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Given Melbourne's Moomba long weekend, all of the busiest suburbs for weekend auctions are in NSW with Lane Cove topping the list with 12 homes set to go under the hammer.
It is followed closely by Neutral Bay and Randwick, each with 11 auctions.
There are a total of 1,130 homes scheduled for auction across the combined capital cities, down almost 50% on last week’s final results which saw a total of 2,201 auctions held. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/3/7/Auction%20stats.JPG" alt="">
The lower activity this week is a likely result of half of the auction markets welcoming a long weekend, with Melbourne, Canberra, Adelaide and Tasmania all host to a public holiday this coming Monday.
Notably the biggest decrease in activity is expected to be across Melbourne, with only 199 homes scheduled for auction this week, down by 80.8% on last week when 1,039 auctions were held.
The number of auctions scheduled across Sydney will also see a fall to a lesser degree, with 669 scheduled auctions this week, decreasing from the 801 auctions held last week.
Perth is expected to be the only capital city auction market to see a rise in volumes week-on-week.
One example of the busy auction week in Lane Cove is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-lane+cove-130508598" target="_blank">503/17 Finlayson Street</a> (pictured top).
The one bedroom one bathroom apartment comes with a price guide of $700,000 to $770,000.
Lloyd Allen and Justine Collins of Allen Estate Agents hold the listing.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/3/7/Lane%20cove%202.JPG" alt="">
Another example of the volume of auctions in Lane Cove this week is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-lane+cove-130385674" target="_blank">5/19 Murray Street</a> (pictured above).
The two bedroom one bathroom apartment comes with a price guide of $680,000.
Set on 92 square metres, the unit is positioned on the top floor
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/3/7/Lane%20cove%203.JPG" alt="">
A third showcase of the properties going to auction is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-lane+cove-130355494" target="_blank">5 Cogan Place, Lane Cove</a> (pictured above).
The four bedroom bathroom house comes with no price guide.
It is described as a state-of-the-art family luxury by James Bennett and Baxter van Heyst of Belle Property who hold the listing.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Lane Cove the busiest auction suburb as public holiday hits volume levels

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A poultry farm in the Werribee area has hit the market, with industry interests and land bankers tipped to be interested. 
Colliers International’s Jesse Manuel and Jock Grimshaw have been appointed to sell Parkhurst Farm at 925 Bulban Road, Little River, on the outskirts of Werribee, Victoria. 
The appointment has been made by Richard Hughes of Deloitte in his capacity as Deed Administrator of Parkhurst Farm Pty Ltd (Subject to Deed of Company Arrangement). 
Manuel said with its proximity to the amenity of Melbourne’s west and its expanding urban boundary, the Little River property will be sought-after by a diverse range of buyers. 
“It represents an excellent opportunity for existing poultry industry participants to expand their holdings and geographically diversify, as well as opportunists looking to acquire land in close proximity to major development activity,” Manuel said. 
“Historically we’ve seen chicken meat processors look at these types of farms to convert to breeder farms, the egg industry to rear pullets or install laying infrastructure, as well as the broad acre sector looking to store grain and fertiliser.” 
The property is located about 11 kilometres south-west of Werribee, 38 kilometres north-east of Geelong and 47 kilometres south-west of the Melbourne CBD via the West Gate and Princes Freeways. 
The area of Little River was famously the inspiration for the name of the classic Australian rock band Little River Band. 
Parkhurst Farm is a well developed poultry farm that has a history of both poultry meat and egg production and comprises a total shed production area of over 20,000 square metres. 
The property contains a total land area of 115 hectares (approx.) and has been developed to eight tunnel ventilated grower sheds complete with automated climate-control, feeding, drinking and lighting systems. The sheds were developed from 2003 to 2006, with a key feature being their concrete wall construction. 
Associated improvements include manager’s residence, various farm shedding, grain silos, extensive water storage tanks, office/control rooms, backup diesel generators and a desalination plant to treat groundwater from the onsite bore. Three phase electricity and reticulated town water are connected to the property. 
Grimshaw said the region was characterised by cropping and grazing enterprises and is also a nationally recognised region for commercial chicken meat production with a significant number of broiler farms located in the region. 
Offers are due March 27.
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Little River poultry farm to be sold by administrators

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The two storey Balmain Post Shop is being offered for sale for the first time in over 25 years.
Siutated at 366B Darling Street, the Victorian free classical style building features a third floor clock tower and viewing deck.
It is being sold by James Cowan and Steam Leung of Colliers International. 
Built in 1888, it was designed by the Colonial Architect James Barnet costing £15,470.
With over 500 square metres of internal gross floor area plus outdoor areas.
Since construction, it has continuously operated as a Courthouse and Police Station with Australia Post presently calling it home on a lease that expires in 2022. 
“This building is a rare opportunity to acquire a community landmark in a tightly held location which meets the investment mandate of a very wide buyer pool” said James Cowan, Senior Executive Investment Services at Colliers International. 
“The added benefit of this property, and what makes it unique, is the versatility in occupation and generous returns it offers. Interestingly, the current passing rental is considered to be below market parameters which invites generous rental reversion upon lease expiry” 
Head of Asian Markets at Colliers International, Steam Leung, said there was "huge demand" in the city fringe and inner west for creative office space. 
“Additionally, the adjoining property (Balmain Telephone Exchange) enjoys DA approval for part demolition and creation of a town square style park area which will enhance amenity and expose the Balmain Post Office’s heritage façade,” Leung said.  
Colliers International recently secured the sale of the Redfern Post Office last October for $5,300,000.
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1888 Balmain Post Shop hits the market 

