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Stephen Koukoulas, the research fellow at Per Capita, a progressive thinktank, was forecasting the need for rate cuts as early as August last year.
He was the only one from a Bloomberg Survey in August 2018 who predicted a rate cut of any kind out of 21 economic groups/economists surveyed.
Koukoulas' forecast for Market Economics (pictured below) was remarkably accurate for where he foresaw rates as we got into the third quarter of 2019.
Even earlier, in June of 2018 he outlined "<a href="https://thekouk.com/item/612-the-remarkably-simple-case-for-an-rba-rate-cut" target="_blank">The remarkably simple case for an RBA rate cut</a>" in a blog on his website.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/3/Koukoulas%20table.JPG" alt="">
In a series of tweets yesterday Stephen Koukoulas suggested "that may well be the last interest rate cut we'll see for a while"
"Is an interest rate cut a good sign or not? Well, like an ambulance at a car crash, it is good that it's there, but it's there for bad reasons"
"If only the RBA had taken this action a year ago and not been blindsided by house prices, finical stability, household debt and rose coloured glasses #RBAfail" 
In an article for the The Guardian, Mr Koukoulas said the RBA was "starry-eyed" about the economic outlook.
He suggested errors and misjudgments had cost tens of thousands of jobs, with the unemployment rate rising, underlying inflation hitting record lows and annual wages growth stalling at a little above 2%.
"The RBA is now playing catch up," he wrote.
"Whether the RBA has done enough with a 1% cash rate to kickstart the economy to the point where wages growth and inflation pick up to more comfortable levels is not yet clear."
No other forecaster surveyed suggested there would be rate cuts coming, with several suggesting there were hikes on the horizon.
They included ANZ, CBA, HSBC, Morgan Stanley and NAB.
Laminar Capital were the group with the highest forecast by this quarter, predicting a cash rate of 2.25%.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Economist Stephen Koukoulas' spot on rate call was months ahead of "starry-eyed" RBA

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Although the RBA has cut the cash rate by 0.5 per cent over the last two months, the big four haven't passed on all of this cut to their variable rate home loan customers.
All four banks have decided to keep a portion of the cuts back ranging from Westpac's 0.10 per cent, to the 0.06 per cent from NAB and CBA. 
Finder compiled some key points of interest following the interest rate announcement.
The new standard variable rate for the Big Four is 4.94%, with the new average lowest variable rate for the Big Four being 3.42%.
NAB and CBA have the lowest variable rate of the Big Four.
What the big banks are passing on to their variable rate home loan customers:
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/3/July%20Big%204-1.JPG" alt="">
The typical Australian is with a big four bank on a discounted variable rate, according to RateCity.com.au who has calculated what the last two months of rate cuts means for them, based on a $400K loan.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/3/July%20Big%204-2.JPG" alt="">
As a result of the latest round of announcements, CBA and NAB are set to have the lowest ongoing variable rates from the big four banks at 3.35 per cent.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/3/July%20Big%204-3.JPG" alt="">
ANZ and NAB are passing on this round of rate cuts within the first two weeks while CBA is once more taking three weeks to pass the latest rate cut on to home loan customers.
<ul style="text-align: left;" type="disc">
<li>CBA rates effective 23 July 2019</li>
<li>Westpac rates effective 16 July 2019</li>
<li>NAB rates effective 12 July 2019</li>
<li>ANZ rates effective 12 July 2019</li>
</ul>
Some of the lowest ongoing variable rates following Tuesday’s cut:
<ul style="text-align: left;" type="disc">
<li>Reduce home loans: 2.89%</li>
<li>Homestar Finance: 2.99%</li>
<li>Athena home loans: 3.09%</li>
</ul>
RateCity.com.au research director Sally Tindall said, “The majority of variable rate home owners are set to save over $100 a month as a result of these two cash rate cuts." 
“Any cut to the cash rate is always a double-edge sword as savers brace for another round of deposit rate cuts."
“RateCity.com.au’s average savings rate is 1.51 per cent but this is set to drop below inflation in coming days as this most recent cash rate cut gets passed on,” she concluded.
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What the Big 4 cuts mean for mortgage holders: RateCity

