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Young southern brown bandicoots (Isoodon obesulus obesulus), an endangered marsupial species living in outer Melbourne.
There are more and more of us on Earth, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-worlds-urban-population-is-growing-so-how-can-cities-plan-for-migrants-49931" target="_blank">increasingly</a> we’re choosing to live in cities. This is a problem for wildlife: urbanisation is one of the greatest <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://rspb.royalsocietypublishing.org/content/281/1780/20133330" target="_blank">threats to biodiversity</a>. Sprawling construction to accommodate people completely removes or modifies the homes of many other species.
But although we need to do all we can to mitigate these effects and <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41559-018-0504-8?code=389cb14c-d4b6-4c87-8bec-225e586635f6&amp;error=cookies_not_supported" target="_blank">their causes</a>, cities are far from biodiversity wastelands. In fact, cities are home to large numbers of species, many of which are <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/geb.12404" target="_blank">threatened</a>.
One such example is the iconic but endangered southern brown bandicoot. <a href="https://authors.elsevier.com/a/1Wyjo1R%7Ee75Gk" target="_blank">New research</a> has found these shy animals thriving in peri-urban areas (the interface between cities and more rural areas) on the outskirts of Melbourne.
<h2>Novel ecosystems</h2>
Through our effects on the environment, humans are increasingly creating “<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1466-822X.2006.00212.x" target="_blank">novel ecosystems</a>”: areas composed of new combinations of species and/or new and modified environmental conditions. In these areas there are <a href="https://theconversation.com/biodiversity-can-flourish-on-an-urban-planet-18723" target="_blank">winners and losers</a>. How we perceive and manage such ecosystems could have a big influence on conserving species more broadly, and helping to address <a href="http://www.pnas.org/content/114/30/E6089" target="_blank">Earth’s extinction crisis</a>.
<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0006320717321262" target="_blank">We studied</a> these issues by examining the ecology of the endangered <a href="http://www.environment.gov.au/cgi-bin/sprat/public/publicspecies.pl?taxon_id=68050" target="_blank">southern brown bandicoot</a> in southeast Melbourne. Specifically, we compared bandicoot abundance and body condition between novel sites, made up of peri-urban areas, and more natural remnant sites at the <a href="https://www.rbg.vic.gov.au/visit-cranbourne" target="_blank">Royal Botanic Gardens at Cranbourne</a> and <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quail_Island_(Victoria)" target="_blank">Quail Island Nature Conservation Reserve</a>, which more closely resemble original bandicoot habitat.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/216741/original/file-20180429-135848-8f9i5r.JPG?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
Peri-urban habitat of the southern brown bandicoot. 
Our goal was to see whether novel sites could support resident bandicoots. Crucially, could peri-urban areas allow bandicoots to breed, recruit (attract new migrating individuals) and survive well enough for populations to persist?
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/216739/original/file-20180429-135803-edhxm8.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
The endangered southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus obesulus) Hayley Davis
<h2>Don’t judge habitats by their appearance</h2>
Contrary to what the <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/j.1523-1739.2008.00936.x" target="_blank">Human Threat Hypothesis</a> (and logic) might predict, we found more bandicoots at novel sites (66 individuals recorded over 1722 trap-nights) than remnant sites (26 individuals recorded over 1384 trap-nights). And bandicoots were most abundant at the novel site with the most urbanised surroundings. The condition of females was similar between novel and remnant sites.
Most bandicoots at novel sites were resident (meaning they were observed at the same location multiple times thoughout the study). At these same sites we recorded successful breeding, recruitment of young adults, and survival of mature adults.
Our results challenge conventional conservation thinking. Where bandicoots did best is also where known predators such as foxes and <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1SIVirQ8Iyw" target="_blank">feral cats</a> are present and abundant, as opposed to the nature reserves from which they are largely absent. Remnant areas also have more intact native vegetation, whereas bandicoots in urban areas nested in roadsides full of invasive blackberry, a weed often targeted for removal.
Bandicoots like thick vegetation, but they appear not to care which plant species they use – as long as cover is sufficient. Blackberry bushes may protect bandicoots from predators, and also be a source of food through the insects they attract.
On the topic of food and just how adaptable bandicoots are, locals within our study region reported them dining on pet and domestic animal food from backyards.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/216738/original/file-20180429-135851-16ncoy9.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
How we choose to live alongside native wildlife in our cities, such as this bandicoot, could have a big effect on biodiversity conservation globally. Sarah Maclagan
<h2>Conservation opportunities in cities</h2>
A growing body of evidence suggests that even heavily modified environments can support viable populations of native plants and animals, and we should endeavour to manage these areas more sympathetically for the benefit of more species. This does not mean that all species will thrive in cities and heavily modified environments – there will always be a need for <a href="http://www.environment.gov.au/land/nrs" target="_blank">conservation reserves</a> – but it throws the wilderness-versus-city dichotomy into question.
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/95423/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">We need greater awareness of the nature we already <a href="https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/the-threatened-species-in-our-urban-jungle" target="_blank">share our cities</a> with. Deliberate encouragement such as greener building and urban design that <a href="https://ensia.com/features/nature-cities/" target="_blank">encourages wildlife to return and flourish</a> would substantially benefit humans and other species alike. We are a part of and dependent upon nature, and as such should celebrate and seek to re-establish these vital connections.
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/euan-ritchie-735" target="_blank">Euan Ritchie</a>, Associate Professor in Wildlife Ecology and Conservation, Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life &amp; Environmental Sciences, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757" target="_blank">Deakin University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/sarah-maclagan-292267" target="_blank">Sarah Maclagan</a>, PhD candidate, Centre for Integrative Ecology, <a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/deakin-university-757" target="_blank">Deakin University</a>
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/rockin-the-suburbs-bandicoots-live-among-us-in-melbourne-95423" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Bandicoots live among us in Melbourne

