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Jamie Durie is to take over from Johanna Griggs as the host on House Rules.
The replacement was speculated by <a href="https://tvblackbox.com.au/page/2019/10/1/tv-blackbox-s03e23" target="_blank">TV Blackbox</a>.
Soon after Griggs tweeted: "If your mail is right.. (which I’ve no doubt it is) he’ll do a fabulous job...:)." 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Jamie Durie to take over from Johanna Griggs as House Rules host

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Anyone who thought that with the Reserve Bank’s cash rate now close to zero, its run of interest rate cuts was over, needs only to read the last sentence of Governor Philip Lowe’s <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au/media-releases/2019/mr-19-27" target="_blank">announcement</a> after Tuesday’s cut:
The Board will continue to monitor developments, including in the labour market, and is prepared to ease monetary policy further if needed to support sustainable growth in the economy, full employment and the achievement of the inflation target over time.
For the longest time, the run of cuts was over.
Lowe’s immediate predecessor, Glenn Stevens, cut the cash rate to a record low of 1.5% in August 2016 as something of a “parting gift”, allowing Lowe to take over and keep it steady, unchanged for a record 34 months.
For most of those three years he made it clear the rate was unlikely to fall further. <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au/search/?q=%22rather+than+down%22+lowe+-%22card%22#gsc.tab=0&amp;gsc.q=%22rather%20than%20down%22%20lowe%20-%22card%22&amp;gsc.page=1" target="_blank">Six times</a> he said the next move in rates was likely to be up, “rather than down”, pointing to rate increases overseas and progress on jobs and returning Australia’s unusually low inflation rate to his target band.
By February this year he <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au/speeches/2019/sp-gov-2019-02-22" target="_blank">was backtracking</a>. Although it wasn’t apparent in the published figures, the unemployment rate was about to begin climbing. Wage growth had been far weaker than forecast, inflation showed no sign of returning to the centre of his target band, and forecasts for global growth were falling.
<hr>
Reserve Bank cash rate
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/294952/original/file-20191001-173393-1b2cjw9.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/294952/original/file-20191001-173393-1b2cjw9.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a> <a class="source" href="https://www.rba.gov.au/statistics/cash-rate/" target="_blank">Source: RBA</a>
<hr>
More importantly, consumer spending, which accounts for six in every ten dollars spent in Australia, was extraordinarily weak, growing at less than half the usual rate, as households “responded to this extended period of weaker income growth by progressively downgrading their spending plans”.
The probabilities of next move being up and down had become “more evenly balanced”.
Two weeks after the May election he cut the cash rate, then cut it again, taking it to a new record low of 1%, anticipated by <a href="https://theconversation.com/no-surplus-no-share-market-growth-no-lift-in-wage-growth-economic-survey-points-to-bleaker-times-post-election-110315" target="_blank">only two</a> of the 19 economists surveyed by The Conversation just six months earlier.
The extra cut announced on Tuesday is because the last two didn’t do enough.
House prices have begun to move up (as would be expected with lower rates) but borrowing is growing only slowly, and home building is weak. The Australian dollar is low (in part because of the lower rates), which should help make Australian businesses competitive, but they are not keen to borrow.
Since the last Reserve Bank board meeting we have learned that economic growth is <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-weve-the-weakest-economy-since-the-global-financial-crisis-with-few-clear-ways-out-122942" target="_blank">shockingly low</a>, just 1.4% over the past year, the weakest since the global financial crisis. Household spending is barely keeping pace with population growth.
Lowe would like to believe the economy has reached “a gentle turning point”. He told a <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au/speeches/2019/sp-gov-2019-10-01" target="_blank">community dinner</a> in Melbourne on Tuesday night the board thinks it might have.
There are a number of factors that are supporting this outlook. These include the low level of interest rates, the recent tax cuts, ongoing spending on infrastructure, signs of stabilisation in some established housing markets, and a brighter outlook for the resources sector.
But they will need help. The bank believes the economy is capable of producing an unemployment rate of 4.5%. Instead it has been climbing, to 5.3%.
<h2>How the cuts will help</h2>
The cash rate is determined by the rate the Reserve Bank pays banks who deposit with it overnight. It drives almost every other rate, including the rates banks pay retail depositors, which help determine their cost of lending.
They don’t have to cut their mortgage and business rates in line with cuts in the Reserve Bank cash rate, but they usually do.
The big banks played a game of chicken yesterday, each waiting for the other to move. The Commonwealth Bank moved first, offering just 0.13 of the 0.25 points, followed by the National Australia Bank, which offered 0.15 points.
The real action is in the discounted rates that target borrowers for whom they matter. Before Tuesday they averaged 3.46%. Some were much lower. HSBC Australia wanted just 3.17%. If it passes on Tuesday’s cut in full it will charge only 2.92%, offering the first Australian mortgage rate in history beginning with the number “2”.
There’s every reason to believe the cuts will help. Even if Australians don’t borrow more to buy houses, they will be able to use the historically cheap credit embodied in their house loans to buy other things, such as solar panels whose payoff period will have shortened dramatically.
Since June many mortgage-holders will have saved A$150 on monthly payments.
Sure, confidence and decent wage growth would help, but given how indebted many Australians are, low mortgage rates will do quite a bit on their own.
<h2>Why they’ll continue</h2>
Governor Lowe made it clear on Tuesday that they will have to stay low for “an extended period”. A <a href="https://rba.gov.au/monetary-policy/framework/stmt-conduct-mp-7-2016-09-19" target="_blank">signed agreement with the treasurer</a> requires him to keep them low until unemployment falls and inflation and economic growth return to return to normal levels.
He would like the government to help by boosting spending. He often mentions spending on infrastructure. But his employment contract requires him to use the cards he has been dealt. If the economy is weak, he is required to boost it using the instruments he has.
That’s why he says he is prepared “to ease monetary policy further”.
If needed, he’ll do it as soon as next month, cutting the cash rate to 0.5%. If more is needed beyond that, he will get ready to use so-called <a href="https://theconversation.com/below-zero-is-reverse-how-the-reserve-bank-would-make-quantitative-easing-work-118843" target="_blank">unconventional measures</a> of the kind being used overseas, buying government and corporate bonds in order to force even more money into Australian’s hands.
There’s no reason to believe that the tools he has won’t work, and every reason to believe he’ll keep using them.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/124499/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/peter-martin-682709" target="_blank">Peter Martin</a>, Visiting Fellow, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/crawford-school-of-public-policy-australian-national-university-3292" target="_blank">Crawford School of Public Policy, Australian National University</a>
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/0-75-is-a-record-low-but-dont-think-for-a-second-the-reserve-bank-has-finished-cutting-the-cash-rate-124499" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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0.75% is a record low, but don’t think for a second the Reserve Bank has finished cutting the cash rate

