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Apartment purchases in more than 100 Brisbane suburbs, circulated on a confidential list, will face new lending restrictions from next Monday from the home town lender, Suncorp.
The list covers 39 Brisbane postcodes.
Under Suncorp's new rules, it will no longer accept investment loan applications for apartments where the buyer does not have a minimum deposit of 20 percent or more.
The exceptions are existing home loan applications and those received before Friday.
"Our settings have been adjusted for postcodes based on recent weakness in the investment unit market in Brisbane, with evidence of a reduction in prices," a Suncorp Bank spokesman said.
4000 Inner Brisbane City
4005 New Farm; Tenneriffe
4006 Fortitude Valley; Bowen Hills; Newstead; Herston
4007 Ascot; Hamilton
4009 Eagle Farm
4010 Albion
4011 Clayfield; Hendra
4012 Nundah; Toombul, Wavell Heights
4013 Northgate
4029 Royal Brisbane Hospital
4030 Kalinga; Lutwyche; Windsor; Wooloowin
4031 Gordon Park; Kedron
4032 Chermside
4051 Alderly; Enoggera; Gaythorne; Grange; Newmarket; Wilston
4053 Brookside Everton Park; Everton Hills, McDowall; Mitchelton; Stafford
4054 Arana Hills, Keperra
4059 Kelvin Grove; Red Hill
4060 Ashgrove
4061 The Gap
4064 Paddington; Milton
4065 Bardon
4066 Toowong; Auchenflower; Mount CootTha
4067 St Lucia
4068 Chelmer; Indooroopilly; Taringa 
4072 University of Qld
4075 Graceville; Corinda; Sherwood; Oxley
4101 Highgate Hill; South Brisbane; West End
4102 Dutton Park; Woolloongabba
4103 Annerley; Fairfield; Fairfield Gardens
4104 Yeronga
4105 Moorooka; Tennyson; Yeerongpilly
4120 Greenslopes; Stones Corner
4121 Holland Park; Wellers Hill; Tarragindi
4122 Mansfield; Mount Gravatt; Wishart
4152 Camp Hill; Carina; Carindale
4169 East Brisbane, Kangaroo Point
4170 Cannon Hill; Morningside; Norman Park; Seven Hills
4171 Balmoral; Bulimba; Hawthorne
4172 Murarrie 
 
The Australian Financial Review who obtained the list reports developers, such as Consolidated Properties, claim Brisbane has been cruelled by restrictions on financing set up to ease speculative apartment buying in Melbourne and Sydney.
Suncorp is a Brisbane based top 20 ASX-listed company with $97 billion in assets which employs 13,400 people and serves close to nine million customers across Australia and New Zealand. 
It commenced business in 1916 as the State Accident Insurance Office. 
The RBA has repeatedly warned buyers of the likely oversupply in Brisbane apartments.
Last week the bank noted to date, the adjustment in the Brisbane apartment market has not resulted in significant stress.
"Settlement failures appear to have remained in line with historical norms, although the peak of new supply is yet to come.
"Some developers, however, report that tighter financing conditions are contributing to delays in the settlement of off-the-plan purchases, as valuations below the purchase price reduce the amount banks will lend.
"In liaison, industry participants and banks express confidence that the Brisbane market will continue to absorb the new supply despite tighter financing conditions for buyers.
"Continued weakness in rents, and so rental income, remains a debt-servicing risk for investors," the RBA said. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Suncorp's lending restrictions on blacklisted 100 Brisbane suburbs cruelling apartment sales