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The Dolphin Backpackers hostel in Noosa's Sunshine Beach is for sale.
Set on an 1839 square metres site the property is host to 24 bedrooms, 18 bathrooms plus 15 kitchen and communal areas.
<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/2019/3/7/sunshine%20beach%201.jpg" alt="">
The current owners' abode is described as "bright and welcoming with room for a family to spread out and relax".
There's a modern kitchen with open-plan living that spills out to covered alfresco areas.
The hostel also featured tropical gardens, which surround the property and a resort-style pool.
Situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-sunshine+beach-130163690" target="_blank">14-16 Duke Street</a>, it is close to the beach and bustling Duke Street cafes and shops.
<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/2019/3/7/sunshine%20beach%202.jpg" alt="">
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Dolphin Backpackers hostel in Noosa's Sunshine Beach for sale

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EXPERT OBSERVATION 
In the lead up to the NSW election the calls by politicians to stop funding Registered Training Organisations (RTO’s) are not only wrong, but will substantially harm the residential building industry in NSW substantially.
HIA is fully supportive of policies that encourage people to take up a skilled trade, as it is vital that Australia has steady supply of tradies people to build the homes of tomorrow and increase the supply of housing in NSW.
However, recent calls to stop all RTO’s from receiving government support will make the problem of skills shortages worse.
Private RTO’s, in particular industry association RTO’s like HIA, have a long and successful track record delivering training products that are designed specifically for industry.
This allows students the option of choosing training that is tailored to their experience and delivered with flexibility to align with their working hours, and provides the crucial element of on the ground training.
There is no doubt that some Private RTO’s have abused funding in the past, however The Australian Skills and Qualifications Authority (ASQA) has made a concerted effort to crack down on the ‘dodgy’ RTO’s in recent years.
If ASQA audits a Private RTO and is satisfied they meet the necessary requirements, why would a state government believe differently?
HIA has helped hundreds of both young and adult apprentices complete their apprenticeship and get trade qualified over 15,800 students received their qualifications at an RTO in 2017.
It has also helped hundreds get their certificate in building or in other career pathways, and taken mature age apprentices through their journey to realising a new career, last year over 40% of all certificates achieved in Australia were achieved through RTO’s.
Instead of pitting TAFES against RTO’s Politicians in NSW would do better to put funds into promoting trades, to show that a trade is just not a plan B career choice but a legitimate and rewarding career that provides a vital service to the residential building industry and economy as a whole.
In fact, it seems lost on many politicians that industry groups like HIA work hand in hand with TAFE all the time in their apprentices.
HIA would also like to see more money directed towards mature age apprentices entering the work force as their expertise and life experience makes them a valuable asset to the residential building industry.
Any incoming NSW government needs to create meaningful policies to address skills shortages and provide flexibility in choice for students via a contestable market.
Simply using a populist argument and pitting RTO’s against TAFES doesn’t help anyone.
DAVID BARE is the Executive Director of HIA NSW
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Populist policy doesn’t solve skills problem: HIA's David Bare