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ASIC has permanently banned mortgage brokers Xiaoyi (Jeff) Zhao, Jun (Leo) Ma and Liang (Victor) Zhang from engaging in credit activities.
Messrs Jeff Zhao and Leo Ma were mortgage brokers and directors of Sydney Global Investment Pty Ltd, which formerly operated a finance brokerage business in Sydney that traded as X Finance Group.  Mr Victor Zhang was also a mortgage broker and lending manager at X Finance Group.
ASIC found that between July 2015 and February 2016 Messrs Zhao, Ma and Zhang were knowingly or recklessly involved in the provision of false employer letters and/or pay slips to Westpac Banking Corporation to support 21 home loan applications lodged on behalf of customers of X Finance Group. 
<ul>
<li>ASIC found that the companies nominated in the letters and payslips were based in China;</li>
<li>customers concerned were not employed by these companies; and</li>
<li>pay slips provided income figures that were much greater than the customers' actual incomes.</li>
</ul>
As a result of that conduct, Westpac financed over $17M in home loans in reliance on false documentation.
Messrs Zhao, Ma and Zhang have the right to seek a review of ASIC's decision to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.
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Fraudster mortgage brokers at X Finance Group banned by ASIC

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Perth rents increased by 1.7% over the March 2018 quarter however, they were -1.3% lower over the past 12 months, say CoreLogic. 
Rents in regional Western Australia were unchanged over both the quarter and the past 12 months. Gross rental yields currently sit at 3.92% in Perth and 5.64% in regional Western Australia, a year ago they were recorded at 4.00% and 5.43% respectively.
Although rents increased across each of Perth’s SA4 regions over the first quarter of this year, rents were also lower in most regions over the past year. The one exception was the Inner region. Mandurah is the only region in which rental yields were unchanged over the year, all other Perth regions have recorded a moderate fall in rental yields.
Two of the four regional SA4 regions recorded a fall in rents over the quarter while two regions recorded annual falls. Interestingly, the regions that recorded quarterly rental falls were not the ones to record an annual fall. In all regional markets except for Bunbury, where yields have softened over the year, rental yields have increased over the past 12 months.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/4/18/WA%20.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge:</a>
<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/2018/4/18/WA%20.jpg" alt="">
A Mandurah three bedroom house currently on the rental market is priced at $280 a week (pictured top).
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-mandurah-423546478" target="_blank">Located at 12 Clarice Street</a>, the house features three bedrooms,  separate lounge, and  enclosed sun room to rear.
Opposite to the Forum Shopping Centre, it is close to train station and all amenities. 
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Moderate falls in Western Australia rental yields the norm: CoreLogic

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A Melbourne three bedroom house has been sold by the mortgagee for $580,000.
It was sold by Marco Riggio and John Gioftsidis from Love&amp;Co.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-lalor-127922562" target="_blank">Located at 9 Lacey Street</a>, Lalor, the house comprises three bedrooms, lounge, kitchen, and two parking spaces.
Surrounded by an endless array of amenities, it is close to bus services, Thomastown Railway Station, Lalor Plaza and primary and secondary schools.
It was last trade for $230,000 in 2004.
The suburb's median house price sits on $630,000, according to CoreLogic. 
 <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/2018/4/26/lalor%20vic%202.jpg" alt="">
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Lalor three bedroom house sold by mortgagee 

