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GDI Property Group has moved to sell 50 Cavill Avenue following its completed refurbishment.
They have secured a 97 percent occupied office tower with lower leasing incentives than other major centres.
Comprising an NLA of 16,625sqm over 22 levels with 446 secure car parks, the tower is the Gold Coast’s largest A-grade office building.
It hosts many groups including but not limited to the Mantra Group, Regus, Nine Network Australia, Ray White Group, Bell Potter, PWC and McCann World Group, as well as CBRE’s Gold Coast headquarters.
Following its purchase of the tower in 2016, GDI Property Group completed several renovations, including new energy efficient air-conditioning, high speed destination control lifts, ground floor retail and end of trip facilities.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/10/4/Cavs%202.JPG" alt="">
CBRE have an expressions of interest campaign for the corporate tower.
Investors are being told it offers both the benefit of continued rental growth and low future capex requirements given the limited competition of A-grade commercial space in the strengthening Gold Coast market.
CBRE advised there are no new significant projects in the pipeline.
Offers are due November 13.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Gold Coast's largest A-grade office building hits the market

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EXPERT OBSERVER
China has imposed retaliatory tariffs of between 15% and 25% on US$2.75 billion worth of US imports, including nuts, frozen pork and wine, in response to US import duties on aluminium and steel announced by the Trump administration.
The Australian nut industry, like many other primary industries, has been caught in the middle with collateral damage on this year’s crop as some sellers are no longer able to access this market.
The current trade war between China and the US may provide export opportunities for the Australian industry in the short term, provided that product from overseas is not dumped on the Australian market. In the mid-to longer-term, the industry will continue to develop stronger trade links with China to secure long term markets.
The impact on the US has resulted in additional tariffs of between 15% and 20% for their nut products entering China.
The China Australia Free Trade agreement tariffs of between 10% and 25% on Australian nuts will be completely phased out by January 2019.
China is a major buyer of Australian nuts with over $63 million in sales in 2015-16 (ABS) and solid increases in sales over the past two years.
Tree nuts are the country’s largest horticultural export forming over 50% of horticultural goods sold overseas.
China is the world’s second largest buyer of imported food after the US with over A$130 billion in 2016.
Australia is China’s sixth largest supplier of food with exports of A$5.3 billion and continued solid annual increases in double figures.
The macadamia industry is breaking into China’s growing demand for this nut with demand in 2017 at 50,000 tonnes in shell, or 26% of global demand or more than the entire Australian crop.
By 2020, about 24,000 hectares will be planted to macadamias with kernel production greater than 18,500 tonnes. Export value will exceed $280 million.
The pecan industry in the US is continuing to expand at all time high rates with record planting in southern US. Industry experts are saying plantings are sustainable, and that it will take another 30 years of planting to catch up with global demand.
The Australian industry is also seeing record plantings with new entrants into the market. The export market is chasing large nuts which is limiting the varieties planted. The area under pecans is 1,350 hectares. Production is about 3,000 tonnes in-shell (1,650 tonnes kernel).
The almond industry is forecast to harvest over 82,000 tonnes kernel weight this year which is slightly up on last year’s crop. Late season frosts have been a worry for many growers. Australia is the second largest producer of almonds in the world.
In 2015, the area under production was 31,115 hectares, producing a record crop of 82,509 tonnes.
The walnut industry is expecting a harvest of 13,000 tonnes in line with the previous year. This is a significant increase in production over 2016 of 6,000 tonnes in-shell, with a farm-gate value of $30 million and export value of $15 million.
Approximately 3,600 hectares of mature and developing trees were under cultivation in 2016. This number is expected to rise to more than 4,300 hectares by 2021 as current growers expand their orchards and new growers enter the industry in current and new regions.
Webster Limited is the largest walnut grower, owning or managing more than 3,100 hectares of orchards. When mature, these orchards are expected to produce over 18,000 tonnes in-shell per annum. The pistachio industry is expecting a harvest of 2,300 tonnes which will be a record for the industry. The area under production was 950 hectares in 2015.
Chestnuts have had good growing conditions with a crop of 1,300 tonnes expected which is in line with previous years. In 2016, chestnut production was valued at $8.5 million (LVP). In 2016 there were around 1,300 hectares containing approximately 200,000 chestnut trees. The industry estimates that with more trees planted, production will rise to approximately $9.8 million by 2020. The industry is primarily focused on the domestic market with approximately two% exported, mainly to Asian markets.
Hazelnuts have had a mixed growing season with yields of 210 tonnes expected. In 2016, hazelnut production was valued at $1.7 million (LVP). The industry is set for continued expansion with approximately 200 hectares planted, consisting of around 100,000 trees. The industry estimates hazelnut production in 2021 will be 2,550 tonnes with a value of $22.5 million. The area under production is about 1,400 hectares, including young orchards yet to come into commercial bearing.
New areas of hazelnut plantings have extended into southern New South Wales, eastern Victoria and throughout wider regions of Tasmania.
The Australian nut industry has increased revenue by 250% over the past five years and is predicted to exceed $2 billion by 2030 based on new planting and productivity research investment. The table shown is a summary of the Australian nut industry.
The long-term outlook for the industry is of continued growth with new plantings across all nut types at all-time highs. The increase in research and development dollars from industry and government is assisting in productivity gains and new marketing initiatives are targeting value adding to the raw nut product.
The industry is proactive in improved integrated orchard management techniques which are targeting canopy health, drainage and moisture conservation and plant health.
Established growers are continuing to expand their plantings and new entrants bring scales of economy to the industry.
David Nilon is a Director of Herron Todd White. 
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China-US tariff war impacts Australian nut industry: HTW's David Nilon

