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Macquarie Park property sales for the three months to February 2017 have increased substantially from the preceding quarter, according to research from CoreLogic’s Cityscope.
Sales recorded in the quarter ending February 2017 totalled $704.7 million, an increase from the $135.5 million recorded in the three months to November 2016, but a decrease from the $769.9 million recorded to August 2016.
For the year ending February 2017, there were 74 sales at a total value of $1.64 billion, compared to 121 sales at a total value of $1.203 billion for the previous year.
The table below shows sales recorded for the past eight updates of Macquarie Park Cityscope.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/03/3/Corelogic-1.jpeg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/3/Corelogic-1.jpeg" alt="">
According to the report, notable sales in the February 2017 update of Macquarie Park Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>Everglade Campus, 82 Waterloo Road, Macquarie Park, a four-storey building with parking for 220 cars over two basement levels on a site area of 10,590 square metres, which was bought for $120 million;</li>
<li>Avaya House, 123 Epping Road, Macquarie Park, an A-grade, 10-storey commercial and industrial building with three levels of basement parking for 534 cars and a net lettable area of 16,161 square metres, which was bought for $118 million through CI Australia North Sydney and Savills and</li>
<li>Valad Corporate Place, 2 Richardson Place, North Ryde, an A-grade, four-storey office building with two additional levels of basement parking for 454 cars and outdoor parking for 63 cars on a site area of 14,325 square metres, which was bought for $85 million through CBRE Sydney and JLL Sydney.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/03/3/Corelogic-2.jpeg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/3/Corelogic-2.jpeg" alt="">
Properties for sale in Macquarie Park Cityscope in February 2017 include:
<ul>
<li>43 – 61 Waterloo Road, Macquarie Park, a large development site of 39,824 square metres with several older single storey buildings and a paved car park, available through Colliers International;</li>
<li>27 Sirius Road, Lane Cove West, a three-storey office building featuring a paved forecourt and high-clearance warehouse and a net lettable area of 8,100 square metres, available through CBRE North Sydney and</li>
<li>8 Australia Avenue, Sydney Olympic Park, a five-storey commercial building of 6,610 square metres with retail spaces on the ground floor and two levels of basement car parking providing 119 spaces available through JLL Sydney.</li>
</ul>
Leasing opportunities in the February 2017 of Macquarie Park Cityscope include:
<ul>
<li>18 – 20 Orion Road, Lane Cove West, a nine-storey building comprising ground floor foyer and eight floors of office space and parking for 378 cars, which has office space of 120 to 1,000 square metres for lease through Glass Property Consultants;</li>
<li>Riverview Park Estate at 166 Epping Road, Lane Cove West, comprising two 3-storey office buildings joined by a central 2-storey atrium plus two levels of basement parking for 236 cars, which has office space of 700 to 4,300 square metres for lease through Savills Parramatta and Knight Frank North Sydney;</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-macquarie+park-501704185" target="_blank">3 Thomas Holt Drive, Macquarie Park</a> (pictured above), a nine-storey office building with high-clearance warehouses and parking, which has office space up to 4,200 square metres on the top floors for lease through JLL North Sydney and GJS Property.</li>
</ul>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Spike in Macquarie Park commercial property sales: Cityscope

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Launceston has an oversupply of industrial properties relative to demand, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) report.
The property valuation firm says that Launceston has a steady rental vacancy trend along with a stable rental rate trend.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/13/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-13%20at%2010.44.01%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click 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/2017/02/13/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-13%20at%2010.44.01%20am.jpg" alt="">
However Launceston’s industrial sales is declining despite the market rising, the firm says.
Launceston’s economic situation is flat with significant value difference between quality properties with national tenants and comparable properties with local tenants.
A 855 square metre industrial warehouse at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-industrial+warehouse-tas-launceston-502323710" target="_blank">6/16 - 18 Goodman Court</a>, Launceston (above) has been listed for sale.
Similarly a 1733 square metre industrial warehouse at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-industrial+warehouse-tas-launceston-502301290" target="_blank">2/7 - 9 Wilmot Street</a>, Launceston (below) has been listed for $850,000.
<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/2017/03/21/27-9%20Wilmot%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Oversupply of industrial properties in Launceston: HTW

