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A new 7-Eleven store in Queanbeyan’s Jerrabomberra has been sold for $6,850,000.
It was sold on a 4.8 per cent net yield prior to its scheduled auction.
Home to Australia’s largest independent fuel retailer, the 2 Ferdinand Lane asset is secured on a new 15-year lease with two options of five years each extending to 2045.
There is and an annual net income of $334,000 + GST (after land tax).
Situated 17 kilometres from Canberra’s CBD, the newly completed 7-Eleven is directly adjacent to a brand-new McDonalds, KFC and Aldi, with the emerging precinct also welcoming a medical centre tenant, scheduled to be completed in late 2020.
The tenant will pay all outgoings.
There is a  3.5% annual rent reviews throughout the lease term.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Brand new Queanbeyan 7-Eleven sells for $6.85 million prior to auction

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Melbourne Square developer OSK Property has unveiled plans for a 38,000 square metre 29 level office in Southbank that its architects say incorporates many of the key features tenants will be prioritising in the post COVID-19 era.
With a design that focuses on amplifying the workspace’s relationship with the outdoors in addition to the integration of some of the highest sustainability and wellness technology, MSQ Commercial places the health and wellbeing of its occupants at its heart.
Located within the developer’s award-winning Melbourne Square precinct, MSQ Commercial is designed by COX Architecture to an A-Grade standard with open floorplates of up to 1,870 square metres enabled by an innovative and practical side-core design.
COX Architecture Director Paul Curry said its design principles were representative of how offices would likely change in the post COVID-19 era.
“COVID-19 has accelerated workplace trends towards remote working and it has raised the question as to what the office of the future will look like. Long-term outcomes will likely lead to a greater need from workers to enjoy fresh air and light, with access to open space and a connection back to nature,” he said.
“Layouts will be more flexible than ever and common areas and spaces more humanising in their materials and textures. Buildings will need to offer more than just a place to work – people will work to make a life, not just a living.
He said MSQ Commercial’s north-facing orientation and design that maximises its relationship to Melbourne Square’s one acre park would set it apart, in addition to a number of external terraces that link workspaces directly to the outdoors.
The office is planned to feature gym and yoga studios, a plant filled multi-level atrium and a park programmable by a future Garden Events Committee.
It is further targeting one of the highest wellness ratings – the coveted and tough-to-achieve International Well Building Institute’s WELL Gold standard – a feature experts say will be essential post COVID-19 and in light of our most recent bushfire season.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/5/22/12_MSQ%20Commercial%20hero%20image%20copy.jpg" alt="">
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Overseeing the leasing campaign is JLL and Lemon Baxter, with JLL’s Leasing Director, Richard Norman adding, “MSQ Commercial is well positioned to cater for the new requests and office requirements that come out of the current situation. It is truly flexible with an unparalleled work-life offering.”
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OSK Property launches 38,000 sqm commercial office at Melbourne Square

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An expanding Shaw Fabrics is the first new tenant to secure space in the 60,502sqm Forrester Distribution Centre in St Marys. 
The Stockland-owned facility at 40–88 Forrester Road was the home of O-l Glass.
Window-blind material manufacturer Shaw Fabrics has moved into a 5,540sqm space in one of the three buildings, for a net rent of $105/sqm +GST.
A five-year lease accompanies the firm’s existing, 11,000sqm building in St Marys.
Forrester Distribution Centre’s remaining 54,962sqm represents one of the largest A-grade industrial vacancies in Sydney this year, with CBRE’s Cameron Grier, Moshe Greengarten and John Micallef the leasing agents.
The 12ha site occupies a prime location near the St Marys town centre and train station, M4 and M7 motorways, Great Western Highway and backing onto the proposed St Marys Intermodal freight terminal.
It is also within range of key industrial and commercial estates at Eastern Creek, Erskine Park, Wetherill Park, Arndell Park and Marsden Park, and 16km from Sydney’s future second airport.
“With limited stock in core markets such as Eastern Creek, we are seeing significant interest in Forrester Distribution Centre due to the cost-effective nature of the A-grade space,” Mr Micallef said.
“There is significant flexibility in the configuration of the warehouses, and options from 5,000sqm to 55,000sqm can be available by October this year.”
Shaw Fabrics has moved into Building A at Forrester Distribution Centre, a 24,450sqm warehouse, with Buildings B and C offering 24,116sqm and 11,935sqm respectively. 
All feature full drive-around access, internal clearance of up to 11.2m and multiple roller doors and dock levellers.
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Forrester distribution centre secured by Shaw Fabrics