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The Star Gold Coast, located on Broadbeach Island, is expanding with developers fast-tracking the residential sales launch of its second mixed-use tower.  
The 63-storey, $500 million development will feature 457 residential apartments, 210 five-star hotel rooms and an array of world-class amenities. 
The second tower is the highly anticipated next stage of The Star Gold Coast’s multi-billion-dollar transformation of Broadbeach Island, following the start of construction on the first mixed-use tower, featuring the Dorsett hotel and a residential component known as ‘The Star Residences Gold Coast’. 
The first tower, which began construction in November 2018, comprises 423 residential apartments and is now 92% sold out – making it the fastest-selling residential project in Queensland since launching 19 months ago.  
The two mixed-use towers are being delivered by the same partners building the $3.6 billion Queen’s Wharf Brisbane integrated resort development in Brisbane’s CBD. 
This consortium – comprised of The Star Entertainment Group, Far East Consortium, and Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited – has a combined portfolio of more than $6 billion in projects currently planned or underway within Australia. 
Far East Consortium is also spearheading the $2.4 billion West Side Place mixed-use development in Melbourne, delivering 2600 apartments across four towers with the first two towers almost sold out.
Construction of its first tower is underway with the second set to commence next month, following the recent award of its $660 million construction contract.  
Far East Consortium National Sales and Marketing Manager Lauren Sheldon said the decision to fast-track the sales launch of tower two is testament to the demand for real estate on Broadbeach Island, and a vote of confidence in the Gold Coast market. 
"Our consortium aims to invest – through The Star Gold Coast masterplan – an additional $2 billion-plus into embedding the complex and Broadbeach Island as one of the southern hemisphere's largest tourism, entertainment, and lifestyle precinct, and it is clear from the residential sales success of the first tower that buyers are on board with this vision," Sheldon said. 
"The Gold Coast is ripe for this type of development activity, supported by $13 billion in major infrastructure projects recently completed, planned, or underway in the city.  
"We're releasing the second tower to the market, with construction expected to commence in mid-2020 and completion anticipated about 2024.  
"We are confident its high-end residential appeal, premium amenity, and enviable location within the integrated resort development will be extremely attractive to prospective purchasers." 
The latest tower will feature one, two, and three-bedroom residential apartments across the upper 43 levels including an exclusive two-level resident-only recreation deck boasting a sun lounge and yoga deck; a 23.5 metre lap pool; barbeque areas; sauna and steam room; space for a kids’ club; a gymnasium; and private dining rooms. 
One-bedroom apartments, ranging in size from 55 square metres to 64 square metres, will be priced from $486,000.
Two-bedroom apartments, ranging from 71 square metres to 106 square metres, will be priced from $692,000.
Three-bedroom apartments, ranging from 112 square metres to 168 square metres, will be priced from $1,295,000.
Residents will be able to choose from two different apartment colour schemes and each residence is designed to maximise views and coastal breezes.  
The Star Entertainment Group Managing Director and CEO Matt Bekier said the new tower’s hotel and lifestyle offering will further underpin Broadbeach Island as a world-class tourism, leisure, and entertainment destination for visitors to the Gold Coast. 
"Through the latest tower, The Star Gold Coast will offer four hotels on Broadbeach Island – more hotels than any other integrated resort in Australia,” Bekier said. 
“The new five-star hotel will feature 210 rooms and will take the overall hotel accommodation supply on Broadbeach Island to almost 1200 rooms and suites across the four hotels.  
"Starting from level seven and spanning 12 levels, the new hotel will sit above a six-level podium featuring an active retail concourse, and will provide direct connectivity to The Star Gold Coast's other hotel and residential offerings. 
"The second tower’s retail offerings, when combined with tower one, will feature more than 12,050 square metres of retail and resort amenities.  
"These amenities include one of the southern hemisphere's most luxurious day spas and wellness centres; a cafe and wine bar with views to Broadbeach and Coolangatta; an exciting nightlife venue; and speciality lifestyle services including a boutique hair and nail salon, floral services, and a fine food market.”  
An additional sub-tropical recreation deck for use by residents and visitors will connect to The Star Gold Coast, and is designed to create a world-class rooftop experience. 
A large lagoon pool, sundecks, private cabanas, alfresco dining areas, plazas, waterplay, subtropical gardens, function lawns, and outdoor spaces will bring the iconic landmark to life. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/5/30/FAR1476_StarIRDGoldCoast_S010_EXT_Hero_Final.jpg" alt="">
Sheldon said while residents will be able to enjoy living within an integrated resort, the apartments are designed for privacy and seclusion. 
"Residents can choose to immerse themselves in the plentiful opportunities that come with living in an iconic lifestyle destination – or they can enjoy the quiet, private, and secluded environment also on offer. They really do get the best of both worlds," Sheldon said.  
"The residents-only recreation area has been carefully designed to provide seclusion, comfort, and functionality by combining intimate spaces within a lush, subtropical garden setting that offers 360-degree views of the Gold Coast skyline. The dedicated lobby and lifts will allow residents to feel like they have own private retreat in the sky. 
"The latest tower will be the pinnacle of luxury integrated resort living on the Gold Coast. With its enviable location and connectivity to the G:Link Light Rail, designer shopping at Pacific Fair, and proximity to all the action and major events at the adjacent Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, we are expecting solid interest from owner-occupiers and investors from the Gold Coast, interstate, and internationally."
The latest tower will be positioned south of the Dorsett hotel and The Star Residences Gold Coast apartments tower currently under construction, and will provide hundreds of car parks. Dedicated bicycle spaces will also be available for residents. 
In addition to the construction of the Dorsett hotel and The Star Residences Gold Coast apartments tower, The Star Gold Coast’s transformation to date includes a refurbishment of The Star Grand’s 596 hotel rooms; the opening of a new luxury 56-suite hotel, The Darling; 12 new food and beverage experiences; a new day spa and fitness centre, Azure Spa &amp; Fitness; and additional meeting room space and refreshed conference facilities in the Event Centre.  
A further three towers are planned as part of The Star Gold Coast’s approved $2-billion-plus masterplan for Broadbeach Island.
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The Star Gold Coast launches second residential tower

