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The low-key Chinese businessman Yunji Huang has offloaded a vacant Point Piper harbour front block for $22.5 million.
The pre-Christmas off market transaction had sought to not disclose the price.
It is more successful however in keeping the ultimate owner's identity shielded.
<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/2019/1/29/Wols1.jpg" alt="">
The 735sqm vacant block has been bought in the name of VJ Ryan &amp; Co accountant Peter Wyer, reportedly on behalf of an undisclosed trust.
It last sold at $14.35 million in 2013.
It came with approved $10 million plans for a new home at 42 Wolseley Road.
The approved five level Tzannes Associates residence will boasts six bedrooms, eight bathrooms and four car security parking.
<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/2019/1/29/Wols2.jpg" alt="">
LJ Hooker Double Bay supremo Bill Malouf confirmed to the local paper, The Wentworth Courier that he sold a “block of dirt” at 42 Wolseley Road in the days leading up to Christmas.
It has been quickly speculated Wyer represents interests associated with the Russian billionaire David Traktovenko, the owner of the Sydney FC soccer club, whose property developer son in law Scott Barlow and his wife, Alina, live close by.
But Title Tattle glans the buyer was not them.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Mystery whether Chinese vendor sells to Russian buyer on Wolseley Road, Point Piper

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GUEST OBSERVATION
<a href="https://www.scch.org.au/" target="_blank">Southern Cross Housing</a>, a non-profit community housing provider, took over management of just under 1,000 public housing dwellings on the New South Wales South Coast last October. This transfer from the NSW Department of Family and Community Services nearly doubled Southern Cross’s portfolio. More than <a href="https://thirdsector.com.au/link-housing-takes-over-community-housing-in-largest-ever-sydney-transfer/">3,000 transfers</a> have since been made to community housing providers on the <a href="https://chl.org.au/2017/10/community-housing-ltd-to-house-over-2200-people-in-nsw/" target="_blank">NSW North Coast</a> and in <a href="https://www.linkhousing.org.au/files//Press_Release/media_release_nsw_government_transfers_1875_properties_to_link_housing.pdf">northern Sydney</a>.
These are the first of over <a href="https://www.facs.nsw.gov.au/housing/living/management-transfer-program/management-transfer-program-overview" target="_blank">14,000 tenancies being contracted out to community housing providers</a> over coming months. The “whole-of-location” transfer program will result in the department closing housing offices in four regions. Non-government organisations will manage all government housing assistance programs in these regions.
This is not an entirely new development. Nationally, community providers were responsible for <a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/policy/ahuri-briefs/what-is-the-right-level-of-social-housing" target="_blank">about 20% of 400,000 social housing dwellings</a> in 2016. Most are managed under contract for state authorities, which retain ownership of the properties.
The current transfers represent a major acceleration in the growth of community housing providers’ share of the social housing sector. It will bring NSW to within a few points of the <a href="http://apo.org.au/sites/default/files/resource-files/2010/04/apo-nid21116-1160536.pdf" target="_blank">35% target agreed by the Housing Ministers’ Council in 2009</a>. This will be achieved in the next few years with transfers resulting from large estate redevelopment projects.
It is the first time a state government housing agency has effectively contracted out the entirety of its operations, albeit in particular regions. Rents collected will fund the management of all housing programs in these areas.
The policy narrative surrounding this program is richly positive. The government is promising improved customer experience and, importantly, more resources for social housing in general. Last month, NSW Minister for Family and Community Services Pru Goward <a href="https://www.linkhousing.org.au/files//Press_Release/media_release_nsw_government_transfers_1875_properties_to_link_housing.pdf" target="_blank">said</a>:
<blockquote>
By transferring management to Community Housing Providers … we are harnessing over $1 billion of additional funding over 20 years that will improve the experience of people living in social housing. I am delighted that, as part of the transfer, tenants will have the support and services they need to improve their lives.
</blockquote>
So where is the extra money coming from?
The extra A$1 billion represents Commonwealth funds that will be captured by the NSW social housing system without appearing in either state or federal budgets. This results from an anomaly in federal income security arrangements: very low-income community housing tenants can receive up to about $67 per week (singles) in <a href="https://www.dss.gov.au/housing-support/programmes-services/commonwealth-rent-assistance" target="_blank">Commonwealth Rent Assistance</a> (CRA), whereas public housing tenants are not eligible for this benefit.
Public housing rents are calculated at 25% of income (or market rent if this is lower). But community housing organisations can add the entire amount of CRA received by the tenant to this figure. This effectively increases the rent payable for a single pensioner by up to 70%.
Under changes in the law in 2016 tenants have no option but to accept the changes. If a tenant delays or fails to apply for CRA for any reason they are deemed to be receiving it and their rent correspondingly adjusted.
  Southern Cross Housing video explaining how Commonwealth Rent Assistance will be used to boost rental revenue.
What about the housing maintenance backlog?
<a href="https://www.pc.gov.au/research/ongoing/report-on-government-services/2017/housing-and-homelessness/housing" target="_blank">According to the Productivity Commission</a>, in 2016 more than a quarter of public housing dwellings in NSW failed to meet a basic standard of functionality and structural integrity. This was the worst result of any state.
It is highly likely that the transferred properties carry a substantial backlog of maintenance and repairs. The cost of this work will be effectively shifted to the federal government. However, as CRA is an income security entitlement, this will not appear as housing expenditure in the federal budget.
Maintenance issues are the most common reason for complaints and tenant dissatisfaction, so tenants will welcome more spending on maintenance. However, community providers are required to use the government’s existing maintenance contractors at least until contracts expire.
 