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National property investment group, Collective Capital, has snapped up one of the most significant office buildings in Melbourne’s south-eastern bayside with the off-market purchase of a Frankston property valued at circa $20 million.
In a deal brokered by CBRE Director Investments, Mark Wizel, with Director Melbourne Middle Markets, Josh Rutman, the largely government tenanted building was sold 78 per cent leased with a net passing income of nearly $1.24 million. The yield was not disclosed. 
The 454-472 Nepean Highway property comprises a five level, 6254 square metre (NLA) building with ground floor retail on a 2501 square metre site with three street frontages and parking for 142 cars. It sits on the corner of Wells Street, adjacent to the headquarters for South East Water, which was completed in 2015.
Mr Wizel said the sale result reflected the property’s quintessentially defensive tenancy profile, a characteristic which has become highly sought after as forecasted challenges around the office tenant market continue to gain momentum. 
 "This was an astute purchase which delivered a very satisfying level of income security at a time when income security is at a premium across all types of investment classes.
"Interest in this and other defensive income properties, especially non-discretionary retail, has risen markedly in recent times and should continue to escalate whilst uncertainty remains,’’ Mr Wizel said.
Mr Rutman said investors were also responding to the growing trend of a decentralised workforce where office workers preferred to work either at or closer to home to reduce travel times without compromising productivity.
"Investors are seeking out opportunities where they can reposition buildings to cater for these changing worker needs in strategic locations which will be able to service a specific tenant catchment or industry.
"This building, and others like it, are well placed to come through the current crisis in good shape,’’ Mr Rutman said.
He said while there was little doubt that risk was being assessed more prudently at present, Melbourne’s celebrated white collar tenancy diversity was a positive in driving medium to longer term confidence in the market.
Collective Capital Director, Nicholas Thompson who founded the organization together with Dale O’Dwyer, said he was delighted with the transaction and confident about the strong returns that it would provide to investors. 
"The asset was strategically targeted due to its very strong government and government-funded tenancy profile, which, during these uncertain times, will provide our investors with a high level of income security,’’ Mr Thompson said. 
CBRE’s Head of Suburban Office Leasing, Gianni Macdonald, said whilst lease transactions had slowed, Melbourne’s metropolitan office market had seen a significant increase in enquiry from government tenants looking for fitted tenancies close to train stations.
"Buildings that are easily accessible by public transport and have tenancies ready to go are seen as a `no-risk’ solution for occupiers looking for new office space,’’ Mr Macdonald said.
 He said the landmark building’s highway location within walking distance of Frankston Railway Station and Bayside Shopping Centre had been a major factor in attracting tenants including NDIA, St Lawrence and Wise Employment.
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Collective Capital snap up $20 million Frankston office

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A three-bedroom, three-bathroom Darlinghurt Republic penthouse has been sold for $6.5 million.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-darlinghurst-133277234" target="_blank">50 Burton Street</a> property has over 570 sqm space.
It has direct lift access via the lobby or from its two-car secure parking.
The top floor apartment was last sold in 2008 for $5.77 million. 
Designed by Burley Katon Halliday (BKH), the apartment has landscaped private outdoor areas on four sides.
It features wall to wall glass, heated limestone floors and smart home automation. 
 
 
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Darlinghurst luxury penthouse with cityscape views sold

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A Blueys Beach house has been listed for sale through Pacific Palms Real Estate agent Matt Healey.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-blueys+beach-133135062" target="_blank">Newman Avenue property</a> offers a sleek modernist style with high vaulted ceilings, a cantilevered deck and an abundance of glass.
Its walls of sliders sweep back embracing the sparkling ocean, rolling paddocks and district views.
The four-bedroom, two-bathroom home has a master wing with ensuite, walk-in robe, and a whole floor children's or guest wing featuring two bedrooms, bathroom and lounge or teen retreat. The 700 sqm has easy lift access to each of its three levels and features open plan living and dining rooms separated by the gourmet eat-at gas kitchen. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/5/22/19_Blueys%20Beach%20Living%20Room%20.jpg" alt="" style="caret-color: #000000; color: #000000;"> There is also a garden terrace featuring a gardener's sink, easy care landscaped gardens with veggie patch, internal access to the double lock up garage, powder room, internal laundry and vast storage areas. The property last sold in 2010 for $910,000. 
According to Domain, four other four-bedroom houses in Blueys Beach have recently been sold. A similar four-bedroom, two-bathroom on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-blueys+beach-130602282" target="_blank">Croll Street</a> sold for $1.2 million. 
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Blueys Beach three-storey oceanfront house for sale