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Most of regional NSW had positive annual growth for houses, except in Dubbo and Wingecarribee, where prices fell year on year.
In terms of affordability, Albury had a median house price of $310,000 as of September 2017, according to Domain data. A year back, the median price was $305,000.
Other affordable regional NSW centres where first home buyers can get their foot on the property ladder include Richmond Valley, Wagga Wagga, Dubbo and Tamworth regional. The range of median prices in these areas is from $275,000 to $350,000.
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<th class="igc-table-header igc-hidden-cell igicon-sort"> </th>
<th class="igc-table-header igicon-sort">Sept. 2017</th>
<th class="igc-table-header igicon-sort">June 2017</th>
<th class="igc-table-header igicon-sort">Sept. 2016</th>
<th class="igc-table-header igicon-sort">Quarter growth</th>
<th class="igc-table-header igicon-sort">Annual growth</th>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Albury</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$310,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$299,500</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$305,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">3.40%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">1.60%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Armidale Dumaresq </td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$356,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$356,250</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$350,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">-0.10%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">1.70%</td>
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<tr>
<td class="igc-table-header">Ballina</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$621,250</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$577,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$545,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">7.10%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">14.0%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Bathurst</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$429,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$417,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$390,500</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">2.80%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">9.90%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Byron</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$820,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$850,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$757,500</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">-3.70%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">8.30%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Clarence Valley</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$380,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$360,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$338,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">5.30%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">12.40%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Coffs Harbour</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$485,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$485,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$431,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">0.00%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">12.50%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Dubbo</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$350,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$340,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$365,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">2.90%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">-4.10%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Eurobodalla</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$455,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$450,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$420,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">1.10%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">8.30%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Great Lakes</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$492,500</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$515,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$438,500</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">-4.60%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">12.30%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Lismore</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$370,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$375,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$340,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">-1.40%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">8.80%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Newcastle</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$595,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$610,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$525,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">-2.50%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">13.30%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Orange</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$366,500</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$370,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$348,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">-1.00%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">5.30%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Port Macquarie- Hastings </td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$520,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$500,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$465,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">3.80%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">11.80%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Richmond Valley</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$275,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$271,750</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$250,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">1.20%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">10.00%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Shellharbour</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$650,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$635,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$557,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">2.30%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">16.70%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Shoalhaven</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$545,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$525,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$456,250</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">3.70%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">19.50%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Tamworth Regional</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$349,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$340,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$325,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">2.60%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">7.40%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Tweed</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$573,500</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$579,750</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$519,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">-1.10%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">10.50%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Wagga Wagga</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$350,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$345,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$322,750</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">1.40%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">8.40%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Wingecarribee </td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$750,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$800,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$765,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">-6.70%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">-2.00%</td>
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<td class="igc-table-header">Wollongong</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$740,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$754,000</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">$649,500</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">-1.90%</td>
<td class="igc-table-cell">13.90%</td>
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<div class="innertext" data-placeholder="">Source: Domain Group</div>
<div class="innertext" data-placeholder=""> </div>
<div class="innertext" data-placeholder="">A three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-bourkelands-125948290" target="_blank">2/27 Osterley Place, Bourkelands</a> in Wagga Wagga (picture above) has sold for $359,500 through Ray White’s Cassie Sheahan. The house is leased at $375 per week.</div>
<div class="innertext" data-placeholder=""> </div>
<div class="innertext" data-placeholder="">A four-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-albury-126171606" target="_blank">427 Schubach Street, Albury</a> recently sold for $315,000. The 664 sqm block was sold through Tom Sanderson of Wodonga Real Estate.</div>
<div class="innertext" data-placeholder=""><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/2017/10/19/FHBAlbury.jpg" alt=""></div>
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Regional NSW offers affordable options to first home buyers

