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SPONSORED POST
Over the past few months, the east coast of Australia has been battered by severe storms and we’ve all seen the pictures, with roofs being ripped off and many properties completely destroyed, it’s a scary time for property owners.
As a property owner or investor, fearing for your own home as well as your investment property during these events is a likely source of sleepless nights and it’s a fact that all property owners want and need insurance cover to protect their investment.
However, all too often property owners incorrectly insure their property, whether it be under insured or over insured.
Having your property insured for either its purchase price or its market valuation is not the right solution.
The insured value should be for re-constructing the property and all that that entails.
The insured cost should include for things such as demolition and clean up, design and engineering fees, project management and other consultants fees of the new build, approvals and permits, the cost of the construction works, and importantly the cost of escalation on the rebuild price between the time of destruction and the time of actually rebuilding.
Additionally, when you insure your property for its purchase price or market value you are effectively and unnecessarily insuring the land!
NBtax, being part of the Napier &amp; Blakeley group, are among the most experienced quantity surveyors in the country.
Quantity surveyors are perfectly positioned to advise on the correct levels of insurance for re-building property.
Quantity surveyors are the only professionals in the market place that are qualified to calculate construction costs.
In the event of insurable damage, we also advise property owners in determining the scope and amount of a claim to be submitted, as well as preparing and administering building contracts for repairs or complete reconstruction.
In the event of partial or total destruction of an investment property you should also consider your property tax depreciation deductions.
We are asked by numerous clients what effect might these damaging incidents will have on their existing and future capital (depreciation) allowances on their investment properties. And the question arises where funds from a third party such as an insurer pays for capital works.
In the event of repair works, then all demolished capital items may be written off from the date of demolition. All newly installed and refurbished costs may be claimed once works have been completed. Always remember to keep all your records of expenditure, even those such as skip hire, professional fees and the like.
It is important to identify the assets within your existing property tax depreciation schedules that have been removed as to ascertain their value at the time of removal. NBtax tailors its service for each client when it comes to maintaining accurate property tax depreciation schedules, after any reconstruction or repair works your schedule may need updating.
With exposure to billions of dollars of actual construction costs, our quantity surveyors, provide a solid platform for insurance advice. This advice should also help you negotiate with insurers if you need to make a claim.
Contact one of our specialists for <a href="https://nbtax.com.au/" target="_blank">further information</a>.
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Being adequately insured is vital

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The New South Wales Real estate auction results for Saturday 18 June 2016 have been prepared for realestate.com.au by CoreLogic, Australia's no.1 property information service.
There was a preliminary <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/auction-results/nsw?rsf=edm:auction:nsw" target="_blank">75 percent success rate</a>.
 
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All the June 18 NSW weekend auction results: CoreLogic

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<div>National vacancy rates for May remain unchanged year on year, staying tight throughout the month with a 2.4 percent vacancy rate, according to SQM Research.</div>
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<div>SQM managing director Louis Christopher said Darwin recorded the largest monthly fall, with vacancies decreasing by 0.5 percentage points during the month. </div>
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<div>"Canberra also experienced moderate monthly falls with vacancy rates down 0.3 percentage points. Vacancies fell 0.1 percent in Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Hobart during May 2016," he said.</div>
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<div>"National Rents were slightly weaker this month with a 12 month average change that is mirroring the CPI index. Going forward we do not expect any resurgence in rents for the foreseeable future, barring some cities such as Hobart, which we do expect higher rental growth rates due to a falling trend in vacancies.</div>
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<div>"Darwin has recorded ongoing falls in asking rents of 10.4 percent for houses and 12.2 percent for units over the past 12 months. Yearly falls have also been recorded in Perth, with asking rents down 9.6 percent for houses and a considerable 10.0 percent for units.</div>
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<div>"Hobart continues to record the most affordable rental accommodation with rents for houses at just $347 a week, and units averaging $277 a week."</div>
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National vacancy rate tight for May: SQM