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Over the next five years, Australia’s population of ultra-high net-worth individuals (UHNWI) is set to steadily rise, says a new report.
The UHNWI population is expected to rise by 20% - an extra 600 ultra-wealthy people – compared to 18% growth over the past five years, according to Knight Frank's Wealth Report.
Australian UHNWI population growth was 4% in 2018 to 3,060 UHNWIs.
New data found the number of ultra-wealthy people in Australia (those with net assets of US$30 million or more) is expected to rise by 20% over the next five years, equivalent to an extra 600 ultra-wealthy people.
According to Knight Frank’s Head of Residential Research, Australia Michelle Ciesielski: “GlobalData WealthInsight predicts the number of UHNWIs globally will rise by 22% over the next five years to 2023 – so an extra 43,000 ultra-wealthy people – taking the global number to nearly 250,000. This growth was 4% in 2018 to stand at 198,000 UHNWIs.
“Locally, UHNWIs are projected to rise by 20% over the next five years – equating to an extra 600 ultra-wealthy people living in Australia – in comparison with 12% growth over the past five years. In 2018 alone, we saw the Australian UHNW population grow by 4% to currently stand at 3,060 UHNWIs.”
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/3/6/KF%20Wealth.JPG" alt="">
Knight Frank’s Head of Residential, Australia Sarah Harding said: “Globally, Australia remains one of the top destinations for ultra-high-net-worth individuals. For example, we know Chinese and South-East Asian buyers continue to look at familiar global markets, such as Sydney, Melbourne, London and Hong Kong, which offer language advantages and immigration possibilities, as well as remaining outside any trade disputes.
“According to Knight Frank’s Attitude Survey, almost half of UHNWIs in Australia saw the most significant increase in wealth in 2018, with 93% of the wealth advisors surveyed reporting an improvement in their clients’ fortunes and 72% expecting their clients to increase their wealth in 2019.
“Across Australia’s major cities, GlobalData WealthInsight predicts a fairly consistent rise in ultra-wealthy populations. Sydney and Brisbane’s UHNW populations are expected to rise by 20% over the next five years, while Melbourne and Perth are forecast to rise by 21%.”
Ciesielski said: “Global wealth creation will remain constant in 2019. Although growth was good in 2018, it was not able to replicate the outstanding performance of equity markets, prime property and luxury investments a year earlier.
“There are headwinds looming with potential moderation in wealth growth, with global political and economic concerns becoming more complex. There is increased uncertainty and upheaval with all eyes on the rising trade tensions between China and the US.
“Despite this, 2019 will still see the number of millionaires (those with net assets of US$1 million or more) exceed 20 million for the first time ever. Some 6.6 million of these individuals will be based in North America, with 5.9 million in Europe and a further 5.8 million in Asia.”
According to Ciesielski, globally, the high-net-worth individual (HNWI) population is projected to rise by 19% over the next five years – equating to an extra 3.8 million millionaires – compared with growth of 13% over the past five years.
“This growth was 3% in 2018 to record 19.9 million HNWIs globally,” said Ciesielski.
“In Australia, the HNW population is projected to rise by 18% over the next five years – equating to an extra 60,000 millionaires – compared with growth of 9% over the past five years. In 2018, we saw growth of 3% to register a total 330,000 HNWIs.
“There will be challenges over the coming year, but we’re also going to see opportunities for private individuals and corporations to create wealth by delivering a wide range of public goods – most prevalent in countries without clear political leadership.”
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Australia’s ultra-wealthy population set to rise by 20%: Knight Frank

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A new report has found five Australian cities have placed in the top 50 worldwide in terms of residential price growth. 
The Wealth Report 2019, released by Knight Frank, tracks the movement of luxury residential prices in the world’s top 100 cities.
Last year showed Sydney at the top of the list of Australian cities with 3.1% prime price growth in 2018.
Australia's rankings were: Sydney (30), Brisbane (31), Melbourne (41), Perth (42) and Gold Coast (42).
Manila topped the rankings with 11% growth, attributed to a lack of supply and the Philippines’ thriving economy.
The index saw its lowest rate of annual growth since 2012 with prices rising on average by 1.3% down from 2.1% in 2017. 
According to Knight Frank’s Head of Residential Research, Australia Michelle Ciesielski: “The Australian prime market continues to track above the global average for luxury residential price growth over the year to December 2018, with Sydney topping the list for Australian cities on the PIRI 100 at 3.1% growth; Brisbane at 3%; Melbourne 2.2%; and Perth and the Gold Coast both at 2.1% price growth year-on-year.
“The price growth between prime global markets is converging – and Australia is no exception. The performance in 2018 saw all five Australian prime cities place in the top 50 of Knight Frank’s PIRI 100 – all five cities within 1 percentage point – when three years ago the range was closer to 19 percentage points.”
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/3/6/KF%20Cities.JPG" alt="">
Knight Frank’s Head of Residential, Australia Sarah Harding said: “According to The Wealth Report Attitude Survey, for the second year in a row, Australia has retained its position as the third most popular country for those planning to buy prime residential property globally in 2019 – behind the US and the UK. Australia remains a top destination for the ultra-wealthy due to multiple factors, including lifestyle, education, and political stability.
“Ultra-high-net-worth individuals dedicate a large portion of their wealth to property. This has been confirmed by the growth in the average number of homes owned by wealthy people around the world increasing from 2.9 to 3.6 over the past year. We found Australian UHNWIs owned three residential homes, on average, in 2018.
“Only 6% of ultra-wealthy Australians purchased prime residential property outside of Australia in 2018. This is relatively low when compared with other active countries in the Asia Pacific region such as South Korea (30%), Hong Kong (28%), Malaysia (27%) or China (25%).”
Ciesielski said prime residential growth has become more sustainable in most Australian cities on the PIRI 100.
“In Perth, early signs of business recovery and a strengthening office market had a positive impact with prime residential price growth rising from 1.3% in 2017 to 2.1% in 2018,” said Ciesielski. 
“Properties along the waterfront have remained popular with the downsizing generation, and the city still offers good value relative to other major Australian cities.
“The spotlight in 2019 will remain on the pace of recovery as the Western Australian resources sector continues to build.”
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Five Australian cities in top 50 worldwide for residential price growth: Knight Frank