Providers contend that higher staff-to-tenant ratios will lead to more humanised management and greater <a href="https://www.linkhousing.org.au/blog/link-housing-wins-social-housing-management-transfer" target="_blank">responsiveness to individual tenants’ needs</a>. This claim will be tested against the fact that the community providers are dramatically expanding their portfolios and scope of operations, and will absorb many displaced department staff.
For some tenants it appears more local “hands-on” management is not always experienced as a positive. Analysis of <a href="http://www.ncat.nsw.gov.au/Pages/cc/Divisions/Social_housing/social_housing.aspx" target="_blank">NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT)</a> data sourced by advocates somewhat surprisingly reveals that community providers are heavily over-represented in taking tenants to the tribunal. At the same time, the break-up of management among many providers will limit the possibility of moving or swapping houses for employment or family reasons.
Lack of title limits new housing supply
In the UK and Europe, non-profit housing organisations are now the <a href="https://www.housing.org.uk/resource-library/browse/how-many-homes-did-housing-associations-deliver-in-quarter-two-2018-19/" target="_blank">major developers of new social housing</a>. They do this by borrowing against their assets and partnering with the development industry.
Australian community housing managers have long argued that they should be given freehold title to state properties. In theory, this would enable them to borrow and provide extra social housing stock without adding to public debt.
 
State governments have resisted asset transfers on accountability grounds, preferring to simply outsource management.
So, rather than adding to social housing supply, the marked growth of the community housing sector over the last decade has been almost entirely at the expense of public housing. Australia’s population <a href="http://www.abs.gov.au/census" target="_blank">increased by 12.6% between 2011 and 2016</a>. The number of social housing dwellings (public and community housing) <a href="https://www.pc.gov.au/research/ongoing/report-on-government-services/2019/housing-and-homelessness/housing" target="_blank">grew by less than 3% in that time</a>. Most of that growth resulted from federal stimulus funding during the global financial crisis.
The current program in NSW excludes any expectation that providers will leverage additional income to develop new housing.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/251401/original/file-20181218-27755-a6o8dg.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/251401/original/file-20181218-27755-a6o8dg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
Social housing as percentage of all dwellings. (Source: Michael Darcy) 
In 2013 the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute published a comprehensive analysis of social housing transfers. The <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.ahuri.edu.au/research/final-reports/215">report</a> concluded that potential benefits included maximising revenue, improving services and leveraging growth. However, it noted that “there has been an unrealistic loading of objectives onto this one policy mechanism”.
The authors called for a clearer and more realistic rationale for housing transfers and better opportunities for tenants to be involved in shaping the outcome.
Five years on it is apparent that revenue is the key driver at the expense of increased supply and tenant choice or voice. Support for the growth of community housing has been restated in the new <a href="http://www.federalfinancialrelations.gov.au/content/housing_homelessness_agreement.aspx" target="_blank">National Housing and Homelessness Agreement</a> where it appears as a national priority area.
In NSW, a wide range of former government responsibilities and access to a Commonwealth-funded revenue stream have been handed over without the accountability and grant management mechanisms that traditionally apply to community-based service providers. Tenants are expected to apply for federal funds on behalf of the state social housing system and bear a significant cost if they don’t comply.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/108598/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/michael-darcy-119569" target="_blank">Michael Darcy</a>, Adjunct Professor, School of Social Sciences and Psychology, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/western-sydney-university-1092" target="_blank">Western Sydney 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/growth-of-community-housing-may-be-an-illusion-the-cost-shifting-isnt-108598" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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'Growth' of community housing may be an illusion. The cost-shifting isn't: Michael Darcy