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Heath Shaw, the GWS AFL player, has humourously assumed the title of “Lord”.
It came after Lord Heath Shaw purchased a small plot of land in the Scottish Highlands area of Glencoe, which all come with the title Lord.
He paid A$60 for one square foot.
Lots are priced up to $1000 for 1000 sq foot.
The aim of the investment scheme is to return the once lush Highland landscape, ravaged by commercial forestry and overgrazing over the years, back to its former glory.
"The Lord is on the way to training along Parramatta Road this morning in a horse and cart," he told the 3MMM Hot Breakfast team.
He posted about his new status and property purchase on Twitter yesterday, where he's changed his handle to reflect his new status.
The documentation saw the AFL footballer "entirely renounce, relinquish and abandon the use of my former name of Heath Shaw and assume, adopt and determine to take and use from the date hereof the name and title of Lord Heath Shaw in substitution for my former name of Heath Shaw,” the first clause of the deed reads.
Heath has bought into the first Highland Titles Nature Reserve, which opened in 2007.
<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/2018/4/30/glencoe0.jpg" alt="">
It is made up of thousands of plots which are supported by a global community of Lairds.
The land is free to visit whether you have <a href="https://www.highlandtitles.com/buy-a-plot/" target="_blank">purchased a plot</a> or not.
Located close to the historical Glencoe, the reserve is one of two Highland Titles reserves.
The website advised "every person that purchases a plot from Highland Titles becomes a Laird, Lord or Lady of Glencoe, even if it is a 1 sqft plot."
The Highland Titles Nature Reserve is sustained by the ongoing support of the over 100,000+ Highland Titles community.
"With the purchase of every plot, we are able to work with our partners to  plant more trees, build more shelters for the animals that inhabit the reserves, and progress in our efforts to conserve the land for future generations as well as offer a unique and charming gift to those who support the progress of our efforts.
"Join a community of over 200,000 people around the world who have made a contribution towards conserving Scotland," the website suggests.
The Glencoe Wood estate is located off the main road (A828) between Oban and Fort William in the Highlands of Scotland. The nearest village is Duror, and the nearest Post Code is PA38 4BW.
"It’s official, I am the first AFL player in it history to become a Lord," he tweeted humorously.
His twitter handle was changed accordingly with the accompanying <a class="PrettyLink hashtag customisable" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/thisisthewordofthelord?src=hash" rel="tag" data-query-source="hashtag_click" data-scribe="element:hashtag">#thisisthewordofthelord</a>
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GWS star Lord Heath Shaw purchases small plot of land in the Scottish Highlands