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Senibong Cove, Walker Corporation’s Malaysian master planned community, has been announced as “World Silver Winner” at the FIABCI World Prix d’Excellence Awards, 2016 Master Plan Category.
Lang Walker, Chairman of Walker Corporation said this was their third FIABCI award after securing two categories at the FIABCI Malaysia Property Awards 2015.
FIABCI Prix d'Excellence Awards recognise projects that best exemplify excellence in all the real estate disciplines, illustrating the FIABCI ideal of 'providing society with the optimal solution to meet property needs'.
The FIABCI Prix d'Excellence Awards were established to recognise and reward overall merit of projects, with judging panel made up of top real estate professionals and experts. 
Longtime employee Don Carvalho accepted the award.
Mr Quay Chew Keong, Project Director at Front Concept – the Malaysian arm of Walker Corporation, said they are extremely satisfied with our achievement at the FIABCI Prix d'Excellence Awards. To receive global recognition for the project delivery to date is extremely satisfying.
“The exciting part is that there is still so much more to come," he said.
"This is only the beginning for Senibong Cove – the master plan has just started to take shape. Our project team has worked tirelessly to ensure the delivery and success of this project and I applaud their efforts.”
The win was attributed to various factors, including the preservation and integration of the surrounding natural habitat to deliver families a unique design, incorporating boardwalks, natural rivers, lush greenery and immaculately landscaped parks.
Describing the award winning Senibong Cove, Mr Walker said the recognition of Senibong Cove is due to a variety of carefully planned features throughout, coupled with a sustainable approach to development.
“Moreover, it represents the creation of a complete community offering every conceivable necessity within minutes of resident’s front door. All these elements combine to make it a statement in luxury real estate”, he added.
Walker Corporation is one of Australia’s largest private development companies. Successfully running for over 50 years, with a legacy is developing large-scale, award winning developments in residential, commercial, industrial and the retail space.
For more information about the award winning Senibong Cove, visit: <a href="https://www.senibongcove.my">www.senibongcove.my</a>
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Walker Corporation’s Senibong Cove wins FIABCI World Prix d’Excellence Awards 2016

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SPONSORED POST
If you have bought an off-the-plan property, assessing that property post construction is an important part of the settlement process.
Of course, you want to ensure that the property you agreed to purchase is the same that is being delivered so that you’re getting what you’re paying for!
The most cost effective way to make sure your property is delivered just as your purchase contract promised, is to have your contract documentation reviewed and the property physically inspected and assessed by an appropriately qualified Building Consultant.
An NBtax Condition Assessment, completed by a Napier &amp; Blakeley Building Consultant will take note of the ‘as built finish’ of your property. From our initial review of purchase documentation, contract of sale, agreed finishes and specifications, we have a unique understanding of what was agreed to be built.
We will inspect your property on your behalf, asses and document the condition of the finishes within the property, good or bad.
Following an inspection a Condition Assessment will be completed by NBtax and will provide a concise summary of the condition of the property. It will list defects that the developer and or builder should address to deliver the property that is consistent with expectations, including but not always limited to, the agreed plans and specifications, good building practice and expected industry standard.
Our assessment will give you a clear understanding of any potential issues or defects before you take possession, move in or put the property up for lease.  It also gives you peace of mind, providing you with a document that will ensure agreed items between you, the purchaser, and the vendor are installed or rectified prior to settlement.
The best time to have a Condition Assessment completed is as close as possible to the planned settlement date. It is important to note that you still have a contractual obligation to settle your purchase on time. However, under normal circumstances having a condition assessment completed on your property will make you a more informed purchaser and provide you with a written report to enable you to highlight to the developers identifying items requiring attention.
This service is especially valuable to those offshore purchasers who are not present at the time of settlement. We are able to act on their behalf during settlement inspections to ensure relevant conditions are met within the sale contract.
Our specialised teams are ready to help, contact us today.
For more information, <a href="https://nbtax.com.au/" target="_blank">click here</a>.
 