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The first 11 Islanders of second series of Love Island Australia have been revealed including Eoghan Murphy, 24, a real estate agent from Gold Coast.
The Irish-born real estate agent has been working at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/eoghannmurphy/" target="_blank">Kollosche Broadbeac</a>h since January. He was previously at Queensland Sotheby's for over a year where he was named Rookie of the Year at the REIQ Awards in 2017.
He began his real estate career as a sales professional at M-Motion Australia.
Murphy joined Love Island to find new love, having just come out of a long-term relationship.
<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/2019/10/3/Eoghan%20Murphy%202.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://kollosche.com.au/employee/eoghan-murphy/" target="_blank">His most recent sale</a> was a $4.45 million Currumbin home.
"I was in a relationship pretty much my entire life. When it happens you always think the grass is greener," he said.
"I enjoy being in a relationship. I want a companion. All my mates have girlfriends and I’m the one on my own. I want a girl, I want someone I can spend the rest of my life with," Eoghan told the magazines before his entry into the compound.
Eoghan considers himself a "respectful man with a huge heart" and is looking for the girl of his dreams.
<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/2019/10/3/Eoghan%20Murphy%203.jpg" alt="">
Premiering on Monday, October 7 at 8.45pm on Nine, the cast is just days away from meeting each other for the first time in their own luxury villa.
The singles will play the ultimate game of love and lust in a format that has taken the world by storm.
The initial 11 Islanders are:
Cartier, 19, Lifeguard from Sydney; Jessie, 23, Waitress from Hobart; Vanessa, 24, Businesswoman from Sydney; Cynthia, 23, Model from Brisbane; Cassie, 27, Executive Assistant from Sydney; Eoghan, 24, Real Estate Agent from Gold Coast; Gerard, 23, Personal Trainer from Perth; Matt, 24, Wrestler/model from Melbourne; Adam, 27, Plasterer from Gold Coast; Maurice, 27, Media Executive from Sydney; and Sam, 28, International DJ from Melbourne.
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Gold Coast estate agent Eoghan Murphy on Love Island Australia second series