<html><body>The cash rate is likely to remain untouched at the next board meeting tomorrow (01/04/2018), but increased rates from the US Federal Reserve may trigger out-of-cycle rate hikes within the Australian lending market, according to <a href="https://finder.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=cc5e9bce699fa1d71a67cf499&amp;id=3dd987276e&amp;e=58cd8ffd03" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">finder.com.au</a> research. When asked to predict the cash rate decision for May 2018, 97% (29/30) members of the <a href="https://finder.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=cc5e9bce699fa1d71a67cf499&amp;id=c608319a35&amp;e=58cd8ffd03" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">finder.com.au RBA survey</a> forecast no change. Experts and economists believe a mixed economic climate and low inflation are the main catalysts behind this expected monetary policy decision.  Eighty-seven percent of economists who weighed in on the direction of the next rate move believe the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) will push the cash rate upwards. Economists were also asked to indicate exactly when the next cash rate change may happen.  Graham Cooke, Insights Manager at finder.com.au, says the estimated time of a rate movement is creeping forward. “Of the seventeen economists who specified a date for an upward rate movement, fourteen of them (82%) don't expect this to happen until 2019.” “We could be looking at a stagnant cash rate for the rest of the year, at least,” he says. An Australian online bank recently lifted interest rates out-of-cycle for owner-occupiers and investors, citing increased funding costs as a result of rising US interest rates. When asked about this, most panellists (14, 78%) from the survey are expecting other banks to follow suit. “Increased international lending costs may force banks to increase rates for home loan customers out-of-cycle, even if the cash rate doesn’t budge. “The days of super-low interest may be over for borrowers sooner than expected. “Brace yourself for out-of-cycle rate hikes, especially if the US Federal Reserve lifts rates again,” Mr Cooke says. When considering the broader economic outlook, household debt was pinpointed as an area of concern in finder’s Economic Sentiment Tracker. Of the 17 panellists who participated, none had a positive outlook for household debt.  In fact, 53% of respondents reported a negative outlook on household debt. “With household debt at an all-time high, this does not bode well for stressed borrowers,” Mr Cooke says. On the other hand, the highest percentage of positive sentiment was given to employment (60%) followed by wage growth (35%) and housing affordability (21%). “This optimism for future employment has likely been fostered by government support. “Employment was a key part of the 2017-18 budget with a focus on helping disadvantaged members of society such as parents, Indigenous Australians and older people, find employment opportunities. “Initiatives such as ParentsNext and Closing the Gap are two examples of this, and it’s likely employment and job creation will remain a central theme in the 2018-19 budget, due to be released next Tuesday (08/05/2018),” Mr Cooke says. Here’s what our experts had to say: Jordan Eliseo, ABC Bullion (Hold): "The RBA will keep the cash rate steady at 1.50% at their next meeting. Inflation is soft, property prices are easing, and employment growth looks to be slowing down, so we are still of a view that the next move will be a cut, though this will take some time to come through." Shane Oliver, AMP Capital (Hold): "Strong business conditions and employment, rising non-mining investment, strong global growth and the RBA's own forecasts argue against a cut but low inflation and wages growth, risks around the outlook for consumer spending, the slowing Sydney and Melbourne property markets and tightening bank lending standards argue against a hike. So the RBA is likely to remain on hold." Alison Booth, ANU (Hold): " The fundamentals do not yet justify a change." John Hewson, ANU (Hold): "Economy still mixed Household debt constraint" Malcolm Wood, Baillieu Holst (Hold): "Muddle-through economy, inflation at low end of target band" Paul Dales, Capital Economics (Hold): "Economic growth and inflation still aren't strong enough to warrant higher interest rates" Michael Blythe, CBA (Hold): "Inflation is low, the downtrend in unemployment appears to have stalled and the RBA is emphasising ‘patience’." Saul Eslake, Corinna Economic Advisory (Hold): "None of the data released since the last meeting, nor anything else that has occurred since then, will have altered the RBA's assessment of the economic outlook sufficiently to prompt a change in its view that current monetary policy settings are appropriate for the time being." Peter Gilmore, Gateway Bank (Hold): "The RBA knows that pressure from home price rises is beginning to stabilise, however, it's still too soon to move on the cash rate with so many borrowers heavily exposed to rising rates and inflation still low." Mark Brimble, Griffith Uni (Hold): "Insufficient traction or momentum in the economy to consider any tightening for the year" Shane Garrett, Housing Industry Association (Hold): "No real inflationary pressures, strong jobs market." Alex Joiner, IFM Investors (Hold): "The economy is tracking along the RBA's own projections, however, private demand is picking up only gradually and consequently inflationary pressures remain modest. Further strong labour market outcomes have not as yet prompted a discernible acceleration of broad-based wages growth that would underpin an inflationary pulse. The RBA has little cause to shift its policy stance as a result. " Michael Witts, ING Bank (Hold): "Month on month no significant changes to require changes in policy rate." Leanne Pilkington, Laing+Simmons (Hold): "The fundamentals have remained relatively static, meaning the RBA has no impetus to adjust interest rates at this time. There’s a strong argument to leave the cash rate unchanged for the foreseeable future given stagnant house prices, the marked drop in investor lending and other macro challenges to the economy, especially when the banks cannot be trusted not to hike rates independently." Mathew Tiller, LJ Hooker (Hold): "Inflation and wages growth remain too soft to see any movement in the cash rate." John Caelli, ME (Hold): "The RBA will want to see inflation and wages improve and lower unemployment before making any changes." Michael Yardney, Metropole Property Strategists (Hold): "RBA  Governor Philip Lowe has warned the next shift in the official cash rate will be up rather than down, but there is no reason for this to occur until there is a pick up in economic growth and wages. Both of these are likely to be gradual so there is no case for any near-term change in policy." Mark Crosby, Monash University (Hold): "The RBA have signaled that they will keep rates at low levels for a while longer, but that the next move is likely to be upwards." Jacqueline Dearle, Mortgage Choice (Hold): "When the economy can better absorb the impact of an increase and inflation is at 2% or near that target level, Gov Lowe will lift the rate." Dr Andrew Wilson, My Housing Market (Increase): "Latest data remains neutral for the current setting environment with ABS March quarter CPI still clearly underwhelming. Predictable end to APRA market manipulation reflects generally moderated housing market activity so RBA can concentrate on main macro game." Alan Oster, NAB (Hold): "Too early to change. Waiting on data regarding wages and unemployment." Matthew Peter, QIC (Hold): "After the tepid March quarter CPI report and the ongoing slowdown in the housing market, the RBA can park monetary policy into 2019." Noel Whittaker, QUT (Hold): "Won't drop them - property prices flat - why move." Nerida Conisbee, REA Group (Hold): "Although momentum seems to be slowly building in the Australian economy, it still isn't at a point where interest rates will start to increase. We are now running at quite a different speed to large parts of the rest of the world - our time will come but it is taking lot longer than expected." Christine Williams, Smarter Property Investing P/L (Hold): "Even with unemployment reducing and the positiveness within the business sector, and the slowing of the housing market in many states I feel with the Royal Commission at is peak and the findings that have been released the RBA Reserve Bank would be very courageous to increase interest rates at the present." Janu Chan, St.George Bank (Hold): "The RBA has explicitly stated that the next move is likely to be up, but given that spare capacity remains in the labour market, wage growth continues to be subdued and inflation pressure muted a hike is not likely to occur for some time." Brian Parker, Sunsuper (Hold): "Nothing in the recent data to force them to adjust rates one way or the other.  Still enough labour market slack to keep them from raising rates, and they've made it clear they would be very reluctant to ease at this point."</body></html>

Increased international lending costs may force banks to increase rates for home loan customers out-of-cycle