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A $4.9 million Mermaid Beach, Gold Coast sale was struck on Friday afternoon ahead of the long weekend.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-mermaid+beach-130127946" target="_blank">The 215 Hedges Avenue offering</a> had been in the same family since the late 1950s.
The 405 sqm corner block was offered through The Agency's John Natoli who had a $5.3 million price guide.
<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/2019/1/29/Hedge3.jpg" alt="">
It's been the home of the retired leading Brisbane ophthalmologist Brian Gibson and wife Janette.
It's been in the Gibson family since the late 1950s when Brian's mother purchased the then beachfront cottage on a 405 sqm corner block.
It has been the couple's primary residence for the last 15 years, having previously been their weekender.
 
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$4.9 million sale kicks off 2019 on Hedges Avenue, Mermaid Beach

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A one bedroom, one bathroom East Perth apartment has been listed by its mortgagee.
Featuring 51 square metres of internal living space, the apartment is in the VIBE complex.
Josh Roberts of Realmark Central holds the listing.
Situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-wa-east+perth-130312474" target="_blank">13/35 Wellington Street</a> the apartment has 19 square metres of balcony space.
Built in 2015, the apartment has a price guide of $315,000.
It first traded in 2012 at $410,000.
Located on the second floor the unit features parkland views, open plan living and a modern kitchen.
The apartment failed to sell after 450 days on the market in 2015/2016 with a price guide of $439,000-$459,000.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><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/2019/1/Subscriber%20strip%20ad.jpg" alt=""></a>
The median price for a home in <a href="/developments/east-perth-wa-6004">East Perth</a> is $875,000, according to CoreLogic, which calculate its annual change in median price over the past 10 years as -0.1%.
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East Perth apartment in VIBE complex listed at $95,000 reduction by mortgagee

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Adelaide house and unit prices were one of only two capital cities to record annual house price growth, and the only capital to record unit price growth, according to Domain's latest House Price Report.
The report found that as a result, house and unit prices are now both at record highs.
Adelaide house prices grew 0.1% over the quarter and 1.7% over the year to $537,971.
Adelaide unit prices grew 2.4% over the quarter and 0.7% over the year to $321,430.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><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/2019/1/Subscriber%20strip%20ad.jpg" alt=""></a>
Domain Senior Research Analyst, Dr Nicola Powell said: “Adelaide continues to provide buyers and sellers steady market conditions, proving to be more resilient than other capital cities under the changed lending landscape. With the credit crunch impacting investors more than owner-occupiers, Adelaide is somewhat insulated from the restricted flow of housing finance — the southern capital has always skewed towards owner occupiers.
“House prices have risen annually for five-and-a-half years. Adelaide is renowned for a modest pace of growth, this steady performance means it the second best performing capital city, only behind Hobart. Adelaide house prices remain higher than Hobart and Darwin and are likely to surpass Perth in the coming months. For units, Adelaide is the best performing capital city over the December quarter.
“Overall buyer interest in Adelaide has risen, with Domain recording a rise in the number of views per listing. The stronger performance of units relative to other capital cities is likely to be partly investor led, as the lower purchasing costs and steady capital growth entices investment activity. The burgeoning food scene, established wine region, and low Australian dollar has helped to support interstate and overseas visitation to the South Australian capital.
“Adelaide's sustainable growth in tourism is likely to be another investor drawcard. Confidence is rising on the back of a growing jobs market. We’ll also see large scale projects like submarine construction and the planned new Australian Space Agency support population growth and demand for housing.”
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/23/Domain%20Q4%20Adl.jpeg" alt="">
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Adelaide unit and house prices at record highs: Domain