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GUEST OBSERVATION
As the coronavirus pandemic spreads around the world, it’s a good time to understand how cleaning can help prevent the spread of disease and what you can do to cut the risk of infection in your home.
Coronavirus is mainly transmitted from person to person via <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/what-you-need-to-know-about-coronavirus-covid-19" target="_blank">tiny droplets</a> of saliva or other bodily fluids that float in the air after a cough or sneeze.
Contaminated objects and surfaces can also be important in the transmission of disease. It’s not entirely clear what role they play in transmitting the new coronavirus, but they play an important one for <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0195670120300463" target="_blank">related viruses</a> such as SARS and MERS.
However, it makes sense that something contaminated with the virus could pass it on, for example if a person touches it and then touches their nose, mouth or face.
So, if someone at risk of having the virus has been in your home, cleaning to reduce the amount of contamination on surfaces may help cut down your risk of further transmission of coronavirus. (It will also cut the risk of transmitting other pathogens.)
<h2>What’s the difference between cleaning and disinfection?</h2>
There’s a useful to distinction to make between <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/cleaning-disinfection?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fcommunity%2Fhome%2Fcleaning-disinfection.html" target="_blank">cleaning</a> and <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prepare/cleaning-disinfection?CDC_AA_refVal=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.cdc.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2F2019-ncov%2Fcommunity%2Fhome%2Fcleaning-disinfection.html" target="_blank">disinfection</a>.
Cleaning means physically removing organic matter such as germs and dirt from surfaces. Disinfection means using chemicals to kill germs on surfaces.
Cleaning is very important, because organic matter may inhibit or reduce the disinfectant’s ability to kill germs.
<h2>How long will coronavirus survive in my house?</h2>
We are not exactly sure how long this coronavirus will survive on surfaces. If it is similar to other coronaviruses, it could survive a few hours – potentially <a href="https://www.journalofhospitalinfection.com/article/S0195-6701(20)30046-3/fulltext" target="_blank">up to several days</a>. How long it survives could depend on temperature, humidity and what the surface is made of.
<h2>What could be contaminated in my house?</h2>
It’s hard to say exactly. When someone coughs or sneezes, especially if they don’t cover their mouth, it is likely surfaces close to them will be contaminated.
Hands are often responsible for transferring pathogens from one place to another, so items that people often touch are at greatest risk of being contaminated.
Frequently touched items may include TV remotes, fridge doors, kitchen cupboards, kitchen surfaces, taps and door handles. And of course, there are devices such as phones and iPads – but these may not be shared or touched by others frequently.
<h2>What should I use to clean and how?</h2>
The coronavirus is a delicate structure and it is vulnerable in the environment. Both heat and detergents, including soap, can stop it functioning.
<h3>Contaminated surfaces</h3>
If a surface becomes contaminated or you think it could be, cleaning it with a common household disinfectant will kill the virus. Remember to wash your hands after cleaning (or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser) and avoid touching your eyes, mouth or nose.
There are many options for what to use to clean, including paper towels, cloths or disposable wipes.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/321221/original/file-20200318-37387-184yl1.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
The S-shaped pattern for cleaning a surface without re-contaminating parts of it. Brett Mitchell, Author provided
How you clean is important. You don’t want to “recontaminate” surfaces while cleaning. Working from one side of a surface to the other helps with this, using an <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0195670118307205" target="_blank">“S” shape to clean</a>.
If you are reusing a cloth, remember to wash it afterwards and let it dry. Laundering cloths in the washing machine with normal washing liquid is also likely to kill the virus, particularly on a hot wash.
<h3>Dishes and cutlery</h3>
Washing with hot water and detergent is fine for dishes and cutlery. A dishwasher is even better, because it can use hotter water than your hands will tolerate.
<h3>Clothing and linen</h3>
Use the warmest setting possible to wash contaminated laundry and make sure you allow it to dry completely. You may not want to ruin clothing or other materials, so always look at the manufacturer’s instructions.
Laundry from someone who is sick can be washed with other people’s items. If you are handling contaminated items such as towel or sheets, avoid shaking them before washing, to reduce the risk of contaminating other surfaces.
And remember to wash your hands immediately after touching any contaminated laundry.
<h2>Prevention is best</h2>
Remember that surfaces play a role in transmitting pathogens, so preventing them from becoming contaminated in the first place is as important as cleaning. There are some things you can do to reduce the amount of contamination of surfaces in your house:
– cover your cough and sneezes, ideally with a tissue but otherwise into your elbow, and wash your hands immediately
– wash your hands often, especially after going to the bathroom and before eating.
<h2>What do I do if someone in my home is sick?</h2>
It may be wise to think about which room in your home could be used to care for a sick member of your family. If possible, the ideal room is one that that is separate from other parts of your home and has a separate bathroom.
Cleaning this room when someone is sick also requires some thought. Further advice on caring for someone with coronavirus at home is available from the <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2020/03/coronavirus-covid-19-information-about-home-isolation-when-unwell-suspected-or-confirmed-cases.pdf" target="_blank">Department of Health</a>.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/133912/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/brett-mitchell-398392" target="_blank">Brett Mitchell</a>, Professor of Nursing, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-newcastle-1060" target="_blank">University of Newcastle</a>
This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-to-clean-your-house-to-prevent-the-spread-of-coronavirus-and-other-infections-133912" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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How to clean your house to prevent the spread of coronavirus