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<div>
The Rawson family has sold its South Gippsland cattle and sheep properties, Nardoo and Burrabadeen for about $20 million.
Burrabadeen boasts a <a href="http://www.eldersrealestate.com.au/rural/buy/property-cropping-vic-tarwin-lower-668956" target="_blank">Guilford Bell designed home</a> in picturesque English and native treed gardens (above and below).
Nardoo and Burrabadeen, which cover 1252 hectares just outside the hamlet of Tarwin Lower, were first offered for sale in 2016.
The original asking price was around $30 million, the Australian Financial Review said.
<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/2018/4/30/guilford.jpg" alt="">
The owners have consistently produced the equivalent of 800 breeding cows plus followers in addition to 2,000 first cross and composite ewes and lambs. Approximately 200 acres of hay and silage is also produced annually.
The buyers are understood to be a farming couple from the south-east Melbourne fringe who were looking for a larger property further out from the city.
Elders agents Nick Myer and Don Olden confirmed the properties had sold in the local paper, the South Gippsland Sentinel Times.
</div>
<div>
<div id="article-inline-ad">The Rawson family co-founded the estate agency, Burgess Rawson in 1976 but sold out of the business in 2010. </div>
</div>
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South Gippsland's Nardoo and Burrabadeen sold with Guilford Bell homestead

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Designed by Ardensiena utilising the latest in textured materials, a Brighton East home is whispered to have fetched $4.5 million post auction.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-brighton+east-127991662" target="_blank">43 Plantation Avenue offering </a>was passed in at $4,357,000.
The price guidance from Hocking Stuart agent Peter Kennett had been $4.25 million to $4,675,000, describing it as an "avant-garde masterpiece."
<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/2018/4/30/BRIGHTON2.jpg" alt="">
Completed 15 months ago by the Brighton firm ArdenSiena, the two-storey house is with the precinct between Hampton Street and Brighton Public Golf Course.
The concrete facade towers above a pond crossed by slab-like stepping stones.
Around the side, a courtyard offers a rainforest view from the double-glazed stairwell, which shelters an indoor clivea garden.
The interiors often feature oak, porcelain, Caesarstone, cedar along with turquoise cabinetry.
Automation technology waters the garden.
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Whispered $4.5 million Brighton East trophy home sale

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A Canada Bay property associated with the family of the bankrupted property developer Salim Mehajer was pulled from weekend auction.
The family’s Canada Bay investment property came with plans for a mega mansion.
The site has a rundown 1970s home at <a href="http://www.timerealty.com.au/1P0567" target="_blank">555 Lyons Road West.</a>
<div class="story-content">
The auction sign had “withdrawn” slapped across the sign.
Canada Bay Council had rejected Mehajer’s plans for the huge Canada Bay home.
“We’ve had an offer, but it wouldn’t be accepted,” Century 21s Fay Petrou told The Sunday Telegraph.
</div>
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Mehajer family Canada Bay investment offering pulled from auction