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Buyers are flocking to the South East Queensland (SEQ) premium property market due to affordability, when compared to Sydney and Melbourne median prices, according to the latest PRD SEQ premium property report. 
The report suggests the SEQ premium property market shrunk in 2018 and 2019, partly due to a softening in the Sydney and Melbourne property prices, but also as investor confidence declined.
However, SEQ population is projected to increase approximately 49.4% by 2041.
The major increase of property price in Sydney and Melbourne in 2014-2017 shifted buyers toward the SEQ market, capitalising on comparatively lower prices.
During this time, sales transactions in the premium market increased. As the Sydney and Melbourne markets softened, transaction volume in the SEQ premium market also decreased.
The report also analysed interstate migration and vacancy rate trends, to determine future demand and attractiveness of the SEQ premium property market. 
"By 2026, it is expected we will see large population increases for Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast by 8.3%, 24.6% and 23.4% respectively. Further, by 2041, it is expected that Brisbane will grow by 25.9%, Gold Coast by 62.5%, and Sunshine Coast by 61.9%.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/9/25/PRD%201.png" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/9/25/PRD%201.png" alt="">
Source: PRD SEQ premium property report
"SEQ has experienced healthy decreasing vacancy rates, with Brisbane (2.5%), Gold Coast (2.7%) and Sunshine Coast (1.7%) all recording below the Real Estate Institute of Australia’s healthy rental demand benchmark of 3.0%. An oversupply of rental properties in Sydney Metro led to an increase in vacancy rates of 3.5% and 2.0% for Melbourne Metro," PRD Chief Economist, Dr Diaswati Mardiasmo said.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/9/25/PRD%202.png" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/9/25/PRD%202.png" alt="">
Source: PRD SEQ premium property report
Other key findings in this report include:
<ol>
<li>
Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast premium unit markets have shown strong buyer activity. The Brisbane premium unit market almost doubled from 4.5% in 2014, to 8.0% in 2019. The Gold Coast grew from 5.5% in 2014, to 7.3% in 2019. The Sunshine Coast grew significantly from 2.8% in 2014, to 5.1% in 2019.
</li>
<li>
Across SEQ, each region saw a significant decline in average days on the market for both premium units and houses. Gold Coast premium units experienced the most significant decline, from an average of 224 days in 2014, to 142 days in 2019.
</li>
</ol>
PRD Research provides expert insight analysis on transaction activity within the SEQ premium property market, particularly to what extent it is influenced by price swings in Sydney and Melbourne.
Data for this report was collected based on the three major Local Government Areas within SEQ: Brisbane City Council, Gold Coast Council and Sunshine Coast Regional.
Find out more about vacancy rate trends and population forecasts by downloading the report at <a href="https://www.prd.com.au/research-hub/" target="_blank">PRD's website</a>.
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Buyers flocking to SEQ premium property market: PRD