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Victoria’s new stamp duty laws will create higher operating costs for unlisted property funds and is sending shockwaves through the property industry, an industry body has warned. 
The Property Funds Association (PFA), the peak industry body for the $125 billion Australian unlisted wholesale and retail property funds sector, said that changes to The State Taxation Acts Amendment Act 2019 received royal assent on 18 June 2019 and incorporated significant amendments to stamp duty.
“Victoria’s stamp duty changes have been introduced without consultation and will likely increase costs for unlisted property funds, which may then be passed on to unlisted property investors,” Paul Healy, CEO of Property Funds Association said. 
He said the new rules could impact any property transactions within a fund.
“There are particular concerns over how the new stamp duty rules will apply to property transactions, and how they will apply to fund performance fees, acquisition fees, and disposal fees,” Healy said. 
“PFA believes there needs to be more scope for exclusions or exemptions to ensure funds are able to carry out their business without being unreasonably taxed.” 
Most issues centre around changes to the ‘economic entitlement provisions’ under the Victorian Duties Act. Changes include removing the 50% threshold and moving most of the provisions from the ‘landholder duty’ regime into the ‘transfer duty’ regime. 
Prior to the new provisions taking effect, duty was only imposed under the economic entitlement provisions where the owner of the land was a private or wholesale unit trust, or a private company, and the economic interest acquired was 50% or more of the relevant economic entitlement (e.g. rent, profits, capital proceeds etc.).
PFA says removing this 50% threshold and removing the restrictions in the landholder regime means a much wider range of entities and activities will be caught in the stamp duty net. 
Victoria’s State Revenue Office has issued administrative guidance on these new provisions, but PFA says appropriate exclusions from these new provisions should be legislative, rather than administrative.
“This guidance has limited value to many unlisted property funds and does not provide adequate certainty for taxpayers as it does not have legislative force and only addresses ‘plain vanilla’ circumstances,” Healy concluded.
“In PFA’s view, further legislative amendments are warranted to provide clarification and certainty for taxpayers.”
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Victorian stamp duty changes have shocked unlisted property funds and investors: PFA

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The Hervey Bay market is still improving with continued activity across most asset classes, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report notes that house and land packages in the estates generally priced below $450,000 are appealing to a mix of owner-occupiers and investors.
The relativity of prices within some estates is becoming a concern with a broad range of cost for a similar product.
Vacant land prices appear to have improved, especially along the Esplanade with a number of sales now over $500,000 for quarter acre lots with views.
The rental vacancy rate remains tight which is appealing to investors in the mid-range asset class. Gross returns in the order of 5% are achievable.
"Dundowran Beach and Craignish continue to be the most active for property priced above $700,000," the valuation firm said. 
"These areas appeal to buyers due to the larger lots, good size homes and generally extensive ancillary improvements."
Since November 2018, there have been seven sales of property over $700,000 in these areas.
A four bedroom architecturally designed house in Dundowran Beach has recently been sold for $802,000.
Set on a 2,802 square metre level corner block, the house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-dundowran+beach-129004990" target="_blank">4 Nautilus Court </a>(pictured below) comprises four large bedrooms with pool views, parents retreat or media room, large family kitchen, open plan living area and four bays sheds.
The home is just across the road from the Dundowran Beach. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/2/dundowran%20beach%201.jpg" alt="">
"There have also been two sales at $1.1 million and $1.2 million along the Esplanade following three earlier sales from January 2018 including a penthouse unit for $1.29 million.
"These sales are encouraging for the area, indicating that buyers are willing to spend the money if property is priced right, no matter what the price level. Looking forward to the next six months and hopefully continued growth in all asset classes," HTW said. 
The Treehouse (pictured below), a Dundowran Beach five bedroom house on four acres is currently on the market with over $1.2 million hopes. 
Located at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-dundowran+beach-128011618" target="_blank"> 43 Sempfs Road</a>, it comes with open plan living area, entertaining deck with outdoor kitchen, four bedrooms, large study or fifth bedrooms, and indoor swimming pool.
It's less than 1 kilometres away from the golden sands of Dundowran Beach and 15 minutes drive from the amenities and facilities of Hervey Bay. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/1/the%20tree%20house.jpg" alt="">
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Hervey Bay market continues to improve: HTW residential 