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Are you a parent who is struggling to find time to be with your child and help them grow? Our newly published research shows neighbourhood parks, and playgrounds in particular, provide valuable and unique opportunities for interaction between parents and children. These are places where parents can play with and teach their child new skills, and children also get to play with other children and create their own activities.
In Australia, the proportion of couples with children under 18 where both parents are working has <a href="https://aifs.gov.au/facts-and-figures/work-and-family" target="_blank">increased from 52% in 1991 to 61% in 2016</a>. Parents are more time-poor than ever. Both parents often feel pressure to work full-time to maintain living standards, but it leaves them with less family time.
Some children are fine with having less time with mum and dad. However, many <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.econstor.eu/handle/10419/208386" target="_blank">don’t feel close to their parents</a>, especially their dad, who is often the main income earner.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/320317/original/file-20200313-33876-dqtcuz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/320317/original/file-20200313-33876-dqtcuz.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
Parks are places where children can explore and experience nature. <a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/kid-hans-embracing-tree-trunk-46134457" target="_blank">Helder Almeida/Shutterstock</a>
Spending time outdoors allows children to <a href="https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/03004430.2017.1317764?journalCode=gecd20" target="_blank">experience nature and play</a> in ways that are not limited by walls or fences. The experience may also provide parents with insights into their child’s interests and abilities and help them better understand their child’s needs.
For <a href="https://www.mdpi.com/2071-1050/11/16/4435/htm" target="_blank">our research</a>, we interviewed adults visiting 12 parks in residential neighbourhoods within the <a href="https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Home" target="_blank">Moreton Bay Region</a> of south-east Queensland, Australia. We completed 386 interviews from December 2017 to March 2018.
<h2>What has the research found?</h2>
According to the parents, grandparents and caregivers we interviewed, visiting the park provided opportunities for parents to teach their children productive social skills while playing with other children. This included taking turns, not pushing in, and showing respect. One interviewee said:
I think one of the best things in the park is developing their social skills, so they will meet with other kids and they learn to share toys and play together.
At the park’s playground, the parent could teach their child how to use equipment and help them climb around.
Generally, when I take them to the park, especially if you’ve got a younger one, you’re helping them to climb stuff and push them on the swing.
The adults were also concerned about keeping children safe.
Because he’s little, I like to be there. Especially for the climbing things, just in case he falls.
As children get older, they don’t need as much physical help from parents and can play with their siblings and other children on their own. Parents of older children start to take on more of a supervisory or observation role.
Most times, I sit back and let them play, only because of their ages. Sometimes, I get in and play, but I don’t find I need to.
<h2>Where do children play in parks?</h2>
Not all parks are designed and built with the same purpose in mind. They vary in size, facilities and types of playground equipment. In the 12 parks, children most frequently played at playgrounds (82%), followed by open fields (17%) and pathways (14%).
Playgrounds allow children to climb, swing, ride and slide on equipment.
There’s climbing, there’s balance activities and there’s lots of different stuff to do, to keep him engaged.
Open fields are great for intergenerational interaction and shared activities, including ball games and running around.
The grassy space is great because they can either bring equipment or two of my daughters are cheerleaders, so they’ll often run and do flips because it’s such a nice, big space.
Pathways can be used for bike riding.
I think we brought them here when they were new at learning to ride their bike, because it’s got the concrete path all around.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/320318/original/file-20200313-90672-hppft4.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/320318/original/file-20200313-90672-hppft4.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
Parents value parks as safe places for activities like learning to ride a bike. <a class="source" href="https://www.shutterstock.com/image-photo/father-teaching-his-son-ride-bike-96898810" target="_blank">MinDof/Shutterstock</a>
The local park makes for easy access to a space where parents can share in the activities of their children and teach them a range of physical and social skills that might not be possible within the limits of a backyard or home.
Our research is part of a larger study on designing suburban parks for all. Among the final outcomes are design recommendations for parks that are more inclusive of all ages for healthy, active living.
In a well-designed park, the child can explore their curiosity, take risks, learn outdoor skills and play with other children, all under the guidance and supervision of their parent or carer.
These unique social dynamics may not happen at other times of the day or week. If you are struggling to find time to help your child grow, try spending 30 minutes together in the local park – you will both benefit from playing, learning and laughing together!<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/132097/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/tracy-sherwood-washington-476475" target="_blank">Tracy Sherwood Washington</a>, Lecturer and Researcher in Urban and Regional Planning, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847" target="_blank">Queensland University of Technology</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/debra-flanders-cushing-713931" target="_blank">Debra Flanders Cushing</a>, Associate Professor in Landscape Architecture, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847" target="_blank">Queensland University of Technology</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/janelle-mackenzie-728925" target="_blank">Janelle MacKenzie</a>, Research Project Officer, School of Design, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847" target="_blank">Queensland University of Technology</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/laurie-buys-340945" target="_blank">Laurie Buys</a>, Professor, Director of Healthy Ageing Initative, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/the-university-of-queensland-805" target="_blank">The University of Queensland</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/stewart-trost-728924" target="_blank">Stewart Trost</a>, Professor of Physical Activity and Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/queensland-university-of-technology-847">Queensland University of Technology</a>
This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-working-families-need-parks-and-playgrounds-more-than-ever-132097" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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Why working families need parks and playgrounds more than ever

