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The ACT residential property market continues to be driven by high wages support by strong government employment and low general unemployment, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The current COVID-19 epidemic is going to have a negative impact on key drivers, so it will be interesting to see what impact this may have on the property market in the short to medium term, the valuation firm said.
 The public service accounts for 42% of the ACT’s total workforce which is heavily responsible for the strong $108,000 per year median income in the ACT. 
The report suggests the high median income keeps property prices on the high comparative to the rest of Australia. 
The median house price in Canberra currently sits at $691,000 (January 2020) compared to the national average of $809,000 (January 2020) making it the 3rd most expensive Australian city behind Melbourne and Sydney.
A four bedroom house in Gordon has recently been sold for $685,000.
Set on 525sqm, the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-gordon-133438178" target="_blank">21 Rollins Place home</a> (pictured below) comprises formal lounge, informal living area, kitchen, four bedrooms and study nook.
It is located within walking distance to Point Hut Pond, playgrounds, schools, shops and transport. 
<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/2020/5/28/gordon%20.jpg" alt="">
 
Property under the $600,000 mark continues its popularity among first home buyers, which is likely to continue.
A current listing is a Harrison townhouse priced at $410,000.
The three bedroom, two bathroom home is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-act-harrison-133514782" target="_blank">159/22 Kings Canyon Street</a> (pictured below).
The townhouse features courtyards, galley style kitchen, large under stair storage and double enclosed garage.  
<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/2020/5/28/harrison.jpg" alt="">
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The weakening economy due to the Coronavirus pandemic makes short term conditions unpredictable.
 Strong government employment suggests that the ACT’s unemployment rate will remain low and the ACT local economy will remain stronger than other economies relying heavily on private sectors.
However market conditions are unpredictable and the unprecedented circumstances provide little guidance in what may happen in the near future.
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<div>Note regards COVID-19</div>
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This edition of Month In Review had its topic defined in late February with submissions from our offices collated through to late March. During this period, shifts in the social and economic landscape due to COVID-19 became increasingly dramatic, as demonstrated by the varied information provided by offices over the course of three weeks. 
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<div>This month’s residential theme on baseline property market drivers remains a common thread, and provides an indication of what influences to monitor as the property sector recovers post-crisis.</div>
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ACT property market continues to be driven by strong government employment: HTW residential 

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It is not uncommon to see residential properties undergoing renovations throughout the inner suburbs of Sydney, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
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The valuation firm suggests in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW residential report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
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The HTW report notes narrow laneways with skip bins and trucks parked on the kerb is an all too familiar sight for many older heritage style localities in suburbs such as Glebe, Surry Hills and Darlinghurst. 
"This trend has been evident for many years now and we expect it to continue into the future, even within this current COVID-19 pandemic," the valuation firm said. 
"One of the reasons we anticipate minor renovations to be evident in the short term is due to people being locked-up at home and looking for constructive projects to complete around the house which will serve many purposes such as increasing the presentation of their homes and also providing much needed stimulation throughout this lockdown period," the valuation firm explained. 
The report notes this could partially explain the continued demand and long queues at Bunnings Warehouse over recent weekends.
Even larger renovation projects have continued to be evident as owner-occupiers look to improve the value of their properties and engage builders and tradesmen at potentially reduced costs, at least in comparison to recent years.
A slowing construction sector, low interest rates and lack of supply in many locations and sectors are likely to encourage renovation projects in the near future.
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"Investment properties such as older style home units are also likely to see continued renovations as potential tenants are provided with greater choice at reduced asking rents," the valuation firm said. 
It will be imperative that investment properties are presented in the best possible condition, otherwise tenants will quickly choose a competing property in superior condition or alternatively demand a discounted rental price for any sub-par properties.
When renovating it is essential to understand the main goals for doing so, whether that be to sell, rent, or purely to renovate to personal taste to live in long term regardless of how this appeals to the local market.
A few significant aspects to consider when deciding to renovate are in relation to possible heritage restrictions, planning limitations, site access and the scope of works being carried out, the report noted. 
"We hear of many renovation success stories, however a significant part of this requires understanding the intended personal objectives of renovating a property and if renovating with the aim of selling for a profit, then timing of the market cycle (which can involve some level of luck) is important," the valuation firm said. 
"Some other techniques to ensure renovations are not overcapitalising is by focusing on what the local market desires most, researching recent sales of similar properties (on completion of the renovations) and then ensuring the cost to do the chosen works does not blow out your budget or exceed the market value of the finished product." 
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A recent example of a blank canvas property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-glebe-133206994" target="_blank">47 Wigram Road, Glebe</a> (pictured below), which sold for $1.86 million at an online auction on 4 April, almost $200,000 above reserve, indicates that there is still demand for this type of original property that requires a full renovation.
<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/2020/6/10/glebe%201.jpg" alt="">
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Renovation trend continues in inner Sydney during COVID-19 pandemic: HTW residential 