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The NSW mid north coast has a balanced industrial market, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) report.
The property valuation firm says that there is a steady rental vacancy trend along with a stable rental rate trend.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/10/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-10%20at%202.43.42%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click 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/2017/02/10/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-10%20at%202.43.42%20pm.jpg" alt="">
There is a steady volume of property sales with the region's market starting to recover.
The local economic situation is currently flat with a small value difference between quality properties with national tenants and comparable properties with local tenants, HTW says.
A 54 hectare industrial warehouse, the Lansdowne Estate, at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-industrial+warehouse-nsw-kundle+kundle-502326190" target="_blank">21/586 Lansdowne Road</a>, Kundle Kundle, (above) has been listed for sale.
Similarly a 3895 square metre industrial complex at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-industrial+warehouse-nsw-coffs+harbour-502294878" target="_blank">22-24 Marcia Street and 15 June Street</a>, Coffs Harbour (below) has been listed for sale.
<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/2017/03/21/22-24%20Marcia%20St%20%2015%20June%20St.jpg" alt="">
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Balanced industrial market in NSW's mid north coast: HTW

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The cash rate may have been held for seven consecutive months, but this hasn’t prevented lenders from lifting mortgage rates independently of the Reserve Bank.
There have been 11 lenders including two of the big four banks announcing rate hikes this month, according to finder.com.au, Australia’s most visited comparison website.
A new analysis by finder.com.au reveals 11 lenders have declared rate rises for both variable and fixed home loans in March 2017.
Of the big four banks, ANZ, NAB and Westpac have announced rate changes this year.
While ANZ and NAB announced changes earlier this year, Westpac soon followed suit announcing rate changes just this month.
In March alone, NAB announced further changes with increases to its interest rates from 0.07 percent - 0.25 percent for variable rate home loans, while Westpac also raised its variable rates from 0.03 percent - 0.28 percent.
Despite increasing its variable rate, NAB implemented a new incentive for first home buyers by introducing its lowest home loan fixed rate of 2 years at 3.69 percent per annum.
Westpac is also providing a grace period until the 17th June by waiving the switching fee for interest-only home loans changing to principal and interest repayments. 
The average rate rise for owner-occupier loans in March 2017 across the big four that have adjusted rates (including NAB and Westpac) is 0.05 percent.
Taking this into account, a borrower with an average home loan of $357,200 with an average variable rate of 4.75 percent would need to pay an extra $11 per month if rates rose to 4.80 percent.
This amounts to $3,881 over 30 years.
Graham Cooke, Insights Manager at finder.com.au, says whether it’s to increase flexibility or boost profit margins, banks are under fire to manage stakeholder expectations while also dealing with the risk of an overheated property market.
For investor loans, more stringent regulations imposed by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) to curb investor lending may be prompting banks to up interest rates.
"Given recent rate increases, both owner occupiers and investors need to prepare for higher loan costs.
"It’s sensible to factor in 2-3 percent on top of your current mortgage repayments so you can cope with unexpected rate rises,” he says.
Variable home loan rate changes for March 2017
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="67">
Lender
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Change
</td>
<td valign="top" width="166">
Loans affected
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="78">
Date effective
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
NAB
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.07% - 0.25%
</td>
<td width="156">
Variable Rate Home Loans (owner occupier + investor)
</td>
<td width="68">
24 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
Westpac
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.03% - 0.28%
</td>
<td width="156">
Variable Rate Home Loans (owner occupier + investor and principal &amp; interest + interest only)
</td>
<td width="68">
24 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
Bankwest
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.15%
</td>
<td width="156">
Complete Home Loan Package - Variable (investor), Premium Select Home Loan - Variable (investor) Equaliser Home Loan - Variable (investor)
</td>
<td width="68">
15 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
Beyond Bank
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.10%
</td>
<td width="156">
Low Rate Special Home Loan - Variable (owner occupier)
</td>
<td width="68">
7 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
Heritage Bank
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.10% - 0.11%
</td>
<td width="156">
Advantage Package Home Loan - Variable (owner occupier)
</td>
<td width="68">
14 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
Illawarra Credit Union
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.05% - 0.15%
</td>
<td width="156">
Variable Lite &amp; Variable Home Loans (owner occupier)
</td>
<td width="68">
1 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
IMB
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.05%