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It was Wolli Creek where the price weakness was evident amid weekend sales.
There was a $605,000 sale when the two bedroom at 128/88 Bonar Street was sold.
It had previously traded at $628,000 in 2015. 
Not a huge loss, but bigger once legal and estate agency selling costs are factored in.
The apartment is situated in the Sorrento complex were the facilities for residents include a heated pool, spa, gym, sauna and a playground for the children.
It is the second time the price has backtracked since first sold by Meriton at $395,000 in 2002, then selling seven years later at $315,000.
It was marketed as the most affordable two bedroom available in Wolli Creek by the Richardson &amp; Wrench selling agent Nick Atanasovski who suggested a $600 a week anticipated rental return.
CoreLogic calculate Wolli Creek has some 4500 plus apartments, and put its median unit value at $720,000 which is back at 2015 levels.
The $630 median rental sits at levels first seen in 2017.
The sales of the 125 units sold this year have ranged from $475,000 to $1.4 million for a penthouse.
A $1.13 million sale had been sold at $1,172,000 off the plan in 2016. Another sold recently for $784,000 haven initially been traded at $820,000.
This article first appeared in The Daily Telegraph.
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Price weakness shows at Wolli Creek apartment sale

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Melbourne’s west has been a story of growth in recent years, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm took a look at what's bringing new residents to different residential markets or, conversely, driving them away. 
The report suggests new greenfield offerings in the cities of Wyndham and Melton stimulated a large population influx, emerging new community centres and population centroids further out of traditional demographic hubs of metropolitan Melbourne.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/9/26/mel%20west%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<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/2019/9/26/mel%20west%201.jpg" alt="">
"Affordability is a key factor attracting home buyers to the developing suburbs of Melbourne," the valuation firm stated. 
With metropolitan Melbourne’s median house price recording $785,000, there are still several suburbs in the west where buyers can get a foot in the door for under $400,000.
New developing areas such as the cities of Brimbank and Wyndham show a large share of emerging cultural communities including those from India, the Philippines, Iraq and Sri-Lanka.
<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/2019/9/26/mel%20west%202.jpg" alt="">
According to census data, Indians show a definite preference for housing projects located in the suburbs of Point Cook, Tarneit, Truganina and Rockbank.
"The choice of the location is a practical and pragmatic housing decision as the greenfield offerings remain one of the most affordable across Melbourne," the valuation firm said. 
A three bedroom house in Tarneit has recently been sold for $590,000.
The Victorian family home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-tarneit-131847562" target="_blank">88 Sunset Views Boulevard</a> (pictured below) comprises four bedrooms, timber kitchen, family/dining area and outdoor entertaining area. 
It's located within walking distance to Tarneit Railway Station, Tarneit Central Shopping, Early Learning Centre. 
 <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/2019/9/26/tarneit.jpg" alt="">
A new listing in Point Cook is a four bedroom renovated home priced between $620,000 to $625,000.
Set on a 425 square metre block, the family home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-point+cook-132058562" target="_blank">12 Island Way </a>(pictured below) comprises four bedrooms, kitchen, dining area, and open space.
<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/2019/9/26/point%20cook.jpg" alt="">
There are specific locations in the developing western suburbs considered desirable for housing, being Ashley Gardens Estate in Hoppers Crossing and Wyndham Waters in Williams Landing.
The report notes the proximity to transport, easy access to freeways and proximity to shopping, educational and leisure centres attract buyers who look for functional neighborhoods.
"The high demand has impacted prices, moving prices paid above the median house price for the locality," the valuation firm added. 
Major western region infrastructure upgrades, including transport projects and roads upgrade, construction of pedestrian overpasses and paths for cyclists, are underway and due for completion in 2021.
The much-anticipated upgrade of the western road network gives local businesses opportunities for growth and access to places of employment.
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Affordability the key factor attracting home buyers to Melbourne's west: HTW residential