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Rental rates fell by -0.3% over the final quarter of 2018 which was a slightly more moderate fall than the -0.6% decline over the previous quarter, according to CoreLogic latest quarterly rental report.
The report found that across the combined capital cities, rents fell -0.4% compared to a -0.7% fall the previous quarter and no change over the same quarter in 2017.
The combined regional markets saw rents increase 0.3% over the quarter compared to a -0.1% fall over the previous quarter and a 0.9% quarterly increase a year earlier.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/24/CoreLogic%20Q4%20RR%201.JPG" alt="">
"Sydney (-1.4%) and Darwin (-2.0%) were the only two capital cities in which rents fell over the quarter while rental rates were unchanged in Melbourne," the report said.
"Rates increased over the quarter in Brisbane (+0.3%), Adelaide (+0.6%), Perth (+0.4%), Hobart (+0.9%) and Canberra (+0.6%)."
"The rental change was greater over the December 2018 quarter than the previous quarter in each capital city however, compared to the December 2017 quarter, rental changes were lower in all cities except Brisbane and Perth," the report added.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/24/CoreLogic%20Q4%20RR%202.JPG" alt="">
Rental rates nationally rose by 0.5% over the 2018 calendar year which was their slowest rate of rental growth any time since 2005.
Annual rental growth has been slowing since it peaked at 3.0% in July and August of 2017. 
Rental growth has been slower over the past year compared to a year ago in all capital cities except for Brisbane, Perth and Canberra.
The report noted: "The rental change in Sydney is at an historic low while Brisbane is seeing its strongest rental growth since August 2013 and Perth is seeing its strongest rental growth since July 2013.
"In Sydney and Melbourne in particular, the weaker rental market conditions look set to continue with a high volume of new housing set to be completed over coming years."
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/24/CoreLogic%20Q4%20RR%203.JPG" alt="">
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Rental growth slowest since 2005: CoreLogic

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Western Australia's mining localities dominate the list where the biggest median price declines have been recorded over the past five years, according to Investar’s latest report.
The property data firm says that South Hedland's housing median unit price has decreased by 83% over the past five years.
This is followed by Western Australia's Newman, with a 77.5% drop.
Dysart, Queensland, with a 76.4% decline ranked third. 
<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/2019/1/24/newman.jpg" alt="">
A Newman three bedroom house traded for $170,000 in November 2018 (pictured above).
Set on the top location in quiet area of town, the house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-wa-newman-129053334" target="_blank">3 Gunn Place </a>features big shed, separate dining/lounge, outdoor living options and lots of parking options.
It has last sold in 2005 at $238,000.
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Western Australia still dominates the biggest price decline localities: Investar

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GUEST OBSERVATION
The Australian Institute of Architects (the Institute) welcomes NSW Labor’s announcement of support for retaining the Powerhouse Museum in Ultimo (pictured above) while maintaining a commitment to build a world-class cultural institution at Parramatta.
With Western Sydney’s growing population already exceeding two million, the case for a new MAAS facility in Parramatta is overwhelming and the Institute continues to support its development. But to downgrade the Ultimo Powerhouse is to short-change Sydney.
The Institute recently endorsed the design competition developed for the new MAAS in Parramatta. In doing so, the AIA has endorsed a competition process, not a policy.
"Regardless of who is in government after the upcoming election, we would like to see a MAAS Parramatta facility go ahead, beginning with an exemplary design excellence competition and resulting in a built outcome that delivers ongoing value and benefit for the community and for Western Sydney’s architectural culture," explained NSW Chapter President Mr Andrew Nimmo.
"And we want to see Australia’s world class architects demonstrating their skills on an international stage."
"But the facility should complement the Ultimo Powerhouse, not replace it," Mr Nimmo continued.
"The latter contributes to a cultural ribbon that stretches from Central Station to the converted 19th century goods line, weaving by highlights including the ABC and Frank Gehry’s Dr Chau Chak Wing building. The Powerhouse building’s form, its history and its siting within this publicly valuable precinct is integral to the social, cultural, technological and economic story of Sydney."
There is also the issue of the Ultimo Powerhouse’s high architectural value, which should be celebrated and retained.
The adaptive reuse of the building in 1988 won the Australian Institute of Architects NSW chapter's highest honour, the Sulman Medal, and it has earned listing on the Institute's own Register of Significant Buildings.
To this end the Institute recommends the government grant the Powerhouse Museum the heritage listing and protections that it deserves as a matter of priority.
"We need to ensure the integrity of the building itself is maintained in any adaption or upgrade works," Mr Nimmo concluded.
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Sydney and Parramatta both need a Museum of Applied Arts and Science: AIA