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A new report has identified the New South Wales infrastructure projects that will have the greatest impact on property prices.
The Sydney Light Rail (CBD and South East), the Sydney Metro Northwest and the Sydney Metro City and South West will have the greatest effect on the NSW property market, according to JLL’s new report, NSW economic growth drivers and infrastructure: Assessing the impact on property markets.
JLL’s Head of Research — Australia Andrew Ballantyne said the group looked at the 10 major projects in the NSW infrastructure pipeline.
“Infrastructure changes real estate markets,” he said.
“While all 10 of the major projects will have an impact on the NSW commercial and residential property sectors, these three — and specifically the placement of stations along the routes — will have the greatest effect through reducing travel times and costs, connecting people with job opportunities and connecting products with markets.”
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/9/28/Picture1.png" alt="" style="font-size: 12.16px;">
Source: JLL
 1. Sydney Light Rail (CBD and South East)
Property close to the light rail stations are likely to increase in value, while the route is also likely to change the mix of retail in the region.
JLL’s Managing Director — NSW Daniel Kernaghan said:
“George Street is going to become a more desirable location for retailers in the luxury and food-and-beverage categories. 
“Improved connectivity within the CBD will mean organisations can look beyond the core CBD to secure lower office rental rates.
“Average A-grade rents on Goulburn Street are 31% lower than for comparable A-grade core CBD assets.” 
2. Sydney Metro (Northwest) 
New stations create dfor the project will stimulate further residential development.
“This project is going to deliver a reliable public transport service to the region which has the highest car ownership levels per household in NSW,” Ballantyne said.
3. Sydney Metro (City and South West)
The project will support the continuing development of the North Sydney’s office market, which is expected to increase to 930,000 square metres of space by 2024.
“Additionally, a revitalised Central Station will act as a regenerative magnet for the southern Sydney CBD, creating a vibrant new mixed-use precinct,” Kernaghan said.
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The NSW infrastructure projects that will impact property prices the most: JLL