</td>
<td width="156">
Accelerator Home Loan - Variable (owner occupier)
</td>
<td width="68">
13 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
Macquarie Bank
</td>
<td width="70">
Up to 0.05%
</td>
<td width="156">
Basic Home Loan - Variable LVR &lt;=80%, LVR &lt;=90% (owner occupier + investor), Offset Package Home Loan - Variable LVR &lt;=80%, LVR &lt;=90% (owner occupier + investor)
</td>
<td width="68">
6 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
Macquarie Bank
</td>
<td width="70">
Down 0.05 - 0.10%
</td>
<td width="156">
Basic Home Loan - Variable LVR &lt;=90% (owner occupier), Offset Package Home Loan - Variable LVR &lt;=90% (owner occupier)
</td>
<td width="68">
6 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
MOVE
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.30%
</td>
<td width="156">
Wealth Builder - Variable (investor), Flexi Home Credit - Variable
</td>
<td width="68">
1 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
People's Choice Credit Union
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.19%
</td>
<td width="156">
Basic Home Loan - Variable (owner occupier)
</td>
<td width="68">
15 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
Western City
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.05% - 0.15%
</td>
<td width="156">
Variable Lite &amp; Variable Home Loans (owner occupier)
</td>
<td width="68">
1 Mar
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
Fixed home loan rate changes for March 2017
<table style="width: 392px; height: 476px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="67">
Lender
</td>
<td valign="top" width="81">
Change
</td>
<td valign="top" width="166">
Loans affected
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="79">
Date effective
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
Bankwest
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.15%
</td>
<td width="156">
Complete Home Loan Package - 2, 3, 4, 5 Years Fixed (investor), Fixed Rate Home Loan - 2, 3, 4, 5 Years Fixed (investor)
</td>
<td width="68">
15 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
Beyond Bank
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.05% - 0.10%
</td>
<td width="156">
Fixed Rate Home Loan - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Years Fixed (owner occupier), Total Home Loan Package - 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 Years Fixed (owner occupier)
</td>
<td width="68">
7 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
Heritage Bank
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.10%
</td>
<td width="156">
Fixed Rate Home Loan - 1,2,3 (owner occupier + investor), Advantage Package Fixed Rate Home Loan - 1,2,3 (owner occupier + investor)
</td>
<td width="68">
9 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
IMB
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.10%
</td>
<td width="156">
Platinum Package - 2 &amp; 3 Years Fixed rate (owner occupier + investor), Fixed Rate Home Loan - 2 &amp; 3 Years Fixed Rate (owner occupier + investor)
</td>
<td width="68">
6 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
MOVE
</td>
<td width="70">
Down 0.06%
</td>
<td width="156">
Lockit Home Loan - 1 Year Fixed rate
</td>
<td width="68">
1 Mar
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="56">
People's Choice Credit Union
</td>
<td width="70">
Up 0.05%
</td>
<td width="156">
Home Loan Package - 3 Years Fixed (owner occupier)
</td>
<td width="68">
15 Mar
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
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Out-of-cycle rate hikes shake up the Australian home loan market

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A proposed development in the Sydney suburb of Burwood to join two adjoining blocks and create around 1,000 new apartments has ben given an endorsement from state planning authorities.
Holdmark Property Group's planning proposal to develop four residential towers, ranging from 20 to 42 levels and an A-grade commercial office building on Wynne Avenue, fronting Railway Parade in Burwood has received a Gateway Determination by the Department of Planning and Environment.
Gavin Carrier, head of development for Holdmark Property Group, said the approvals were a terrific outcome for the growth and advancement of Burwood.
“Our consultant team has worked closely with Council to continually refine and improve our concept to create a really compelling solution for the centre of Burwood and we’d like to thank Council for their professionalism throughout this entire process," he said.
"We believe this project will be the making of Burwood for generations to come and, as the community’s representatives, Council has a very important role to play in shaping that opportunity.
<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/2017/03/17/cox_bur_view%2001_FINAL_bright.jpg" alt="">
“The involvement of not one, but two outstanding, multi-award-winning architectural firms has resulted in a magnificent and dynamic design that is not just visually stunning, but we believe really captures the aspirational spirit of the people of Burwood.
“It will be an iconic new landmark to signify the growing importance of Burwood as one of Sydney’s key strategic socio-economic hubs. 
We are now looking forward to continuing to work closely with Council, the community and our existing tenants to put all the necessary approvals in place for the delivery of this fantastic development.
"The project will now move through further consultations and approvals.
“Whilst the realisation of this vision is still subject to several more stages in the consultation and approval process, the positive Gateway Determination is a very important initial milestone to achieve."
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Burwood's future takes shape with new development project

