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A confidential National Australia Bank borrowers’ blacklist of more than 600 towns and suburbs across Australia has emerged where it has capped lending to property buyers.
It is because of what the bank sees as continued or growing risks in the housing market.
The listed has 120 postcodes across the nation will need a larger deposit of as much as 30 percent to be eligible for a loan “to ensure that we are lending responsibly and sustainably”, according to internal documents used by the bank to explain its change in strategy to mortgage brokers.
NAB’s list is divided into A category postcodes, where loan-to-value ratios are capped at 70 percent, and B category, where it is 80 percent.
Rural Western Australia, South Australia, Northern Territory and Queensland are most affected, with buyers needing a 30 percent deposit to qualify for a loan.
Those wanting to by an inner city apartment in many suburbs in Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne will need a 20 percent deposit.
Group A 70 percent LVR
WA
6390 Boddington*
6429 Coolgardie*
6436 Menzies, Ularring
6437 Leinster, Sir Samuel
6438 Leonora, Lake Darlot
6440 Bandya, Beadell, Cosmo Newberry, Lake Wells, Laverton, Neale
6442 Kambalda East and West
6442 Meekatharra*
6646 Wiluna, Lake Carnegie, Little Sandy Desert
6710 Cane, Onslow, Peedamulla, Talandji, Yannarie
6713 Dampier
6714 Antonymyre, Balla Balla, Banynton, Bulgarra, Burrup, Cleaverville, Cooya Pooya, Gap Ridge, Gnoorea, Karratha, Karratha Industrial Estate, Maitland, Mardie, Millars Well, Mulataga, Nickol, Pegs Creek, Sherlock, Stove Hill
6716 Pannawonica*
6718 Roebourne, Whim Creek
6720 Cossack, Point Samson, Wickham
6721 Port Hedland*
6722 South Hedland*
6725 Eighty Mile Beach*
6728 St George Ranges*
6751 Tom Price*
6753 Newman
6754 Paraburdoo
6758 Nullagine
6760 Marble Bar
QLD
4413 Auburn*
4415 Columboola*
4420 Baroondah*
4455 Wycombe*
4521 Mount Pleasant*
4581 Eurong, Fraser Island, Inskip, Rainbow Beach
4660 Apple Tree Creek*
4674 Oyster Creek*
4678 Bororen, Foreshores, Rodds Bay, Turkey Beach
4680 Gladstone*
4715 Mount Murchison*
4717Blackwater
4720 Emerald, Yammala
4737 Sarina*
4738 Ilbilbie, Koumala
4740 Beaconsfield*
4741 Mount Ossa*
4742 Burton, Eaglefield, Elphinstone, Hail Creek, Kemmis, Mount Britton, Nebo, Oxford, Strathfield, Turrawulla, Valkyrie
4743 Suttor, Glenden
4744 Moranbah
4745 Cotherstone, Dysart
4746 May Downs, Middlemount
4800 Conway*
4804 Collinsville, Mount Coolon, Mount Wyatt, Newlands, Scottville, Springlands
4805 Bowen*
4820 Campaspe*
SA
5600 Whyalla, Whyalla Playford
5601 Point Lowly*
5608 Whyalla Norrie, Whyalla Stuart
5609 Whyalla Jenkins
5725 Olympic Dam, Roxby Downs NT
0885 Alyangula
TAS
7030 Brighton*
7155 Kettering
7467 Queenstown, Lake Margaret
7468 Macquarie Heads, Strahan
7469 Zeehan, Trial Harbour, Renison Bell, Granville Harbour
7470 Rosebery
Group B 80 percent LVR
NSW
2000 Barangaroo, Dawes Point, Haymarket, Millers Point, Sydney, The Rocks
2008 Chippendale, Darlington
2017 Waterloo, Zetland
2019 Banksmeadow, Botany
2037 Forest Lodge, Glebe
2067 Chatswood
2112 Denistone East, Putney, Ryde
2118 Carlingford
2127 Newington, Sydney Olympic Park, Wentworth Point
2140 Homebush
2141 Berala, Lidcombe, Rookwood
2142 Camellia, Clyde, Granville, Holroyd, Rosehill
2144 Auburn
2146 Toongabbie
2150 Harris Park, Parramatta
2153 Baulkham Hills, Bella Vista, Winston Hills
2166 Cabramatta, Canley Vale, Canley Heights, Lansvale
2168 Ashcroft, Busby, Cartwright, Green Valley, Heckenberg, Hichinbrook, Miller, Sadleir
2194 Campsie
2195 Lakemba, Wiley Park
2199 Yagoona
2205 Arncliffe, Turella, Wolli Creek
2208 Kingsgrove
2209 Beverly Hills, Narwee
2210 Lungarno, Peakhurst, Riverwood
2211 Padstow
2220 Hurstville
2222 Penhurst
2566 Varroville, Bow Bowing, Minto, Raby, St Andrews
2767 Bungarribee, Doonside, Woodcroft
2769 The Ponds
VIC
3000 Melbourne CBD
3004 St Kilda Road Central
3006 South Bank, South Wharf
3008 Docklands
3067 Abbotsford
QLD
4000 Brisbane City, Petrie Terrace, Spring Hill
4006 Bowen Hills, Fortitude Valley, Herston, Newstead
4010 Albion
4032 Chermside,
4101 Highgate Hill, South Brisbane, West End
4102 Dutton Park, Woolloongabba
4215 Labrador, Southport
SA
5000 CBD Adelaide
5001 CBD Adelaide
WA
6000 Perth CBD
6003 Highgate, Northbridge
6004 East Perth
6005 Kings Park, West Perth
6100 Burswood, Lathlain, Victoria Park
6103 Rivervale NT
800 Darwin
* = and surrounds
“NAB takes into account a range of economic factors, and regularly monitors the performance of local markets to ensure we continue to lend responsibly and sustainably,” a bank spokesperson told The Australian Financial Review.
“We recognise that no two suburbs are the same, and there are some geographic areas across Australia which have been impacted by local economic conditions.
"As a responsible lender, we adopt strategies in these geographic areas that seek to reduce the risk to our customers and our business.”
The bank is still lending to borrowers in the named suburbs.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