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Home owners are always on the lookout for ways to increase the value of their homes, and 2018 has been a big one for the renovation industry, says a new survey.
According to the annual Houzz &amp; Home Australia survey 57% of home owners on the platform are planning to renovate their home.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/4/renovation%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge:</a>
<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/2018/10/4/renovation%201.jpg" alt="">
In 2017, over 50% of home owners renovated their homes at a median spend of $25,000.
Repeat home buyers invested the most in home renovations at a median spend of $30,000.
More than a quarter of renovating home owners tackling kitchens (26%), the top target for interior renovation, with a median spend of $20,000 for a large kitchen (more than 10 square metres).
Living/family rooms, bedrooms, master bathrooms and laundries (24, 18, 18 and 17% respectively) followed on the priority list.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/4/renovation%202.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge:</a>
<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/2018/10/4/renovation%202.jpg" alt="">
Houzz principal economist Nino Sitchinava said the survey results were a strong signal for the industry.
"All of the evidence from our research points to 2018 likely being another robust year for the home improvement industry,” says Sitchinava.
“Recent buyers and long-term homeowners alike are keen on investing in major projects like kitchens and bathrooms and they’re validated by the value these projects have brought to their homes."
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/4/renovation%203.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge:</a> <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/2018/10/4/renovation%203.jpg" alt="">
The report’s other conclusions include:
<ul>
<li>More Deliberate Planning and Budgeting: Over the past two years, homeowners have become more deliberate in planning and budgeting for renovations and were seven percent more likely to set a budget in 2017 than in 2015 (74 and 67%, respectively).</li>
<li>Plumbing and Electrical Top System Upgrades: Homeowners prioritised plumbing and electrical over any other system during renovations (32 and 31%, respectively). First-time home buyers are twice as likely to upgrade electrical systems during renovations as long-term homeowners (52 versus 25%, respectively).</li>
<li>Home Professionals in High Demand: Over nine in 10 renovating homeowners chose to hire a home professional for renovation needs (92%). Repeat home buyers are the most likely to seek professional assistance (94%), followed by long-term homeowners and first-time home buyers 89 and 88%, respectively). </li>
</ul>
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Home owners continue to look for renovation benefits

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A shopping centre in the Sunshine Coast town of Yandina has hit the market.
Yandina Shopping Centre, on the corner of Old Gympie Road and Farrell Street, is anchored by a 1,000 square metre IGA supermarket and also has a mix of specialty stores.
A separate adjoining 1.214 hectare title, which is approved for development, is also included.
The centre has a net income of $988,583 and a Weighted Average Lease Expiry (WALE) of 6.34 years.
The property is being marketed by CBRE agents Rem Rafter, Brendan Robins, Michael Hedger and Joe Tynam through an expression of interest campaign.
“It’s a high performing centre with development land, as well as the main trading precinct’s only supermarket,” Rafter said.
“The centre’s future development, which would see it more than double its current size, will only further capitalise on the growing catchment and provide a critical retail centre for decade.”
Expressions of interest close on Wednesday, 31st October 2018 at 4pm.
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Yandina Shopping Centre on Sunshine Coast hits the market 

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Bundella, a Barwon Heads waterfront home has been scheduled for private auction on October 28.
It has been offered by Emma Pierson and Jock Langley from Abercromby's Real Estate. 
Set on a 797sqm block of land, the house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-barwon+heads-129404842" target="_blank">2 Riverside Lane</a> comes with three bedrooms, living and dining areas with views over the serene Barwon River estuary, well-designed kitchen, north-facing deck and ample 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/2018/9/25/barwon%20heads%201.jpg" alt="">
Other features of Bundella include sunny lawn and private boat ramp and landing.
Hitchcock Avenue's vibrancy, the village park's 54 acres, the beach and the revered golf course are all within easy reach.
The suburb's median house price sits at $890,000, according to CoreLogic. 
 <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/2018/9/25/barwon%20heads%203.jpg" alt="">
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Barwon Heads waterfront trophy home set for private auction

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A new list of masterplanned community sales has been released, with Stockland placing three times in the top five.
The National Land Survey by Research4 reports on vacant land sales in new residential communities around Australia.
Stockland’s Aura community on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast claimed first place with 746 sales in the past year.
Stockland Elara in Sydney’s north-west was the second most popular community with 674 sales in the 2017-18 year, while Stockland Highlands in Melbourne’s northern growth corridor ranked fourth with 632 sales.
Andrew Whitson, Group Executive and CEO, Stockland Communities, said it was an outstanding result for the company.
“Our closest competitor achieved a market share of 5 per cent in the June quarter, highlighting our strong national position in the creation of masterplanned communities,” he said.
“We have a long track record for delivering many of Australia’s best new communities and a clear vision for meeting the future housing needs of Australian families.
“These latest national land survey figures confirm that our focus on liveability, affordability and the owner occupier market has made Stockland the first choice for home buyers in masterplanned communities.”
Whitson said is currently sell over 75% of its product to owner occupiers and over 50% to first home buyers.
AT Aura, more than 20,000 new homes will be created on the 24 square kilometre site over the next 30 years. 
Other products in the company’s development pipeline include the Highlands community in Victoria  and the Elara community in Sydney.
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Stockland's Aura project records the most masterplanned community sales in Australia 