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The Cairns market is one of the few regional markets that has performed moderately well over the past five years, according to REQI's latest report.
The quarterly median house price did not grow this quarter, holding steady at $395,000, but compared with 2011, has grown 12.2 percent.
The unit market fell 6.1 percent over the quarter to $225,000, however, for the year the market has grown 4 percent and has grown 6.8 percent over the past five years.
This is remarkable when compared with other regional unit markets.
A two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-cairns+north-117350835" target="_blank">6/281 Esplanade</a>, Cairns North (above) was sold for $375,000.
Similarly a three bedroom house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-cairns+north-123330390" target="_blank"> 382 McLeod Street</a>, Cairns North (below) was recently sold for $390,000.
<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/2017/03/16/382%20McLeod%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Cairns market continues to perform moderately well: REIQ

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The Gladstone median house price fell 3.2 percent this quarter, to $290,000 and over the past 12 months, the market has lost 10.7 percent, according to REIQ's latest report. 
The unit market fell 20.3 percent, to $185,000.
"This market continues to feel the impact of the resources downturn and news last week that the Boyne Island smelter was scaling back production levels," the REIQ noted.
It also reduced its staff by up to 100 workers due to soaring electricity costs, which will only add to market pressures.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-gladstone+central-123190150" target="_blank">10 Herbert Street</a>, Gladstone Central (above) was sold for $284,000.
Similarly a two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-gladstone+central-122022606" target="_blank">6 Oaka Lane</a>, Gladstone Central (below) was sold for $265,000.
<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/2017/03/16/6%20Oaka%20Lane.jpg" alt="">
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Gladstone house market down by 10 percent annually: REIQ

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Greenway has the highest unit stock increase in the ACT in recent times, according to Investar’s latest report.
The property investment firm says that Greenway’s unit stock has increased by 105 percent, from 20 to 41.
For the median price of $340,000 an investor can purchase a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-act-greenway-119417611">304 SQ1 Anketell Street</a>, Greenway (above) for $335,000.
Similarly a one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-act-greenway-124223582">20/114 Athllon Drive</a>, Greenway (below) has been listed for $319,000.
<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/2017/03/17/20_114%20Athllon%20Drive.jpg" alt="">
A two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-act-greenway-122592190">16/114 Athllon Driv</a>e, Greenway (below) was sold for $350,000.
<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/2017/03/17/16_114%20Athllon%20Drive.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-act-greenway-122411506">26/2 Eileen Good Street</a>, Greenway (below) was sold for $300,000.
<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/2017/03/17/26_2%20Eileen%20Good%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Unit stock growth in ACT's Greenway soars: Investar

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A Wilston city-view house has been sold for $1.55 million, making it Brisbane’s most expensive sale last weekend.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-wilston-124729202" target="_blank">18 Main Avenue</a>, the property has been recently renovated and delivers a powerful street presence.
Designed with a balanced use of timber, contemporary grey tones and pendant lighting it offers a selection of indoor and outdoor living options.
<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/2017/03/19/18%20Main%20Avenue-2.jpg" alt="">
Modern entertainers’ kitchen features a blend of stainless and stone along with a butler’s pantry.
The property was offered through McGrath Estate Agents Craig Lea and Garry Jones.
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Signature city-view Wilston house sold for $1.55 million