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A two storey townhouse in South Gladstone has been listed by mortgagees with $85,000 hopes.
It last sold at $148,000 in 2006 to a NSW investor.
It has been offered by Luke Watts from Elders Real Estate Gladstone/Tannum Sands.
Located less than a minutes' drive to the Gladstone CBD, the<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-qld-south+gladstone-130355702" target="_blank"> 1980s Harbour Place unit at 9/131 Toolooa Street</a> comes with tiled living, kitchen and dining area, two carpeted bedrooms on upper level, and single allocated carport.
It is within walking distance to shopping centres and primary school.
Its last advertised rental was $190 a week in 2014, down from its $260 a week prior offering.
The suburb's median unit price sits at <a href="/developments/south-gladstone-qld-4680">$150,000</a>, according to CoreLogic.
It is not the first time the townhouse has gone back in price.
It fetched $38,000 in 2002 having sold in 1995 at $60,000.
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Half price South Gladstone townhouse listed by mortgagee

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Rents across the nation were -0.1% lower in December 2018 and were recorded at $433/week, according to CoreLogics latest quarterly rental report.
The report found that, while rents fell -0.2% to $462/week across the combined capital cities over the month, in the combined regional markets rents increased by 0.2% to sit at $373/week.
Rents were lower in Sydney, Darwin and Canberra, they were unchanged in Melbourne and higher in the remaining capital cities.
Click <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/1/24/Dec%20Rental%20yields%20CL.JPG" target="_blank">here</a> to enlarge
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/1/24/Dec%20Rental%20yields%20CL.JPG" alt="">
Sydney remains the most expensive capital city rental market with a median rent of $583/week which is $43/week more expensive than Canberra rents ($539/week) which are the second most expensive in the country.
"Historically Hobart has been the most affordable capital city rental market however, strong rises in rents over recent years have pushed rental costs well above those in Adelaide and Perth and now marginally higher than rents in Brisbane."
"The rental market remains mixed with rents falling in Sydney and Darwin and a fairly significant slowdown in growth in Melbourne."
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/subscribe" target="_blank"><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/2019/1/1/Strip%20ad%20keep%20up%20in%202019.jpg" alt=""></a>
"Sydney and Melbourne are seeing the impact of such significant demand from investors over recent years along with a substantial ramp-up in new housing (largely apartment) supply, much of which was purchased by investors."
Darwin rents have been falling for many years and they continue to decline.
The past year has seen a change of direction for both the Brisbane and Perth rental markets, following years of declines, rents are now rising again. 
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Rents down for landlords in late 2018: CoreLogic

The long-awaited redevelopment of the former Eastlakes Shopping Centre site has reached a major milestone, with Conquest's plans for a new mixed-use precinct officially placed on public exhibition.

The State Significant Development Application would transform the 1.7-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19a-evans-avenue-eastlakes-nsw-2018">19A Evans Avenue</a> into one of Sydney's largest urban renewal projects, delivering 736 apartments above a new shopping centre anchored by Woolworths, alongside specialty retail, dining, commercial space and new public open spaces.

The public exhibition marks the next chapter for the project after <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/conquest">Conquest</a> acquired the stalled Stage Two development from Crown Group, who completed the first stage across the road prior to their voluntary liquidation.

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fca22c5-d1ed-4e2c-8801-03f7df1eafc8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland%20podium.png?VersionId=uomwr41nF8CmLUZRDcu3mHQechlbxucS" />

&nbsp;

Designed by DKO Architecture, the proposal comprises four residential buildings ranging from 14 to 18 storeys above a two-level retail podium. The development would deliver 736 apartments, including 74 affordable homes, 215 Build-to-Rent apartments and 521 market residences. Provision has also been made for dual-key apartments, which could increase the total number of dwellings to 877.

At ground level, the shopping centre has been designed as the suburb's new meeting place, anchored by a full-line Woolworths and complemented by a curated mix of fresh food retailers, cafés, restaurants, health services and everyday convenience shopping. Generous pedestrian links and landscaped public spaces will connect the retail precinct through to Jack Mundey Reserve, creating a more walkable and connected neighbourhood.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

"Eastlakes has been overlooked for too long, and this is the community’s moment. We are building a shopping centre and homes, a genuine heart for the suburb, and we genuinely want locals to help shape it."

"We enrich communities through the creation of homes, places, and experiences designed for life, built to last, and owner for generations. That starts with listening, so we warmly encourage everyone with a connection to Eastlakes to view the plans and share their thoughts."

<img alt="First look: Conquest unveils plans for 736-home Eastlakes Shopping Centre redevelopment" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="22f6fb20-54fb-4bd7-8a92-48fafdd00608" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/eastland.png?VersionId=cugp7s9hrMHGJJdYzkeAkrFoQgnF4GXf" />

DKO said the design had been shaped by the site's landscape setting and surrounding open space.