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Figures released by SQM Research reveal national residential property listings declined by 5.8% in June 2019 to 325,404 from 345,516 in May 2019. Year-on-year listings were also down by 1.8%.
All states experienced a decline in property sales listings over the month, with Melbourne and Sydney experiencing the highest decline at 10.8% and 10.7% respectively.
Hobart was not far behind with a 9.4% decline, followed by Canberra with a 9.0% decline. Darwin recorded the lowest decline at 1.3%. 
Year-on-year Sydney’s listings declined by 9.8%. Canberra’s year-on-year listings increased by 12.5%, the highest percentage increase in the nation, followed by Melbourne with an increase of 5.7% and Hobart with a 4.8% increase.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/7/2/property%20listing%201.png" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge:
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/2/property%20listing%201.png" alt="">
Source: SQM Research
Christopher noted it was not unusual for listings to decrease in June, the start of the colder winter months.
"Also, with falling house prices in recent months, most vendors have preferred to wait and watch," he said. 
"The modest rise in asking prices in most cities could be a result of reduced stock levels and also increasing buyer confidence due to multiple factors including the Coalition victory, the RBA cash rate cut in June and the relaxation of mortgage lending rules by APRA."
With further RBA rate cuts expected, we could see increases in property listings in coming months, he suggested.
"Massive monthly falls in recorded listings usually spells higher absorption rates and vendors withdrawing for higher future prices," he added.
Asking Prices
Capital City asking prices increased marginally by 0.4% for houses and 0.8% for units, over the month to 2 July 2019. Unit asking prices are now $563,600 and houses $908,900. Compared to a year ago, the capital city asking prices posted declines of 5.4% for houses and 3.1% for units.
Darwin was the only capital city to record decreases over the month in both houses and units, at 1.5% and 0.2% respectively.
Sydney’s property prices appear to have made a modest turn around and have now posted increases of 1.0% for houses and 1.3% for units over the month, after two years of cooling prices. Sydney’s 12 month decline is 8.1% for houses and 4.8% for units. A house in Sydney is now priced at $1,236,200 and a unit is $692,900. 
Perth, Adelaide and Hobart’s house and unit prices have also increased marginally over the month.
Melbourne’s house prices have increased by 0.3% over the month, however unit prices show a minor decline of 0.3%.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/7/2/sqm.png" target="_blank">Click here </a>to enlarge: 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/2/sqm.png" alt="">
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Property listings declined in June 2019: SQM Research

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Just hours after the RBA announced they are further dropping the cash rate by 0.25% today, non-bank lenders are slashing rates ahead of the Big four.
 <a href="https://www.athena.com.au/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw5J_mBRDVARIsAGqGLZCKwKfQxKUvNT0g33wrh6Kg2oBRfwJBwNSWn4iuj0nJVqF2uEWWJ6EaAqxjEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Athena</a> home loans announced it will be passing on the full rate cut.
Another passing on the full rate cut with rates as low as 2.89% is Reduce Home Loans.
Both Reduce Home Loans and Athena's cuts are effective immediately.
Reduce Home Loans was awarded Australia’s Cheapest Home Loan by Money magazine in 2016, 2017, 2018 and 2019.
Resimac and subsidiary State Custodians have both announced they will be passing on the full July RBA rate cut, effective July 24.
So far <a href="/expert-insights/finance/anz-first-to-cut-rates-again-this-time-the-full-cut">ANZ is the only of the big four</a> to announce they are cutting rates, passing on the full July cut, unlike in June when they only passed on 0.18 basis points.
CBA will reduce its standard variable rate home loans by between 0.19% p.a. and 0.25% p.a.
<ul>
<li>Owner Occupied Principal and Interest Standard Variable Rate home loan reduced by 0.19% per annum (p.a) to a new record low rate of 4.93% p.a.</li>
<li>Investor Principal and Interest Standard Variable Rate home loans reduced by 0.19% p.a. to 5.51% p.a.</li>
<li>Owner Occupied Interest Only Standard Variable Rate home loans reduced by 0.25% p.a. to 5.42% p.a.</li>
<li>Investor Interest Only Standard Variable Rate home loans reduced by 0.25% p.a. to 5.89% p.a.</li>
</ul>
CBA will also introduce a new special term deposit offer, with an extra bonus offer for existing pensioner customers.
At 6.30pm NAB announced it will reduce its variable rate home loans by 0.19% per annum, effective 12 July. 
This is on top of the 0.25% reduction last month by NAB.
Around 6.30pm Westpac announced it was reducing its variable interest rates for home loan customers, including a reduction of 0.2% p.a for owner occupiers and a reduction of 0.3% p.a. for investors with interest only repayments.
<a href="/expert-insights/finance/westpac-to-cut-by-0-2-but-more-for-io-borrowers">With the same 0.2% last month</a>, Westpac's combined rate cuts of the past two months ranks as the lowest for home loan customers.
The following interest rate changes will come into effect on July 16 at Westpac:
<ul>
<li>Variable home loan (owner occupier) rate has been reduced by .20% p.a. to 4.98% p.a. for customers with principal and interest repayments.</li>
<li>Variable residential investment property loan reduced by .20% p.a. to 5.53% p.a. for customers with principal and interest repayments.</li>
<li>Variable home loan (owner occupier) rate reduced by .20% p.a. to 5.57% p.a. for customers with interest only repayments.</li>
<li>Variable residential investment property loan rate reduced by .30% p.a. to 5.79% p.a. for customers with interest only repayments.  </li>
</ul>
“Today’s announcement means our Standard Variable Rate (SVR) will be the lowest it has been in more than 45 years for owner occupier home loan customers with principal and interest repayments,” David Lindberg, Westpac Chief Executive, Consumer said.
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Big Four face non-bank lender rate cut blitz