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Be sure to get what you paid for!

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Consumer Affairs Victoria is undertaking a review of the following consumer property legislation:
<ul>
<li>Estate Agents Act 1980</li>
<li>Owners Corporations Act 2006</li>
<li>Conveyancers Act 2006</li>
<li>Sale of Land Act 1962</li>
</ul>
The review will:
<ul>
<li>identify opportunities to modernise and improve the legislation, taking into account stakeholders’ experiences and industry developments since each Act came into operation</li>
<li>examine whether the legislation efficiently and effectively regulates the conduct of licensed practitioners involved in the sale of land, real estate transactions and management of owners corporations</li>
<li>recommend changes to improve the way the legislation operates. </li>
</ul>
<h2>Consultation process</h2>
As part of this review, the Minister for Consumer Affairs approved the release of three issues papers for public consultation. The purpose of these papers was to raise issues for consideration and comment, and draw out evidence and commentary from stakeholders about the nature of the issues and the extent of any problems. 
Submissions will be made available on our website after the closing date for each paper. 
An options paper will be released in July/August 2016.
For more information, <a href="https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/resources-and-education/legislation/public-consultations-and-reviews/consumer-property-law-review" target="_blank">click here</a>.
 
 
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Property 101: Victoria's property law review

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A new report from Secret Agent claims states changes to the student visa rules saves Chinese parents $360,000 and could potentially reignite a property boom.
Secret Agent claim any rational Chinese parent will rethink whether studying locally or in Australia can provide a better education and quality of life for their kids. Here, the best primary school education costs half as much compared to China.
The report states according to Lianjia, a Chinese real estate website, it will cost on average RMB ¥9,588,378 or AUD$1,982,708 to buy a 110-130sqm 3 bedroom apartment in one of Beijing’s popular public primary school zones.
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"Studying abroad, such as in Australia, has been a popular choice among wealthy parents in China. In a major city like Beijing, exam attendance has halved in the past decade, from 126,000 in 2006 to 61,000 today. At the same time, the number of students studying abroad has increased dramatically. Now, the Australian government has made studying in this country $360,000 more attractive," the report said.
"The first thing that Chinese parents want to do is to send their kids to a good primary school, and to do this they have to live in the right school zone, just like how it works here. 
"Local students can study for free in these public primary schools. However, each intake is limited and parents must be able to afford the equivalent of a AUD$2 million apartment in the school zone. The other option is for parents to send their children to the more expensive private international schools, whose tuition fees on average cost AUD$43,648 (RMB¥211,080) per year in Beijing."
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The report said The Victorian government, for example, charges about AUD$10,660 (RMB¥51,552) for international students to study in a public primary school.
"Melbourne’s private schools charge on average AUD $23,744 annually. Chinese parents will end up with a 50 percent savings by sending their kids to the best private primary schools in Melbourne instead of Beijing’s international schools," Secret Agent said.
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<img src="/images/2016/06/10/Screen%20Shot%202016-06-10%20at%2010.19.39%20AM.png" alt=""> 
"After comparing recent property sales in some of our top performing public primary school zones, it was found that it costs AUD$1,380,180 on average to buy a 656sqm house in Melbourne’s school zones, compared to AUD $1,982,708 (¥9,588,378) for an apartment in Beijing.
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"So how does the total savings add up to $360,000? The cost of living in Australia would also have to be taken into consideration. The Department of Immigration and Border Protection has financial requirements that must be met in order to receive a student visa, which is a minimum spend of $18,610 per adult and $6,515 per child for each year they live in Australia.
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"To calculate the total spendings for a Chinese parent and his or her child to reside and study in Australia, a 10% increase on tuition fees and 2.5% inflation on minimum living costs in Australia was assumed. The result is a staggering saving of AUD$359,788 if Chinese parents chose to send their children to Australia instead of Beijing for primary school studies.
"The majority of the savings comes from the difference in property price between Melbourne and Beijing’s school zones, and this also applies to other major cities in China. The Australian government’s intention for the new visa policy is to improve our economy by exporting our education to overseas students. In Secret Agent’s opinion, under the current FIRB rules, the price of properties in good school zones will continue to accelerate. We could also see prime inner city properties start to become acquisition targets. Many of these period homes have been "off limits" to the foreign purchaser. This may no longer be the case. 
"If Chinese parents choose to send their children here for their studies, they will be considered as a temporary resident since they will remain in Australia for a continuous period of more than 12 months. Generally, temporary residents can purchase any residential real estate in Australia once they apply for and receive foreign investment approval. The downside is that they will have to sell the property within three months from when it ceases to be their principal place of residence. This makes off- the-plan townhouses the most attractive purchase to Chinese buyers, as they are cheaper and require less maintenance than big established houses. They can also be kept as an investment property once they leave Australia."
For more information from Secret Agent, <a href="https://secretagent.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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Chinese parents to save $360,000 from new student visa