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McGrath Estate Agents, a division of McGrath Limited, has opened a new office in the bayside suburb of Sans Souci.
McGrath Sans Souci will be led by Matthew King and Kieran Bresnahan.
This is the fourth franchise office under King and Bresnahan’s leadership including the already established Brighton-Le-Sands office, which has been serving the local area for the past seven years.
It will focus on Sans Souci, Ramsgate, Dolls Point, Sandringham and Kogarah Bay.
McGrath founder and executive director John McGrath said the new office located at 333 Rocky Point Road, Sans Souci was the 99th NSW franchise office.
Sans Souci, with its leafy bayside location, recently saw a home sold in excess of $9 million which surpassed the previous suburb record by more than $3 million.
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McGrath opens 99th franchise office at Sans Souci

Apartment buyers in New South Wales are set to gain a decade of insurance-backed protection against major building defects, after the NSW Parliament passed the Fair Trading and Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2026.&nbsp;

The Bill establishes decennial defect insurance, known in the market as Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), as an alternative to the existing two-year strata building bond. It cleared the Legislative Council with amendments on Tuesday evening (August 4, 2026), with the Legislative Assembly agreeing to those amendments shortly after.

Under the reform, eligible developers can satisfy their statutory bond obligation by taking out an approved decennial-style policy that gives owners 10 years of cover for major structural defects from completion, claimable directly, without first having to pursue developers or builders through costly legal action.&nbsp;

The change forms the final tranche of amendments arising from the 2021 statutory review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and related legislation.

Resilience Insurance, which originated the cover in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022, welcomed the passage and credited the NSW Government for delivering it.

“This is protection apartment buyers have needed for a long time, and the credit for delivering it belongs to the NSW Government,”&nbsp;said Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into. Reform like this is what good, evidence-based regulation looks like.”

Resilience has delivered LDI in NSW since 2022, protecting thousands of apartments, giving the State, and now the country, real-world evidence of how decade-long, no-fault protection works in practice.

The reform also places NSW within a wider national shift.

NSW is the third jurisdiction to put decennial cover into law. The ACT legislated for it in 2024, with the scheme taking effect in late 2025, and Victoria passed its own framework on 17 June. Between them, the three cover the majority of Australia's apartment market.

The reform commences once the legislation is proclaimed, which is expected in the coming weeks. From that point, developers of Class 2 residential apartment buildings can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial policy in place of the bond.

Buyers who purchased into projects that took out the cover early are among the first in the country to take keys to apartments carrying decade-long structural protection.

“With the legislation passed, the focus now turns to making it work for buyers,”&nbsp;Nugent said.

“There are already thousands of apartments in NSW covered by this insurance, bought by developers who moved early. The question every buyer should be asking in a display suite is a simple one: does this building come with 10-year defect cover, and who stands behind it?&nbsp;

“We look forward to working with the Government and the Building Commission in coming weeks as the framework moves to implementation, and to sharing what we have learned over the past four years so the protection reaches owners as smoothly and quickly as possible.”

Other states are working through their own reform programs. Western Australia has indicated that decennial cover is within consideration a later stage of its reform sequence, and Queensland has been examining the settings as it looks at the development pipeline ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Resilience Insurance acknowledges the NSW Government’s continued focus on strengthening consumer protection while supporting housing delivery across the State.

Fast Facts: What the reform means

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Proven at scale:&nbsp;Decennial cover has operated in NSW since 2022, protecting thousand of apartments.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">10 years of cover:&nbsp;Protection for major structural defects runs for a decade from completion, claimable directly and with no legal action required.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">An alternative to the bond:&nbsp;Eligible developers can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial-style policy in place of the 2% strata building bond.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Part of a national shift:&nbsp;The ACT has had decennial provisions in force since 2025 and Victoria passed its framework in June. NSW now joins them.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">No-fault, first resort:&nbsp;Owners corporations claim directly from the insurer without first having to establish who is liable for the defect.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost-competitive:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the 2% bond while offering broader, longer protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market position:&nbsp;Resilience originated LDI in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022.</li>
</ul>

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI):&nbsp;Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Consumer-first:&nbsp;Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost advantage:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market leader:&nbsp;&nbsp;Resilience Insurance originated LDI in Australia and is the national market leader.</li>
</ul>

Joel Robinson

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

Builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mcnab-developments">McNab</a> has wasted little time reshaping one of South Brisbane's most significant undeveloped apartment sites after acquiring the property earlier this year.&nbsp;

McNab has lodged plans to scrap an existing approval for two 30-storey towers and instead deliver a single 28-storey residential building, preserving part of the site for a future development opportunity.