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GUEST OBSERVATION 
Our analysis shows an economic downturn as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic will dramatically increase rental stress for people with insecure or casual work. If the downturn persists this will place people in precarious jobs at higher risk of homelessness.
The scenario we explored is the effect of loss of casual work on people on very low incomes. We identify this at-risk group as those aged between 19 and 30 years, living independently with disposable incomes of A$600 a week from casual work or a combination of casual work and benefits.
They typically work in cafes, restaurants, catering, events, fast food and retail. These are the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-06/this-is-why-casual-workers-could-be-hardest-hit-by-coronavirus/12027382" target="_blank">jobs most immediately impacted by an economic slowdown</a>. It is estimated <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-04-25/australia-sees-increase-in-casual-workers-ai-job-threats/11043772" target="_blank">one in four Australian workers is casual</a>, although not all are on low incomes.
The infographic below illustrates the extreme rental stress a slowdown will cause the low-income casual workers. We have calculated average rent across the broader Melbourne and Sydney metropolitan areas. The infographic shows the impact on rental stress of losing up to A$300 per week of disposable income. The percentages represent the amount of income taken up by rent, with red indicating the most extreme rental stress.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/321155/original/file-20200317-60932-19pvj8k.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/321155/original/file-20200317-60932-19pvj8k.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
Source: REIA median rental data (December, 2019), A Guide to Australian Government Payments, authors' calculations
For example, the top row shows a casual worker in Sydney sharing a two-bedroom flat earning A$604 a week had A$344 disposable income after rent. The final row shows an individual in Sydney with A$326 weekly income after losing work income. Their rent then takes up 80% of their income, leaving them with A$66 a week to live on after rent.
The potential impact of the downturn on the disposable income of people with very low incomes means they will be in extreme rental stress unless they have savings.
<h2>So do they have savings?</h2>
The federal government has <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/10/australian-government-warned-not-to-drag-its-feet-on-help-for-casual-workers-in-coronavirus-crisis" target="_blank">suggested</a> casual workers have savings to tide them over. Our analysis of Australian Bureau of Statistics data suggests 38.9% of those earning A$600 or less per week have less than A$600 in savings to get them through. Over a quarter of this group are already in debt.
Another 26.6% of low-income casual workers have a month or less for things to get back to normal.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/320900/original/file-20200316-27643-y5y5ri.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
Average savings of people earning A$600 a week. Source: Income and Housing, Australia, 2017-18 (Australian Bureau of Statistics), Authors' calculations
These savings will be used up rapidly when average rent in a share house is A$133-220 per week in Melbourne and A$165-260 in Sydney. These rents include outer metropolitan areas, so rental stress in the inner cities will be worse, as our <a href="https://theconversation.com/city-share-house-rents-eat-up-most-of-newstart-leaving-less-than-100-a-week-to-live-on-123772" target="_blank">previous analysis</a> showed.
The downturn will affect a large number of people already on benefits because their income is partly from benefits and partly from earnings. According to <a href="https://data.gov.au/dataset/ds-dga-cff2ae8a-55e4-47db-a66d-e177fe0ac6a0/distribution/dist-dga-1fb71211-4e8a-4bf2-b659-148cd4d6972d/details?q=" target="_blank">data from the Department of Social Services</a>, 41% of Youth Allowance recipients, 28% of NewStart recipients and 36% of Parenting Payment single recipients are working and therefore receive part-rate allowances.
<h2>Will the first economic stimulus package help?</h2>
For people already receiving benefits the one-off <a href="https://treasury.gov.au/coronavirus/households" target="_blank">A$750 stimulus payment</a> will help to tide them over for 3-4 weeks’ rent. But to date casual workers have not been included in that stimulus payment (unless they receive <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/family-tax-benefit" target="_blank">Family Tax Benefit</a>).
People who lose their casual work will be able to get the new <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/jobseeker-payment" target="_blank">JobSeeker payment</a> from March 20. It’s the same as the <a href="https://www.servicesaustralia.gov.au/individuals/services/centrelink/newstart-allowance/how-much-you-can-get" target="_blank">NewStart rate</a> – A$326 per week (including average rent assistance) – so it is clear they will be in immediate rental stress.
It’s worth noting this rental crisis is compounded because NewStart has not kept pace with rental increases over the last 25 years. NewStart has been increased by CPI only. The chart below shows how wide the gap between Melbourne rent price increases and CPI has become.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/320901/original/file-20200316-27648-dca69x.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
Median increase in Melbourne rents and CPI, June 1999 – December 2019. Source: Rental Report, Department of Health &amp; Human Services (Dec 2019), Consumer Price Index (ABS), Authors' calculations
<h2>So what needs to be done?</h2>
The loss of income for casual workers will result in extreme rental stress for people who were already on low incomes. This issue demands urgent attention to prevent a homelessness epidemic. Agencies like the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-17/calls-for-housing-eviction-bans-during-coronavirus-outbreak/12060484?fbclid=IwAR0ND56d2GClAg-JNwdtQm6m59rcurdNjBV_M4kl9DbXKgFUDe-PB1q-Y1U" target="_blank">Council for Homeless Persons</a> are already calling for an immediate moratorium on evictions.
Landlords have a responsibility here as well since they benefit from continuity of rentals and the contribution of government policy to their wealth and assets. For example, low-income rents are paid out of a combination of regular earnings, benefit payments and rent assistance. These will now be supplemented because people on low incomes are likely to use the stimulus package to keep up.
The challenge for the government is to provide support to people on very low incomes that will see them through the entire COVID-19 crisis. One solution would be to immediately increase the JobSeeker payment to help people on low incomes ride out the downturn in casual work. Another solution would be to provide replacement income for casual workers affected by the downturn.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/133782/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/simone-casey-130516" target="_blank">Simone Casey</a>, Research Associate, Future Social Service Institute, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/rmit-university-1063" target="_blank">RMIT University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/liss-ralston-295934" target="_blank">Liss Ralston</a>, Urban Statistician, Centre for Urban Transitions, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/swinburne-university-of-technology-767" target="_blank">Swinburne University of Technology</a>
This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/coronavirus-puts-casual-workers-at-risk-of-homelessness-unless-they-get-more-support-133782" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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Coronavirus puts casual workers at risk of homelessness unless they get more support