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ANZ has announced it will decrease variable interest home loan rates in Australia by 0.25% pa, the full RBA rate cut, effective July 12.
They are <a href="/expert-insights/finance/anz-first-to-pass-on-part-of-june-2019-rba-rate-cut">once again the first of the Big Four to cut rates</a>, unlike in June when they only passed on a 0.18 basis point reduction, they are passing on the full 0.25 basis points.
The first to call was <a href="/expert-insights/finance/athena-home-loans-match-the-full-rba-cut-again">once again Athena, a non-bank lender</a>, who passed on the whole July cut, reducing rates by 0.25 basis points, which they also did in June.
ANZ may have made this decision following the backlash last month which prompted the federal Treasurer Josh Frydenberg to say, “I think the ANZ has let down its customers.”
“This is deeply disappointing from the ANZ," he stated following ANZ's decision to not pass on the full June RBA rate cut.
ANZ Group Executive, Australia Retail &amp; Commercial, Mark Hand said: “Today we have decided we will reduce variable interest rates for our home loan customers by 0.25% pa. Importantly, we will apply this reduction across all our variable rate home loans.
“We looked at a number of factors before reaching this decision, including business performance, market conditions and the impact on our customers.
“On balance, we believe this is the right decision for our home loan customers and for our business,” Mr Hand said.
The ANZ changes are as follows: 
1. Decrease all variable interest rates for Australian home and residential investment loans by 0.25%pa. 2. For Standard Variable Rate Owner Occupiers paying principal and interest this reduces the Index Rate to 4.93%pa, from 5.18%pa. 3. For Standard Variable Rate Owner Occupiers paying interest only the Index Rate reduces to 5.48%pa, from 5.73% pa.
So far none of the Big Four have indicated as to whether they will reduce rates in line with ANZ.
But at around 6pm CBA announced it will reduce its standard variable rate home loans by between 0.19% p.a. and 0.25% p.a.
<ul>
<li>Owner Occupied Principal and Interest Standard Variable Rate home loan reduced by 0.19% per annum (p.a) to a new record low rate of 4.93% p.a.</li>
<li>Investor Principal and Interest Standard Variable Rate home loans reduced by 0.19% p.a. to 5.51% p.a.</li>
<li>Owner Occupied Interest Only Standard Variable Rate home loans reduced by 0.25% p.a. to 5.42% p.a.</li>
<li>Investor Interest Only Standard Variable Rate home loans reduced by 0.25% p.a. to 5.89% p.a.</li>
</ul>
CBA will also introduce a new special term deposit offer, with an extra bonus offer for existing pensioner customers.
At 6.30 NAB announced it will reduce its variable rate home loans by 0.19% per annum, effective 12 July. 
This is on top of the 0.25% reduction last month by NAB.
Around 6.30pm Westpac announced it was reducing its variable interest rates for home loan customers, including a reduction of 0.20% p.a for owner occupiers and a reduction of 0.30% p.a. for investors with interest only repayments.
<a href="/expert-insights/finance/westpac-to-cut-by-0-2-but-more-for-io-borrowers">With the same 0.2% last month</a>, Westpac's combined rate cuts of the past two months ranks as the lowest for home loan customers.
The following interest rate changes will come into effect on Tuesday 16 July 2019 at Westpac.
<ul>
<li>Variable home loan (owner occupier) rate has been reduced by .20% p.a. to 4.98% p.a. for customers with principal and interest repayments.</li>
<li>Variable residential investment property loan reduced by .20% p.a. to 5.53% p.a. for customers with principal and interest repayments.</li>
<li>Variable home loan (owner occupier) rate reduced by .20% p.a. to 5.57% p.a. for customers with interest only repayments.</li>
<li>Variable residential investment property loan rate reduced by .30% p.a. to 5.79% p.a. for customers with interest only repayments.  </li>
</ul>
“Today’s announcement means our Standard Variable Rate (SVR) will be the lowest it has been in more than 45 years for owner occupier home loan customers with principal and interest repayments,” David Lindberg, Westpac Chief Executive, Consumer said.
 
 
 
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ANZ first to cut rates again, this time the full cut

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Just 10 minutes after the RBA announced they are further dropping the cash rate by 0.25% today, <a href="https://www.athena.com.au/?gclid=Cj0KCQjw5J_mBRDVARIsAGqGLZCKwKfQxKUvNT0g33wrh6Kg2oBRfwJBwNSWn4iuj0nJVqF2uEWWJ6EaAqxjEALw_wcB" target="_blank">Athena</a> home loans announced it will be passing on the full rate cut to both existing and new customers.
Effective immediately, the rate drop brings Athena’s rate down to one of the lowest on the market.
They're offering 3.09% for owner occupiers and 3.49% for investors.
Athena CEO and co-founder, Nathan Walsh said, “the big banks delayed passing on the June RBA rate cut by as much as 21 days, costing Aussie borrowers over $100M. Lenders who failed to pass on the full savings cost customers a further $280M."
Since launching in February this year, Athena claim the average customer switching to them from typical big bank rates is saving more than $50,000 over the life of the loan.
Athena was the first non-bank lender to reduce rates last month as well.
The Sydney based online lender announced a new headline variable rate for owner-occupiers paying principal and interest of 3.34 per cent p.a. within 15 minutes of the June RBA decision.
Athena only entered the home loan market this year.
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Athena home loans match the full RBA cut again 