The proposal, lodged over <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-peel-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">64 Peel Street and 9 Cordelia Street</a>, is for a residential-led mixed-use development comprising 124 apartments above a landscaped podium, alongside a boundary realignment that preserves part of the land for a future residential project.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="743bf564-3f8f-45fc-b8d3-bbf18f5b628f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20Peel%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=EhCxGrVn_VFH3qTbKnI4WppGwaMnOn0t" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>, the development will deliver 119 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom apartments across 23 residential levels. A five-level podium will accommodate 135 car spaces, while the ground floor will include a 66 sqm commercial tenancy, an activated residential lobby with work-from-home spaces, and a publicly accessible landscaped plaza linking Cordelia and Peel streets.&nbsp;

Communal amenities will span Level 6 and the rooftop, including indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, a swimming pool, barbecue facilities, kitchen and dining areas, lawn space, sauna, steam room and yoga facilities.

The application also proposes a boundary realignment to create a standalone 1,290 sqm development lot while retaining an adjacent parcel for future redevelopment, allowing the balance of the site to contribute additional housing over time.

Hayball said the architecture has been shaped by the site's elevated corner position at the intersection of Peel and Cordelia streets and Brisbane's subtropical climate.

The design incorporates generous landscaped setbacks, a masonry podium wrapped with planting, large north-facing balconies, and a slender tower profile intended to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and long-range views. The rooftop has been conceived as a wellness-focused retreat overlooking Brisbane, with amenities positioned to capture views towards Mount Coot-tha and the CBD.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f99e84-6ad8-4a87-82d1-869685b754d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20tower%20perspective.png?VersionId=Gw0IuJaSAlk.tvGBxInhZOcQAdIB..2b" />

The planning submission positions the proposal as a response to both changing market conditions and Brisbane's Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning reforms.

McNab acquired the site after the previous approval was granted, with the existing scheme no longer reflecting current residential market demands, economic conditions, construction challenges, construction efficiencies or the quality of development outcome now being pursued, the planning report noted.

McNab continues to expand its residential development pipeline across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The developer recently launched The Tannery in West End, securing more than 60 per cent of apartments before the project's public release. It is also delivering Elements Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise and Lucia Highgate Hill, an eight-apartment boutique development overlooking the Brisbane River.

McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower

A steeply sloping Bellevue Hill site is set to accommodate a new mid-rise apartment development, with plans lodged for 20 homes that respond to the site's dramatic topography.

The proposal for the consolidated land at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/138a-140-bellevue-road-bellevue-hill-nsw-2023">138A-140 Bellevue Road</a> has been designed by Sydney architecture practice Common Office, which has used the site’s substantial fall to distribute the building’s scale and unlock 20 apartments without presenting the full height to the street.&nbsp;

“The unique design strategy leverages the site’s substantial topographical fall to facilitate increased density, presenting a seven-storey profile to Bellevue Road while rising to 10 storeys at the rear,” Common Office said in its architectural design report.

The apartment mix spans one, two, three- and four-bedroom residences. Four two-bedroom apartments are designated as affordable housing, while the plans also include two adaptable dwellings. The mix is majority three-beds, with the typical three-bed apartment offering around 144 sqm internally, with balconies of around 15 sqm.

The affordable housing component represents 15 per cent of the residential floor area and allows the project to access additional height and floor space under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing provisions. The site also falls within the inner area of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy because it is within 400 metres walking distance of Double Bay Town Centre.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1230d0f-3bfa-4a11-abaf-0928c66ef345" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da.png?VersionId=dZeMK3P.OutGjN8ycjsxm8uNsj_QFWQv" />

Common Office has arranged the building around a masonry podium and a lighter upper volume, drawing on two recurring elements of Bellevue Hill’s established architecture: sandstone bases and the vertical proportions of local Inter-war Art Deco apartment buildings.