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Over the past few years some different segments of the Tasmania market (such as first home buyers or retirees) are forming sub segments and can be broken down a bit more, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
Some groupings are as follows:
First Home Buyers
"Our young future leaders are eager to step onto the property ladder," the valuation firm said. 
"Firstly, we have those who want to take advantage of the $20,000 government grant available for new homes."
In Hobart, these buyers will drift to middle and outer ring suburbs such as Austins Ferry, Old Beach, Brighton, Oakdowns and Kingston simply because that is where land is affordable.
A two bedroom villa unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-tas-kingston-131983922" target="_blank">4/7 Redwood Road, Kingston </a>(pictured below) has recently been sold for $341,000.
The home comprises two bedrooms, lounge, kitchen and dining area and fully fenced garden.
It's close to public transport, shops, schools and services. 
<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/2019/9/25/kingston%20.jpg" alt="">
In the north, Legana, St Leonards and Kings Meadows would be the go to regions. Despite popular opinion of our younger generation, many are not building the McMansion, although they are typically building larger homes than what they grew up in, with three or four bedrooms, two bathrooms and a double garage.
Secondly in this grouping are those buying an established home. These buyers typically are looking at post war dwellings with a more modest three bedrooms, one bathroom and a garage or carport. Suburbs such as Claremont and Rosetta in the south and Summerhill and Youngtown in the north are good examples.
The report notes the advantage of this approach is that housing is generally cheaper and the facilities within the estate or suburb are better.
Up-graders
"This is the segment that is buying the forever home.... and they want the bells and whistles," HTW said.
"Typically, this grouping will buy for lifestyle (and to impress the friends a touch). While inner city living with all the benefits of the cafe lifestyle remains very popular in both Hobart and Launceston (read established apartments buildings such as 1 Collins Street, Zero on Davey in Hobart and The Seabel and Seaport in Launceston) we also see people taking the 180 degree turn and heading to the city fringes for a little acreage, perhaps for a pony or pool."
Suburbs such as Acton Park in the south and Relbia in the north remain in demand.
A current listing is a five bedroom renovated house in Relbia with a price guide of over $1,295,000.
Set on 2 hectares, the home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-relbia-131635978" target="_blank">449 Glenwood Road </a>(pictured below) was designed by S. Group &amp; Design Frank.
It consists of 5 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, open plan living rooms, gymnasium, double garage and indoor pool. 
<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/2019/9/26/relbia.jpg" alt="">
Down-graders
The report suggests this grouping again can be split into two segments.
"Firstly, we have those moving out of suburbia and heading to the inner city again, chasing ease of lifestyle and ready accessibility to facilities.
"On the flip side, we have those cashing in the forever home and heading for a sea change. This grouping is heading to the coast, generally within an hour or so of the city (read family). Coastal towns such as Orford in the south and Bridport in the north are examples that have seen a population drift towards them." 
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Tasmania up-graders buying for lifestyle: HTW residential 