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Darwin continues to show relatively soft housing market outcomes, according to CoreLogic head of research Tim Lawless.
National housing market conditions continued to improve through June, although on a quarterly basis, every capital city housing market recorded a drop in value.
The largest falls over the past three months were recorded in Darwin (-3.6%).
The Reserve Bank of Australia delivered its decision today from Darwin, the first time it's done that in 50 years.
Click <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/7/2/JLL%20CVC%20June%20Darwin%202.JPG" target="_blank">here</a> to enlarge.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/2/JLL%20CVC%20June%20Darwin%202.JPG" alt="">
Nationally, rents remained unchanged over the month after tracking 0.3% higher over the June quarter and 0.4% higher over the financial year.
The largest annual fall in rents over the year can be seen in Darwin (-4.7%).
According to JLL, a population outflow following the wind-down of several mining investment projects has left the NT economy and property market weak.
JLL's Capital Value Cycle chart placed both Darwin Apartments and Houses in the Dowturn section, with Darwin houses appearing further along in the segment, nearing the Bottoming category (pictured below).
Their data shows that sales for both detached houses (-1.9%) and attached dwellings (-4.3%) have lagged over the year to March.
Click <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/7/2/JLL%20CVC%20June%20Darwin.JPG" target="_blank">here</a> to enlarge.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/2/JLL%20CVC%20June%20Darwin.JPG" alt="">
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Darwin property downturn returns: CoreLogic & JLL

Melbourne developer Spacious Group has completed Voyage Altona, one of the closest new apartment developments to Altona Beach.

Off the plan purchasers have started moving into the 49-apartment project on Pier Street, with the remaining move-in-ready one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments starting from just over $500,000.

Display apartments have now been fitted out, allowing prospective buyers to inspect the completed residences by appointment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=372638]

The completed apartments feature open-plan living and dining areas which extend onto private balconies and terraces, while full-height glazing maximises natural light throughout the interiors.&nbsp;

Hybrid timber-look flooring, stone benchtops, Miele appliances, porcelain-tiled bathrooms and generous storage feature throughout the building which also features landscaped communal areas, expansive shared terraces, lift access and secure on-grade parking.

Drawing inspiration from its bayside setting, Voyage adopts a restrained palette of warm neutral tones and textured finishes. Many of the apartments take advantage of views across Port Phillip Bay, while the indoor-outdoor living spaces have been designed to make the most of the coastal outlook.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112195 project_image_fid=3286]

Voyage was developed to address what Spacious Group identified as an undersupply of higher-quality apartment product in Altona, with a focus on owner-occupiers looking to remain within the bayside community.

"Voyage responds to very strong local buyer demand for quality, owner-occupier-focused product," says Barry Plant Projects Director Jarrod Farey, who has handled sales since the project's launch.

"The project delivers an elevated lifestyle proposition, with its design and quality of finish far exceeding anything previously produced in the area, as well as its proximity to Pier Street Village and the beach."

The majority of purchasers have been local downsizers and owner-occupiers looking to stay within the Altona community but who previously had limited opportunities to buy a brand-new apartment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112195]

Joel Robinson

Spacious Group completes Voyage Altona in Altona's beachside precinct

Homecorp has secured approval for a $360 million apartment development at Budds Beach, paving the way for one of the Gold Coast's most amenity-rich residential projects to launch later this year.

Gold Coast City Council has approved Lýon Residences, a 32-level tower that will deliver 178 two and three-bedroom apartments across a prominent corner site at 8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue.

The approval comes as developers continue to invest in premium lifestyle-driven apartment projects on the Gold Coast, where owner occupiers are increasingly prioritising amenity as much as apartment size and location.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/l-on-residences-25-27-oak-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Lýon Residences</a> has been designed around a resort-style wellness offering, headlined by a Moroccan-inspired spa precinct featuring treatment rooms, a Nordic sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a soaking pool and a residents-only juice bar.

The rooftop will include a heated infinity pool and spa, residents' lounge with private kitchen and bar, gymnasium, yoga and Pilates studio, outdoor entertaining areas and barbecue facilities overlooking the Surfers Paradise skyline.

<img alt="Lyon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d3e29af-8793-486e-a684-52cef862241f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-15%20at%204.32.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ayG2zpLf3SS6Zy8XmKDcQods4kVWb0gm" />

Homecorp Founder and CEO Ron Bakir said Budds Beach provided the ideal location for the company's latest luxury apartment project.

"Budds Beach represents one of the most unique and sought-after pockets of the Gold Coast, and Lýon Residences has been designed to reflect that sense of rarity and refinement," Bakir said.

The project arrives as wellness continues to become a defining feature of new residential developments both in Australia and internationally.