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The final two government-owned Millers Point properties are set to go under the hammer.
The marketing for the properties at 65 and 69 Lower Fort Street has commenced, with an auction date scheduled for November 3.
Split over four levels, the terraces date to circa 189 and are heritage listed.
The last remaining properties in the Millers Point program are expected to attract strong interest due to their size, location and heritage significance.
So far, $513 million worth of properties have been offloaded by McGrath since the Millers Point Sales Program began in 2014. 
The properties are being marketed by McGrath’s Lorraine Crawford and Peter Starr of McGrath Edgecliff.
Crawford said they offered an opportunity to purchase an original home of rich architectural heritage in a unique part of Sydney
“They offer a restoration opportunity that will reward buyers with an enviable lifestyle in a highly sought-after location,” she said.
“Millers Point continues to evolve as a fashionable address, attracting a diverse range of buyers from home owners to investors.
“Previous purchasers have recently completed their renovations and the precinct has developed a real sense of community as owner occupiers appreciate the attractive lifestyle of living in such a special part of the city.” 
 <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/2018/10/4/652.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house/nsw/sydney-cbd/millers-point/387286?preview=24736a35-9c5c-4b73-ba97-1796da0d519d" target="_blank">65 Lower Fort Street</a>, Millers Point, NSW (pictured above)
Guide $2,600,000 - $2,800,000
 <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/2018/10/4/69.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/house/nsw/sydney-cbd/millers-point/386259?preview=590aa250-2cdc-4133-8f0e-bf2e33793b22" target="_blank">69 Lower Fort Street</a>, Millers Point, NSW (pictured above)
Guide $2,600,000 - $2,800,000
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Final two Millers Point properties on the market 

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Austral Bricks has divested two adjoining industrial land parcels in Riverwood in a $41 million sale and leaseback deal. 
The properties at 62 Belmore Road and 111 Bonds Road were sold to a private buyer.
The buildings occupy 90,466 square metres, split across two titles.
Austral has committed to a partial leaseback of 13,263 square meters for a 10-year term with a five-year option.
CBRE’s Ryan Jennings and Jason Edge inked the sale and negotiated the partial leaseback.
Edge said the site held potential for redevelopment and asset repositioning.
“The property is one of the south-west market’s largest infill holdings and, thanks to the size and lexibility of the asset, options for use are many and varied,” Edge said.
Jennings said owner occupiers and tenants had been migrating down the M5 from South Sydney.
“Owners and occupiers are targeting opportunities in Riverwood ahead of the long-awaited Belmore Road motorway ramps,” he said.
“Expected to open in 2019, the two east-facing ramps will offer Riverwood direct access to the M5 South West Motorway – a $32 million project, over 20 years in the making.
“Overall, we have seen more purchasers seeking to invest in the Riverwood area, where they have previously not been looking.
 “The deal was struck following a competitive Expressions of Interest campaign, which had amassed 11 offers at the close of round one – underscoring the increased activity in the area.”
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Austral Bricks sells Riverwood property for $41 million with partial leaseback