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Distilleries are giving a spirited boost to the property markets in Regional Victorian towns according to an analysis by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV).
REIV President Robyn Waters said the study showed that median house prices have soared over recent years in regional towns where distilleries have been established.
“Victorians’ love affair with all things artisanal has seen gin joints, whiskey dens and vodka purveyors popping up all over the state,” Waters said
“We love our culinary culture and appreciate fine craftmanship in all its forms, including spirits
“Tourists and locals are flocking to these distilleries to sample their wares which has created jobs, vibrancy and new economies for these regional towns.
Waters said that, in some cases, distilleries have become the social and leisure hub of the town and have become the anchor for other complimentary business such as restaurants and clothing shops
“Of course all of this combines to have a positive impact on real estate in these areas,” Waters said
“Take Healesville for example, the home of Four Pillars Gin, where the median house price has increased 37.54% in the past four years, going from $435,500 in the 12 months to 31 March 2015 to $599,000 in the 12 months to 31 March 2019.
“There has also been strong median growth in Bright, where the Reed and Co Distillery opened in 2016, and Kyneton where Animus Distillery was founded in 2015.”
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Distillery
</td>
<td>
Town
</td>
<td>
2019
</td>
<td>
2018
</td>
<td>
2017
</td>
<td>
2016
</td>
<td>
2015
</td>
<td>
Increase
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://www.fourpillarsgin.com.au/">Four pillars Gin</a>
</td>
<td>
Healesville
</td>
<td>
$599,000
</td>
<td>
$600,000
</td>
<td>
$482,000
</td>
<td>
$475,000
</td>
<td>
$435,500
</td>
<td>
37.5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Bass and Flinders Distillery
</td>
<td>
Dromana
</td>
<td>
$791,500
</td>
<td>
$740,000
</td>
<td>
$615,000
</td>
<td>
$623,500
</td>
<td>
$488,500
</td>
<td>
62%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://kilderkindistillery.com.au/">Kilderkin Distillery</a>
</td>
<td>
Alfredton
</td>
<td>
$440,000
</td>
<td>
$420,000
</td>
<td>
$402,500
</td>
<td>
$380,000
</td>
<td>
$370,000
</td>
<td>
18.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://www.bellarinedistillery.com.au/">The Whiskery</a>
</td>
<td>
Drysdale
</td>
<td>
$562,750
</td>
<td>
$435,000
</td>
<td>
$432,000
</td>
<td>
$455,000
</td>
<td>
$432,000
</td>
<td>
30.3%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://www.reedandcodistillery.com/">Reed &amp; Co Distillery</a>
</td>
<td>
Bright
</td>
<td>
$571,000
</td>
<td>
$530,000
</td>
<td>
$445,000
</td>
<td>
$385,000
</td>
<td>
$397,500
</td>
<td>
43.6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://animusdistillery.com/">Animus Distillery</a>
</td>
<td>
Kyneton
</td>
<td>
$585,000
</td>
<td>
$539,000
</td>
<td>
$485,000
</td>
<td>
$472,250
</td>
<td>
$465,000
</td>
<td>
25.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://www.queenscliffbrewhouse.com.au/">Queenscliff Distillery</a>
</td>
<td>
Queenscliff
</td>
<td>
$875,000
</td>
<td>
$962,500
</td>
<td>
$752,500
</td>
<td>
$750,000
</td>
<td>
$740,000
</td>
<td>
18.2%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="https://www.fosseysgin.com.au/">Fossey’s Gin</a>
</td>
<td>
Mildura
</td>
<td>
$307,700
</td>
<td>
$270,500
</td>
<td>
$257,000
</td>
<td>
$255,050
</td>
<td>
$253,000
</td>
<td>
21.6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<a href="http://suterandsons.com/thespirit/">Suter &amp; Sons</a>
</td>
<td>
Curlewis
</td>
<td>
$500,000
</td>
<td>
$430,000
</td>
<td>
$407,500
</td>
<td>
$390,000
</td>
<td>
*
</td>
<td>
28.2%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
*Figure not available due to insufficient sales.
Image courtesy of Visit Melbourne.
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House prices soar in Victorian regional towns where distilleries have been established

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The RBA Governor Philip Lowe has identified three risks to the Australian economy.
They were listed in a speech after the October RBA board meeting cut rates to 0.75 percent.
1) The first is that internationally, there seems to be a disconnect between the uncertainty that investors feel about the economic situation and the compensation that they require for holding risk. Normally when people feel uncertain about the future, they want to be compensated for taking on risk. At the moment though, despite the uncertainty, credit spreads are low and asset prices are generally high. At our meeting today we talked about the possibility that a shock somewhere in the global system could cause a recalibration, leading to a disruptive repricing of risk.
2) The second issue is that the resilience of Australia's financial system has steadily improved over recent times. The core capital ratios of our banks are now well within the top quartile of banks around the world. Our banks are well placed to withstand a wide range of shocks and their position will be further strengthened as they meet requirements to increase their loss absorbing capacity further over the next few years.
Lending standards have also been strengthened, although in some areas the pendulum may have swung a bit too far. It is important that our financial institutions support small businesses in particular. Lenders should not be so scared of making a loan that goes bad that they don't provide the credit that the economy needs. One other risk area that we are paying close attention to is cyber and technology risks. Banks' systems have become more complex and digital platforms are now key to banking. We need to make sure that these systems are safe and resilient.
3) The third issue is that while the Australian household sector has a high level of debt, it has also built up substantial buffers. All up, the balances in mortgage offset accounts and redraw facilities amount to 16 per cent of outstanding housing debt. This is equivalent to around 2½ years of required mortgage payments at current interest rates. It is important to recognise though that this figure masks a lot of variation across households. We estimate that around a quarter of households with a mortgage have either no buffer or a very small one.
Loan arrears remain low, although they have risen over recent years. Also, we estimate that for almost 4 per cent of borrowers their current loan balance exceeds the value of their property. Over half of these borrowers are in Western Australia where there has been a large and persistent decline in housing prices. So this is an area that bears watching, Dr Lowe noted.
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RBA Governor Philip Lowe identifies three risks to Australian economy