The 600 suburbs where the NAB requires more than a 10 percent deposit for home loans

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Terinallum, originally settled by the Clyde Company in 1846 in Victoria’s Western District, is up for sale.
It has been listed by stockbroker John McIntosh and wife Marita after 27 years ownership through Colliers International agent Shane McIntyre and Tim Altschwager. There's unconfirmed suggestions it could fetch $30 million plus.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-livestock-vic-darlington-7856010" target="_blank">Terinallum</a> is a 3,240 hectare property near Darlington, productive with fat lambs, wool production, beef and cropping. There's also been diary adjistment.
With lawns down to Mount Emu Creek, the bluestone homestead is surrounded by three ha Open Garden Scheme acclaimed grounds with dry stone walls, an 80m wisteria walk, a reflection pool, tennis court, croquet lawn and hothouse. 
There's guest cottages and the 1850s bluestone woolshed with 12 stands. 
Terinallum was once the property of Aspro heir Lindsay Nicholas and his wife, Hephzibah Menuhin, a virtuoso pianist and sister of the great violinist Yehudi Menuhin. Offers close November 30.
“Terinallum is a rare jewel in the state of Victoria,” McIntyre said.
“Seldom do rural properties of such high calibre come to the market.
“Not only is this one of Victoria’s most significant historical properties, it also offers productive versatility of fat lambs, wool production, beef and cropping in an area highly regarded for its reliable seasons.”
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Terrinallum2.jpg" alt="">
Terinallum, originally settled by the Clyde Company in 1846, is well located with 24km of frontage to Mount Emu Creek. 
Reliably watered by natural springs, the property has been astutely developed with centre pivot irrigation enabling Lucerne and fodder production supporting 17,000 sheep (including lambs), 550ha of winter crop and up to 500 dairy agistment cattle per year.
It is fenced into 60 paddocks, with a central laneway system, and formed roads throughout the property, 
Soils comprise a combination of sought after dark alluvial loams and well drained volcanic basalt plains, with the cropping land typically supported by 600mm rainfall zones.
<img src="/images/2016/10/18/Terrinallum3.jpg" alt="">
“Over the past 12 months, this region has seen a sharp upswing in arable land values on the back of renewed corporate interest in the district, tight supply of listings and a ‘flight to quality’ from institutional investors as well as favourable key agricultural indicators,” Mr McIntyre said.
“Record low interest rates, a favourable exchange rate, an unprecedented number of Free Trade Agreements with our global trading partners, record beef prices, surging lamb values, and an improving wool market have combined to create a platform of strong domestic and international interest in primary production rarely seen before.
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Historic Terinallum, Western Districts farm offering

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The well-known New England farm, Achill West, located east of the city of Armidale has been listed by the Sydney fund manager Iain Gray.
There is an online auction for Achill West, a 2216-hectare grazing property which comes with expectations of between $8 million and $8.5 million.
The property originally formed part of the Coventry family's Armidale wool-growing stations. 
Mr Gray, who runs advisory firm Sydney Fund Managers Ltd, acquired Achill West through PSLT Pty Ltd from Will McClenaghan in 2007 for $6.7 million, ending 106 years of Coventry ownership.
The listing agent Chris Meares from Meares &amp; Associates said Achill West was also ideally suited to prime lamb or wool production.
"Comprising a diverse 2,216.06 hectares (5,473.67 acres) of predominantly open undulating but well sheltered country, Achill West represents an excellent opportunity for prospective buyers to take advantage of the current strength in the livestock market," he said.
Around 70% of the property is arable and would be suitable for cash or fodder cropping, as well as highly suited to further improved pasture establishment.
Apart from existing improved pastures, an additional 350 hectares has been established over the past 3 years with rye grass, clover, plantain mixes.
With frontage to the Saint Helena and Four Mile Creeks, plus 69 surface dams, the property is subdivided into 56 main paddocks, averaging 42 hectares per paddock. 
The main homestead is a 4 bedroom weatherboard and galvanized iron home (approx. 260sqm), with a separate weatherboard and galvanized iron sleep-out adjacent.
Achill West is offered for sale via Meares Online auction on 22nd and 23rd November, 2016.
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 Well-known New England property Achill West for auction