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Metro Property Development has secured development approval from Willoughby Council for its Naremburn site.
Located at 155-161 Willoughby Road in Naremburn, the 1,320 square metre site was procured by Metro in late 2017 and will be released to the market as a boutique collection of nine luxury townhouses known as The Nines.
Designed by architects A+ Design Group, the homes will span three levels.
“We are thrilled to move ahead and develop this prominent site in the tightly held lower north shore,” said Phil Leahy of Metro Property Development.
Population growth, demographic changes and lifestyle trends continue to drive demand for a greater variety of housing and we are excited to deliver to the ‘missing middle’ with The Nines.”
The townhouses will be launched in October through sales and marketing agents Ray White Projects Lower North Shore and will be priced from $2.5 million.
The developer recently launched Sierra Residences in the north-west Sydney suburb of Kellyville in Sydney’s north-west.
It comprises of 51 boutique homes ranging from four to six-bedroom configurations.
In 2017 Metro completed its Eden residential estate in Catherine Field, delivering a total of 150 lots to Sydney’s south-west.
The developer also completed 50 luxury town homes at its Fairway Residences located at 88 Centenary Drive, Strathfield.
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Metro secures DA for Naremburn project

A who's who of Australian surfing, business and entertainment has emerged on title records following the completion of Esprit Rainbow Bay, the latest boutique beachfront apartment development by former professional surfer Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects.

The completed project has attracted an enviable collection of owners, many with long-standing ties to the southern Gold Coast and the surf culture that has helped define Rainbow Bay and neighbouring Kirra for generations.

Given Gedoun's own background in surfing, it perhaps comes as little surprise that some of Australia's most recognisable surfers have chosen to buy into the development overlooking one of the country's most celebrated stretches of coastline.

Pezet Matheson directors Jayde Pezet and Todd Matheson launched the project in late 2021, and have managed the sales campaign all the way through to its sell-out and recent completion.

<img alt="Esprit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="08fc6261-b84e-4b09-8a44-66d3067fd0d1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-29%20at%208.51.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4AOcb6ETZwNUnMPdTtz1B3pZAIB_jgZ2" />

Former world champion Mick Fanning, who grew up in Coolangatta, secured an apartment in 2023. He paid&nbsp;$2.07 million. Last year he sold his Bilinga home for over $16 million.

Three-time world champion Joel Parkinson also purchased in the development, alongside big wave surfer Mark Mathews. Mathews bought the most expensive apartment in the building, spending just over $4 million.

Joining them is Rip Curl founder Doug Warbrick, whose company helped shape Australia's global surfing industry over the past five decades.

The appeal of Rainbow Bay has extended well beyond the surfing community.

International DJ Paul Fisher purchased an apartment through his investment vehicle, YLB Developments, an abbreviation of his trademark phrase "You Little Beauty".

The purchase comes as Fisher and his wife Chloe are developing their own luxury apartment project further north in Palm Beach. Their boutique beachfront development, Pescado, comprises just seven apartments on Jefferson Lane, which start from just shy of $6 million. The couple intend to retain the two-level penthouse as their Australian base between international touring commitments.

Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy and his wife Wendy have also invested in Esprit, purchasing two apartments after spending decades holidaying on the southern Gold Coast. They also have a luxury apartment in Joe Adsett's Rockpool, less than 400m away from Esprit.

<h2>Boutique project draws owner-occupiers</h2>

Esprit launched in 2021 and sold strongly, with buyers drawn to its boutique scale, beachfront position and contemporary design.

The completed development comprises 94 apartments across 11 levels, offering expansive floorplans designed primarily for owner-occupiers rather than the investor market.

Crowning the building is Club Esprit, pitched as being the Gold Coast's first residential rooftop wellness centre. The roof features a&nbsp;25 metre magnesium lap pool, which is surrounded by wet daybeds and poolside cabanas,&nbsp;multiple barbecue areas,&nbsp;a yoga and relaxation play lawn, and a private dining room with a kitchen scullery, bar, lounges, and an outdoor terrace.

The wellness centre is&nbsp;fully equipped with a Technogym, ice bath, infra-red sauna, steam room, thermal room, and treatment room. The roof has views spanning&nbsp;Rainbow Bay, Snapper Rocks and the Pacific Ocean.

<h2>S&amp;S Projects continues to shape Rainbow Bay</h2>

S&amp;S Projects founder Paul Gedoun has become one of the key figures behind Rainbow Bay's evolution over the past several years.