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Winter may be setting in but lockdown restrictions are continuing to thaw, leading to a rise in auction numbers for this second weekend of June, according to CoreLogic data.
There are 1,179 capital city auctions being tracked by CoreLogic this week, increasing on the 711 auctions last week.
While volumes are expected to be the highest we’ve seen since mid-April, auction activity remains lower than what we would usually see, with 1,505 auctions held over the same week one year ago.
There are 561 Sydney homes scheduled for auction this week, up on the 398 held last week according to final figures, and higher than the 534 held one year ago.
In Melbourne, 467 auctions are scheduled across the city this week, increasing on the 195 auctions last week, however lower than volumes from the same week last year 724.
Across the smaller markets, scheduled volumes are set to remain steady across Perth, while the remaining cities are all expected to see a rise in activity over the week.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/6/9/CL%20June%2011.JPG" alt="">
The Ray White Surry Hills | Alexandria | Glebe | Erskineville office is heading into the weekend with eight homes going under the hammer on-site.
Examining some highlights, Director Ercan Ersan said the converted warehouse apartment at C80/240 Wyndham St, Alexandria in The Hudson has had 100 groups through and 30 contracts given out.
“It’s the epitome of luxury inner city living designed by the celebrated architects at Allen Jack+Cottier,” Mr Ersan said.
“We’re expecting between 10 and 15 registered bidders and it should break the building record.”
Another standout is 4/11-33 Maddison St (pictured in title) in Redfern with Mr Ersan saying the apartment has one of the best renovations he’s seen.
“We’ve already got five people coming to the auction and it should sell at $1.4 million,” he said.
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Soaring Winter auction volumes as lockdown restrictions thaw

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A riverfront five-bedroom, four-bathroom house in Corinda was sold for $5.1 million through Adcock Prestige estate agent Jason Adcock. 
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-corinda-129462306" target="_blank">Richmond Street residence</a> is a winner of The Master Builder's Association "Australian House of The Year" with a 39 metre river frontage and unobstructed views across the river to the parkland. 
<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/2020/5/27/16_Corinda%20Front%20.jpg" alt="">
The 3,633 sqm north-facing estate has two street frontages and surrounded by parkland and manicured lawns. 
The estate features high ceilings, glass walls, open plan living, dining and kitchen, and theatre room. 
Upstairs is the master ensuite with dressing room space, an island bath, chandelier, double shower, double vanity and huge river-view balcony. 
Below entry level is the home's wine cellar, multiple storage spaces and four car garaging equipped with Tesla charging facilities. 
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Award-winning riverfront house in Corinda sold for $5.1 million

