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Office rents in Sydney and Melbourne will continue to grow over the next three years despite rising vacancy on the back of strong net supply, according to independent valuer and advisor m3property’s latest national office market report. 
Adelaide and Brisbane will see some welcome tightening of vacancy and Perth will remain stubbornly high, the firm said. 
The Australian Office Insight: Winter 2019  report forecasts a vacancy rate of 6.3% for Sydney by December 2021 with an average annual net supply of circa 74,000 square metres, while Melbourne’s vacancy will rise to just under 5% with average annual net supply of circa 125,000 square metres. 
National Director Research, Jennifer Williams, said while challenging economic conditions threatened white collar employment levels, massive infrastructure spending and a resurgence in the mining sector would help to stabilise vacancy rates nationally.  
“Generally most markets are in the upward phase and performing well with Sydney and Melbourne heading towards a peak, Adelaide in a stable growth phase, Brisbane and Canberra in early upturn and Perth at the nadir of its cycle,’’ Williams said. 
“Over the outlook period to December 2021 there are risks associated with the adoption of new technology and the impact on white-collar employment, falling domestic consumption and dwelling construction, global trade issues, and supply cycles gaining momentum, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne. 
“On the positive side any further interest rate cuts should provide some economic stimulus along with proposed tax cuts, as should infrastructure projects and an uptick in the mining sector, particularly for the Perth and Brisbane markets.’’
Williams said government policies, particularly federally, would be critical to addressing the weakness in household consumption.  
“Household consumption, which accounts for nearly 60% of GDP, is critical to overall economic health.
“While employment is reasonably low at around 5%, it has not translated into the sort of wages growth required to drive an increase in consumption, stimulate the economy and underpin ongoing employment growth, especially at a time when consumers are also faced with falling dwelling values.’’
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/6/25/m3property.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge: 
<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/2019/6/25/m3property.jpg" alt="">
National Director Office, Andrew Duguid, said while rents continued to rise in Melbourne and Sydney, tenants were getting more for their money. 
“New generation buildings, the evolving nature of landlord services, and improved infrastructure and connectivity have very much added to tenant amenity and are driving growth in most markets,’’ Duguid said. 
He said while Sydney’s prime office vacancy would soften, secondary grade buildings would likely see a greater rise in vacancy with the result that landlords would come under pressure to maintain rents. 
“New supply will continue to drive mobility of tenants to new and refurbished buildings, resulting in increased demand and growth in prime stock and retraction in demand for secondary buildings. We expect this trend to continue as the supply cycle unfolds over the next few years,’’ Duguid said.  
He said the outlook for Melbourne was very positive as the limited availability of key development sites would keep a lid on any rise in vacancy. 
“Delivery of new buildings during the current construction cycle will partly alleviate availability pressures but forecast strong tenant demand will ensure vacancy remains low and rents continue to grow.’’
The report found that, with the exception of Melbourne, which has seen 6.5% growth, prime face rents had only risen marginally over the year to March 2019 and were forecast to continue that trend in the short-term.
High vacancy levels in Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth were expected to keep rent growth low in those markets.  
On the investment front, Duguid said demand was strong across all markets, from listed and unlisted funds as well as foreign investors.
He said strong pricing in core CBD markets in Sydney and Melbourne had created opportunities in other locations including Canberra, Adelaide and the metropolitan markets while yields were set to stabilise in most CBDs with Perth and Melbourne the exceptions with a slight firming expected in those markets.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Sydney office vacancy to top 6% by 2021: m3property

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A former Collingwood pub sold after weekend post-auction negotiations.
The Carters Arms pub, at 31 Gold Street, fetched $2.12 million.
<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/2019/6/28/collingwood%202.jpg" alt="">
It was offered as a three-bedroom home with an off-street car park.
It had been recently renovated by Workshop Architecture.
It sold through Nelson Alexander agent Alexander Hill to a local family.
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Former Collingwood pub The Carters Arms sold after residential conversion 