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A 1907 heritage weatherboard house in Fairlight has been listed for sale with a price guide of $2.1 million.
It has been offered by Georgi Bates and Claudia Merkert from Cunninghams Real Estate. 
Located at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-fairlight-130653506" target="_blank"> 18 Griffiths Street</a>, the house features indoor-outdoor living transitions.
It comes with three bedrooms, open plan kitchen, living/dining area, covered entertaining deck overlooking the garden and guest powder room.
Other features include 12 foot high ceilings, wood floors, sash windows in living area, multi-layered entertaining decks and automated watering system. 
<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/2019/3/5/fairlight%202.jpg" alt="">
It has landscaping designed by Adam Robinson of Adam Robinson Designs.
The family home is close to Manly West Public School, with easy access to Manly, bus stops, cafes and shops. 
It last sold at $1.35 million in 2012.
<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/2019/3/5/fairlight%203.jpg" alt="">
It has been scheduled for auction on March 30. 
The suburb's median house price sits at <a href="/news">$2.3 million</a>, according to CoreLogic. 
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Fairlight 1907 weatherboard trophy home available for $2.1 million

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A north-facing Edwardian residence at Middle Park has been listed via an expressions of interest campaign.
It has been offered by Darren Lewenberg and Ross Savas from Kay Burton South Yarra.
They expect $7 million to $7.7 million.
The home at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/64-nimmo-street-middle-park-vic-3206-2014987654" target="_blank">64 Nimmo Street </a>consists of four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a swimming pool and a separate self-contained apartment.
The interiors feature of the family home include sitting room, north-facing open plan living and dining, kitchen with high end design, main bedroom with walk-in robe and three further fitted bedrooms. 
The property last traded at $3,155,000 in 2009.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/3/5/middle%20park%202.jpeg" alt="">
Additional highlights include air conditioning, integrated speaker, gas open fireplace, sheer walls of glazing, and crafted oak wall cladding.
It's within a few minutes’ walk of the beach and Middle Park village, and convenient to Albert Park Lake, schools, light rail, library and Melbourne Sports &amp; Aquatic Centre.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/3/5/middle%20park%203.jpeg" alt="">
The expressions of interest campaign ends on March 9. 
The suburb's median house price sits at<a href="https://www.domain.com.au/64-nimmo-street-middle-park-vic-3206-2014987654" target="_blank"> $2.55 million</a> according to CoreLogic.
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Edwardian Middle Park home listed with $7 million plus hopes

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
Over the past month, we have seen a shift in cash rate predictions for 2019 from economists. Some see it holding throughout the year, some anticipate one 0.25 percentage points (pp) cut and major bank Westpac is now projecting two 0.25pp cuts to reach 1.00 per cent by year end.
Looking at these forecasts from a mortgage holder’s perspective, does it still matter if the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) holds or cuts the official cash rate given Australian banks have increased their rates in recent times independently of the cash rate?
Since August 2016, the RBA has held the official cash rate steady at a record-low 1.5 per cent; however, during that time the standard variable rate set by the banks has declined once and been lifted twice.
The history
The margin between the standard variable mortgage rate and the RBA’s official cash rate has widened over the past nine years.
At the peak of the post-GFC rate cycle, in November 2010, the RBA lifted rates by 0.25pp to 4.75 per cent. At that point in time, RBA data shows that the standard variable rate for owner occupiers was 7.80 per cent – a difference of 3.05pp compared to the official cash rate. A year later, the RBA dropped the cash rate by 0.25pp to 4.5 per cent and though the variable rate also fell to 7.55 per cent, the difference remained the same.
During the 12 months to November 2012, the cash rate was cut four times to sit at 3.25 per cent. In conjunction, the standard variable rate also fell, but not at the same pace, to 6.63 per cent. This broadened the gap between the two rates to 3.39pp.
Fast-forward to January 2019, the cash rate stands at 1.5 per cent and the variable rate is 5.37 per cent; the highest margin on record of 3.87pp.
The widening gap applies whether standard or discount variable rates are used; and in order to return to the margin of 3.05pp seen in 2010 the RBA would have to lift the cash rate by 0.25pp three times throughout the year.
Considering the Australian housing market is currently going through a period of adjustment and borrowers have been hit with rate hikes due to increasing interest rates in overseas markets, many economists are predicting that the RBA will cut the cash rate even further in an effort to achieve its inflation objective.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/3/6/RBA%20LJ%20Hooker.JPG" alt=""> 
Impact on mortgage rates
Although banks are generally expected to keep rates in-line with the RBA’s cash rate, it’s not guaranteed; as funding costs for mortgages are based on many economic and financial factors.
One factor is the strength of the Australian economy. Indicators like unemployment and GDP, which determines household wealth and drives changes in the Aussie dollar, influence the demand for home loans which can either propel rates higher or lower. Presently, the RBA is keeping an eye on household consumption, which accounts for approximately 60 per cent of spending in the economy.
Mortgage rates can also be influenced by the banks’ short-term borrowing such as bank bill swap and overnight cash rates, which impacts the funding costs of our major banks. If short-term borrowing rates are on the rise, banks could pass on that savings to mortgage holders by hiking interest rates.
Trends like a narrowing of the credit-deposit gap – the amount of borrowing compared to savings – is another factor impacting interest rates. An ongoing credit-deposit gap would add pressure to short-term funding; and again, the banks could pass that savings to mortgage holders.
In addition, global economies and financial markets impact the cost of funding for our local banks. These include government bond rates and the monetary policy settings of the world’s major economies. All eyes are currently on China as its economy has slowed more than expected and tensions with the United States squeezes finance to the private sector.
What it means for you
A report by Deloitte found that 41 per cent of Australian mortgage holders do not keep track of the cash rate or consider its impact on their home loan. And with the cash rate being at a record-low for 30 consecutive months, Australians can be absolved for underestimating its importance.
As illustrated, banks do not have to keep interest rates in line with the RBA’s cash rate. However, the cash rate will impact the cost of funding for the banks; sequentially, impacting mortgage repayments as banks pass on those costs to consumers. So yes, it’s still relevant for mortgage holders to stay up-to-date on the RBA’s monthly decision.
Despite the cash rate being kept on hold, the regulatory and economic environment has already triggered changes in mortgages rates; hence, why it’s vital for mortgage holders to also be across all major economic news - domestic and global.
MATHEW TILLER (pictured) is the head of research at LJ Hooker
<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/2019/3/6/Mathew%20Tiller.jpg" alt="">
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Is there still relevance in RBA rate watching? Matthew Tiller