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A mid-century modern era house in Cook, ACT has been sold for around $1 million after being offered to the market for the first time. 
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-cook-133435262" target="_blank">49 Dwyer Street</a> home was built by its vendors in 1971. 
The floorplan offers a 330sqm of internal living spreading over two levels. 
<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/2020/5/28/cook%202.jpg" alt="">
The lower lower comprises three bedrooms, bathroom, casual living area, and access to the cellar and four-car garage. 
The upper level comes with lounge with bar and balcony, master bedroom and adjacent dressing room. 
<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/2020/5/28/cook%203.jpg" alt="">
The home is located close to the Cook Shops, Jamison Centre and quality schools. 
It was listed by Matt Sebbens and Michael Braddon of Blackshaw Belconnen who scheduled online auction for the property on May 7 and May 8. 
According to internal Allhomes data, the property was the highest viewed listing* for the month of April, clocking up 12,876 views.
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1970s Cook, ACT home sold for over $1 million

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The Federal Court has ordered Quantum Housing Group Pty Ltd to pay $700,000 in penalties for making false or misleading representations relating to the National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS).
Between February 2017 and July 2018, Quantum sent a series of misleading letters and emails to at least 450 investors who had rental dwellings participating in the NRAS scheme, and pressured them to terminate their arrangements with their existing property managers and instead use property managers approved or recommended by Quantum.
Quantum failed to tell investors that it had commercial links with the property managers it recommended.
Quantum also told some investors that their existing property manager had not properly managed their property’s compliance with the NRAS, when this was not true.
“This conduct was blatant, planned and deliberate in an effort to trick investors into switching from their preferred property managers,” ACCC Chair Rod Sims said.
Quantum admitted that it falsely represented that property managers must meet accreditation guidelines issued by Quantum, and that investors who failed to appoint an approved property manager were in default of their agreement with Quantum and risked losing their NRAS incentives.
The Court also ordered Quantum’s director, Cheryl Howe to pay $50,000 in penalties for being knowingly concerned in Quantum’s breaches of the Australian Consumer Law. Ms Howe was also disqualified from managing a corporation for three years.
“The penalties ordered against Quantum and Ms Howe serve as a warning that making false or misleading statements will result in serious consequences not just for the company involved but also any executive or employee found to be knowingly concerned in the conduct,” Mr Sims said.
Quantum and Ms Howe admitted liability and made joint submissions to the Federal Court with the ACCC.
The ACCC had also alleged that the conduct engaged in by Quantum was unconscionable conduct. However, the Court found the admitted conduct did not depend on exploiting vulnerability on the part of investors, and in those circumstances was not satisfied that the conduct was unconscionable.
Quantum ceased trading in December 2019 and is in liquidation.
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Quantum Housing to pay $700,000 for misleading property owners: ACCC

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A Western Australian mortgagee home in Gosnells has been listed for sale with hopes of $215,000.
The three-bedroom, one-bathroom home includes a study and a stand alone carport.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-duplex+semi-detached-wa-gosnells-133721930">103A Wheatley Street</a>, the property is located close to amenities and was last traded for $128,000 in 2001. 
The listing is held by LJ Hooker's Rick Rispoli. 
The median price for a house in Gosnells is $275,000, according to CoreLogic data.
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Gosnells mortgagee home listed

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A mortgagee apartment in the Gold Coast's Surfers Paradise has been listed for auction.
The two-bedroom, two-bathroom home at 9/53 Darrambal Street includes a powder room, spacious open plan living and a private balcony.
Located on the ground floor of 'Modena on Chevron,' the two-level apartment boasts a huge courtyard and fantastic facilities including a swimming pool, gym and sauna.
Only a short 250 m walk to the heart of Chevron Island and 1km from the beach, the property is ideally located.
The property last traded for $595,000 in 2008.
The listing is held by PRD's Andrew Turner and the auction will be held July 4 2020.
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Two-level mortgagee apartment in Surfers Paradise set for auction