“The proposal is governed by a holistic design language that reconciles the solid horizontal masonry of the neighbourhood’s podiums with the elegant verticality of its Art Deco heritage,” the architect said.

“The building maintains a consistent rhythmic logic utilising deep recesses and a sophisticated material transition to break down the 10-storey scale into a series of articulated, human-scale volumes.”

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0147f503-1af1-4d51-97fb-c2f1cba63a9d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20bldg.png?VersionId=GoW7q3NlK67OpnePXhk7zvklrlKb72Qc" />

Large-format sandstone tiles will define the lower levels, establishing a robust base that negotiates the change in elevation from Bellevue Road. Above, red-tinted precast concrete frames, recessed balconies, anodised aluminium screens and expanded metal details will create a more vertically expressed façade. Integrated planter beds will introduce greenery across balcony edges and recessed sections of the building.

The elongated northern façade has been divided into three recessed vertical masses to reduce its perceived length. Triangular window elements and metal privacy screens reference the geometry of nearby Art Deco buildings while controlling overlooking toward surrounding homes. The southern elevation will incorporate further privacy screening, landscaped edges and deep balconies to maintain light and ventilation.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8679cf1-18bc-4447-8a0f-0052b94ab83c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da%20rooftop.png?VersionId=5SQqQqRFf76rvE2p1TbxJSweMN70AIbc" />

Private and communal landscaping is distributed throughout the development. A landscaped garden apartment is positioned within the lower portion of the site, while a communal terrace on Level 5 will include a central timber deck, barbecue facilities, resident planting plots and areas for outdoor dining and informal gatherings.

Common Office described the terrace as an elevated sanctuary designed to capture district views and sunlight. Its planting strategy incorporates endemic species associated with the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, extending the landscape vertically through the building and providing habitat for local flora and fauna.

A second communal outdoor area is proposed at roof level, with built-in seating, paved gathering areas and perimeter planting.

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction. Positive Investment Enterprise is delivering the 16-apartment Kew Palm House on Birriga Road, while Chanine Developments is also under construction at Florian, a 36-apartment project on Banksia Road.

&nbsp;

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction.

First Look: Apartment development pitched for Bellevue Hill, Double Bay fringe

South Brisbane's apartment pipeline continues to build momentum, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/trk-property-group">TRK Property Group</a> lodging plans for a 161-apartment tower on Montague Road as developers accelerate investment across the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

The proposal for 176–186 Montague Road would replace an existing office building with a 20-storey residential tower designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, adding to a growing pipeline of high-density projects reshaping one of Brisbane's fastest-evolving inner-city precincts.

The project has been conceived as a "living building", featuring a flowing tower form, extensive vertical landscaping, and generous communal spaces that respond to the evolving Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

TRK Property Group Development Director Matt Kan said the project reflected the confidence developers have in South Brisbane's long-term future.

"South Brisbane is entering an incredibly exciting period, and we see Montague Road sitting right at the heart of that evolution," Kan said.

"With the former Visy site directly opposite us and significant investment planned throughout the broader Kurilpa precinct, there is a real sense of momentum around this part of the city and what it will become over the coming years.

"For TRK, this is an opportunity to be part of that next chapter and deliver a project that responds to where the precinct is heading, while contributing to the continued evolution of Brisbane's river edge."

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="590fe1ad-f892-4446-a679-80e33a16d029" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20tower%20facade.png?VersionId=uOJStrcKpyHFcPE1w6_9SMAFzVMCcZll" />

The scheme includes a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, incorporating multi-purpose rooms in selected residences to provide additional flexibility for home offices or expanded living areas. The proposed mix comprises 15 one-bedroom, 13 one-bedroom plus MPR, 73 two-bedroom, 26 two-bedroom plus MPR, 30 three-bedroom, and four four-bedroom apartments.

Rather than adopting a conventional rectilinear tower, COX Architecture has developed a sculpted form inspired by the movement of the Brisbane River.

"The proposal has been designed by COX Architecture as a 'living building' that responds to the site's riverine setting, floodplain history and evolving urban context within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct," the planning report states.

"The architectural form draws from the fluid nature of the Brisbane River, with a curved and undulating tower form that creates a varied architectural edge and avoids a conventional rectilinear tower expression."