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A freehold Shute Harbour waterfront site in Queensland's Whitsunday Islands has been snapped up for $2.65 million.
The development site at <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://raywhitewhitsunday.com.au/properties/sold-commercial/qld/shute-harbour-4802/other/2257179" target="_blank">3344 Shute Harbour Road</a> is on two titles totalling 8,199sqm.
The property was offered via an expressions of interest campaign and was sold by Andrew Burke of Ray White Special Projects Queensland, and Mark Beale, Principal of Ray White Whitsunday.
The asset received six offers during the campaign and they were from a mix of marine industry, land bankers and residential developers, Burke said.
“The vendor was a local businessman who previously had the site used as a hotel before Cyclone Debbie in 2017 destroyed the buildings, and with retirement on the horizon, they decided to sell.
“The buyer was from regional NSW but was familiar with the location as they frequently holiday nearby," Bruke said. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/5/25/3344%20Shute%20Harbour%20Rd%20Aerials-8.jpg" alt="">
The Whitsundays offered a collection of beaches surrounded by waters decorated with coral gardens.
"Shute Harbour is commonly described as the natural harbour location south east of Airlie Beach. It contains a pocket of development isolated from the centre of Airlie Beach by a significant national park," ” Beale said.
Zoned mixed use, the site offers opportunities for residential, tourist accommodation, business, retail or service industry.
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Whitsunday waterfront site sells for $2.65 million

Melbourne developer Spacious Group has completed Voyage Altona, one of the closest new apartment developments to Altona Beach.

Off the plan purchasers have started moving into the 49-apartment project on Pier Street, with the remaining move-in-ready one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments starting from just over $500,000.

Display apartments have now been fitted out, allowing prospective buyers to inspect the completed residences by appointment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=372638]

The completed apartments feature open-plan living and dining areas which extend onto private balconies and terraces, while full-height glazing maximises natural light throughout the interiors.&nbsp;

Hybrid timber-look flooring, stone benchtops, Miele appliances, porcelain-tiled bathrooms and generous storage feature throughout the building which also features landscaped communal areas, expansive shared terraces, lift access and secure on-grade parking.

Drawing inspiration from its bayside setting, Voyage adopts a restrained palette of warm neutral tones and textured finishes. Many of the apartments take advantage of views across Port Phillip Bay, while the indoor-outdoor living spaces have been designed to make the most of the coastal outlook.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=3286]

Voyage was developed to address what Spacious Group identified as an undersupply of higher-quality apartment product in Altona, with a focus on owner-occupiers looking to remain within the bayside community.

"Voyage responds to very strong local buyer demand for quality, owner-occupier-focused product," says Barry Plant Projects Director Jarrod Farey, who has handled sales since the project's launch.

"The project delivers an elevated lifestyle proposition, with its design and quality of finish far exceeding anything previously produced in the area, as well as its proximity to Pier Street Village and the beach."

The majority of purchasers have been local downsizers and owner-occupiers looking to stay within the Altona community but who previously had limited opportunities to buy a brand-new apartment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112195]

Joel Robinson

Spacious Group completes Voyage Altona in Altona's beachside precinct

Homecorp has secured approval for a $360 million apartment development at Budds Beach, paving the way for one of the Gold Coast's most amenity-rich residential projects to launch later this year.

Gold Coast City Council has approved Lýon Residences, a 32-level tower that will deliver 178 two and three-bedroom apartments across a prominent corner site at 8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue.

The approval comes as developers continue to invest in premium lifestyle-driven apartment projects on the Gold Coast, where owner occupiers are increasingly prioritising amenity as much as apartment size and location.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/l-on-residences-25-27-oak-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Lýon Residences</a> has been designed around a resort-style wellness offering, headlined by a Moroccan-inspired spa precinct featuring treatment rooms, a Nordic sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a soaking pool and a residents-only juice bar.

The rooftop will include a heated infinity pool and spa, residents' lounge with private kitchen and bar, gymnasium, yoga and Pilates studio, outdoor entertaining areas and barbecue facilities overlooking the Surfers Paradise skyline.

<img alt="Lyon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d3e29af-8793-486e-a684-52cef862241f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-15%20at%204.32.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ayG2zpLf3SS6Zy8XmKDcQods4kVWb0gm" />

Homecorp Founder and CEO Ron Bakir said Budds Beach provided the ideal location for the company's latest luxury apartment project.

"Budds Beach represents one of the most unique and sought-after pockets of the Gold Coast, and Lýon Residences has been designed to reflect that sense of rarity and refinement," Bakir said.