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Gold Coast waterfront land project, Serenity 4212, has reportedly amassed almost $30 million in sales amidst the COVID pandemic.
More than 40 per cent of the project’s first stage has been sold primarily to local buyers.
Thre complex was developed by Brisbane-based group Keylin and Kinstone.
Construction on the $650 million private, gated community commenced last month, and the project amassed more than 1200 inquiries prior to official launch and completion of site works.
“The sales rate has been absolutely astounding, particularly in light of the pandemic,” said Tony Ashwin, Director of Ashwin Property who is marketing the project.
Mr Ashwin said while there was some uncertainty about fielding enquiries during COVID-19, local buyers had been waiting a long time for the release of Serenity 4212.
“The developers did their research and knew of the limited waterfront availability in the area. At the same time local buyers have been looking for a chance to secure waterfront land, and Serenity offers them a final opportunity to do just this,” he said.
Serenity 4212 offers a wide range of housing lots, with reserve and waterview land from 500sqm to 1061sqm available and absolute waterfront land up to 1326 square metres on offer. Housing lots are available from between $489,000 and $1,290,000.
It will be designed by Form Landscape Architects and BDA Architecture.
The project is multi-staged and will also encompass retirement, retail and apartments in addition to townhouses, residential land and a marina.
Future stages of the project will include a mini-marina precinct and the Serenity Greens community which will offer 60 four-bedroom, two car space townhomes priced from $489,000 and averaging 200 square metres.
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Gold Coast's Serenity 4212 secures almost $30 million in sales

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EXPERT OBSERVATION 
Business conditions and business confidence remained deeply negative in May - despite a bounce from the extreme lows of April, when the nation was in a partial lock-down (particularly for “non-essential” workers). 
That was a key finding from the NAB business survey conducted from May 19 to June 1. The previous survey was taken from April 23 to 30. 
Business conditions rose from -34 to -24 in the month. That is still below the low point in the GFC, of -16.5, but above the 1990s recession low of -39. 
This bounce in conditions occurred as restrictions started to ease and the economy slowly reopened, albeit a reopening that is uneven across sectors and across states. 
Business confidence, having collapsed to a never before seen low of -65 in March, has clawed its way back to be around “recession levels” in May, at -20. That compares to the lows in the past cycles of, -30 during the GFC and -23 in 1990. 
Clearly the situation remains fluid and fast moving. The continued easing of restrictions in June will see a further bounce in business conditions. 
Even so, the detail of this report - which was weak to very weak - highlights that a return to business as usual is still some way off. 
Forward orders were extremely weak for a third consecutive month, at -29, showing only limited improvement from the -35 recorded in April.
Considerable space capacity has emerged in the wake of this economic recession, with capacity utilisation at 74.5 in May. That is up from an extreme of 71.9 in April but compares to around 82 during the second half of 2019. 
Against this backdrop of excess capacity, continued sharp falls in new orders and an uncertain outlook the business sector is downbeat on hiring and investment the survey finds.
The detail around business conditions for May was: trading conditions rose from -31 to -18; profitability moved from -35 to -19; while employment showed very little improvement, edging up from -34 to -31. 
The capital expenditure index rose from -32.7 to a still very weak -21.6. The path of retail spending and business investment spending will be very different as the economy reopens and recovers from this recession. 
By state, NSW is outperforming, with business conditions lifting to -13 as the state reopens earlier than in some other jurisdictions. Across the other mainland states readings for May were: Victoria, -25; Qld, -27; SA, -33; and WA, -35. 
By industry, business conditions rebounded in retail, which has begun to reopen on an easing of social distancing measures.
Across other sectors, conditions are mixed, reflective of the staggered re-opening and the challenges created by the pandemic and the recession. Recreation &amp; personal was still deeply negative at -37 with many venues yet to re-open. The finance, business &amp; property industry group was also deeply negative, stalling at around -27. 
Andrew Hanlan is an economic analyst at Westpac
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Business conditions still deeply negative despite bounce: Andrew Hanlan

Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

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Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

Staff reporter

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