South East Queensland’s apartment market is entering a new phase defined by rising prices, constrained affordability, and mounting pressure on the construction pipeline, according to RPM Group’s latest SEQ Apartments &amp; Townhomes Market Report.

The May 2026 report highlights a widening divide between what buyers can afford and what developers can viably deliver, with detached house prices continuing to push more buyers toward apartments across Brisbane, the Gold Coast, and the Sunshine Coast.

RPM says Brisbane’s median house price has reached around $1.5 million, accelerating the shift toward higher-density housing as buyers are increasingly priced out of the detached market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=356540]

Median unit prices rose across all three major SEQ markets in the March quarter. Brisbane City recorded the strongest annual growth, with median unit prices climbing 21 per cent to $862,000, while the Gold Coast reached the highest overall median at $950,000, up 17 per cent year-on-year. The Sunshine Coast followed at $870,000, representing annual growth of nine per cent.

RPM noted the affordability gap between houses and units remains significant, with detached homes commanding premiums of 67 per cent in Brisbane and 68 per cent on the Gold Coast relative to apartments.

The report suggests this price disparity is increasingly consolidating buyer demand within the apartment market, particularly among downsizers and owner-occupiers.

“Demand is real. Supply is moving. But they’re operating on different timelines and the gap between what’s being built and what buyers can afford is the defining tension in this market right now,” RPM Queensland and NSW Managing Directors Peter Neale and Clinton Trezise said in the report.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150787 project_image_fid=366230]

While approvals and commencements are strengthening, RPM argues the delivery pipeline remains constrained by construction costs, labour shortages, and extended build timelines.

Apartment approvals across Queensland increased 86 per cent over the year to February 2026, reaching 12,682 approvals, the highest level recorded since 2016. Brisbane overtook the Gold Coast as the state’s most active apartment approval market, with nearly 5,000 apartments approved over the past 12 months.

Unit commencements also strengthened considerably, rising 48 per cent year-on-year to 5,453 commencements in the December 2025 quarter, the highest level since 2018.

However, RPM’s research found apartment delivery timeframes have expanded sharply compared to the previous cycle. Projects are now averaging around 30 months from approval to completion, compared to roughly 20 months a decade ago.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143932 project_image_fid=367515]

The number of units under construction has climbed to approximately 31,530 dwellings, nearing the previous 2016 peak, though projects are remaining in the pipeline for considerably longer.

Construction costs continue to weigh heavily on feasibility. RPM found the average apartment construction cost in Greater Brisbane reached $630,000 per dwelling in 2025, exceeding both Sydney and Melbourne. Coastal Queensland markets, including the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, were even higher at an average of $817,418 per apartment due to the prevalence of larger premium product.

The report also points to increasing pressure from Olympic-related infrastructure spending ahead of Brisbane 2032, with labour competition expected to intensify over the next several years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370960]

ANZ Associate Director of Property Daniel Gradwell said the underlying demand drivers across South East Queensland remain strong, supported by interstate migration, downsizers, and population growth.

“The challenge is bringing enough supply to market to meet that demand, and nothing on the horizon makes that straightforward,” Gradwell said.

RPM’s analysis found the affordability challenge is becoming more pronounced in the new apartment market itself, with only three per cent of surveyed new apartments priced below $1 million.

Instead, the market is increasingly concentrated in higher price brackets, with the most common new apartment price band across SEQ sitting between $1.5 million and $1.75 million. Around half of all new apartment stock surveyed is priced below $2 million.

The report suggests developers are not necessarily avoiding lower price points by choice, but because current construction economics make delivering affordable apartments increasingly difficult at scale.