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Despite initial fears, prices haven’t taken a huge tumble within the Newcastle and Hunter Region, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The report notes that the Newcastle property market hasn’t seen the huge falls in prices some capital cities have.
"Typically, the property market works in cycles and via our Herron Todd White property clock, we have indicated that our region is now in decline, but this is off the back of solid increases in property prices throughout the past few years," the valuation firm said. 
"This type of growth cannot be economically sustained and thus the real estate market can be seen as correcting itself.
"We have also noted that many buyers in our local area are finding themselves with more choice and much less pressure to make an offer. There are no longer three people in line ready to make an offer on the same property.
"You will find the well-priced and quality properties in preferable locations are still selling well despite all the talk of declining prices.
"These quality properties become the standout in these conditions and the gap widens between primary and secondary properties.
"We’ve also identified that suburbs which were previously out of the budget of buyers are now becoming more attainable."
Previously some buyers who were looking at outer suburbs such as Highfields and Kahibah can now expand their search areas without expanding their price bracket much to include suburbs closer to town such as Adamstown, Kotara and some areas of New Lambton.
The typical blue-collar suburbs including Merewether, Cooks Hill and Bar Beach are just as popular as ever, but prices are softening in these suburbs.
The more affordable first home buyer suburbs such as Mayfield, Hamilton North, Waratah and some properties in Tighes Hill are also softening, but here the quality properties are constantly selling quicker than others on the market.
"Interestingly, there are still many record-breaking sales happening across Newcastle," the report noted.
It referred to a recent sale in Adamstown Heights.
Renovated with the help of a local architectural firm, this large family home (pictured below) sold for $2.15 million in March 2019.
The property at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-adamstown+heights-130488002" target="_blank"> 3 Ragan Close</a> has five bedrooms, three bathrooms and two car spaces with a large backyard and swimming pool.
<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/2019/6/25/adamstown%20heights.jpg" alt="">
There has been another sale of a renovated Federation home in the much sought after suburb of Hamilton South.
The auction sale has become the suburb’s second highest recorded sale at $2.25 million.
The agents originally stated a price guide of $2 million to $2.2 million.
The property at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-hamilton+south-130934446" target="_blank">72 Gordon Avenue </a>(pictured below) is well-known in the area for its restored Federation features and large corner block location.
It comes with four bedrooms, three bathrooms, two car spaces and a large swimming pool and outdoor entertaining area.
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Newcastle residential market in decline, but losses limited: HTW

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A Surfers Paradise mansion built for the property veteran Max Christmas has been sold at auction for $5.3 million.
The sale comes four years after it initially hit the market.
Property records show at one point it came with a $9.85 million price tag.
The<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-paradise+waters-123874550" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> Commodore Drive </a>home was sold by Peter and Lisa Le Fanue, who paid $2.15 million for it 21 years ago.
A local buyer snapped up the sprawling residence built by Soheil Abedian, who co-founded development company Sunland Group, for Christmas back in the 1980s.
It was sold by Ray White Prestige Gold Coast agent Jackson Paradise.
The five bedroom, seven bathroom home attracted three registered bidders.
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Commodore Drive, Paradise Waters trophy home sold at $5.3 million