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Melbourne secured the nation's strongest weekend auction success rate which included a record $337,000 auction price for a Brighton beach bathing box.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-brighton-128010046" target="_blank">Bathing box 76B</a> was a “surprise” purchase for his family by a grandfather of 10.
The red and white striped bathing box sold along with the neighbouring box, another recently built by the Bayside council, No. 76C, which sold for $320,000.
<div>
“(This is for) my children and 10 grandchildren. We’ll spend weekends here.
“There’s no better place than this," he told the Herald Sun.
Both offerings, about 6mx4m in size, had reserves of $290,000. 
Auctioneer Nick Johnstone said both required to pay GST on top of the purchase prices.
The previous highest reported price for Dendy Street beach was $326,000, achieved by box 85, which Johnstone sold just before Christmas in 2016.
Box 60 sold for an undisclosed figure above $330,000 in 2017. 
The council has built and auctioned one or two boxes a year since 2013 as part of a project to fill in gaps between the existing ones and raise money to better the beach.
Only Bayside residents and ratepayers can purchase the Brighton sand shacks.
Melbourne's top notified sale was at Mount Eliza at $3.59 million.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mount+eliza-127979866" target="_blank">four bedroom 1928 bungalow,</a> set on 1250sqm, above the Moondah Beach bathing boxes , had been held for three generations.
Its stately lounge room came with intact period details that include decorative timber panelling and rarely encountered ceiling molds depicting native wildlife.
The home at 6 Kunyung Road was listed with $2.5 million to $2.75 million price guidance through Vicki Sayers at RT Edgar.
Its price guidance was based on three 2018 sales on the clifftop location. 
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<td>
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<div>
1  28 Kunyung Road Mount Eliza 3930
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</td>
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<div>
<div>
$2,625,000
</div>
</div>
</td>
<td>
<div>
<div>
06/02/2018
</div>
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</td>
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<div>
2  21 Matong Road Mount Eliza 3930
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<div>
$1,850,000
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<div>
<div>
08/02/2018
</div>
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</tr>
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<div>
3  2-4 Kunyung Road Mount Eliza 3930
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$4,100,000
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22/01/2018
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It did not come with a bathing box.
Melbourne saw an increase in clearance rate and volumes with a total of 1,326 Melbourne homes taken to weekend auction returning a preliminary clearance rate of 65.5 per cent, up on the 63.6 per cent last week when a lower 914 auctions were held. The sales included a record price at Cranbourne North.
<div>Tulliallan, the Georgian-style mansion at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-cranbourne+north-127922766" target="_blank">160 Wheelers Park Drive</a> fetched $2.35 million when sold to a Narre Warren South family.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>There had been $1.8 million to $1.98 million price guidance for the six-bedroom, five-bathroom residence on 3200sq m of parklike grounds.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Melbourne's cheapest result was <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-vic-essendon+north-127980890" target="_blank">11/3 Royal Av, Essendon North</a> which fetched $215,000.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The price guide had been $200,000 to $220,000 for the recent $210 a week studio rental.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It last sold at $150,000 in 2006.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It was not the cheapest across the nation as there was a $185,000 sale in Adelaide.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/1-desmond-rd-hackham-sa-5163" target="_blank">1 Desmond Rd, Hackham</a> offering has previously traded at $215,000 in 2009.</div>
<div>
The double brick Hackham home was marketed as being in very average condition, so there was opportunity to either renovate or knock the house over and build two properties.
Nationally the number of homes taken to auction across the combined capital cities rose this week, with a total of 2,539 held, according to Corelogic.
The higher volumes returned a preliminary clearance rate of 62.5 per cent. Last week, there were 1,799 capital city auctions returning a 62.2 per cent final clearance rate.
More homes in Sydney went to auction this week at 805 compared to 551 last week.
Sydney's cheapest sale was $366,000 at Lakemba.
</div>
</div>
The two bedroom <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-lakemba-128009818" target="_blank">2/61 Colin Street </a><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-lakemba-128009818" target="_blank">ground floor unit</a> had traded at $299,000 in 2005.
<div>As volumes rose across Sydney this week, the preliminary clearance rate dropped below 60 per cent for the first time since the first week of February.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The preliminary clearance rate showed 59.8 per cent, however this will likely revise lower as unreported results are finalised.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Some 74 offerings were withdrawn from Sydney auction.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>They included a Canada Bay property associated with the family of the bankrupted property developer Salim Mehajer which was pulled from weekend auction.
The family’s Canada Bay investment property site has a rundown 1970s home at <a href="http://www.timerealty.com.au/1P0567" target="_blank">555 Lyons Road West.</a>
The auction sign had “withdrawn” slapped across the sign.
Canada Bay Council had rejected Mehajer’s plans.
Channel 7 reported the inner-west plot was bought in 2015 for $1.4million but revised plans to build a multi-storey home with views over the Parramatta River failed to proceed after 22 neighbours in total objected to the development application. “We’ve had an offer, but it wouldn’t be accepted,” Century 21s Fay Petrou told The Sunday Telegraph.
The property developer and former deputy mayor of defunct Auburn council rose to prominence in 2015 for his lavish wedding to now ex-wife Aysha.
The weakest Sydney region was Blacktown at 22 percent.
</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Canberra's top sale was secured pre-auction when $2.2 million was paid for <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-narrabundah-128039250" target="_blank">58 Sprent Street, Narrabundah</a>
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<div>Canberra returned a lower 64 percent clearance rate.</div>
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<div>Brisbane's top sale was also a pre-auction result.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The renovated and extended 1900 Queenslander style home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/115-elizabeth-st-toowong-qld-4066" target="_blank">115 Elizabeth Street, Toowong</a> sold at $1,715,000 through Adcock Prestige.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It had around 525 sqm living space.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>CoreLogic calculated Brisbane's clearance rate at 54 percent.</div>
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Brighton bathing box, plus Cranbourne North sales among weekend auction records

The Gold Coast economy has grown by 25 per cent since 2020/21 to surpass $55 billion, but perhaps the more significant story is what sits behind the headline number.

For decades, the Gold Coast has been viewed through the lens of tourism, lifestyle and population growth. The latest State of the City Report suggests that perception is increasingly out of step with reality.

Released by Invest Gold Coast, the report ranks the Gold Coast as Australia's largest non-capital city economy and, perhaps more notably, second nationally behind Sydney for Economic Complexity, a measure that assesses the diversity and sophistication of an economy.

It's a result that places the Gold Coast ahead of Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, highlighting the extent to which the city's economic base has broadened beyond its traditional industries.

Today, the Gold Coast supports more than 350,000 jobs, is home to over 83,000 businesses and generates $19 billion in annual exports. Manufacturing now accounts for 62 per cent of international export growth, while sectors including health, education, advanced manufacturing, technology and professional services are becoming increasingly important contributors to the local economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the report confirmed the city's evolution into one of Australia's most significant economies.