The podium has also been designed as an architectural feature rather than a conventional parking structure, with cascading planting, screening and natural-toned materials softening its appearance. Resident parking is elevated above ground level to address the site's flood constraints, while habitable apartments sit above flood planning levels. Upper-level communal facilities are designed to accommodate shelter-in-place arrangements during major flood events.

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01fa15d0-90df-46c7-9555-7941fc45373c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20podium.png?VersionId=mHyua.w1pHGBt9qEdWzrlsv.leztUCwO" />

Communal amenity is a major focus of the proposal. Around 1,815 sqm of shared resident space is proposed across the ground floor, level 19 and the rooftop, including co-working areas, indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, wellness facilities, dining and gathering areas, lawn spaces, a rooftop pool and spa, and extensive landscaping. At street level, a landscaped forecourt and approximately 345 sqm of publicly accessible open space along Montague Road are intended to improve the pedestrian experience while activating the building's frontage.

The development will provide 163 car spaces, including 152 resident bays and 11 visitor spaces, together with 144 bicycle spaces incorporating resident storage, visitor parking, bicycle maintenance facilities and e-mobility charging infrastructure.

The site sits within one of Brisbane's fastest-changing inner-city precincts, less than two kilometres from the CBD and within easy reach of South Bank, West End, the Queensland Cultural Centre and extensive public transport connections. The Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning framework is encouraging higher-density residential development to help meet Brisbane's housing supply targets while supporting walkable, transit-oriented neighbourhoods.

TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans

Article summary

<ul data-end="785" data-start="311">
	<li data-end="459" data-section-id="5hbcyr" data-start="311">Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at Skye Kangaroo Point, headlined by a two-storey sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm.</li>
	<li data-end="561" data-section-id="1p7lq8n" data-start="460">Early buyer interest suggests the residences could set a new Queensland apartment price record.</li>
	<li data-end="667" data-section-id="1y70z0l" data-start="562">The collection includes four move-in ready penthouses and the highly customised Skye One residence.</li>
	<li data-end="785" data-section-id="yvm0y1" data-start="668">The release caps one of Bri​sbane's most ambitious luxury apartment developments overlooking the Brisbane River.</li>
</ul>

<hr data-end="790" data-start="787" />
Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye by Pikos</a> development in Kangaroo Point, with early buyer interest indicating the flagship residences could eclipse every apartment sale previously recorded in Queensland.

The collection crowns the luxury riverfront development with five residences, including four completed penthouses and Skye One, a two-level sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm that will be tailored to its eventual owner.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374075]

Wanting to offer a fully customisable home, Pikos is offering Skye One as a blank canvas, allowing the buyer to work alongside the developer's design team to customise the home's layout, finishes and internal spaces.

The residence will feature a 247 sqm private rooftop terrace with its own swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor kitchen and multiple entertaining areas overlooking the Brisbane River and CBD skyline.

The remaining four penthouses have been completed and are ready for immediate occupation, each offering four bedrooms, expansive open-plan living areas, soaring ceilings and private lift access.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374059]

One of the defining features throughout the project is its use of Roman Classic Travertine, with more than 20,000 sqm of the natural stone imported from Italy after being personally selected by Pikos Group Founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos, interior designer Julie Williamson and third-generation stone specialist Mario Caucci.

Pikos said the penthouse collection represented the culmination of the company's long-term vision for Skye.

"True legacy isn't measured by what we build today, but by what endures tomorrow," Pikos said.

"Our ambition is to create places that become more valuable with time, enrich the lives of generations, and stand as timeless landmarks long after we've stepped away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374060]

Williamson said the interiors were inspired by the natural character of Kangaroo Point and the Brisbane River rather than international design trends.

"Materiality tells the story of a place," Williamson said.

"We looked to the movement of the Brisbane River, the texture of the cliff face and the warmth of the surrounding landscape to create interiors that feel understated, enduring and unmistakably Brisbane."

Positioned above the Kangaroo Point cliffs, Skye places residents within walking distance of Howard Smith Wharves, South Bank and James Street while offering uninterrupted river and city views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=90059]

Staff reporter

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