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Home ownership has become more of a reality in Darwin over the past two years, according to the valuation firm, Herron Todd White.
With the market continuing to soften, home owners now have an abundance of choice in regard to what they can purchase, a recent report advised.
Currently home owners are most active in the developing estate of Zuccoli in Palmerston and the newly released Northcrest development in Berrimah.
HTW noted home owners have also started to become active in the northern suburbs and Palmerston dwelling markets.
"However, semi-detached and attached units still seem to be struggling across all sectors of the market,." it advised
Vacant land continues to be a staple for home owners.
As developers continue to release land in both Zuccoli and the Northcrest development which is now starting to come online, home owners continue to gravitate towards this segment of the market.
HTW said although established dwellings have decreased in value, the option of new builds remains attractive to home owners, in particular first home owners.
"This is primarily due to attractive government incentives to purchase new land that is becoming cheaper and builders’ margins decreasing (we have seen rates as low as $1,700 per square metre in comparison to $2,000 and above in the peak periods of the market)."
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Within the established market, home owners are active in the northern suburbs in particular.
Suburbs in this area such as Leanyer, Anula, Wagaman and Karama have had a number of sales transact since the start of 2017 and this has primarily been to home owners.
These suburbs seem to be attractive as they are affordable and allow consumers to purchase a structurally sound dwelling on a decent size block all within close proximity of the Darwin CBD.
"We have seen sales as low as $360,000 for a basic 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom, ex-government dwelling in the less preferred suburb of Karama and basic 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom dwellings sell for $460,000 in the more preferred section of Leanyer."
A three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nt-karama-124464894" target="_blank">44 Wearing Crescent, Karama</a> recently sold for $380,000. The selling agent was Ray White’s Matt Englund.
<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/2017/10/18/Darwin-HTW.jpg" alt="">  
Other areas also active within the established dwelling market in Palmerston are Gunn, Rosebery and Durack. Home owners have taken advantage of the declining value levels.
"We have seen sales as low as $410,000 in Durack for a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom dwelling. Gunn has also produced some good buying with a basic 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom dwelling selling for $370,000."
A three-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nt-durack-124339062" target="_blank">20 Kooyonga Cres, Durack</a> sold for $327,500 (picture above). The selling agents were Kylie Lynch and Paul Bunker of Approved Real Estate.
The report noted the unit market continues to struggle as the Darwin CBD is "completely saturated with stock."
"Potential purchasers are faced with the decision of why buy today when I can buy tomorrow for cheaper. Inner city semi-detached units are tightly held and whenthey come onto the market seem to be received well.
"However, the Palmerston market has continued to struggle as semi-detached units now compete price wise with dwellings in the less preferred sections of Gray, Moulden and Woodroffe.
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HTW suggested the greatest obstacle the NT property market currently faces is the declining population growth.
"As more people decide to move interstate this will continue to have a ripple effect on the property market as buyers do not consider Darwin to be a long term place of residence.
"Until we achieve stronger population growth we will not see a dramatic increase in the level of home occupancy throughout Darwin," it noted. 
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Darwin becomes more affordable for FHB new builds

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Paul Wilsher, a Brisbane real estate agent has been disqualified from working in the industry for 10 years by the Brisbane Magistrates Court following an Office of Fair Trading (OFT) investigation.
Paul James Wilsher, director of Spot4Rent, was also fined $15,000 and ordered to pay court costs after he pleaded guilty to misappropriating trust money.
A conviction was recorded. He was ordered to pay the fine and court costs within three months, or will face imprisonment.
He ran the business for six years.
The court heard that between 1 January 2016 and 13 May 2016 Mr Wilsher transferred a total of $14,056.41 from Spot4Rent’s trust account to his personal account for personal expenses.
The OFT appointed receivers over the business in July 2016 and found an $18,375.41 shortfall in the trust account.
Affected consumers were repaid loses via a claim fund administered by the OFT, which Mr Wilsher will be pursued to reimburse.
The court further heard that Mr Wilsher knowingly failed to appoint an auditor and have his trust account properly audited for the financial period 1 October 2015 to 30 September 2016.
In sentencing, the court considered Mr Wilsher’s guilty plea, his personal circumstances and remorse, but said a strong message had to be sent to other real estate professionals.
Fair Trading Executive Director Brian Bauer said Mr Wilsher’s behaviour was disappointing and a stain on the real estate industry.
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Brisbane estate agent disqualified for decade after trust fund misappropriation

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A four-bedroom 1960's property on two adjoining titles at Banksia Park has been listed under instructions from the mortgagee in possession.
It will be auctioned on November 19 by Century 21, with no offers to be considered beforehand. <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-banksia+park-126715662" target="_blank">The </a><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-banksia+park-126715662" target="_blank">14 Davenport Street property</a> comprises a mostly solid brick dwelling with a large gas heated lounge/dining living area, a good sized kitchen with plenty of cupboards and bench space plus an additional casual living area.
Adjacent to the house block is a separately fenced allotment with garage.
The 1485 square metre site is situated in the leafy foot hills of Banksia Park.
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Banksia Park house to be auctioned under mortgagee sale 