"Our vision for the site embraces its unique Bidjigal identity by blending the residential living with generous landscaping and a material palette inspired by the Bidjigal locality, and celebrating the panoramic views to Botany Bay and the wetlands reserves."

"Taking cues from Country, we seek to harmonise built form with the landscape and lightly touch the earth. By reconnecting, retaining and regenerating existing ecology, and weaving in natural elements, we can deepen our connection to Country."

The landscape strategy extends across the podium and rooftops, incorporating communal gardens, children's play areas, lawns, community gardens, family gathering spaces and extensive tree planting. New landscaped links will also strengthen the connection between the precinct and Jack Mundey Reserve, while publicly accessible open spaces have been integrated throughout the development.

The proposal builds on Conquest's broader placemaking strategy for the site. Through an ongoing partnership, local artist Joe Rashbrook has been appointed Urban Art Curator, working alongside young residents to transform the project's site hoardings into a public art gallery that allows the community to engage with the redevelopment before construction is complete.

Conquest has rapidly expanded its development pipeline since acquiring the Eastlakes site, with more than $6 billion worth of mixed-use projects now in planning across Sydney, including Stanmore, Castlecrag and Waterloo.

Conquest CEO Michael Akkawi said the redevelopment was about far more than replacing a shopping centre.

Joel Robinson

First look: ‘Far more than replacing a shopping centre’ as Conquest unveils 736-home Eastlakes redevelopment

Abadeen has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for one of Mosman's largest apartment developments in recent years, seeking approval to transform the former Honeysuckle Garden and Midas site on Military Road into a 100-apartment mixed-use development.

The SSDA, lodged with investment partner Phoenix Property Investors, proposes around $230 million worth of new housing on the prominent <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/494-516-military-road-mosman-nsw-2088">494-516 Military Road</a> site.

The proposal comes as Mosman Council continues to progress its recently endorsed Masterplan, which identifies the precinct for increased housing density while maintaining the suburb's established character.

Designed by DKO Architecture, the development would comprise 100 apartments above ground-floor retail, with a rooftop wellness precinct including a gym, sauna, entertaining areas and landscaped communal spaces.

Rather than pushing to the full 12-storey height identified in Council's Masterplan, the proposal ranges between five and nine storeys, stepping down towards Hale Road. A tenth level would accommodate resident amenities rather than additional apartments.

The project has been designed to appeal to a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and young professionals through to families and local downsizers looking to remain on the Lower North Shore.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5dada03f-5b4c-43ba-ba62-2868add31440" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.57.55%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7LBy0B.Jo8_iWAFJsClcV7Q3UnXrv49r" />

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock.

"The apartments have been designed as genuine long-term homes, with efficient floorplans that maximise usable living areas, generous storage, natural light and strong connections between indoor and outdoor spaces," Brown says."

"We've focused on creating homes for a broad range of buyers, from first home buyers and growing families through to downsizers who want to remain in Mosman."

The rooftop wellness offering forms a key part of the proposal, with residents set to have access to a gym, sauna, outdoor entertaining spaces, communal dining areas, landscaped gardens and a multi-use recreation court overlooking Sydney Harbour.

<img alt="Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d37c2d6b-583a-4a0f-b7a9-9f46b893d2f4" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-27%20at%209.58.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=FPoa5FCm2RtzjhAh2w5FTWJbV6GHfY8D" />

DKO drew heavily on the site's natural and cultural history, undertaking a Connecting with Country process with local Aboriginal Elders to inform the architectural and landscape design.

Senior Associate Matthew Ritchard said the design sought to create a building that responded to both the site's landscape and its cultural significance.

"The architectural language of the project is a deep expression of Connecting with Country, where the materiality and colour palette serve as a bridge between the site's geological history and its future as a residential sanctuary."

The proposal also retains the site's established blue gum tree as the centrepiece of the communal landscaped gardens, while introducing activated retail fronting Military Road to strengthen the connection between Mosman and Cremorne villages.

If approved, the project would deliver 100 new homes within walking distance of shops, public transport, schools and local amenities, adding to the limited pipeline of new apartments on the Lower North Shore.