The latest Global Wellness Institute figures show wellness real estate remains the fastest-growing segment of the global wellness economy and is forecast to exceed $1.8 trillion by 2030. Australia continues to rank among the world's 15 largest wellness real estate markets, with developers increasingly integrating health, recreation and community facilities into apartment projects.

Queensland is also experiencing strong population growth, with the Gold Coast continuing to outperform many other Australian cities as demand for new housing remains elevated ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Bakir said the project had been designed to respond to that shift in buyer expectations.

"Strong population growth and sustained demand across the Gold Coast continue to highlight the need for well-designed new housing supply. Lýon Residences responds directly to this demand while setting a new benchmark for residential living," he said.

Each apartment has been designed to maximise views across the coastline, the Nerang River and the Gold Coast hinterland.

Located just minutes from Surfers Paradise beach and the Broadwater, the development also offers easy access to the light rail network, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads.

Early site works are underway, with construction expected to commence later this year.

Homecorp approved for Budds Beach apartment tower, Lýon Residences

New apartment developments with uninterrupted, north-facing views over Perth's Swan River are exceptionally rare.

Recognising just how limited those opportunities are, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a>, one of Perth's most respected builder-developers, targeted <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/applecross-wa-6153">Applecross</a>, assembling an unrepeatable 6,342 sqm riverfront site on the corner of Moreau Mews and Canning Beach Road to create one of Perth's only new north-facing apartment developments directly overlooking the Swan River.

Today, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/riviere-residences-applecross-59-canning-beach-road-applecross-wa-6153">Rivière Residences</a> offers buyers a unique opportunity to choose between completed residences ready to move into now and off-the-plan homes in the final stage, Rivière West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3823]

Across the completed East and Central buildings, residents are already enjoying the development's luxury amenity, while two of the precinct's hospitality venues are now open.

The completed component of the development gives buyers the advantage of experiencing the finished product firsthand, including its uninterrupted river views, while still having the opportunity to secure a residence in the final stage.

"People are wowed by the view and the quality of the apartments,"&nbsp;Edge Visionary Living Sales Executive, Holly McSweeney, says.

"They're looking for the convenience of lock-and-leave living, but they're not looking to downsize on quality."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3826]

The rarity of the development hasn't been lost on prospective buyers, McSweeney says.

For McSweeney, it all comes back to a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate.

"Location, location, location," she says. "We are nestled right on the front of the Swan River. You can never get built out, so wherever you are in Rivière Residences, you've got views of the river forever."

The unique waterfront position has resonated particularly strongly with local downsizers. McSweeney says many buyers are long-time Applecross residents looking to transition from large family homes into a luxury apartment without sacrificing space, quality or the lifestyle they've enjoyed for decades.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N_FowNW0wu8?si=vb25XFq1wZ-iufAW" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

A major focus for Edge in recent years has been resident amenity. Across its apartment portfolio, from beachfront developments in Scarborough to luxury towers in South Perth, the developer has increasingly invested in the spaces beyond the apartment itself.

The strategy has largely been shaped by downsizer demand. Many buyers are moving from large family homes with swimming pools and established gardens. While they're looking to leave the maintenance behind, they don't want to compromise on lifestyle.

At Rivière, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hillam-architects">Hillam Architects</a> designed the resident facilities as an extension of each apartment. A 25-metre heated swimming pool takes advantage of the north-facing river outlook, complemented by a large gym, sauna and steam rooms, private dining spaces, residents' lounges, a cinema, games room, and dedicated wine and whisky rooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=372542]

The waterfront location has also proved to be a major drawcard. Residents are within walking distance of the Raffles Hotel, South of Perth Yacht Club, the Heathcote Cultural Precinct and the cafés, restaurants and boutiques along Ardross Street.

Beyond the location and amenity, McSweeney says many buyers take confidence from Edge's fully integrated development model.

Having delivered apartments across Perth for decades, Edge now designs, develops and constructs its projects in-house, giving the company greater control over quality, delivery and the finished product.

"What I love is when people walk through their apartment for the first time and say, 'This is better than what we imagined,'" McSweeney says. "We hear that all the time."

Completed apartments in the East and Central buildings are now available to inspect by appointment, while Rivière West, the final stage of the precinct, is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=28384]

North-facing Swan River views drive demand at Rivière Residences in Applecross

Nearly 60 per cent of apartments at McNab Group's $220 million The Tannery development in Brisbane's West End have sold ahead of the project's public launch, including a suburb-record $2.57 million sale for a two-bedroom apartment.

The early sales campaign has secured buyers for 50 of the project's 87 apartments, highlighting continued demand for larger owner-occupier apartments that combine generous floorplans with premium lifestyle amenities in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374768]

McNab Group Executive Chairman Michael McNab said selling more than half the project before launch reflected changing buyer expectations.

"Selling more than half the project before public sales open tells us buyers are actively seeking apartments that offer something genuinely different," McNab said.

"Today's buyers are looking beyond four walls. They want homes that genuinely enhance the way they live, with spaces that support health, connection and everyday wellbeing."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374767]

A key point of difference for the project is the adaptive reuse of the heritage-listed Dixon's Tannery building, which will become The Retreat, a residents-only wellness precinct rather than being redeveloped into additional apartments.