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Most Australians could well assume that recent falls in housing values have translated into more affordable housing. Lower prices, after all, should equate to better affordability.
We recently released our <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/news/perceptions-of-housing-affordability-2019" target="_blank">2019 Perception of Housing Affordability</a> report, and there was some good news on the affordability front with some 54% of Australians believing that housing affordability is the same or better than it was a year ago.
But despite that positive sentiment, there are several reasons why Australia is still facing a serious affordability crisis.
<ul>
<li>Affordability ratios remain elevated</li>
</ul>
Firstly, the dwelling value to household income ratio today is 6.5 times. So, the typical Australian household is spending, on average, 6.5 times their gross annual income to buy a median-priced dwelling of $524,000. Less than 20 years ago it was 4.5 times. And the privilege of that problem is another. It takes, on average, 8.7 years to save for a 20% deposit.
That’s a long time; an eighth to a tenth of a lifetime.
<ul>
<li>Housing costs are substantial</li>
</ul>
Australian households are spending 35% of their gross annual income to service their mortgage. That is a significant amount of disposable income they need consistently to be able to service their loan.
<ul>
<li>Wages growth is anaemic</li>
</ul>
But while house prices remain elevated, incomes have not been rising in lockstep to match. Wages edged only slightly higher than inflation over the year ending June, up by 2.3%.1
<ul>
<li>Prices are in the early stages of an upswing again</li>
</ul>
While affordability has improved with house price falls, these affordability gains may be unwound with prices now recently entering a new growth phase stimulated by the current lower interest rates and improved lending conditions. This recovery in housing values accelerated in August 2019 with national dwelling values increasing by 0.8% over the month.
<ul>
<li>Australians are struggling to secure a loan</li>
</ul>
Our report found that 45% of Australians say securing loan approval is a major obstacle coming in at second whereas in 2017 Australians viewed it as the 6th most important concern. The rise of this concern comes amid a significant tightening of credit following the implementation of prudential regulations and increased focus on borrower spending behaviour.
<ul>
<li>Low income householders struggle to save a deposit</li>
</ul>
And 31% of households with an income of less than $50,000 say they wouldn’t be able to raise more than a 5% deposit, and 41% wouldn’t be able to raise a deposit of more than 10%.
<ul>
<li>Our most vulnerable</li>
</ul>
The generation most affected by the affordability crisis are amongst our youngest: Millennials.
The fall in housing values hasn’t however dented their desire to own their own home. We found that 86% of Millennials rated home ownership as important. That makes them the most passionate of all generations. More broadly, 81% of all Australians believe it is still important to own a home.
While desire to enter the housing market burns brightly for many it will be delayed with the number of Australians who think they will be at least 30 before leaving home jumping from 20% in 2017 to 34%.
Solutions
We believe that we should be moving beyond short-term cosmetic levers such as stamp duty concessions and first home buyer grants.
We need to be deploying more foundational levers such as transport infrastructure to carry people from affordable regions to job hot spots. We also need to create more jobs in those affordable areas.
Perhaps the most significant shift required is the transitioning from a stamp duty-based property tax scheme, which is inefficient and unfair, to a broad-based land tax.
Australians across all demographics and geographies are united in calling for action on stamp duty. We found that 79% of respondents thought the best strategy to improve housing affordability was to remove stamp duty (up from 73% in 2017).
No time for complacency
We can’t rely on house price falls to improve what remains a critical issue.
Affordability hasn’t gone away. Indeed, some 83% of non-property owners are still concerned about being able to afford their first or next home (87% in 2017).
Policy makers need to acknowledge that and continue to explore structural, long-term solutions to the affordability challenge.
We need to be proactive as a nation to address this problem. Otherwise, we risk alienating the next generation of Australians who will be locked out of the great Australian dream.
LISA CLAES is the CEO of CoreLogic International.
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Why we still have a housing affordability crisis: CoreLogic's Lisa Claes

One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

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fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

&nbsp;

FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

Joel Robinson

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292863]

It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]

The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
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&nbsp;

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First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<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/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

Staff reporter

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