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As in other emerging market economies, incomplete information prevents a full assessment of the fiscal buffers in China, according to IMF's latest report.
However, preliminary estimates suggest the general government’s net financial worth could range between 0 and a negative 23 percent of GDP, better than that in other emerging market economies.
Nonfinancial assets may provide additional buffers, but the extent of contingent liabilities and age-related spending increases are important sources of vulnerability.
With high and rising corporate debt and potential contingent liabilities from the financial sector and state-owned enterprises (IMF 2016d), it is important to assess the strength of the general government’s balance sheet in China to facilitate a necessary adjustment.
While it is often difficult to estimate the general government’s net financial worth in emerging market economies given the dearth of information especially on the asset side, in the case of China, shortcomings in data on the fiscal accounts and an intricate network of cross-financing make this task particularly challenging:
• Liabilities. Until recently, a significant amount of liabilities associated with off-budget local infrastructure spending, which benefited from implicit or explicit government guarantees, was not included in debt aggregates. Under the 2015 budget law, aimed at improving transparency of local government finances, about 20 percent of GDP of these liabilities have been explicitly recognized as part of China’s general government debt, resulting in a doubling of the debt ratio. An additional 12 percent of GDP has been recognized as contingent government liabilities. Nevertheless, there may be other off-budget contingent liabilities incurred in 2015, estimated at 5 percent of GDP, that have yet to be acknowledged.
• Assets. Available estimates suggest that the general government’s largest financial asset is related to its participation into state-owned enterprises (Chinese Academy of Social Science 2015; Xu and Zhang 2014; People’s Bank of China), but detailed data about the government’s total holding of equity in state-owned enterprises is not publicly available.
A first attempt to estimate the general government’s net financial worth suggests that it is between a positive 3 percent and a negative 23 per- cent of GDP, better than the negative 24 percent on average in other emerging market economies (Figure 1.1.1). In particular, at the end of 2015, financial liabilities amounted to 38–55 percent of GDP (depending on whether off-budget and contingent liabilities are included).
Financial assets (comprising deposits in financial institutions—5 percent of GDP—and equity holdings in state-owned enterprises) are estimated at between 32 and 41 percent of GDP. This wide range is related to significant uncertainties regarding the valuation of state-owned enterprises, as many of them are not traded.
<a href="/images/2016/10/24/China.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/China.jpg" alt="">
On the basis of these enterprises’ net asset positions, the government’s equity holdings could be worth around 36 percent of GDP.2 A more conservative assumption based on their profitability would reduce this estimate to 27 percent of GDP.
 The general government’s net financial worth may not, however, give a full picture of the available buffers. Ideally one would like to look at the public sector (including the central bank), but limitations of available data on public corporations, including estimates of the value of implicit government guarantees, preclude a full assessment.
In addition, other nonfinancial assets and other contingent liabilities of the general government should be accounted for. For example, the value of land ownership (a nonfinancial asset) estimated by computing the net present value of net use right fees for the next 25 years could be up to 51 percent of GDP. On the other hand, under current policies, estimated increases in age-related spending (following the methodology in Clements and others 2015) would amount to 128 percent of GDP in net present value terms.
Also, contingent liabilities such as potential losses on corporate loans from rapid and inefficient credit expansion may put further pressure on the fiscal accounts (April 2016 Global Financial Stability Report). Additional losses can be expected in other parts of the financial system, especially in shadow credit products.
Limited information makes it difficult to manage risks and can lead to markets’ overreaction to policy changes. From that perspective, a priority for China should be to strengthen its fiscal risk analysis and management framework, starting with a clear and transparent identification of assets, liabilities, and exposures.
Full implementation of the 2015 budget law would be a step in this direction. Once risks are identified and quantified, tools to mitigate risks (including limits on exposures, regulations, and a mechanism to transfer risks) could be considered, along with decisions about risk provisions, contingency budgeting, and buffer funds.
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What we know about the general government’s balance sheet in China: IMF