"The Gold Coast economy continues to grow at an incredible pace. This is no surprise to those of us who have watched the evolution up close," Mayor Tate said.

"As one of the most entrepreneurial, investment driven and opportunity focused economies in the country our ambition has been realised and possibilities are endless.

"The Gold Coast has built a reputation as the city that says yes. We say yes to investment, yes to opportunity and yes to people who want to build something.

"It's this mindset helping us drive major growth across health, advanced manufacturing, screen production, marine, technology and the knowledge economy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360975]

While population growth has been one of the defining stories of the past decade, the report points to a broader economic transformation taking place.

The city's knowledge economy now contributes $7.9 billion annually and supports around 31,000 jobs, while the health and wellbeing sector contributes $5.2 billion and employs more than 42,000 people. Together, the six priority sectors identified in the report account for almost $24 billion in economic output and more than 145,000 jobs.

One of the strongest examples is the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct at Southport. The 200-hectare precinct now contains more than $5 billion worth of health, education, research and innovation infrastructure and supports over 16,000 jobs.

The report also highlights the growing role of advanced manufacturing, particularly in aerospace, defence and modular construction.

Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space Technologies recently became the first Australian commercial company to attempt an orbital launch, while companies including Modscape and ModnPods are helping establish the Yatala-Stapylton corridor as one of Australia's fastest-growing advanced manufacturing hubs.

The city's entrepreneurial culture is also translating into business growth.

Since 2019/20, the number of businesses operating on the Gold Coast has increased by 22 per cent, while firms employing more than 200 people have grown by 80 per cent. The report suggests the next challenge is converting more local start-ups and medium-sized businesses into nationally significant companies.

Development activity remains another key indicator of confidence.

There are currently more than $23 billion worth of major projects underway across the Gold Coast, supported by a record 75 active cranes, a figure that now exceeds Brisbane and represents a 150 per cent increase since 2016.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112024 project_image_fid=343235]

Importantly, the report notes the next phase of investment will need to extend beyond residential development.

While 93 per cent of crane activity is currently tied to housing, Invest Gold Coast argues future investment will increasingly need to focus on cultural, civic, infrastructure and industry-enabling projects that strengthen the city's long-term economic resilience.

Invest Gold Coast Chair Will Hodgman said the city was now benefiting from years of economic diversification.

"What is happening on the Gold Coast is the result of the city's economic base broadening, fuelled by industries with long-term, high-growth potential," Mr Hodgman said.

"This is no longer a secondary Australian economy, the Gold Coast is becoming a globally connected city with deeper capability across health, knowledge and creative industries, advanced manufacturing, technology and exports."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365786]

Looking ahead, the Gold Coast's population is projected to exceed one million residents by 2046.

For a city that was once largely defined by tourism and lifestyle, the latest figures suggest the Gold Coast is becoming something more significant, one of Australia's most diverse and economically sophisticated urban economies, and increasingly one that national and international investors can no longer afford to overlook.

Joel Robinson

75 cranes, $23 billion pipeline and a $55 billion economy: Inside the Gold Coast economic boom

Ron Bakir's Homecorp has sold more than 75 per cent of the apartments in its wellness-driven Florence Residences in Surfers Paradise following its first weekend release.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/florence-residences-24-monte-carlo-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">26-storey project on Monte Carlo Avenue</a>, which commenced construction earlier this year, has seen a flurry of buyers secure their slice of the Gold Coast's latest wellbeing-focused offering in one of the nation's most competitive property markets.

Since the pandemic, the Gold Coast's population has grown by more than 11 per cent, a rate approximately four times faster than Sydney's, driven largely by lifestyle changes and interstate migration. While buyer activity has moderated in some markets nationally, demand for newly built dwellings on the Gold Coast continues to gain momentum as purchasers increasingly prioritise lifestyle, amenity, wellbeing, liveability and long-term investment potential.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372743]

Homecorp CEO Ron Bakir says buyers today are looking for more than just a home.

"What we are seeing is a shift in how people define value in property," Bakir says.

"What attracts residents to new developments is a desire for more than just a residence. They are looking for a place that complements their lifestyle, supports their wellbeing and reflects the way they want to live into the future.

"Lifestyle, longevity, proactive health, wellbeing, connection and a sense of community are increasingly shaping purchasing decisions, particularly on the Gold Coast, where these factors continue to be a major drawcard."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372744]

Bakir says Homecorp is responding to this shift through an approach that places greater emphasis on design, amenity and experience working together to create places that feel considered, connected and enduring in value.

Inspired by Eastern European design, Florence Residences will comprise 120 apartments alongside a private residents-only wellness club featuring a resort-style rooftop pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a spa retreat, contemporary gymnasium, and a spacious yoga and Pilates studio.