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SPONSORED POST
Buyers are flocking to Macquarie Park drawn to exceptional transport links and access to leading education infrastructure.
Macquarie Green in adjacent North Ryde has emerged as a residential development choice for parents of school-aged children and university students looking to capitalise on the growing ‘knowledge city’ in Sydney’s booming north west.
The 164-residence community at 5 Whiteside Avenue North Ryde is set securely nearby Sydney’s bourgeoning Macquarie Park and offers private road access from either Whiteside Street or David Avenue.
<img src="/images/2016/06/10/700_toga3.jpg" alt="" width="565" height="343">
Macquarie Green is located less than 1.5 km from Macquarie University and less than 2.5 km from the Macquarie School of Graduate Management and the Australian School of Advanced Medicine.
Macquarie University (below) ranks among the top two per cent of universities in the world and has undergone a more than $1 billion infrastructure and facility transformation in recent years.
<img src="/images/2016/06/10/700_macq.jpg" alt="">
The campus features Australia’s first and only private not-for-profit hospital (on a university campus), the global headquarters of Cochlear, the Australian Hearing Hub, a state-of-the-art library, a combined sport aquatic centre and an on-campus railway station. 
Designed by Marchese Partners, Macquarie Green features boutique-style one, two and three-bedroom apartments housed within two buildings between three and five storeys high as well as a selection of premium townhouses set within two duplex-style buildings.
<img src="/images/2016/06/10/700_toga.jpg" alt="">
Primary schools nearby Macquarie Green include Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School in North Ryde, North Ryde Primary School and Kent Road Public School in Eastwood.
Within the area is also a number of quality high schools including Ryde Secondary College, Epping Boys High School, Marsden High School and Chatswood High School.   
TOGA’s General Manager of Sales and Marketing Alex Adams said Macquarie Green’s proximity to education opportunities was a key drawcard for buyers.
“Macquarie Park, and the greater Ryde area, has positioned itself as a viable alternative to Sydney’s inner-city for its breadth of education facilities and career opportunities,” Mr Adams said.
“Parents of school-aged children can access a number of quality primary and high schools and students can easily walk to world-class Macquarie University from Macquarie Green,” he said. 
Providing convenient access to internship and job opportunities, more than 300 companies are positioned on the Macquarie University campus or in the adjacent high-tech precinct.
“Families and young professionals are jumping at the chance to secure a bright future,” Mr Adams added.
Macquarie Green boasts large common landscaped gardens and many residences feature generous private gardens; appealing to parents of school-aged children.
Above ground-level residents will enjoy louvered balconies designed to maximise both natural light and privacy creating a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor living.
Macquarie Green is a joint venture between Australian property developer TOGA and leading independent investment and advisory house Gresham.
Macquarie Park is located 16 kilometres from the Sydney CBD and a short walk from Macquarie University, Macquarie Shopping Centre and the train station. 
Construction at Macquarie Green commenced in late-2015 with a complete date of mid-2017.
A styled display suite is available to view from Thursday through to Sunday (10am to 2pm) at 78 Waterloo Road, Macquarie Park (entry via Byfield Street).
For all sales enquiries visit <a href="https://www.macquariegreen.com.au" target="_blank">www.macquariegreen.com.au</a> or call 1800 787 731. 
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Macquarie Park’s world-class education lures buyers