Rental conditions also remain tight across the region. Median rents for one-bedroom apartments rose 12 per cent in Brisbane over the past year to $580 per week, while Gold Coast one-bedroom rents increased nine per cent to $630.

Despite rising rents, RPM noted bond lodgements have generally trended downward over the past five years, indicating more apartments are being absorbed by owner-occupiers rather than retained as investor-held rental stock.

Looking ahead, RPM expects projects targeting the mid-market owner-occupier segment between $1.25 million and $2 million to remain the most viable part of the market, while premium projects in highly constrained coastal or riverfront locations continue to attract demand.

“Construction costs are rewriting the feasibility rulebook across Greater Brisbane, and with little relief in sight, only projects in the right price band, right location, and with presales secured early will make it through,” the report concludes.

Joel Robinson

SEQ apartment demand outpacing affordable supply as construction timelines stretch: RPM

Camberwell Junction has long been the epicentre of amenity in Melbourne’s Boroondara region.

For nearly a century, it has drawn both locals and visitors, anchored by the Camberwell Sunday Market, which first operated in 1929 and quickly became a fixture of the suburb’s identity. Over time, the Junction evolved into one of Melbourne’s most established retail and lifestyle precincts, now comprising more than 400 stores and over 300 commercial businesses.

Despite that depth of amenity, one thing has remained notably limited: the supply of new apartments.

In a suburb defined by its heritage streetscapes and tightly held residential stock, new development opportunities have been scarce, particularly within the core of the Junction itself. That lack of supply has left a gap in the market for larger, design-led apartments suited to downsizers and owner-occupiers wanting to remain in the area.

Boutique developer Above Zero identified that gap when it secured a prime site on Burke Road, in the heart of Camberwell Junction.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368543]

The site has a long planning history. Various proposals have been put forward over more than a decade, many of which were knocked back by the City of Boroondara, with initial applications dating back to 2015. Above Zero acquired the site in 2022 and returned with a revised scheme, refining both the building’s height and its ground-level interface to better align with Council expectations.

That process has culminated in approval for Camberwell House.

The Cera Stribley-designed development will deliver 57 residences on a 1,950 sqm site within the Camberwell Activity Centre, placing it directly within one of Melbourne’s most established retail and transport hubs.

It is expected to be one of the only new apartment developments to launch in the Junction in recent years, reinforcing the rarity of new supply in the precinct. Currently, there are just a handful of projects on the market in Camberwell, underscoring the significance of a development of this scale and positioning.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368544]

Camberwell House has been conceived with a clear focus on larger-format apartments. The project will offer a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom residences, alongside a limited number of penthouses, targeting owner-occupiers seeking scale rather than volume-driven product.

The building’s vertical presence will also set it apart.

Positioned on Burke Road, the development is set to become one of the taller buildings in its immediate context, allowing for elevated outlooks across Melbourne’s CBD skyline and toward the Dandenong Ranges. In a precinct characterised by lower-scale built form, that height provides a point of differentiation, particularly for buyers seeking outlook and natural light.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368568]

Architecture has been led by Cera Stribley, with interiors by GOLDEN and landscape design by Florian Wild. The design approach centres on material consistency and restraint, with residences oriented to maximise light, ventilation and connection to outdoor spaces.

Full-height glazing and generous terraces form a key part of that strategy, allowing apartments to extend beyond their internal footprint and engage with the surrounding environment.

Beyond the private residences, a significant component of the project is its amenity offering.

Above Zero has positioned Camberwell House as a “complete living environment”, incorporating a full floor dedicated to resident facilities. At the centre of that is a wellness zone, including a 12.5-metre lap pool, spa, sauna and treatment spaces, alongside a gym and recovery-focused amenities.

This level of amenity is more commonly associated with inner-city developments, rather than established middle-ring suburbs like Camberwell.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4896 project_image_fid=368588]

Additional shared spaces include a private library lounge, dining and entertaining areas, and an indoor golf simulator. A self-contained guest suite has also been incorporated, allowing residents to accommodate visiting family or friends without impacting their primary living space.

The inclusion of these facilities reflects a broader shift in buyer expectations.

As more downsizers look to transition from larger family homes into apartments, there is increasing demand for developments that offer not just a residence, but a lifestyle. That includes access to wellness, social and entertaining spaces within the building itself, reducing the reliance on external amenity while still maintaining proximity to established precincts.

Camberwell House is positioned to benefit from both.

Its location places it within immediate walking distance of Camberwell Junction’s retail and dining offering, as well as public transport connections, including tram and train services. That combination of internal amenity and external convenience is central to its appeal.

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Jellis Craig Projects Director Stephen Bowtell is handling sales for the project and says Camberwell House offers a rare entry point into one of Melbourne’s most tightly held markets.

“Buyers are recognising that Camberwell House offers something they simply haven’t seen before in Boroondara,”&nbsp;Bowtell&nbsp;says.

“It combines a level of resident amenity and service typically associated with Melbourne’s premium inner-city developments, while being positioned right in the heart of Camberwell Junction.

“The response to the concierge offering has been particularly strong. Buyers appreciate not only the convenience, but also the sense of security and peace of mind that comes from having a dedicated presence in the building every day.