After establishing S&amp;S Projects, Gedoun has focused on delivering lifestyle-driven apartment developments designed primarily for owner-occupiers seeking a permanent coastal home.

Esprit is Gedoun's third completed project in Rainbow Bay, following Flow and Awaken, both of which achieved record prices for the suburb.

He is now delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, a 38-apartment development on Boundary Street that is currently selling, and has no plans to leave the precinct anytime soon. S&amp;S Projects has also lodged plans for its fifth Rainbow Bay development, an 88-apartment project on Boundary Street featuring a strong wellness focus.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">First look: S&amp;S Projects proposes 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Who's who of buyers revealed as Esprit Rainbow Bay settles

Nature Based Cities (NBC), the not-for-profit organisation focused on improving biodiversity and nature outcomes in urban development, has launched its latest industry design guidelines and accreditation framework, this time targeting precinct-scale residential communities.

The move extends NBC’s influence beyond its initial focus on medium and high-density residential developments. Several projects have already achieved NBC accreditation since the launch of its Medium &amp; High-Density Residential Guidelines in early 2025.

The expansion into masterplanned communities and new residential precincts reflects the growing need for stronger nature-positive benchmarks as Australia’s outer suburban growth corridors continue to expand at pace.

Paul Hameister OAM, NBC Founder and the Executive Chairman of Melbourne developer Hamton who itself leans heavily into nature and biodiversity in its developments, says the&nbsp;nature-first approach to mitigate the effects of climate change has become standard in other parts of the world such as the UK, but Australia is lagging.&nbsp;Australia’s environmentally sustainable design (ESD) rating tools have no minimum mandatory requirements for living landscapes.

“We’ve always wanted to do more, and we know other developers who want to do more, but the ESD rating tools just aren’t there,” Hameister says. “In Australia, you can have a five-green-star rated building that’s concrete and glass with not a blade of grass. 
 
“The focus is on reducing emissions, which is laudable, but there hasn’t been enough attention paid to protecting and re-establishing nature. We need both for the health of the environment and for communities.”

He says that having now&nbsp;made good progress in supporting developers of medium and high-density residential projects, NBC is now looking to bolster better nature-based decision-making and recognise developers of greenfield projects in the outer ring and large inner-ring brownfield precincts, who want to champion nature and living landscape as a defining feature.

Since 2022, the not-for-profit has sought to remove the roadblocks preventing developers from incorporating nature and living landscapes into their projects, shifting the conversation from the reduction of emissions and grey infrastructure, toward recognising nature as an essential infrastructure.

The New Communities Design Guidelines and Scorecard arm developers with the tools needed to deliver a nature positive outcome for their new communities. Intended to be adopted at the outset of the planning process, the guidelines are designed to help create communities that are cooler, healthier and more resilient while also enhancing social wellbeing and long-term economic value.&nbsp;

New Communities developers seeking accreditation will be independently assessed across a range of key criteria including ecology, tree canopy, biodiversity, and walkability. Once the masterplan is complete and submitted for approval, the scorecard is formalised based on proposed outcomes. Projects that meet the NBC criteria will receive either Commended or Exemplary accreditation outcomes, creating a clear benchmark for nature-positive new communities in Australia.&nbsp;

Janis Fischer, Director at Tract and NBC Advisory Council member, said the development of new communities in our suburbs can have a substantial impact on nature and biodiversity.

"By incorporating nature-based design principles at the inception of a project, developers and their design teams can achieve nature positive outcomes that are good for both people and the planet.’’&nbsp;

NBC accredited New Community projects will gain access to NBC branding and marketing tools to help communicate their nature-based credentials to purchasers and the broader market.&nbsp;

Nature Based Cities: A new Australian benchmark for developing nature-positive new communities

Apartment buildings are increasingly being designed around how people actually live day to day, not just how they want a building to look.

For buyers, that shift is showing up in practical inclusions that respond to changing habits. Work-from-home spaces, EV charging, wellness amenities, secure bike storage and parcel management are becoming part of the broader apartment conversation, reflecting a move toward buildings that reduce friction in everyday life.

Online shopping has become one of the clearest examples of that change.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online. That has made parcel delivery a regular part of apartment living, rather than an occasional inconvenience.