The project arrives as wellness continues to become a defining feature of new residential developments both in Australia and internationally.

The latest Global Wellness Institute figures show wellness real estate remains the fastest-growing segment of the global wellness economy and is forecast to exceed $1.8 trillion by 2030. Australia continues to rank among the world's 15 largest wellness real estate markets, with developers increasingly integrating health, recreation and community facilities into apartment projects.

Queensland is also experiencing strong population growth, with the Gold Coast continuing to outperform many other Australian cities as demand for new housing remains elevated ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Bakir said the project had been designed to respond to that shift in buyer expectations.

"Strong population growth and sustained demand across the Gold Coast continue to highlight the need for well-designed new housing supply. Lýon Residences responds directly to this demand while setting a new benchmark for residential living," he said.

Each apartment has been designed to maximise views across the coastline, the Nerang River and the Gold Coast hinterland.

Located just minutes from Surfers Paradise beach and the Broadwater, the development also offers easy access to the light rail network, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads.

Early site works are underway, with construction expected to commence later this year.

Homecorp approved for Budds Beach apartment tower, Lýon Residences

New apartment developments with uninterrupted, north-facing views over Perth's Swan River are exceptionally rare.

Recognising just how limited those opportunities are, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a>, one of Perth's most respected builder-developers, targeted <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/applecross-wa-6153">Applecross</a>, assembling an unrepeatable 6,342 sqm riverfront site on the corner of Moreau Mews and Canning Beach Road to create one of Perth's only new north-facing apartment developments directly overlooking the Swan River.

Today, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/riviere-residences-applecross-59-canning-beach-road-applecross-wa-6153">Rivière Residences</a> offers buyers a unique opportunity to choose between completed residences ready to move into now and off-the-plan homes in the final stage, Rivière West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3823]

Across the completed East and Central buildings, residents are already enjoying the development's luxury amenity, while two of the precinct's hospitality venues are now open.

The completed component of the development gives buyers the advantage of experiencing the finished product firsthand, including its uninterrupted river views, while still having the opportunity to secure a residence in the final stage.

"People are wowed by the view and the quality of the apartments,"&nbsp;Edge Visionary Living Sales Executive, Holly McSweeney, says.

"They're looking for the convenience of lock-and-leave living, but they're not looking to downsize on quality."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3826]

The rarity of the development hasn't been lost on prospective buyers, McSweeney says.

For McSweeney, it all comes back to a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate.

"Location, location, location," she says. "We are nestled right on the front of the Swan River. You can never get built out, so wherever you are in Rivière Residences, you've got views of the river forever."

The unique waterfront position has resonated particularly strongly with local downsizers. McSweeney says many buyers are long-time Applecross residents looking to transition from large family homes into a luxury apartment without sacrificing space, quality or the lifestyle they've enjoyed for decades.

<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/N_FowNW0wu8?si=vb25XFq1wZ-iufAW" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

A major focus for Edge in recent years has been resident amenity. Across its apartment portfolio, from beachfront developments in Scarborough to luxury towers in South Perth, the developer has increasingly invested in the spaces beyond the apartment itself.

The strategy has largely been shaped by downsizer demand. Many buyers are moving from large family homes with swimming pools and established gardens. While they're looking to leave the maintenance behind, they don't want to compromise on lifestyle.

At Rivière, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hillam-architects">Hillam Architects</a> designed the resident facilities as an extension of each apartment. A 25-metre heated swimming pool takes advantage of the north-facing river outlook, complemented by a large gym, sauna and steam rooms, private dining spaces, residents' lounges, a cinema, games room, and dedicated wine and whisky rooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=372542]

The waterfront location has also proved to be a major drawcard. Residents are within walking distance of the Raffles Hotel, South of Perth Yacht Club, the Heathcote Cultural Precinct and the cafés, restaurants and boutiques along Ardross Street.

Beyond the location and amenity, McSweeney says many buyers take confidence from Edge's fully integrated development model.

Having delivered apartments across Perth for decades, Edge now designs, develops and constructs its projects in-house, giving the company greater control over quality, delivery and the finished product.

"What I love is when people walk through their apartment for the first time and say, 'This is better than what we imagined,'" McSweeney says. "We hear that all the time."

Completed apartments in the East and Central buildings are now available to inspect by appointment, while Rivière West, the final stage of the precinct, is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=28384]

North-facing Swan River views drive demand at Rivière Residences in Applecross

Nearly 60 per cent of apartments at McNab Group's $220 million The Tannery development in Brisbane's West End have sold ahead of the project's public launch, including a suburb-record $2.57 million sale for a two-bedroom apartment.

The early sales campaign has secured buyers for 50 of the project's 87 apartments, highlighting continued demand for larger owner-occupier apartments that combine generous floorplans with premium lifestyle amenities in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374768]

McNab Group Executive Chairman Michael McNab said selling more than half the project before launch reflected changing buyer expectations.

"Selling more than half the project before public sales open tells us buyers are actively seeking apartments that offer something genuinely different," McNab said.