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The Southern Highlands region has been exhibiting a weakening trend across the residential market, albeit with a feeling that the market is now stabilising, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) report. 
The report notes that prices in the main townships of Bowral, Mittagong and Moss Vale appear to have been more resilient than some of the perimeter locations.
Properties above the $1.5 million mark are experiencing longer selling periods than more recent times due to a combination of decreased buyer demand and vendors yet to adjust to the current market.
It is a tale of two markets in some locations, with Burradoo holding up well overall during the downturn.
"Properties are still fetching good money and continuing to appeal to the Sydney buyers with relatively quick selling periods when priced correctly," the valuation firm said. 
"That being said, some properties in the $2-million-plus market have demonstrated volatility in the last 12 months."
An example of this sensitivity is an architect designed new executive style residence on the western side of Moss Vale Road which recently sold for $2 million after initially being listed for $2.5 million In July 2018 with two separate agencies.
Another example was a two-level designer home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-burradoo-130269186" target="_blank">2 Greyleaves Avenue, Burraddo</a> (pictured below) which has been sold for $245,000. 
Set on a 4,001 square metre block, it comprises four bedrooms, reception area, formal and informal living areas, kitchen and teenage retreat or cinema room.
Other features include in-ground pool, sun lounge area, and four car 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/2019/6/25/burradoo%201.jpg" alt="">
Mittagong’s market activity has definitely showed signs of weakening in the tougher period with the number of recorded sales down approximately 35% on the median of the last three years as per PriceFinder, with the peak selling period being April to May.
A four bedroom Mittagong family house has recently been sold for $825,000.
Set on a 2,000 square metre corner position, the house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/77-79-joadja-st-welby-nsw-2575?pid=p4ep-pdp%7Csold-pdp:property-history-cta#timeline" target="_blank"> 77-79 Joadja Street, Welby </a>(pictured below) comes with four bedrooms, open plan entertaining dining, covered alfresco entertaining, and freestanding shed with fully equipped kitchen. 
The property was sold at $830,000 three years ago. 
<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/2019/6/25/welby%201.jpg" alt="">
According to the HTW report, Braemar as a fringe location has also felt the effects of the downturn with prices falling approximately five to 10% over the last six months.
"We are also observing market adjustments and the definition of market value, willing buyer, willing seller coming into play, with a few unrealistic vendors coming to terms with the current market conditions," the valuation firm noted. 
An example of this is a circa 2017 dwelling within the Nattai Ponds Estate recently sold for $640,000 after initially being listed between $770,000 and $750,000 in October 2018.
"The vacant land market is still in oversupply for the major subdivisions across the three major townships with vendors forced to drop their prices in order to be competitive with other listings or an extended selling period is to be expected." 
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Southern Highlands market is stabilising: HTW residential

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Sydney’s Mascot Towers appears to be “moving in a downward motion”, according to the building’s co-ordinating engineer. 
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The 10-year-old building was evacuated after engineers became concerned about continued cracking in support structure and facade masonry.
Mascot Towers’ co-ordinating engineer has now identified a new issue along the northern and eastern boundaries of the complex.
“It appears that the building is moving in a downward motion,” an update sent to residents and owners on Monday night said.
The update didn’t elaborate on “downward motion”.
</div>
The residents of Mascot Towers where forcibly evacuated from their homes late June 14th 2019 because their building started developing alarming cracking on its structure.
A <a href="https://www.gofundme.com/mascot-towers-emergency-fund" target="_blank">Go-Fund-Me campaign</a> has been created by a resident of Mascot Towers with the goal of raising 1$ million.
The creator said, "We plan to use the kind donations to help everyone in the building start the work on stabilizing the structural defects as well as investigate what went wrong."
"This is only the start for us, we face massive repair costs that could reach $6+ Million."
"The residents are faced with a $1 million cost just to get back home, this has to be paid by 1st August 2019," they added.
The latest news to come from the building is that it is 'sinking'.
Residents who aren't able to get back in to their unsafe apartments in Mascot Towers have been given access to temporary residential accommodation assistance by the NSW Government.
The government will supply emergency financial support to the Mascot Towers Owners Corporation.
Residents of a one bedroom unit will be able to access funding for accommodation of up to $220 per night. Two bedroom apartment residents will be able to get $300 per night and there is up to $400 per night for a three-bedroom unit, all paid subject to actual costs incurred. 
Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation Kevin Anderson said residents of the 132 units would temporarily be able to access financial support for incurred accommodation expenses whilst engineers determine the root cause of the issues. 
The Go-Fund-Me campaign has only reached $4,450 as of 10:00 June 25 2019.
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Mascot Towers residents seek $1 million through Go-Fund-Me campaign