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Springvale in Victoria is the suburb with the fastest house price growth, according to Investar’s latest market report.
The website states that Springvale’s growth has increased by 29% compared to last year.
This is followed by Keysborough in Victoria which had a growth of 27% with Harrington Park and Rosemeadow taking equal third place with 25%.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
State
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Dwelling type
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Median listing price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
1 year change
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Springvale
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
VIC
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
$600,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
29%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Keysborough
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
VIC
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
$791,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
27%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Harrington Park
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
$910,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
25%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Rosemeadow
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
$500,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
25%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Berkeley Vale
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
$472,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
24%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
An example of a house priced around the $600,000 median in Springvale is one that has four bedrooms at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-springvale-123623822" target="_blank">29 Lee Avenue</a> (above) that was recently sold for $602,000.
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Springvale takes top spot as fastest house price growth: Investar

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Melbourne’s market has been described as one of the best for sellers in years – with all the stars aligned at present, according to the REIV CEO Geoff White.
He said that the Spring market was delivering everything home sellers need: solid price growth, high clearance rates and strong buyer demand.
In the September quarter, the city’s median house price increased 3.2 per cent to $740,000 Melbourne-wide, he said.
“The median price increase is taking place in tandem with a Spring clearance rate of close to 80 per cent, the highest in seven years,” he said.
“Everything is aligned for sellers, who are benefitting from strong buyer confidence and record low interest rates.”
Melbourne’s inner and middle suburbs were the main growth drivers in the September quarter with house prices in these regions up 4.2 and 3.5 per cent respectively.
After two successive quarters of strong price growth, the city’s outer suburbs recorded more moderate growth of 1.1 per cent.
He added that the top growth suburbs this quarter were widespread across the city – from Seaford in the outer south east to Williamstown and Werribee in the west.
Mr White said that Langwarrin recorded the city’s largest price growth with the median house price increasing 20 per cent over the quarter to $561,000. He added that outer suburbs remain attractive to many home buyers and investors.
“Melbourne’s more affordable areas continue to appeal to buyers seeking the value and space that the outer suburbs offer,” he said. Meanwhile, apartment prices across the city also increased in the September quarter with the metropolitan median up 2.1 per cent to $545,500.
Mr White said that although listings have not reached the peaks of 2015, the current median price and excellent clearance rates indicates that the market is as healthy as ever.
“The market shows no signs of slowing down. The September quarter was stronger than expected and the market is only expected to improve with more than 4,000 auctions forecast for October.”
QUARTERLY OVERVIEW – SEPTEMBER QUARTER 2016
<table style="width: 495px;" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" valign="bottom" nowrap width="257">
Top 10 Growth Suburbs (Quarterly)
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="90">
 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="24">
 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="141">
 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="92">
 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="90">
 
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="64">
 
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="24">
 
</td>
<td width="141">
Suburb
</td>
<td width="92">
Sep-16 Median
</td>
<td width="90">
Jun-16 Median
</td>
<td width="64">
Quarterly Change
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="24">
1
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="141">
LANGWARRIN
</td>
<td nowrap width="92">
$561,000
</td>
<td nowrap width="90">
$467,550
</td>
<td nowrap width="64">
20.0%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="24">
2
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="141">
WILLIAMSTOWN
</td>
<td nowrap width="92">
$1,353,750
</td>
<td nowrap width="90">
$1,140,500
</td>
<td nowrap width="64">
18.7%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="24">
3
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="141">
SEAFORD
</td>
<td nowrap width="92">
$605,500
</td>
<td nowrap width="90">
$516,500
</td>
<td nowrap width="64">
17.2%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="24">
4
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="141">
FOOTSCRAY
</td>
<td nowrap width="92">
$855,000
</td>
<td nowrap width="90">
$745,000
</td>
<td nowrap width="64">
14.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="24">
5
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="141">
FRANKSTON
</td>
<td nowrap width="92">
$504,000
</td>
<td nowrap width="90">
$440,000
</td>
<td nowrap width="64">
14.5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="24">
6
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="141">
MALVERN EAST
</td>
<td nowrap width="92">
$1,914,000
</td>
<td nowrap width="90">
$1,681,000
</td>
<td nowrap width="64">
13.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="24">
7
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="141">
KEW
</td>
<td nowrap width="92">
$2,153,500
</td>
<td nowrap width="90">
$1,907,500
</td>
<td nowrap width="64">
12.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="24">
8
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="141">
BRUNSWICK
</td>
<td nowrap width="92">
$1,056,000
</td>
<td nowrap width="90">
$935,000
</td>
<td nowrap width="64">
12.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="24">
9
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="141">
GLEN WAVERLEY
</td>
<td nowrap width="92">
$1,290,000
</td>
<td nowrap width="90">
$1,150,000
</td>
<td nowrap width="64">
12.2%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="24">
10
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="141">
ALTONA NORTH
</td>
<td nowrap width="92">
$788,000
</td>
<td nowrap width="90">
$702,500
</td>
<td nowrap width="64">
12.2%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
 