"Today's buyers are looking beyond four walls. They want homes that genuinely enhance the way they live, with spaces that support health, connection and everyday wellbeing."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374767]

A key point of difference for the project is the adaptive reuse of the heritage-listed Dixon's Tannery building, which will become The Retreat, a residents-only wellness precinct rather than being redeveloped into additional apartments.

The Retreat will feature a sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a commercial-grade gym, Pilates studio, cinema, library, co-working spaces and private dining room. Rooftop amenities will include a swimming pool, landscaped gardens, outdoor entertaining areas and dog-friendly spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374760]

Designed by Cottee Parker Architects with interiors by Tom Mark Henry and landscape architecture by Aspect Studios, The Tannery comprises 87 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 11 levels overlooking the Brisbane River.

Cottee Parker principal Dee Passenger said preserving the original tannery building had been central to the project's design.

"The easy option would have been to maximise the site's development potential with additional apartments. Instead, McNab has chosen to preserve the original tannery as a shared wellness retreat, ensuring this important piece of Brisbane's history remains at the heart of the community."

Passenger said sustainability also played a key role in the design, with materials from the original industrial site salvaged and repurposed throughout the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374761]

Motiv CEO Carly Cottam said buyers had responded strongly to the combination of larger apartments, wellness facilities and the West End lifestyle.

"We are seeing more buyers looking for homes in the sky that provide the space and functionality of a traditional home, while benefiting from the convenience and lifestyle that apartment living brings," Cottam said.

She said purchasers included both owner occupiers and investors, with demand coming from local buyers as well as interstate purchasers.

Coinciding with the public launch, McNab also announced a partnership with Queensland Ballet, whose neighbouring Thomas Dixon Centre shares historical ties with the original Dixon family.

Located on a 4,465 sqm site at 439 Montague Road, The Tannery overlooks the Brisbane River and is around 10 minutes from the CBD.

Construction is underway, with completion expected in the second half of 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143337]

More than half of residences sold before public sales as McNab announces significant partnership with Queensland Ballet

McNab's The Tannery nears 60 per cent sold before public release, sets two-bedroom West End record

Iwan Sunito's vision for a landmark mixed-use precinct in Sydney's Inner West has taken a major step forward, with approval granted for the $1.9 billion Five Dock development first unveiled earlier this year.

The approved scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/one-global-capital">One Global Capital</a> will deliver an 80,500 sqm mixed-use precinct comprising 840 apartments, integrated hotel accommodation, commercial and retail space, alongside publicly accessible open space designed to create a new destination for the growing suburb.

"This is a significant milestone for One Global Capital and for the future of housing delivery in Sydney," Sunito said.

"The Housing Delivery Authority was established to identify major housing projects capable of delivering meaningful supply more efficiently, and we are delighted that Spencer Street has been recognised as one of those projects.”

He said the declaration reflected the rapid progress achieved since acquiring control of the site.

"In less than seven months we have progressed from taking control of the site to securing entry into one of the NSW Government's most important planning pathways. It reflects the experience of our team, the strength of our consultant group led by Urbis, and our long-term commitment to delivering transformational projects that contribute to Sydney's future."

When the project was revealed earlier this year, Sunito described the opportunity as one of the strongest development sites he had worked on.

"I probably hadn't appreciated the uniqueness of the site until more recently when putting together the concept plans," Sunito said.

"The proximity to the water, and the golf course opposite, is unlike any other part of Parramatta Road. We have a unique position and view corridors over the water that makes this one of the best sites I've worked on."

The development has evolved since its initial announcement, with the approved plans increasing the residential component from the originally proposed 750 apartments to 840 homes while retaining the project's focus on creating an integrated neighbourhood rather than a standalone residential development.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/a-city-within-a-city-iwan-sunito-flags-1-5-billion-mixed-use-precinct-in-five-dock">"A city within a city": Iwan Sunito flags $1.5 billion mixed-use precinct in Five Dock</a>

The precinct will combine apartments with hotel accommodation, commercial workplaces, retail offerings and public spaces, creating a mixed-use environment intended to serve both residents and the broader Five Dock community. The proposal also continues the collaboration between One Global Capital and internationally recognised architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/koichi-takada-architects">Koichi Takada</a>, whose previous work with Sunito includes Infinity, Arc and Skye North Sydney.

Takada previously said the design was driven by a philosophy of integrating nature into the built environment.

"The concept for this development is born from our design approach to naturalising architecture," Takada said.

"The public realm benefits from biophilic design that integrates generous landscaping, and the development is optimised for natural daylight, airflow and water views to foster wellbeing, sustainability and spaces that foster community interaction."

Sunito has consistently described the project as a "city within a city", with a strong emphasis on creating a destination that extends beyond housing.

"We want to create a development that's not only to be seen, but to be experienced by the whole local community," he said.

The approval comes as Five Dock continues its transformation ahead of the opening of the Sydney Metro West line, with the new Five Dock station set to significantly improve connections between the Inner West, Parramatta and the Sydney CBD.&nbsp;

The precinct will also benefit from its proximity to the Parramatta Road corridor, nearby waterfront parklands and established retail and dining offerings that have made Five Dock one of Sydney's most tightly held Inner West suburbs.

Staff reporter

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