“When you combine that with the wellness facilities, the exceptional arrival experience, and panoramic views across both the CBD skyline and the Dandenong Ranges, it creates a lifestyle proposition that is genuinely unique within the local market.”
</section>

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Above Zero launches Camberwell House in undersupplied Camberwell Junction precinct

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/consolidated-properties">Consolidated Properties Group</a> (CPG) is approaching the launch of its latest Brisbane riverfront development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, on the dress circle Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

VIP buyers are now being engaged, with a full public sales launch coming later this year.

Positioned as the final opportunity to secure a new absolute riverfront residence on the East bank of Newstead, Teneriffe or New Farm, Castile at 47 Skyring Terrace has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> as a timeless addition to the Brisbane skyline.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=371113]

The name Castile draws on themes of permanence, sophistication and legacy, reflecting a broader vision centred on enduring architecture and timelessness in the rarest of riverfront positions.&nbsp;

CPG Chairman and CEO Don O’Rorke said the project had been envisioned as a future Brisbane icon.&nbsp;

“With 47 metres of direct river frontage and never to be built out views, 47 Skyring Terrace is the definitive address on the Brisbane River,” O’Rorke said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=371114]

“Rather than following trend-based apartment design, Castile draws inspiration from Brisbane’s great heritage buildings, reinterpreting classical architecture into a contemporary riverfront landmark designed to stand proudly for the next 100 years,” he said.&nbsp;

The approved development will comprise 227 apartments across a 25-storey tower alongside a boutique six-storey riverfront building of just 12 residences.&nbsp;

Construction is scheduled to commence in September 2026.

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CPG unveils Castile Newstead ahead of upcoming sales launch

Australia’s online shopping habits have shifted dramatically over the last decade. As eCommerce volumes surged, so too did the frustrations that came with traditional parcel delivery: missed deliveries, long Post Office queues, parcel theft and the challenge of being home during business hours.

Australia Post’s Parcel Lockers emerged as one of the more practical responses to that changing consumer behaviour.

What started as a relatively niche delivery option has evolved into a nationwide network of more than 1,400 self-service Parcel Lockers positioned at train stations, shopping centres, supermarkets and Post Offices across the country. The system allows Australians to send, collect and return parcels 24 hours a day, fundamentally changing how many people interact with deliveries.

The appeal is relatively straightforward: flexibility.

Instead of waiting at home for a delivery driver or rushing to a Post Office before closing time, users can direct eligible parcels to a Parcel Locker location of their choice. Once the parcel arrives, Australia Post sends a notification with a collection code or QR access through the AusPost app, allowing customers to retrieve their package at any time within the collection window.

For apartment residents in particular, the system has become increasingly valuable.

Higher-density living has created logistical challenges around deliveries, especially in buildings without concierge services or secure parcel rooms. Missed deliveries are common, while parcel theft has become an increasing concern as online shopping volumes continue to rise.

Australia Post itself has repeatedly highlighted the growing issue of “porch pirates” during peak shopping periods, encouraging customers to use Parcel Lockers as a safer alternative to unattended home deliveries.

That security aspect is one of the key reasons the Australia Post Parcel Locker network has grown so rapidly.

Parcel Lockers are positioned as secure, monitored collection points that reduce the risk of theft while also improving delivery efficiency for Australia Post. Instead of multiple redelivery attempts, parcels can be consolidated into a single secure destination.

The Parcel Lockers themselves are free to use through a MyPost account and support a range of parcel sizes up to 16 kilograms and dimensions of approximately 35 x 44 x 61 centimetres.

Beyond receiving parcels, the system has increasingly become integrated into the broader eCommerce ecosystem.

Customers can now use Parcel Lockers to return online purchases, while retailers have embraced the model as a way to improve delivery success rates and reduce friction in the shopping process. Australia Post has actively expanded partnerships with major retailers and promoted Parcel Lockers as part of a broader out-of-home strategy.

The timing of that expansion aligns with broader changes in Australian shopping behaviour.

The acceleration of online retail during and after the pandemic placed enormous pressure on delivery infrastructure. Parcel volumes reached record highs, particularly during Black Friday and Christmas periods, with Australia Post delivering more than 100 million parcels during peak festive seasons.

That growth forced logistics providers to rethink the “last mile” of delivery, widely regarded as the most expensive and operationally difficult stage of the process.

Parcel Locker systems have increasingly been viewed as part of the long-term solution.

The concept itself is not unique to Australia. Parcel Locker networks have become common globally, particularly across Europe and Asia, where dense urban environments and apartment living create similar logistical challenges. But Australia’s geography and suburban sprawl made adoption slower initially.

Now, however, the convenience factor is driving mainstream usage.

For commuters, Parcel Lockers near train stations allow parcels to be collected on the way home from work. For apartment dwellers, they remove the uncertainty around access and missed deliveries.