The Retreat will feature a sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, a commercial-grade gym, Pilates studio, cinema, library, co-working spaces and private dining room. Rooftop amenities will include a swimming pool, landscaped gardens, outdoor entertaining areas and dog-friendly spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374760]

Designed by Cottee Parker Architects with interiors by Tom Mark Henry and landscape architecture by Aspect Studios, The Tannery comprises 87 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across 11 levels overlooking the Brisbane River.

Cottee Parker principal Dee Passenger said preserving the original tannery building had been central to the project's design.

"The easy option would have been to maximise the site's development potential with additional apartments. Instead, McNab has chosen to preserve the original tannery as a shared wellness retreat, ensuring this important piece of Brisbane's history remains at the heart of the community."

Passenger said sustainability also played a key role in the design, with materials from the original industrial site salvaged and repurposed throughout the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143337 project_image_fid=374761]

Motiv CEO Carly Cottam said buyers had responded strongly to the combination of larger apartments, wellness facilities and the West End lifestyle.

"We are seeing more buyers looking for homes in the sky that provide the space and functionality of a traditional home, while benefiting from the convenience and lifestyle that apartment living brings," Cottam said.

She said purchasers included both owner occupiers and investors, with demand coming from local buyers as well as interstate purchasers.

Coinciding with the public launch, McNab also announced a partnership with Queensland Ballet, whose neighbouring Thomas Dixon Centre shares historical ties with the original Dixon family.

Located on a 4,465 sqm site at 439 Montague Road, The Tannery overlooks the Brisbane River and is around 10 minutes from the CBD.

Construction is underway, with completion expected in the second half of 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143337]

More than half of residences sold before public sales as McNab announces significant partnership with Queensland Ballet

McNab's The Tannery nears 60 per cent sold before public release, sets two-bedroom West End record

Iwan Sunito's vision for a landmark mixed-use precinct in Sydney's Inner West has taken a major step forward, with approval granted for the $1.9 billion Five Dock development first unveiled earlier this year.

The approved scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/one-global-capital">One Global Capital</a> will deliver an 80,500 sqm mixed-use precinct comprising 840 apartments, integrated hotel accommodation, commercial and retail space, alongside publicly accessible open space designed to create a new destination for the growing suburb.

"This is a significant milestone for One Global Capital and for the future of housing delivery in Sydney," Sunito said.

"The Housing Delivery Authority was established to identify major housing projects capable of delivering meaningful supply more efficiently, and we are delighted that Spencer Street has been recognised as one of those projects.”

He said the declaration reflected the rapid progress achieved since acquiring control of the site.

"In less than seven months we have progressed from taking control of the site to securing entry into one of the NSW Government's most important planning pathways. It reflects the experience of our team, the strength of our consultant group led by Urbis, and our long-term commitment to delivering transformational projects that contribute to Sydney's future."

When the project was revealed earlier this year, Sunito described the opportunity as one of the strongest development sites he had worked on.

"I probably hadn't appreciated the uniqueness of the site until more recently when putting together the concept plans," Sunito said.

"The proximity to the water, and the golf course opposite, is unlike any other part of Parramatta Road. We have a unique position and view corridors over the water that makes this one of the best sites I've worked on."

The development has evolved since its initial announcement, with the approved plans increasing the residential component from the originally proposed 750 apartments to 840 homes while retaining the project's focus on creating an integrated neighbourhood rather than a standalone residential development.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/a-city-within-a-city-iwan-sunito-flags-1-5-billion-mixed-use-precinct-in-five-dock">"A city within a city": Iwan Sunito flags $1.5 billion mixed-use precinct in Five Dock</a>

The precinct will combine apartments with hotel accommodation, commercial workplaces, retail offerings and public spaces, creating a mixed-use environment intended to serve both residents and the broader Five Dock community. The proposal also continues the collaboration between One Global Capital and internationally recognised architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/koichi-takada-architects">Koichi Takada</a>, whose previous work with Sunito includes Infinity, Arc and Skye North Sydney.

Takada previously said the design was driven by a philosophy of integrating nature into the built environment.

"The concept for this development is born from our design approach to naturalising architecture," Takada said.

"The public realm benefits from biophilic design that integrates generous landscaping, and the development is optimised for natural daylight, airflow and water views to foster wellbeing, sustainability and spaces that foster community interaction."

Sunito has consistently described the project as a "city within a city", with a strong emphasis on creating a destination that extends beyond housing.

"We want to create a development that's not only to be seen, but to be experienced by the whole local community," he said.

The approval comes as Five Dock continues its transformation ahead of the opening of the Sydney Metro West line, with the new Five Dock station set to significantly improve connections between the Inner West, Parramatta and the Sydney CBD.&nbsp;

The precinct will also benefit from its proximity to the Parramatta Road corridor, nearby waterfront parklands and established retail and dining offerings that have made Five Dock one of Sydney's most tightly held Inner West suburbs.

Staff reporter

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