<html><body>
The Victorian Government has extended the eviction moratorium until the end of the year. 
Evictions continue to be banned for both residential and commercial tenancies, except under certain circumstances, until 31 December 2020. Rental increases continue to be banned for the same period.
Residential tenants and landlords who struggle to reach agreement over rent reductions have access to the dispute resolution service run by Consumer Affairs Victoria for residential tenancies. The Victorian Small Business Commission offers a similar service for commercial tenancies. 
Residential and commercial tenants and landlords can also take advantage of more support, including further land tax reductions and more grant funding.
The moratorium on evictions will apply from 29 March until 31 December 2020.
Landlords cannot increase the rent between 29 March and 31 December. 
They can increase the rent after this period, but only within the terms of the lease agreement and the Residential Tenancies Act.
 
It means that tenants can’t be evicted if they are served a notice to vacate between 29 March and 31 December 2020 because you can’t pay your rent due to the impacts of coronavirus (COVID-19) on your financial situation.
This will apply for a tenant or sub-tenant:
<ul>
<li>in a residential property</li>
<li>living in a rooming house</li>
<li>in social housing</li>
<li>under a site agreement at a caravan park </li>
<li>in specialist disability accommodation.</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

COVID-19 Victorian residential eviction moratorium extended

<html><body>
A former Varsity Lakes real estate agent has been fined $5,000 in the Southport Magistrates Court after charges were laid by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).
Kylie Beecroft-Wilson, former sole director and principal licensee of Beecroft‑Wilson Real Estate Pty Ltd, pleaded guilty to operating as a real estate agent without a licence and making false representations that she held approval to supply real estate agency services for a period of time when she did not.
Mrs Beecroft-Wilson was fined $5,000. A conviction was not recorded.
The court heard that Mrs Beecroft-Wilson’s real estate agent’s licence, which she had held since February 2013, expired in December 2018 and that the licence of her company, Beecroft-Wilson Real Estate Pty Ltd, also expired in December 2018.
However, despite the expiration of these licences, Mrs Beecroft- Wilson continued to manage 11 properties for clients and operate a real estate trust account in her corporation’s name into which rent money was paid before being dispersed to owners.
Mrs Beecroft-Wilson also operated a business account into which she deposited rental commissions, management and letting fees, and she continued to advertise she represented a licensed real estate corporation on correspondence, receipts and new tenancy agreements, despite Beecroft-Wilson Real Estate Pty Ltd being deregistered by ASIC on 2 June 2019.
Mrs Beecroft-Wilson ceased trading in January 2020 when the OFT became aware that she was managing properties without a licence. The OFT appointed a receiver to manage and wind up the trust account.
In sentencing, Magistrate Mark Howden took into account Mrs Beecroft-Wilson’s early guilty plea, that there was no consumer detriment in relation to funds held in trust, and noted a fine would show that unlicensed conduct will not be accepted.
Fair Trading Executive Director Brian Bauer said Mrs Beecroft-Wilson’s continued operation of a real estate business despite the expiration of her licence and the winding up of her company presented dangers to both her and her clients.
“Large sums of money can change hands in property transactions so it is vital that agents are licensed to minimise the risk to consumers,” Mr Bauer said.
“The type of conduct demonstrated by Mrs Beecroft-Wilson risks undermining the confidence of consumers who have investments in the property industry.
“The OFT will take appropriate action against any individuals or agencies who are found to be not complying with fair trading laws.”
</body></html>

No conviction recorded as former Varsity Lakes real estate agent fined $5,000 

<html><body>
A Hope Island real estate agency, Hi Care Real Estate Group Pty Ltd, has been ordered to pay $1,044 in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on 17 July 2020 for failing to lodge an audit report on time with the Office of Fair Trading.
Under the Agents Financial Administration Act 2014, real estate agents have four months from the end of their audit period to lodge a report with the OFT.
The Hi Care Real Estate Group’s audit report was due in March 2019 but it was 79 days late in submitting it.
The court heard that the OFT issued Hi Care Real Estate Group Pty Ltd an infringement notice for the offence but the agency elected not to pay it and instead have the matter heard in court.
In sentencing, Magistrate Judith Daley said the licensee held public money and the trust account required stringent oversight to ensure defalcation did not occur, therefore audit reports were required to be submitted on time.
No conviction was recorded.
Fair Trading Executive Director Brian Bauer said this court action should act as a reminder to real estate agents about their legislative obligations when it came to operating a trust account.
“Reports of agents who fail to follow their trust account obligations are taken very seriously by the OFT,” Mr Bauer said.
“Audit measures are in place to ensure the integrity and accountability of the industry.
“Agents are able to get assistance from legal or financial professionals, or even the OFT if they have questions regarding the operation of their trust accounts.”
</body></html>