 
</body></html>

Langwarrin tops Melbourne's price growth climb: REIV

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Nangwarry in South Australia is one of the suburbs where you can purchase a house for around $100,000, according to Investar’s latest market report.
The property investment firm says that the average median house in Nangwarry is $99,000.
This is followed by Greenvale in QLD and Jerramungup in WA both at $100,000.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
State
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Median listing price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Nangwarry
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
SA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$99,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Greenvale
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$100,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Jerramungup
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$100,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Collinsville
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$100,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Dysart
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$100,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Logan Central
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$102,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
There's a three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-nangwarry-120711345" target="_blank">10 O'Loughlin Street</a> (above) that is for sale for $99,500.
Similarly a three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-nangwarry-118163855" target="_blank">11 Vaughan Terrace</a> (below) is also for sale for $98,000.
<img src="/images/2016/10/22/11%20Vaughan%20Terrace.jpg" alt="">
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Nangwarry in South Australia has house prices around $100,000: Investar

<html><body>
Redcliffe in Qld is the fastest growing suburb for a unit, according to Investar’s latest market report.
The property investment firm states that Redcliffe’s growth has increased by 31% compared to last year.
This is followed by Box Hill in Victoria which had a growth of 26% with both Labrador and Varsity Lakes taking equal third place with 25%.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
State
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Dwelling type
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Median listing price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
1 year change
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Redcliffe
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$599,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     31%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Box Hill
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
VIC
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$347,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     26%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Labrador
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$320,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     25%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Varsity Lakes
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$549,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     25%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Penrith
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$389,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     21%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Wollongong
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$475,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     20%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Burwood
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$838,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     19%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Port Macquarie
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$328,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     19%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Lane Cove
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$750,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     19%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Gladesville
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$750,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     19%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
An example of a unit around the $599,000 median in Redcliffe is a three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-redcliffe-119198987" target="_blank">402/99 Marine Parade</a> (above) that is for sale for $599,000.
</body></html>

Queensland's Redcliffe fastest growing suburb for unit prices: Investar

<html><body>
A vacant Brunswick East retail property has been listed for November 19 auction.
It comes with a land area of 190 sqm with a floor size of 100 sqm.
It is listed with a price guide of between $870,000 to $950,000.
The property at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-brunswick+east-502143014" target="_blank">400 Lygon Street, Brunswick East</a> (above) is approved for Commercial 1 zoning.
It has a frontage of 6.25 metres on one of Melbourne’s most tightly held retail strips.
The property offers the right of way at the rear and it includes a car park space.
This property is offered through Nelson Alexander agent David Hutchinson.
</body></html>

Vacant Lygon Street, Brunswick East retail space for auction

<html><body>
The Cairns market has slowed in terms of numbers of sales, with sale numbers during 2015 to 2016 as a whole down by about 7% on 2014 to 2015, according to Herron Todd White’s latest monthly market report.
The property advisory firm says that in addition price growth during the year has been minimal.
"Our chart shows the price breakdown for houses sold in Cairns in each price category in 2015 to 2016 compared to 2014 to 2015. It highlights that the majority of house sales remains clustered in the $300,000 to $450,000 price bracket and is relative to a Cairns median house price of precisely $400,000 during the 2015 to 2016 year," the report stated.
House sales during 2015 to 2016 have slowed noticeably in each of the sub $450,000 price brackets and most noticeably in the sub $350,000 price bracket. This is most likely due to a lack of first home buyers and low end investors in the market.
An example would be a four bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bentley+park-123837730" target="_blank">20 Cadell Street</a> (above) that is for sale for $359,000.
However sales overall have increased in the $450,000 plus price brackets as confidence has continued to slowly build in this segment.
Sales in the $1 million plus category occurred during 2015 to 2016 across a variety of suburbs, with the highest numbers being observed in Redlynch, Trinity Park, Whitfield and Holloways Beach.
</body></html>

Minimal Cairns house price growth: HTW

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Joel Robinson

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366760]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366769]

A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366762]

The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

Luxury apartment buyers have long prioritised design, space and finishes, but increasingly they're placing equal importance on something less tangible: how easily they can live without relying on a car.

At <a>Richmond Square</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> believes that convenience begins beyond the apartment itself, with the mixed-use precinct earning a near-perfect Walk Score of 99.

The development has been planned around the idea that some of the most valuable amenities aren't contained within a building, they're the restaurants, cafés, parks, transport connections and daily conveniences that can all be reached on foot.

