are both expected to launch their respective Newstead projects before the end of the year.

HG Developments doubles down in Newstead with second Maud Street apartment development

Walk past a new apartment development promoting its sustainability credentials and it's easy to picture rooftop gardens, mature trees, landscaped courtyards and residents surrounded by nature.

But in many cases, that's not actually what those sustainability ratings guarantee.

Australia's leading environmental rating tools have played a significant role in improving the energy efficiency and environmental performance of buildings. Yet despite their focus on reducing emissions, many don't require developers to include trees, biodiversity or meaningful green space.

In other words, a building can achieve one of the country's highest sustainability ratings while containing little more than concrete, glass and hard landscaping.

That disconnect has led to the emergence of a new movement across Australia's property industry: nature-based cities.

The concept goes beyond designing buildings that consume less energy. Instead, it encourages developers to treat nature as essential infrastructure, integrating biodiversity, tree canopy, living landscapes and green spaces into projects from the earliest stages of planning.

Research has consistently linked access to nature with better physical and mental health, cooler neighbourhoods, improved biodiversity, stronger climate resilience and more connected communities. As Australia's cities continue to become denser, advocates say those outcomes should be considered just as important as energy efficiency.

Nature Based Cities (NBC) was established in 2022 to help accelerate that shift.

Founded by Hamton Executive Chairman Paul Hameister OAM, the not-for-profit was created after research highlighted a significant gap in Australia's sustainability framework. While existing environmental rating tools rewarded energy performance and emissions reductions, they placed little emphasis on the inclusion of living landscapes.

"We've always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren't there," Hameister says.

"In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that's concrete and glass with not a blade of grass.

"The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn't been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities."

Since its launch, NBC has developed independent design guidelines and accreditation frameworks that encourage developers to prioritise ecology, biodiversity, tree canopy, walkability and living landscapes alongside traditional sustainability measures. The organisation first focused on medium and high-density residential developments before recently expanding into precinct-scale communities and masterplanned neighbourhoods.

Jan Talacko, founder of sustainability consultancy Ark Resources and a member of the Nature Based Cities Advisory Council, says the initiative addresses an area that has largely been overlooked by the property industry.

"Throughout my 25 years of working collaboratively with all stakeholders in the property sector, I've always favoured a pragmatic approach to sustainable design which encourages initiatives that not only meet environmental expectations but also improve amenity," Talacko says.

"Whilst we are making steady progress in relation to energy and carbon emissions from buildings, there has been much less emphasis on encouraging biodiversity and tackling the urban heat island effect.

"The Nature Based Cities initiative responds to a gap in the suite of tools currently used by the property development sector, which don't provide sufficient incentive, or recognition, for the integration of landscaping and greenery."

For apartment buyers, the shift is also changing the questions worth asking.

Rather than assuming a sustainable building will naturally include abundant green space, buyers are increasingly being encouraged to look beyond environmental ratings and ask what nature is actually being delivered. How much tree canopy will the development create? Has biodiversity been considered? Are landscaped spaces designed for people as well as appearance?

As Australia's cities continue to grow upwards and outwards, the next generation of sustainability may not simply be measured by lower emissions, but by how successfully developments bring nature back into everyday urban life.

Patrick Stafford

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