No conviction recorded after Hi Care Real Estate fails to meet audit requirements

<html><body>
A Springfield Lakes real estate agent and his company have been fined $2,500 and given a suspended sentence in the Ipswich Magistrates Court after being investigated by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) for taking money from a trust account they were not entitled to.
Kevin Tomlinson, principal licensee and sole director of Exposure Real Estate (QLD) Pty Ltd, pleaded guilty to wrongfully transferring money from a rental trust account to his company’s expense account over a seven-month period.
The company was fined $2,500 and Mr Tomlinson was ordered to serve four months’ imprisonment, wholly suspended for two years.
The court heard that, from December 2018 to June 2019, Mr Tomlinson made a series of withdrawals totalling over $100,000 from his company’s rental trust account and used the money for a variety of business expenses including loan and lease repayments and staff wages.
Under the Property Occupations Act 2014, it is an offence to use trust money, which is money belonging to someone else, in this way. Trust money can only be released to a person who is entitled to it.
In sentencing, Magistrate Virginia Sturgess commented on the seriousness of the offending and abuse of the agent’s position of trust. She also took into account that the agent had partially repaid the money before the involvement of the OFT and that the remainder of the money had been repaid prior to being charged.
Fair Trading Executive Director Brian Bauer said the case was a reminder to real estate agents that they have a responsibility to those they represent and that trust account funds are off limits for personal or business use.
“Agents who fail to comply with their trust account obligations will incur serious penalties,” Mr Bauer said.
“Agents are able to get advice from legal and financial professionals as well as the OFT if they have questions regarding trust accounts.”
</body></html>

Kevin Tomlinson, Springfield Lakes estate agent given suspended sentence for trust account irregularities

<html><body>
Graeme Miller, a former financial adviser and director of Australian financial services licensee CFS Private Wealth Pty Ltd, was sentenced last month to six years’ imprisonment for misappropriating $1.865 million of client funds, following an ASIC investigation.
On 14 April 2020, Mr Miller pleaded guilty to six counts of engaging in dishonest conduct in the course of carrying on a financial services business, contrary to section 1041G of the Corporations Act 2001. The charges relate to ten clients from whom Mr Miller encouraged or facilitated the transfer of between $50,000 and $950,000 by way of an investment for the benefit of the client. Mr Miller then misappropriated those funds for his own purposes. Four counts relate to funds invested with Mr Miller through self-managed superannuation funds held by the clients.
Acting Judge Woods of the Downing Centre District Court sentenced Mr Miller to six years’ imprisonment, to be eligible for parole after serving four years.
In sentencing Mr Miller, Judge Woods described Mr Miller’s conduct as a “Ponzi scheme” involving a “significant breach of trust” and a “cruel and deceitful betrayal inevitably leading to financial disaster”.
Judge Woods also made reparation orders of approximately $1.777 million in favour of the ten clients who were the subject of the charges against Mr Miller.
Following the sentencing, ASIC Deputy Chair Daniel Crennan QC said Mr Miller has been found to have systematically breached the trust of his clients over a long period, resulting in significant losses.
‘As a financial adviser Mr Miller ought to have protected the interests of his clients. His sentencing should send a strong message that such conduct will lead to individuals involved being brought before the court to face criminal charges.’
The Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions prosecuted the matter after a referral from ASIC.
<h2>Background</h2>
Between July 2013 and April 2017, Mr Miller, of Myocum, New South Wales, advised his financial planning clients to invest funds with CFS Corporation Pty Ltd (CFS), of which he was also a director, on the basis that CFS would invest the money. Mr Miller did not invest the funds given to CFS by those clients, instead he used the funds for his own benefit and to meet business expenses, including payments made to other clients as dividend payments.
Of the $1.865 million of client funds that were misappropriated by Mr Miller:
<ul>
<li>$987,000 was transferred to bank accounts and credit cards held by Mr Miller and his family members;</li>
<li>$318,500 was used to pay dividends, interest or return of capital to other clients in relation to their investments with Mr Miller;</li>
<li>$135,000 was used to pay other personal and business expenses; and</li>
<li>$27,000 was withdrawn in cash or transferred overseas.</li>
</ul>
In January 2019, the Federal Court banned Mr Miller from providing financial services for 25 years, and disqualified him from managing corporations for three years (19-009MR).
</body></html>