Located just behind Swan Street and Church Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/richmond-square-1-wiltshire-street-richmond-vic-3121">Richmond Square</a> places residents within one of Melbo​u​rne's most established lifestyle precincts while offering a quieter residential setting removed from the busiest thoroughfares. East Richmond Station is moments away, trams run along both Swan and Church Streets, and the MCG, Melb​​ourne Park, Yarra River trails and the CBD are all within walking distance. At the same time, the precinct itself will introduce a curated mix of dining, retail, hospitality and wellness offerings, creating a destination that extends well beyond its residential buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348530]

For Fortis, that combination of location and scale was what made the site unique.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a> is one of Melb​o​urne's most established and distinctive inner-city neighbourhoods, with a rare combination of dining, culture, recreation, public transport and proximity to the CBD," the developer said.

"The opportunity at Wiltshire Street was particularly compelling because the site sits slightly removed from the activity of Swan and Church Streets while remaining only moments from everything that makes the area desirable."

Rather than developing a standalone apartment building, Fortis consolidated 15 individual properties to create one of the larger development parcels assembled on Mel​b​ourne's city fringe in recent years. That allowed the team to deliver a genuine mixed-use precinct comprising 107 residences across Wiltshire House and Carmine House, premium office space, hospitality venues, retail, wellness offerings and a future 57-room hotel.

"The scale of the site allowed Fortis to think beyond a standalone apartment building," the developer said.

"Richmond Square could be planned as a complete lifestyle precinct, bringing homes, workplaces, dining, retail, hospitality and wellness together around a series of activated public spaces. The aim was to create a destination that feels connected to Richmond rather than separate from it."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348533]

The emphasis on walkability has also resonated with buyers.

Interest has been strongest from established owner-occupiers, particularly downsizers from Richmond and Melb​ourne's inner east who want to remain close to familiar restaurants, workplaces, family and social networks while moving into a more secure, lower-maintenance home. The project is also attracting Mornington Peninsula and interstate buyers seeking a Melb​ourne residence they can lock up and leave between visits.

Many are looking for generous living spaces, room to entertain, quality finishes and confidence in the project team, but location remains one of the biggest deciding factors.

"For many buyers, Richmond Square provides a way to simplify the practical side of home ownership without reducing the quality of their lifestyle," the sales team said.

"Location is also a major driver of interest. Buyers can remain connected to the CBD, major sporting events, the arts centres, local restaurants, cafes and bars and their family while living in a private and secure residence that is easy to lock up and leave for weekends or longer periods away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348549]

The residences themselves have been designed with that buyer in mind. Award-winning architecture practice SJB and interior designers Hecker Guthrie have created spacious two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses that prioritise generous living areas, natural light, bespoke joinery and private terraces. Above, a rooftop sanctuary by Acre includes landscaped lawns, bookable dining rooms, barbecue facilities, wellness spaces and panoramic views across the CBD, the MCG and Port Phillip Bay.

Fortis believes Richmond Square reflects a broader evolution in apartment living, where the surrounding neighbourhood becomes just as important as the residence itself.

"Richmond Square introduces a different proposition: generously proportioned residences within a genuinely mixed-use, hospitality-led destination," the developer said.

"The project's location and Walk Score of 99 further support a lifestyle where residents can complete many everyday journeys without relying on a car."

Fortis has assembled an experienced team that includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/hecker-guthrie">Hecker Guthrie</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a> and builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hacer-group">Hacer Group</a>, reflecting the developer's commitment to creating projects with enduring design quality and meaningful connections to the communities in which they sit.&nbsp;

Richmond Square is an expression of that philosophy, bringing together homes, workplaces, hospitality and wellness within one of Me​lb​ourne's most walkable neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

Construction is now almost complete, providing purchasers with growing confidence ahead of its expected September 2026 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13181]

Walk Score of 99 places Richmond Square at the heart of Melbourne's most connected lifestyle

<h3 data-end="19" data-section-id="1dvgwoe" data-start="0">Summary</h3>

<ul data-end="634" data-start="21">
	<li data-end="170" data-section-id="1o77v31" data-start="21">Walker Corporation has lodged plans for a second major residential development in the Maroochydore City Centre, a 29-storey tower known as Celeste.</li>
	<li data-end="327" data-section-id="1lb0y6t" data-start="171">The Plus Studio-designed proposal at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade would deliver 208 apartments, including four four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.</li>
	<li data-end="487" data-section-id="za720" data-start="328">The application comes as Walker doubles down on Maroochydore following the strong sales campaign at SOL by Walker, where the first tower is nearing sell-out.</li>
	<li data-end="634" data-section-id="5sovec" data-start="488">Walker is a key partner in the transformation of the Maroochydore City Centre, which is expected to ultimately deliver at least 4,000 new homes.</li>
</ul>

Walker Corporation is doubling down on Maroochydore following the successful sales campaign at its first residential project in the emerging CBD.

The national developer has filed plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celeste-30-sunshine-coast-parade-maroochydore-qld-4558">Celeste</a>, a new 29-storey apartment tower at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade, just metres from its under-construction SOL by Walker development.