The rise of the AusPost app has also streamlined the experience, centralising notifications, tracking and Parcel Locker access into a single platform. Australia Post has increasingly pushed customers toward app-based delivery management, partly as a way to combat phishing scams and fake delivery notifications, which have become more sophisticated in recent years.

The Parcel Locker model is also beginning to influence property development itself.

Parcel management has become a growing consideration in apartment building design, particularly as online shopping becomes embedded in everyday life. Many new residential developments are now incorporating dedicated parcel rooms or Parcel Locker systems into foyers and communal spaces.

For developers, parcel management is increasingly viewed as part of the broader resident amenity offering, alongside gyms, wellness spaces and communal work areas.

That reflects a wider evolution in how residential buildings are designed.

Apartment buyers are placing greater emphasis on convenience, security and operational functionality, particularly in higher-density urban environments. Parcel delivery, once considered a minor operational detail, has become an increasingly important part of that equation.

Australia Post’s Parcel Locker network sits at the centre of that behavioural shift.

What began as a simple alternative delivery option has evolved into a key piece of infrastructure supporting Australia’s growing eCommerce economy and changing urban lifestyles.

And as online shopping continues to expand, the role of Parcel Lockers is likely to become even more embedded in how Australians live, shop and receive goods.

How Australia Post Parcel Lockers changed parcel delivery convenience in Australia

Perth’s new apartment market recorded its strongest quarter of sales since Q4 2021, with 412 apartments sold in Q1 2026 and a record quarterly sold value of $537 million, according to Urbis’ latest Apartment Essentials results.

Urbis said the March quarter result reflects strong, highly product‑specific demand across both ends of the market, from more attainable projects delivering at scale, through to premium stock being absorbed by equity‑rich downsizers.&nbsp;

David Cresp, Partner at Urbis, said the key story in Perth is not demand, it is the market’s ability to convert demand into delivered housing.&nbsp;

“This is the strongest sales quarter since Q4 2021, and it reinforces that demand in Perth is real and it’s local,” David Cresp said. “But the task now is delivery, turning that demand into projects that can actually be built and completed.”&nbsp;

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<h2>Affordable product leads, premium demand remains resilient</h2>

Sales in Q1 were led by more affordable projects, with The Boulevard (SKS Group) recording 115 sales in the quarter, the presentation noting this is only the second time a single project has surpassed 100 quarterly sales. The project was able to offer more affordable housing product right next to a train station.&nbsp;

Palmyra West (Finbar) also delivered strong results with 28 sales in Q1, following 84 sales in Q4, with an average price of under $800,000, underscoring depth of demand for well‑located, attainable new stock.&nbsp;

At the premium end, Urbis said downsizer demand is continuing, with the results highlighting Romeo (Applecross, Finbar) recording 75 sales and reaching almost 50% sold in one quarter.

Jual (Shenton Park, Celsius Property) also posted a strong quarter with 28 sales, reaching 39% sold in one quarter.

Urbis noted that Perth apartment demand is not speculative, not investor‑led, and not uniform, describing it as localised, often equity‑driven and highly product‑specific, a pattern reflected in the polarisation between strong “attainable” performers and premium downsizer product.&nbsp;

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<h2>Prices underpinned by costs, and the delivery risk is growing</h2>

Urbis said pricing pressure is cost not demand‑driven: construction costs and delivery risk are now a central constraint, with the results noting build costs remain elevated and volatile, and that energy, fuel and labour uncertainty weigh on feasibility.

David Cresp said a growing challenge for private Build‑to‑Sell developers is simply securing a builder in the current environment.

“Developers are really feeling the pressure from a building market that was operating at capacity and securing a builder is challenging,” David Cresp said, adding that even where a builder can be secured, “trying to get to the price that makes the development financially viable is incredibly challenging in the current market.”&nbsp;

Urbis’ broader WA commentary also notes that industry remains at or above capacity with lot and housing creation, and that many builders are limiting new sales to manage stretched workforces and fixed‑price contract pressures, conditions that flow directly into apartment feasibility and delivery timing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108869 project_image_fid=317905]

<h2>Supply: improving later, but still constrained, and Perth lags eastern benchmarks</h2>

While near‑term supply remains constrained, Urbis’ forecast shows completions lifting “Supply is forecast to be back above 1,500 apartments per annum for the first time since 2019”, with 1,775 completions forecast for 2026, and volumes remaining above that level over the following years.&nbsp;

Looking further ahead, completions are forecast to reach 2,500 in 2028, with the report noting 32% of that total is social/affordable, reflecting the role of government‑supported delivery in rebuilding the pipeline.&nbsp;

However, Urbis said Perth remains behind comparable markets on pipeline scale. In a national comparison of projects under construction, the report shows under construction Perth Build‑to‑Sell (BTS) at 3,446 apartments versus the Gold Coast at 7,922. Mr Cresp said “The challenge for Perth is how to we grow the delivery pipeline”.

Urbis’ conclusion is that Perth’s market is increasingly defined by product discipline and delivery certainty, with the research identifying “delivery certainty is key” and calling out builder risk and procurement models as core success factors, alongside “timing and staging”.&nbsp;

Staff reporter

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