Former financial adviser Graeme Miller sentenced to six years’ imprisonment for dishonest conduct

<html><body>
ASIC has successfully applied to the Federal Court of Australia for urgent interim orders against NSW-based PW Kitt Co Pty Ltd and its sole director Larry Dawson.
On 7 August 2020, ASIC obtained urgent interim orders:
<ul>
<li>to appoint receivers and managers to the property and assets of the defendants;</li>
<li>for the receivers to provide a report to the Court and ASIC within 42 days regarding the affairs of the defendants;</li>
<li>to stop the defendants from removing, dealing with or diminishing the value of property or assets, including funds in bank accounts held by the defendants; and</li>
<li>to restrain Mr Dawson from leaving Australia.</li>
</ul>
ASIC’s application was based on concerns that the defendants obtained almost $7 million in Australian investor funds by cold-calling Australian consumers and operating the websites smsfadvisory.com and pwkittco.com.
ASIC submitted to the Court that the defendants were using the same or substantially similar company and business names to an unrelated business SMSF Advisory Services Pty Ltd and P.W. Kitt &amp; Co.  
It is also alleged that the defendants used the Australian financial services (AFS) licence number of another company.  
ASIC remains concerned that the defendants appear to have no connection with those businesses and hold no licence or authority to deal in financial products or provide financial services.
Michael John Hill, Anthony Norman Connelly and Katherine Sozou of McGrathNicol have been appointed as receivers and managers to the property and assets of the defendants.
The receivers are required to report back to the Court concerning the affairs of the defendants by 18 September 2020.
Any person who is concerned that they have invested with the defendants or SMSF Advisory Services Pty Ltd should contact Patrick Cashman of McGrathNichol on (07) 3333 9800.
ASIC commenced this investigation as part of its response to the increase in financial scam activity arising during the COVID-19 pandemic. This action demonstrates ASIC’s readiness to take urgent action to protect vulnerable consumers in the current environment.
The matter will return before the Court on 27 August 2020. ASIC’s investigation is ongoing.
The case management hearing listed for 27 August 2020 has been adjourned to 10 September 2020.
</body></html>

ASIC obtains interim injunctions against Larry Dawson and PW Kitt Co Pty Ltd

<html><body>
ASIC has cancelled, or imposed conditions on, the registration of a number of auditors of self-managed superannuation funds (SMSFs) who had not maintained an appropriate level of audit experience.
Following a recent review, 36 SMSF auditor registrations have been cancelled and conditions have been imposed on a further six SMSF auditors.
All of the 42 SMSF auditors against whom ASIC acted had not issued any SMSF audit reports over the past five years and thus were not considered to have the necessary practical experience required to perform SMSF audits.
In relation to the six auditors who had conditions imposed on them, ASIC was satisfied that it would be an appropriate alternative to cancellation considering the auditor’s individual circumstances and other relevant (non-SMSF audit) experience. The various conditions imposed across these auditors were:
<ul>
<li>
Independent reviews – Having a number of audits reviewed by an independent SMSF auditor for compliance with auditing standards;</li>
<li>
Education – Completing specific courses of study, including in audit and fund compliance requirements under the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993 (SIS Act) compliance; and</li>
<li>
ASIC exam – Sitting and passing ASIC’s SMSF auditor competency exam prior to issuing any SMSF audit reports.</li>
</ul>
From 1 July 2013, the SIS Act required all auditors of SMSFs to be registered with ASIC. This was to ensure that all SMSF auditors meet at least base standards of competency and expertise.
ASIC and the Australian Taxation Office (ATO) work closely together as co-regulators of SMSF auditors. The ATO monitors SMSF auditor conduct and may refer matters to ASIC for possible action in ASIC’s capacity as the review body that determines whether to disqualify an auditor or cancel or suspend their registration. ASIC may also impose conditions on an SMSF auditor.
Section 123E of the SIS Act allows the cancellation of the registration of an SMSF auditor who no longer has the practical experience required to perform SMSF audits.
Approved SMSF auditors seeking to cancel their registration voluntarily can do so through the ASIC Regulatory Portal.
Further information can be found on ASIC's website and in ASIC Regulatory Guide RG 243 Registration of self-managed superannuation fund auditors (RG 243).
SMSF trustees and members can check whether their auditor is registered, or whether a person has been disqualified, by searching ASIC's SMSF Auditor register.
</body></html>