The plans, prepared by Plus Studio, would see 208 apartments delivered across a 100-metre tower on the 2,376 sqm site, which fronts Sunshine Coast Parade, First Avenue and Future Way within the Maroochydore Priority Development Area.

<img alt="Walker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17038209-6fea-4ed2-855d-fd4df65b3d02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=iZD.oVXcQn.aLpUytDAW.CWjxP4puWMy" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 36 one-bedroom apartments, 48 two-bedroom apartments, 72 two-bedroom apartments with an additional multipurpose space, and 48 three-bedroom apartments.

The upper levels would be capped by two four-bedroom sub-penthouses and two four-bedroom penthouses, taking the total apartment count to 208. The preliminary yield study also provides 262 car spaces, 114 resident bicycle spaces and storage for each apartment.

It represents Walker's next major residential move in the new Maroochydore CBD after the success of SOL by Walker, its $220 million two-tower project nearby.

SOL launched to market in early 2025 and has since seen strong demand, particularly from local owner-occupiers. By February this year, Walker said the first SOL tower was nearing sell-out, with a strong waitlist also emerging for its recently released penthouse collection.

Construction is already underway on SOL, with the first tower expected to be completed in late 2027 and the second to follow in early 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

<h2 data-end="2518" data-section-id="1b2dyo5" data-start="2459">Celeste to rise 100 metres over Maroochydore City Centre</h2>

Celeste would take a different form to the twin 19-storey buildings at SOL.

Plus Studio has designed a single 100-metre tower above an activated podium, with the architecture responding to the site's prominent position and three street frontages.

The podium would incorporate commercial tenancies and public art, with sweeping façade elements wrapping the street edges. The scalloped concrete podium has been inspired by the patterns created in sand at low tide, while extensive landscaping would continue vertically through the tower.

The ground level plans show three commercial tenancies addressing Sunshine Coast Parade alongside the residential lobby and landscaped public realm. The podium would then accommodate several levels of car parking before the residential tower rises above.

<img alt="Celeste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="121f77b1-71c5-46d7-9b36-0a7d474211ca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=MGrg9Hb7HgzLN0Lelq_xrXNAruVl77ia" />

Plus Studio said the tower had been designed to maximise views from each apartment, taking in the Maroochy River, Sunshine Coast hinterland, Cotton Tree and Maroochydore Beach and ocean.

Those views have also shaped one of the project's key features, with Walker proposing to put the primary resident amenity on Level 29 rather than lower within the building.

The rooftop would feature a 284.9 sqm pool area with an infinity edge, along with a cold pool, spa, sauna, 93.2 sqm gym, sunset lounge, BBQ and dining areas, pool deck and private dining space. Cabanas and day beds are also shown across the recreation level.

The two penthouses would extend across the upper levels and each feature private terraces and plunge pools.

<h2 data-end="4202" data-section-id="v5f4ix" data-start="4160">Walker's growing Maroochydore footprint</h2>

Celeste further reinforces Walker's commitment to the transformation of Maroochydore City Centre.

Walker is one of the key partners delivering the new CBD alongside Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral Maroochydore, with the broader 62-hectare Priority Development Area occupying the former Horton Park Golf Course and surrounding land.

The precinct is ultimately expected to accommodate at least 4,000 new homes as Maroochydore evolves into the Sunshine Coast's principal commercial and residential centre.

When SOL secured approval in February 2025, Walker Managing Director and CEO David Gallant described it as the "first of many residential projects" the company planned for the Maroochydore City Centre.

Celeste now provides the clearest indication yet of what comes next.

The site sits immediately within the new CBD, with the design report identifying Sunshine Plaza and surrounding parkland within walking distance and Maroochydore Beach around a five-minute drive away.

For Walker, the timing of the application comes as its first residential bet on the new CBD appears to have been vindicated.

SOL has progressed from planning approval to construction while its first release has approached sell-out, giving Walker confidence to push ahead with another 208 apartments and take its residential pipeline in the Maroochydore City Centre to around 450 dwellings across the two projects.

Celeste remains subject to planning approval, with the architectural material describing the scheme as a preliminary yield study that may change through the assessment process.

Walker doubles down on Maroochydore with 29-storey Celeste apartment tower

For most Australians, buying an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make

The location, floorplan and price are often the first considerations, but in recent years another question has become increasingly important: who is actually delivering the project?

A series of high-profile builder collapses, construction delays and defect concerns have fundamentally changed how many Victorians approach buying off the plan. The collapse of Porter Davis in 2023, which reportedly left around 1,700 homes unfinished, became one of the most visible examples of the risks that can emerge when a construction company fails. <a href="https://www.equifax.com.au/sites/default/files/lpassets/pdf/Final-Business-Market-Pulse-June-Sector-Deep-Dive-Report-2.pdf">Similar challenges across the broader construction sector</a> have left buyers asking more questions before signing a contract.