<h2>Project Snapshot</h2>

Project: Honeysuckle Garden Redevelopment

Address: 494-516 Military Road, Mosman

Developer: Abadeen and Phoenix Property Investors

Architect: DKO Architecture

Lead Architect: Matthew Ritchard

Value: $230 million

Residences: 100 apartments

Key features:

<ul>
	<li>
	Ground-floor retail
	</li>
	<li>
	Rooftop wellness precinct
	</li>
	<li>
	Gym and sauna
	</li>
	<li>
	Outdoor entertaining and BBQ areas
	</li>
	<li>
	Landscaped communal gardens
	</li>
	<li>
	Multi-use recreation court
	</li>
	<li>
	Retained mature blue gum tree
	</li>
	<li>
	Connecting with Country design process
	</li>
	<li>
	Harbour, CBD and Balmoral views from upper-level apartments
	</li>
</ul>

Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown said the apartments had been designed as genuine long-term homes rather than investor-focused stock

First look: Abadeen plans 100 apartments on former Honeysuckle Garden site in Mosman

The wave of apartment proposals sweeping through Mosman shows no signs of slowing, with another major residential development lodged through the NSW Government's State Significant Development pathway.

Developer First Quadrant Properties, which recently completed Willoughby Grounds and has several projects in planning across the North Shore, has unveiled plans for a 63-apartment development on Ourimbah Road, adding to the growing pipeline of projects reshaping one of Sydney's most tightly held harbour suburbs.

The proposal would consolidate nine properties at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/40-56-ourimbah-road-mosman-nsw-2088">40-56 Ourimbah Road</a> into a part eight, part nine-storey apartment building, continuing the momentum created by the NSW Government's accelerated planning pathways that have seen several significant developments emerge across Mosman over the past 12 months.

Designed by Doroch Architects, the project would deliver 63 apartments, resident wellness facilities including a gym, pool and sauna, landscaped communal spaces and basement parking, while using recessed upper levels, generous setbacks and extensive planting to reduce the perceived scale of the building.

<img alt="First look: First Quadrant Properties eyes nine-storey Mosman apartment project under State Significant pathway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32ee68e4-141e-4a10-8f83-48e961a5e71e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Ourimbah%20Road%2C%20Mosman%20a.png?VersionId=CUeILFc6APlwXPc.iplElbxHvREKwjig" />

Doroch Architects said the building had been designed to reinforce Mosman's established character.

"The building's aesthetic is grounded in the existing residential character of Ourimbah Road and the broader Mosman context," the architect noted in the planning documents submitted to the NSW Government.

The design adopts a contemporary material palette of natural stone, textured concrete and brown concave metal cladding, complemented by integrated planters and deep balconies. The podium incorporates softened curved concrete forms, while increased setbacks have been provided adjacent to the heritage-listed property at 60 Ourimbah Road to create a more sympathetic transition.

The site sits around 330 metres from Mosman Town Centre, placing it within the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy area, where increased residential density is being encouraged close to shops, transport and services.

The proposal follows a string of major apartment projects lodged or declared State Significant in Mosman in recent months, including Abadeen's 100-apartment Honeysuckle Garden redevelopment on Military Road and several other developments across Awaba Street, Redan Street and Muston Street from the likes of Time &amp; Place, HELM and Prosker Property.

&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/time-place-to-take-on-mosman-apartment-market">Time &amp; Place to take on Mosman apartment market</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-abadeen-plans-100-apartments-on-former-honeysuckle-garden-site-in-mosman">First look: Abadeen plans 100 apartments on former Honeysuckle Garden site in Mosman</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Another major apartment proposal signals Mosman's development boom

A new State Significant Development Application (SSDA) could reshape a prominent vacant site in Gosford's CBD, with Ming Tian Real Property proposing a mixed-use precinct that combines affordable housing, retail activation and a new public plaza.

The proposal for 43-45 Beane Street and 2 Keevers Lane would deliver a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/43-45-beane-street-gosford-nsw-2250">two-building development</a> comprising a 26-storey residential tower and a five-storey affordable housing building above ground-floor commercial space. A key focus of the project is the delivery of dedicated affordable housing alongside new public domain improvements designed to transform Keevers Lane into a more active urban destination.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/tony-owen-partners">Tony Owen Partners</a>, the development would provide 130 apartments, including 20 affordable housing dwellings managed by a registered community housing provider for at least 15 years. The market housing component comprises 110 apartments across a mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences, while the affordable housing includes six one-bedroom, 13 two-bedroom and one three-bedroom apartment. The proposal also incorporates 416 sqm of ground-floor retail, three basement levels accommodating 140 car spaces, 42 bicycle spaces, communal open space and extensive landscaping.