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Commercial property auctions saw their second week of extremely subdued sales activity, according to the CoreLogic preliminary results.
The last week with a substantial number of preliminary observations was the week ending 22nd of September, which saw 61 auction events. 
The week ending the 6th of October saw just 8 auctions events collected across Australia.
Of the 8 properties that went to auction, 4 were in Victoria, 3 were in Queensland and 1 was in South Australia.
Overall, there were 6 successful sales. While this suggests a high clearance rate of 75%, there are not enough observations to get a sense of demand in this space.
The highest of these was a $2.1 million office and warehouse space in Ashmore, Queensland. The total sales value of properties at auction was $7.3 million, suggesting an average sale price of $1.2 million The range of prices was $305,000 to $2,075,000. 
<a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/styles/article_image_570w_/public/2017-10/2017_10_06_auction_graph.gif" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/styles/article_image_570w_/public/2017-10/2017_10_06_auction_graph.gif" alt="2017-10-12--auctioncommercial" width="570" height="374">
The table below indicates National Auction Clearance Rate figures.
<a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/styles/article_image_570w_/public/2017-10/2017_10_06_auction_table.gif" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.corelogic.com.au/sites/default/files/styles/article_image_570w_/public/2017-10/2017_10_06_auction_table.gif" alt="2017-10-12--commercialauctiontable" width="570" height="205">
 The results came ahead of the CBRE Melbourne auction which saw a 50 percent success rate, down on its inaugural 100 percent auction several weeks ago.
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Commercial property auctions weaken too 

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GUEST OBSERVER
Where we live can play a big part in ageing well, largely because of the links between physical activity and wellbeing.
Research shows that two-thirds of Australians prefer to age in place. That is, we want to live independently in our homes for as long as we can. Our neighbourhoods and their design can then improve or hinder our ability to get out of the house and be physically active.
The rapid ageing of Australia’s population only adds to the importance of neighbourhood design. In 2016, 15% of Australians were aged 65 or older. That proportion is projected to double by 2056.
These trends present several social and economic challenges, particularly for the health sector. Designing neighbourhoods in ways that promote physical activity can help overcome these challenges.
Eight simple steps
The following is a short list of evidence-based steps local and state governments can take to assist older people to be physically active. These involve minor but effective changes to neighbourhood design.
<ol>
<li>Improve footpaths: Research indicates that older people have a higher risk of falls. Ensuring footpaths are level and crack-free, and free from obstructions, will encourage walking among older people – especially those with a disability. 
</li>
<li>Connected pedestrian networks: Introducing footpaths at the end of no-through-roads and across long street blocks reduces walking distances to destinations. This makes walking a more viable option. 
</li>
<li>Slowing traffic in high-pedestrian areas: Slowing traffic improves safety by reducing the risk of a collision. It also reduces the risk of death and serious injury in the event of a collision. 
</li>
<li>Age-friendly street crossings: Installing longer pedestrian crossing light sequences gives older pedestrians more time to cross, and installing refuge islands means those who walk more slowly can cross the street in two stages. 
</li>
<li>Disabled access at public transport: Although a form of motorised transport, public transport users undertake more incidental physical activity compared with car users. This is because they walk between transit stops and their origins and destinations. Improving disabled access helps make public transport a viable option for more older people. 
</li>
<li>Places to rest: Providing rest spots such as benches enables older people to break up their walk and rest when needed. 
</li>
<li>Planting trees: Planting trees creates more pleasant scenery to enjoy on a walk. It also provides shade on hot days. 
</li>
<li>Improving safety: Ensuring that streets are well-lit and reducing graffiti and signs of decay are likely to improve perceptions of safety among older people.</li>
</ol>
Why physical activity matters
Physical function – the ability to undertake everyday activities such as walking, bathing and climbing stairs – often declines as people age. The reason for this is that ageing is often accompanied by a reduction in muscle strength, flexibility and cardiorespiratory reserves.
Regular physical activity can prevent or slow the decline in physical function, even among those with existing health conditions.
Middle-to-older aged adults can reduce their risk of physical function decline by 30% with regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes per week). This includes recreational physical activity, like walking the dog, or incidental physical activity, such as walking to the shops or to visit friends.
By making minor changes as outlined above, the health and longevity of our elderly population can be extended. Such changes will help our elderly age well in place.
Jerome N Rachele, Research Fellow in Social Epidemiology, Institute for Health and Ageing, Australian Catholic University; Jim Sallis, Professorial Fellow, Institute for Health and Ageing, Australian Catholic University, and Emeritus Professor, Department of Family Medicine and Public Health, University of California, San Diego, and Venurs Loh, PhD Candidate, Institute for Health and Ageing, Australian Catholic University
This article was originally published on <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/eight-simple-changes-to-our-neighbourhoods-can-help-us-age-well-83962" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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Eight simple changes to our neighbourhoods can help us age well