For apartment residents, however, the delivery process can be less straightforward than it is for detached homes. Parcels may be left in lobbies, redirected to Post Offices, missed entirely, or placed under the responsibility of building managers and concierge teams.

That is why secure parcel infrastructure is increasingly being considered alongside more familiar apartment amenities.

<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/-VjjLwoViX0?si=A3k7ws9NX35Uac7_" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Australia Post Parcel Lockers offer one way to address the issue. When a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS, then collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN. The parcel is kept secure, accessible and removed from common areas.

The broader Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations across Australia, positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and other accessible locations.

For new apartment projects, the relevance is clear. A building’s amenity offering is no longer only about lifestyle spaces, but also about convenience, security and functionality.

As buyer expectations evolve, secure parcel delivery is becoming part of the same design conversation as flexible working, sustainable transport and resident wellbeing.

It is one less thing for residents to worry about, and another example of apartment design adapting to the way Australians now live.

Apartment design is adapting to the way Australians shop

While school holidays and trips to Europe tend to define the winter property market, there's been no cold snap at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> in North Sydney.

Developer-builder&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a> sold more than $35 million worth of apartments throughout June, including a $6.8 million apartment that now ranks among the highest apartment sales ever recorded in North Sydney.

SRM Residential agent Ben Stewart said buyer demand throughout June reflected a mix of improving market confidence and longer-term thinking from owner-occupiers.

"We're seeing strong demand from owner-occupiers who are taking a longer-term view," Stewart said.

"Many recognise the opportunity to secure an apartment in an iconic building and premium location while values remain attractive. They may initially lease the property, but the intention is to eventually move in themselves, rather than purchasing purely as an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=367129]

Located at 177 Walker Street, The Walden will deliver 161 one, two, three and four-bedroom residences across a 30-storey tower designed by Rothelowman. Every apartment occupies a corner position, maximising natural light, cross ventilation and views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, Sydney Heads and the northern districts.

Rather than a traditional balcony, the residences feature winter gardens that seamlessly extend the open plan living areas, creating versatile spaces for relaxing or entertaining throughout the year. Floor-to-ceiling glazing draws in natural light while showcasing sweeping views from the building's elevated Walker Street position.

Every apartment features high-end Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, and fully integrated appliances.

The larger residences have been planned with distinct entertaining and private zones, with many master suites positioned on corners to capture natural light and harbour views. Walk-in dressing rooms, freestanding baths and refined stone finishes reinforce the house-like feel that has resonated with downsizers and owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6393]

Rothelowman Principal Ben Pomroy said the project was designed to make the most of its unique position overlooking the harbour.

"The Walden is a celebration of all things beautiful, curated for those who expect nothing less than exceptional," Pomroy says.

"Meticulously designed entertaining spaces and light-filled living areas that capitalise on capturing the natural beauty of Sydney's iconic harbour."

Residents will also have exclusive access to The Pavilion, a dedicated amenity building featuring a rooftop pool, wellness studio, gymnasium, sauna, concierge service, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and work-from-home facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6402]

The project marks ALAND's first major luxury apartment development in Sydney's inner-city market after more than two decades delivering residential communities across Greater Sydney.

Founder and CEO Andrew Hrsto previously said the rarity of the Walker Street site made it an opportunity the company could not overlook.

"This is a rare opportunity to bring a truly exceptional project to life in one of Sydney's most iconic locations, and to showcase our craftsmanship and design expertise at a world-class level," Hrsto said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6383]

The Walden has been introduced to the market at a time when demand for living in North Sydney is at an all-time high. Billions of dollars have been invested in infrastructure, including the recently opened Victoria Cross Metro station, located just 300 metres from The Walden, providing residents with direct access to the Sydney CBD in just minutes.

Private investment has also transformed the area through the arrival of new retail and dining destinations, elevating the lifestyle offering in what was once considered primarily a commercial precinct rather than an aspirational residential address.

The Walden is currently under construction and is scheduled for completion in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

ALAND records $35 million in sales in North Sydney as The Walden bucks quiet winter selling season

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.

Staff reporter

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