ASIC cancels registration of self-managed superannuation funds auditors

<html><body>
ASIC has today commenced civil penalty proceedings in the Federal Court against Asgard Capital Management Limited for charging adviser fees to 404 customers for financial advice that was not provided and also against Asgard and BT Funds Management Limited (BT) for making misleading representations in half-yearly or annual account statements regarding the charging of the adviser fees.
ASIC alleges that from September 2014 to August 2017:
<ul>
<li>Asgard charged customers around $130,006 for financial advice after requests were made for customers’ financial advisers to be removed from their product accounts and after the advisers ceased providing advice;</li>
<li>In relation to superannuation products for which it is trustee, BT issued account statements which appeared to show that  adviser fees were no longer being charged  while the ‘adviser fee’ line item was removed from the account statement, an amount equal to that fee was added to the administration fee amount;</li>
<li>In relation to an investor directed portfolio service (IDPS) for which it is the issuer, Asgard issued account statements which appeared to show that adviser fees were no longer being charged  while the ‘adviser fee’ line item was removed from the account statement, an amount equal to that fee was added to the administration fee amount;</li>
<li>The wrongly charged fees were retained by Asgard as revenue; and</li>
<li>Asgard contravened its overarching obligations as an Australian financial services (AFS) license holder to act efficiently, honestly and fairly.</li>
</ul>
ASIC Deputy Chair Daniel Crennan QC said, ‘Today, ASIC has commenced a ‘fees for no service’ case against BT and Asgard as well as commencing a ‘fees for no service’ case against StatePlus Super. Both cases, which relate to superannuation, were subject to cases studies in the Royal Commission, were investigated by ASIC’s Office of Enforcement and have been brought by ASIC to the Federal Court for determination.’
ASIC is seeking declarations and pecuniary penalties from the Federal Court to prevent similar contraventions occurring in the future.
<h2>Download</h2>
Concise statement
Originating process 
<h2>Background</h2>
BT and Asgard are part of the Westpac Group. 
BT is the trustee and RSE licensee for:
<ul>
<li>Asgard Infinity eWRAP Pension Account;</li>
<li>Asgard Infinity eWRAP Super Account;</li>
<li>Asgard Open eWRAP Pension Account;</li>
<li>Asgard Open eWRAP Super Account;</li>
<li>Asgard Rollover Service;</li>
<li>Asgard Superannuation Account; and</li>
<li>Asgard Employee Superannuation Account (Super Funds). </li>
</ul>
Asgard is the custodian and administrator for the Super Funds, as well as the issuer and administrator for the Asgard Infinity eWRAP Investment Account (IDPS product). 
BT and Asgard’s conduct were the subject of a case study by the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry – see Volume 2 (part 13) of the Final Report.
The Royal Commission found that between 2001 and August 2017, BT and Asgard charged around 767 members fees for financial product advice that was not provided. Between December 2017 and March 2018, Westpac remediated $634,490 to the members.
ASIC’s action is in respect of the conduct that occurred within the last six years, being within the limitation of the action period.
This is the fourth enforcement action commenced by ASIC concerning Fees for no service activity. In September 2018, ASIC commenced proceedings in the Federal Court of Australia against two entities in NAB’s wealth management division, NULIS Nominees (Australia) Limited (NULIS) and MLC Nominees Pty Ltd (MLC Nominees). The court proceedings relate to fees charged by both entities to a significant number of their superannuation members for services not provided. The hearing has concluded and judgment in these proceedings on liability and penalty has been reserved (18-259MR).
In December 2019, ASIC commenced civil penalty proceedings in the Federal Court against National Australia Bank Limited (NAB) for alleged contraventions of the ASIC Act and the Corporations Act for FFNS activity. These proceedings are being case managed by the court to trial, a date is yet to be scheduled (19-360MR).
In August 2020, ASIC commenced civil penalty proceedings in the Federal Court against State Super Financial Services Australia Limited (StatePlus) for charging at least 36,592 clients members fees for financial advice that was not provided (20-189MR).
</body></html>