As Victoria continues encouraging higher-density housing to address supply shortages, transparency is becoming just as important as location or price.

One tool increasingly entering the conversation is the <a href="https://icirt.com/">Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT)</a>, an independent assessment framework designed to help buyers better understand the developer or builder behind a project. Originally developed by Equifax in consultation with government and industry as part of NSW's Construct NSW reforms, the system has since expanded nationally.

<h2 data-end="1519" data-section-id="7nmx3" data-start="1492">What is an iCIRT rating?</h2>

Most Australians are familiar with independent ratings in everyday life.

We compare ANCAP safety ratings before buying a car. We look at Health Star Ratings in supermarkets. Banks rely on credit assessments when lending money.

Until recently, however, there has been very little independent information available to help apartment buyers assess the business responsible for delivering a residential project.

That gap is what iCIRT was designed to address.

Builders, developers and other construction professionals with an iCIRT rating have demonstrated high-trust characteristics through an independent, evidence-based assessment across six criteria: Character, Capability, Conduct, Capacity, Capital and Counterparties. This involves a rigorous review of financial health, past project track record, and ethical conduct. Crucially, an iCIRT rating could help provide property buyers with confidence that they are working with a professional who has demonstrated the capability, capacity, and willingness to return and rectify issues.

Importantly, iCIRT is not a recommendation to purchase a particular property, nor is it a traditional credit rating. It is an independent assessment framework designed to provide objective information about a construction business using a <a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Methodology-Issue1-May-2021.pdf">published methodology</a>.

The system has been widely adopted in New South Wales, where more than one-third of medium and large residential builders and developers now hold an iCIRT rating, representing over two-thirds of the state's residential building market by value as of 2025/26.

<h2 data-end="3126" data-section-id="h6ohtj" data-start="3084">Why buyers are doing more due diligence</h2>

For many buyers, particularly those purchasing off the plan, the biggest risk isn't whether they'll like the kitchen finishes.

It's whether the project will be delivered on time, to the expected quality, and by a company capable of completing the development.

<a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/iCIRT%202025%20Consumer%20Survey%20Report%20v05.pdf">Consumer research commissioned by iCIRT</a> found more than half of respondents believed current protections do not adequately safeguard buyers from builder insolvencies or defective projects. Other research found 88 per cent of prospective buyers would seek independent ratings or due diligence before purchasing, while 90 per cent said trust in construction professionals is essential.

That doesn't mean buyers should rely on a single rating alone.

Independent legal advice, understanding the contract, and seeking financial advice all remain important parts of the due diligence process.

However, an independent assessment can provide another source of information alongside those traditional checks.

<h2 data-end="4138" data-section-id="pquzxc" data-start="4094">Trust is becoming a competitive advantage</h2>

The conversation isn't only changing for buyers.

Developers are also recognising that trust has become an increasingly important part of the sales process.

Five years ago, purchasers typically asked about floorplans, finishes and settlement dates.

Today, sales teams are increasingly being asked about the developer's experience, financial stability, previous projects and construction partners.

For companies with strong governance and established delivery records, an independent iCIRT rating provides another way to demonstrate those credentials before buyers even visit a display suite.

According to Equifax, the assessment can also help businesses drive sales and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/icirt-rating-helps-scion-secure-high-value-projects">secure high-value projects</a>, as well as identify operational improvements and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/mirvac-reinforces-brand-trust-and-quality-independent-icirt-rating">attract top talent</a>.

<h2 data-end="4962" data-section-id="1j54ng5" data-start="4912">Beyond buyers: lenders are paying attention too</h2>

The influence of independent construction ratings is also extending beyond consumers.

According to Stamford Capital's Real Estate Debt Capital Markets Survey, an increasing number of lenders now incorporate iCIRT ratings into their due diligence processes when assessing residential development finance applications.

The survey found lender adoption has continued to rise, with many respondents saying independent assessments provide additional insight into governance, counterparties and delivery capability beyond traditional financial analysis. Some lenders also reported declining funding applications where businesses had poor or no ratings.

As construction costs remain elevated and access to development finance becomes more selective, demonstrating credibility is becoming increasingly valuable.

<h2 data-end="5801" data-section-id="1qazuxs" data-start="5772">What it means for Victoria</h2>

Victoria's apartment market is entering a new phase.

The state is seeking to accelerate higher-density housing while simultaneously introducing reforms aimed at improving confidence in residential construction.

For buyers, that means there are more tools available than ever before to research the businesses behind a project.

For developers, it signals that transparency is becoming another point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

Buyers are asking more questions than ever before and increasingly expecting independent information, not just marketing material, before making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.

Find out how to get iCIRT rated <a href="https://www.icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.pdf">here</a>.

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The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal, financial, legal or tax advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

This article contains links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Equifax Australia does not control and is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of external sites.

Copyright © 2026 Equifax Australia Information Services and Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

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