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A luxury Hamptons inspired waterfront at Southport has sold under the hammer for $7 million, a year after it was first listed.
Built in 2014 with a no expense spared budget, the Hamptons style home has American Oak and limestone finishes.
At the end of a Cypress-lined driveway is the 840 sqm home, set on the Main River with a 20 metre stretch of sandy coastline.
It has five bedrooms, five bathrooms, a pillared formal lounge and formal dining and temperature-controlled wine cellar.
The second level master suite has its own wing with reading room, dressing room, ensuite and river facing private balcony.
<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/2019/6/25/1A%20Yacht%20Street%20Southport2.jpg" alt="">
By the river is a covered alfresco with built in barbecue, a swimming pool and a floating pontoon, able to accomodate a 20 metre watercraft.
Ray White Prestige agent Jackson Paradise secured the sale at auction where bidding began at $4 million.
<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/2019/6/25/1a%20Yacht%20Street%20Southport3.jpg" alt="">
When the home was listed in March 2018 it had $9.5 million hopes with Michael Kollosche Prestige.
The home is asking offers over $9.5 million, a price not seen in the suburb north of Main Beach since 2013.
That was when Alston, the European-style riverfront built by bankrupt developer Graham Spottiwood, sold for a suburb record $9.8 million. 
 
 
 
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Yacht Street, Southport trophy home sold for $7 million

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A vacant office and retail premises in a boutique development in the Melbourne suburb of Ormond is heading to auction.
The property at <a id="LPlnk366891" href="http://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=jRYOrR8N39QzG/Nyy8oj1AaNQHGcPbO9MN1QvQjCxKKs/RzZHCHuN+yuKWB0r84Q0zfqJMDaJsj89+mdtAueYKdRWNEKduUPi6wj8+moPWPAcH3QgWCxcKY3GDWPxcY/&amp;rh=ff004ce3d655368c39855333a640996abddf538e" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">437 North Road</a> comes with 146 square metre total building area over two levels.
It has 52 square metres of ground floor area and a 94 square metre first floor area.
It is being marketed and sold by Ray White Commercial Oakleigh Sales/Leasing and Operations Manager Ryan Amler, along with Commercial Sales/Leasing Executive Theo Karkanis.
Amler said the asset gave potential buyers great flexibility to either occupy as one or separately, with each having its own entrance," Karkanis said. 
“This is a fantastic opportunity for an astute purchaser to take advantage of a property that you can occupy or invest in. It would be the perfect addition to a SMSF.
“The property is on busy North Road in Ormond, which in itself offers great exposure to a high level of passing traffic.
“It also benefits from being within metres of the recently upgraded Ormond train station, and offers an abundance of public transport, which will be invaluable.
<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/2019/6/11/008_Open2view_ID576313.jpg" alt="">
“There are kitchen and toilet facilities on each level, comes with an alarm system and CCTV cameras, has six individually controlled heating/cooling zones, and NBN is also available.
“There’s also the added bonus of potential sub-divide, subject to council approval.”
The auction will take place on site on Wednesday, July 3 at 11am.
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Ormond retail and office property to go under the hammer

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Quest Apartment Hotels has launched new premium serviced apartment offering in Burwood East.
It’s the group’s third Victorian property this year and was developed in partnership with OAM Pty Ltd, a subsidiary of Oriental Group of Companies and K2LD Architects.
The 91-room property features modern and self-contained studio, one, two and three- bedroom apartments.
The hotel features high-speed Wi-Fi, smart televisions with in-room entertainment and 24-hour on-site management.
It is located within a five minute drive from The Glen, Forest Hill and Burwood One shopping centres.
<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/2019/6/4/Quest%20Burwood%20East_202.jpg" alt="">
Quest Apartment Hotels General Manager, James Shields said a major part of Quest’s growth strategy is developing properties in regional and suburban hubs.
“Areas such as the City of Whitehorse are attracting more corporate activity from Melbourne’s CBD to the eastern suburbs,” Shields said.
“Quest Burwood East is designed to service local residents, business travellers and sporting groups arriving to this growing part of Melbourne with ninety-one self-contained apartments.
“We’re pleased with the attention to detail of our developers who delivered the property ahead of schedule and in accordance to our high standards in safety and design.”
<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/2019/6/4/Quest%20Burwood%20East_229.jpg" alt="">
Whitehorse Mayor, Councillor Bill Bennett said he was pleased to see this historic site redeveloped.
“[Whitehorse City] Council works in partnership to support a strong, active local economic environment that attracts investment and provides economic opportunities for businesses and employment for people,” Bennett said.
Quest Burwood East is one of eight new properties scheduled to open across Australia, New Zealand and the United Kingdom over the next 12 months, including Joondalup (WA), Orange (NSW), North Sydney (NSW), Robina (QLD), Quest Tauranga Central (NZ), Quest on Tuam (NZ), Quest Mount Eden (NZ) and Liverpool (UK).
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Quest continues suburban push with new hotel launch in Burwood East 