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Further cuts are predicted later this year, but for now the RBA has decided to leave interest rates on hold. Mozo Director Kirsty Lamont shares the five numbers you need to know: 
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<img src="/images/2016/06/08/4.53.jpg" alt="">
One month has passed since the RBA’s record rate cut and the new average variable rate has settled at 4.53 percent. 
<img src="/images/2016/06/08/126%20.jpg" alt="">
 
This is how much the average borrower could save in monthly repayments if the RBA slashes the cash rate to 1% as predicted by some economists. 
<img src="/images/2016/06/08/2.07.jpg" alt="">
This is the measly rate paid by the average at-call savings account after rates fell by 25 bps across the board in May. 
<img src="/images/2016/06/08/13.jpg" alt="">
Savers may find relief by stashing their cash in a term deposit account with 13 providers raising their rates by an average of 28 bps across various terms last month. 
<img src="/images/2016/06/08/17.44.jpg" alt="">
The average credit card rate is virtually unchanged at 17.44 percent despite the record low cash rate. In fact, Mozo found the average credit card rate is now 10 times higher than official rates.
For more information, <a href="https://mozo.com.au" target="_blank">click here</a>.
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RBA holds on rates: Mozo’s five-need-to-know numbers

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RBA Governor Glenn Stevens' June 2016 statement
At its meeting today, the Board decided to leave the cash rate unchanged at 1.75 per cent.
The global economy is continuing to grow, at a lower than average pace. Several advanced economies have recorded improved conditions over the past year, but conditions have become more difficult for a number of emerging market economies. China's growth rate moderated further in the first part of the year, though recent actions by Chinese policymakers are supporting the near-term outlook.
Commodity prices are above recent lows, but this follows very substantial declines over the past couple of years. Australia's terms of trade remain much lower than they had been in recent years.
In financial markets, conditions have generally been calmer for the past several months following the period of volatility early in the year. Attention is now turning to some particular event risks. Funding costs for high-quality borrowers remain very low and, globally, monetary policy remains remarkably accommodative.
In Australia, recent data suggest overall growth is continuing, despite a very large decline in business investment. Other areas of domestic demand, as well as exports, have been expanding at a pace at or above trend. Labour market indicators have been more mixed of late, but are consistent with continued expansion of employment in the near term.
Inflation has been quite low. Given very subdued growth in labour costs and very low cost pressures elsewhere in the world, this is expected to remain the case for some time.
Low interest rates have been supporting domestic demand and the lower exchange rate overall is helping the traded sector. Over the past year, growth in credit to businesses has picked up, even as that to households has moderated a little. These factors are all assisting the economy to make the necessary economic adjustments, though an appreciating exchange rate could complicate this.
Indications are that the effects of supervisory measures have strengthened lending standards in the housing market. Separately, a number of lenders are also taking a more cautious attitude to lending in certain segments. Dwelling prices have begun to rise again recently. But considerable supply of apartments is scheduled to come on stream over the next couple of years, particularly in the eastern capital cities.
Taking account of the available information, and having eased monetary policy at its May meeting, the Board judged that holding the stance of policy unchanged at this meeting would be consistent with sustainable growth in the economy and inflation returning to target over time.
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Apartment supply is an issue: RBA Governor Glenn Stevens' June 2016 statement

Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
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[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

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