ASIC commences civil penalty proceedings against Asgard Capital Management 

<html><body>
Former Sydney financial adviser, Sam Henderson, has pleaded guilty to one ‘rolled up’ charge of dishonest conduct, and two counts of making a disclosure document available to a person knowing it to be defective.
ASIC alleged that Mr Henderson, between 1 July 2010 and November 2017, whilst the chief executive officer, director and senior financial adviser of Henderson Maxwell, engaged in dishonest conduct when he made false representations that he had a Master of Commerce when he did not hold that qualification:
<ol type="1" start="1">
<li>in 115 PowerPoint presentations he gave to prospective clients from 2010 to 2016;</li>
<li>on the Henderson Maxwell website from October 2012 to August 2016; and</li>
<li>in Henderson Maxwell brochures distributed between 2013 and 2017 and in an Information Memorandum dated May 2011 (20-130MR).</li>
</ol>
Henderson Maxwell and Mr Henderson were the subjects of a bad advice case study in the Royal Commission into Misconduct in the Banking, Superannuation and Financial Services Industry - see Volume 2 (p 242) of the Final Report.
In July 2019, ASIC banned Mr Henderson from providing financial services for a period of three years (19-190MR). It was found that Mr Henderson failed to act in the best interests of his clients, provide appropriate advice and prioritise his clients’ interests when providing personal financial advice.
A dishonest conduct offence under s1041G of the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) carries a maximum penalty in the local court of two years’ imprisonment or a fine not exceeding 120 penalty units, or both.
ASIC also alleged Mr Henderson breached s952D(2)(a)(ii) in 2014 and 2016 by giving two clients a Financial Services Guide, containing the false representation that he held a Master of Commerce (Financial Planning).
Each defective disclosure offence under s952D(2)(a)(ii) Corporations Act carries a maximum penalty in the local court of 12 months’ imprisonment or a fine not exceeding 60 penalty units, or both.
In addition to the above, ASIC alleged that Mr Henderson made the false representation that he held a Master of Commerce in:
<ol>
<li>a book titled ‘One-Page Financial Plan: Everything you need to successfully manage your money and invest for wealth creation’ authored by Mr Henderson and published in 2013;</li>
<li>an interview conducted by a freelance writer, and a subsequent marketing profile prepared on Mr Henderson to promote the Sydney Graduate School of Management (SGSM) Master of Commerce (Financial Planning) course; and</li>
<li>some of Mr Henderson’s professional biographies and descriptions.</li>
</ol>
Mr Henderson will be sentenced in the Downing Centre Local Court on 13 October 2020.
The matter is being prosecuted by the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions, following a referral of a brief of evidence from ASIC.
Moneysmart.gov.au has useful information for consumers about choosing a financial adviser, including how to complain about a financial adviser and what to do if their adviser is banned.
</body></html>

Financial adviser Sam Henderson pleads guilty to dishonest conduct over his academic qualifications 

<html><body>
There has been a $20 million-plus sale of a Mosman trophy home, which was reportedly rented by international superstars David and Victoria Beckham when they came to Sydney in 2018 for the Invictus Games.
The home sold just 72 hours after it came to market.
The Mosman residence designed by architect Alex Popov was sold by childcare mogul Brendan McAssey.
It was being offered off market to buyers in recent months after McAssey and his wife Elizabeth decided to move to the Southern Highlands.
The last time the four-bedroom home on 849sqm at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-mosman-134256882" target="_blank">26 Plunkett Rd</a> sold it took 143 days marketing to find its 2016 buyer.
It was sold by the founder of the Only About Children childcare company Brendan McAssey, who paid $17,349,691 in 2016.
The price guide before this week's sale was $20 million to $22 million.
 
</body></html>

David and Victoria Beckham's Mosman rental sold

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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Staff reporter

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News