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Co-working office spaces increased by nearly 300% in the last five years, with Melbourne holding the largest share.
Co-working office space is one of the fastest growing segments of the commercial leasing market, the latest report by Herron Todd White (HTW) noted.
Research shows the number of co-working spaces in Australia grew by 297% between 2013 and 2017, occupying 193,190 square metres across six cities.
Melbourne holds the largest concentration of co-working spaces with 49% followed by Sydney with 38%.
"We expect this segment of the market to continue growing strongly," the HTW report noted.
Melbourne CBD’s overall office vacancy rate has reduced to 4.6% over the six months to January 2018, according to the Property Council of Australia’s Office Market Report.
Melbourne CBD is now level with Sydney CBD, together showing the lowest vacancy rates amongst all of Australia’s CBDs.
According to the latest report from HTW, the reduction in vacancy is primarily due to the high net absorption rate of prime Melbourne CBD office stock.
The North-Eastern and Docklands precincts have the lowest vacancy rates at 1.5% and 1.2% respectively, while vacancy rates are highest in the Western and Spencer precincts, reflecting vacancy rates of 6.6% and 8.2% respectively.
There is limited new prime office supply in the CBD due for completion over the next two years before the large increase of supply forecast for 2020.
Therefore, it is anticipated that vacancy rates will continue to fall over 2018 and 2019 before rising again in 2020.
The report suggests the market will see potentially sharp rental growth over the next two years as well as a decline in incentives, before levelling out again from 2020.
Strong demand is continuing for good quality office properties and properties with value-add or redevelopment potential within the Melbourne CBD, Metro and St Kilda Road office markets.
This is primarily due to the lack of suitable stock on the market and weight of capital seeking limited investment opportunities in this segment of the market.
The two recent sales in the CBD this year, 470 Bourke Street and 454 Collins Street, both achieved strong results.
470 Bourke Street, the headquarters of The Law Institute of Victoria, sold subject to a short-term leaseback for more than $35 million.
The nine-storey office building with excess land to the rear was purchased by an offshore investor with a capital value rate of circa $10,500 per square metre which reflects the balance land of 368 square metres.
454 Collins Street, an 11-storey C grade building situated at the corner of Collins and Williams Streets, was sold to a Macau investor for $40.1 million on a sharp fully leased yield of 4.21%.
The property was sold subject to a single-tenant leaseback to Robert Christie’s national co-working business on a 10-year term.
The valuation firm suggests that market yields are firming for well located investment grade assets exhibiting sound fundamentals, such as strong lease profiles and limited capital expenditure requirements.
The report suggests that investor demand is particularly strong for assets in the vicinity of $5 million to $50 million within the CBD and inner suburban locations.
The new statutory revaluations will be conducted as at January 2018 and valuations will be released as part of the FY2018/19 council rates notices and 2019 Land Tax assessments.
The valuers estimate that council site values will continue to increase across the CBD owing to strong capital growth over the past two years since the last Council revaluation in January 2016.
The potential rise in site values implies higher council rates and land tax costs which may impact upon the cash flow of landlords, especially where properties are subject to gross leases.
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Melbourne holding the largest share of nation's co-working office spaces: HTW 

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."

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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."

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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