The development will also feature a residents-only lounge with private dining facilities and a rooftop bar, premium outdoor entertaining areas, a hotel-style lobby lounge, generous bike parking, and pet-friendly amenities including a heated dog wash.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372742]

A limited number of apartments remain available, with an exclusive collection of four-bedroom sub-penthouses set to be released in the coming months.

Florence is one of the latest additions to Homecorp's expanding multi-billion-dollar property portfolio, which also includes plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/homecorp-lodges-plans-for-260-million-moroccan-bathhouse-inspired-tower-in-budds-beach">$260 million development in Budds Beach</a> tailored to the growing wellness market.

A development application has been lodged for a 27-storey, 156-residence tower at 8–10 Acacia Avenue and 25–27 Oak Avenue, featuring a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired sanctuary.

Apartments at Florence Residences are priced from $1,249,000, with construction expected to be completed by late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150414]

Buyers rush to Homecorp's Florence Residences as Gold Coast wellness trend gains momentum

The NSW Government has expanded its $1 billion Pre-sale Finance Guarantee program, broadening access for affordable housing providers and smaller residential developments as it seeks to accelerate housing delivery across the state.

The Minns Government says the program has already helped bring forward more than 600 homes across Sydney and regional NSW since launching in September 2025, with similar models now adopted in South Australia and Western Australia.

The latest changes, announced by Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, are designed to improve access to finance for projects that have planning approval but are struggling to secure funding.

Among the key changes is an expansion of support for community housing providers. The program will now support up to 100 per cent affordable housing projects valued at up to $30 million when delivered by not-for-profit providers, while support for larger affordable housing developments will increase for projects worth up to $80 million.

The government says the changes will help accelerate the delivery of housing for low-income workers, older people, people living with disability, and those at risk of homelessness, while reducing reliance on direct grants or subsidised loans to bridge funding gaps.

The eligibility criteria for smaller residential developments have also been broadened. The previous $5 million minimum project value threshold has been removed and replaced with a requirement that projects deliver at least four homes.

Support has also increased for projects delivering fewer than 20 homes, with the guarantee now able to cover up to 75 per cent of dwellings in a development, capped at $30 million per project.

The changes are expected to particularly benefit smaller-scale and regional developments, which often face greater challenges meeting pre-sale requirements imposed by lenders.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the scheme demonstrates how government can use its balance sheet to stimulate housing supply without relying solely on taxpayer-funded grants.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee shows how this Government is using its balance sheet to reduce risk and unlock private investment, enabling new homes to move from design to construction faster," Mookhey said.

"This landmark reform allows us to deliver homes for working families at a lower cost to taxpayers, while also maintaining strong financial discipline."

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the program had already proven effective in bringing stalled projects to market.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee has already proven it can unlock stalled projects and accelerate housing delivery by giving lenders the confidence they need to back good developments," Scully said.

"These changes will allow more affordable housing and smaller developments to access support so more homes can be built faster where communities need them most."

Housing Minister Rose Jackson said the expansion would help community housing providers overcome financing barriers that often delay projects.

"We know community housing providers are ready to build more homes, too often they're held back by barriers to finance," Jackson said.

"Expanding the Pre-sale Finance Guarantee helps remove those barriers so more affordable homes can get off the ground sooner."

The announcement was welcomed by the Property Council of Australia, which has long advocated for measures aimed at improving project feasibility and access to finance.

Property Council NSW Executive Director Katie Stevenson described the expansion as a practical intervention that addresses one of the most immediate constraints on housing delivery.

"This is exactly the kind of practical intervention we need right now, focused on getting projects out of the ground, not just approved," Stevenson said.

"It builds on a model the Property Council has worked closely with government to develop following calls for such a scheme ahead of last year's NSW Budget, so it's great to see it being expanded."

Stevenson said the reforms would help unlock projects that are ready to proceed but have been delayed by financing challenges. However, she noted that broader feasibility issues remain a significant barrier to increasing housing supply.

"The biggest challenge in NSW housing today is delivery. Too many projects have planning approval but are simply not financially viable to proceed under current settings," she said.

Speaking at the Property Council's NSW Housing Summit, Housing Minister Rose Jackson acknowledged that feasibility and financing pressures continue to constrain housing delivery, while reaffirming the government's commitment to work with industry on solutions.

Stevenson said the government's recognition of those challenges was encouraging ahead of next week's state budget.

"It's positive to see the government clearly recognising that feasibility pressures are now a binding constraint on supply," she said.

"With the Budget just days away, the focus must be on backing delivery, making sure projects stack up, finance can flow, and more homes can move from approval to construction."

The expanded Pre-sale Finance Guarantee forms part of the NSW Government's broader housing agenda, which also includes planning reforms, the NSW Housing Pattern Book, and a series of rezonings intended to increase housing capacity across the state.

NSW expands Pre-sale Finance Guarantee to unlock more affordable and regional housing

Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372212]

Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372227]

Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372225]

While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372222]

The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146717]

Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6395]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6399]

Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=353235]

A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6390]

“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

Staff reporter

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