<img alt="First look: Ming Tian Real Property plans landmark affordable housing tower for Gosford city centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9b858791-9060-4ee7-9178-44cb9e640a85" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Beane%20Street%20b_0.png?VersionId=_jbY0mqPEs7.jBZxozR7d6T4u85FoPmb" />

The affordable housing component has been distributed across both buildings, with four apartments located within the main tower and a dedicated five-storey building delivering a further 16 affordable homes. The project also includes 12 adaptable apartments and 24 dwellings designed to Silver Level Liveable Housing Guidelines.

The architectural design draws inspiration from Indigenous storytelling.

"The design is based on the indigenous motif of the Rainbow Serpent," Tony Owen Partners said in the Design Verification Statement.

"The Rainbow Serpent is a traditional totem of coastal eastern Australia. It represents natural forces, creation, change, and rebirth and is often associated with bodies of water. This motif can be seen in the undulation of the balconies rising on the building," Tony Owen Partners said in the Design Verification Statement.

Beyond the residential offering, the proposal seeks to revitalise the surrounding public realm, particularly Keevers Lane.

"The ground floor streetscape includes a commercial and dining precinct which will significantly improve the amenity of the area. This strategy transforms a currently inhospitable laneway into a thriving centre of urban renewal and day and night time activation to compliment the new adjoining UNC facilities," the architects said.

<img alt="First look: Ming Tian Real Property plans landmark affordable housing tower for Gosford city centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36b0ca6b-af15-424c-81db-9f3049c07b0c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Beane%20Street%20podium.png?VersionId=QCAv7bCitrg3zIGZUHI2z_HR8qVfKbp1" />

The Environmental Impact Statement notes that the project aims to "improve the provision of diverse housing options within Gosford City Centre, enhancing the mixed-use precinct by delivering high quality residential development, whilst concurrently providing a diverse range of housing choices through the provision of affordable housing, which is in growing need within the Gosford City Centre."

The site occupies approximately 2,070 sqm in the Gosford city centre, around 250 metres from Gosford Railway Station and within walking distance of Gosford Hospital, Mann Street's retail precinct and the University of Newcastle's Gosford campus currently under construction. The currently vacant site previously received approval for a lower-scale residential development, with the new proposal leveraging the NSW Government's in-fill affordable housing pathway to increase density while introducing dedicated affordable housing.

First look: Rainbow Serpent inspires bold new Gosford apartment tower

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bottega-property-group">Bottega House</a> has secured council approval for its first Brisbane project - a $270 million luxury residential development on an absolute riverfront site in leafy St Lucia.&nbsp;

The 15-storey project, known as <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-lucia-by-bottega-house-180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">St Lucia by Bottega House</a> , will occupy a prime north-facing site at 178-180 Macquarie Street, directly fronting the Brisbane River in the established inner-west suburb known for its rowing clubs, golf courses and sprawling University of Queensland campus.&nbsp;

St Lucia by Bottega House will feature a suite of amenities including dedicated wellness spaces, a mineral pool and cold plunge. The project has been positioned to attract affluent owner-occupiers seeking high-quality, house-sized apartments.&nbsp;

Bottega House has been set up by co-directors Nick Malloch, Louis Mennes and Craig Marsh.

Malloch said the project drew inspiration from its Brisbane River setting and leafy inner-west surrounds, while responding to the demands of discerning locals looking to transition from freestanding homes into apartment living.&nbsp;

"With an expansive river frontage and lush green surrounds, we knew we had to create something special that reflects the natural beauty of the location while offering residents masterfully crafted homes," said Malloch.&nbsp;

"Our intent was to complement the project's quiet, private setting by introducing residences that offer a calm retreat and sanctuary from the everyday. The result is a harmonious blend of architecture, interiors and amenity that emphasises wellbeing, comfort and beauty without excess."&nbsp;

Malloch added that project consultants had been carefully selected in alignment with Bottega House's commitment to care, quality and attention to detail. The design team includes architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a>, interiors practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/urbis">Urbis</a>.&nbsp;

Three-bedroom apartments are expected to start around $5 millio. Selling agents Keenan &amp; Byrne said the pricing strategy for the project was anticipated to achieve upwards of $25,500 per square metre.&nbsp;

The project's development approval this week follows the success of Bottega House's inaugural Queensland project - a 22-storey collection of full-floor sky homes at Broadbeach on the Gold Coast which included the sale of a two-storey penthouse at a record price for a beachside residence.&nbsp;

St Lucia by Bottega House is expected to launch to market in November, with construction anticipated to be completed mid 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151826]

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