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The founders of the Byron Bay Cookie Company, Gary Lines and Maggi Miles, are selling their two-bedroom, two-bathroom South Yarra apartment in the Domain precinct.
It comes with oak parquetry floors and polished concrete ceilings.
There is a dark palette on the walls and in the kitchen.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-south+yarra-126453614" target="_blank">The Airlie Bank Lane apartment</a> has a courtyard with a deck.
The Neometro-designed property goes to auction on October 28 with $1.5 million to $1.6 million price guidance.
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No cookie cutter apartment on offer in South Yarra

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Badgers Wood, set in Edna Walling’s housing subdivision in Mooroolbark, has been listed for sale.
The garden designer had design on a Devon village in her 1920s project called the Bickleigh Vail Village.
Fletchers Mooroolbark agent Lisa Sorrell has it listed on behalf of Michael O’Loughlin and Anna Beesley who have occupied the home for six years.
It is being sold in an expressions of interest campaign that closes on 4 November.
<a href="https://www.17bickleighvaleroadmooroolbark.com" target="_blank">The cottage home</a> sits on 3144 square metres of garden.
Stone open fireplaces, lofty gables and exposed beams decorate the formal sitting room and inviting living room, with French doors leading straight out to the garden.
A contemporary country-style kitchen with European appliances and large walk in pantry, sits alongside the dining room where you can enjoy the garden expanse at eye level. It has four bedrooms and a study, the main boasting an ensuite and private balcony.
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Badgers Wood in Edna Walling's Mooroolbark village listed for sale

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The clearance rate across the combined capital city auction market fell to 67.8% over the September 2017 quarter, down from 71.7% over the June quarter, according to CoreLogic.
On a quarterly basis, clearance rates fell across the larger auction markets, with Sydney down 6.5% to 66.8%.
Melbourne was down 3.1% to 72.6%, while clearance rates also fell across Brisbane (2.3%) and Adelaide (1.5%).
Clearance rates improved across the smaller markets, with Tasmania recording the largest increase in clearance rates over the September quarter, up 13.2% to 65.6%, followed by Perth, up 6.3% to 43.4%.
Canberra increased by 2.8% to 71.1%.
Overall, the combined capital city clearance rate for the September quarter is lower on both a quarterly and annual basis.
Looking at auction volumes across the combined capital cities, there were 1,278 fewer homes taken to auction over the September quarter when compared to June 2017.
Brisbane was the only capital city to see an increase in auctions over the quarter, with an additional 88 homes taken to auction.
Although the number of auctions held across the combined capital cities fell over the quarter, auction activity is 26.4% higher than the same time last year, with 27,953 homes taken to auction over the September 2017 quarter, up from 22,119 in September 2016. 
Across the non-capital city markets monitored by CoreLogic, the Sunshine Coast (up 2.6%) and Geelong (up 2.3%) were the only regions to see an increase in the auction clearance rate over the September quarter.
The biggest fall was seen across Wollongong, where the clearance rate fell 14.4% from 70.4% over the June quarter, to 56.1% over the September quarter.
Clearance rates across the Hunter region remained relatively stable, down just 0.6% over the quarter, while the Gold Coast clearance rate fell 5.6% to 39.1%.
Auction volumes fell across all but one of the regional markets over the September quarter, with the Sunshine Coast the only place to see an increase in activity, hosting an additional 73 auctions.
Compared to this time last year, Geelong saw a significant increase in auction activity with 501 auctions held this quarter, 154 more than September 2016. 
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September quarter auction clearance rates ease with Tassie going against the trend: CoreLogic

One of Brisbane's last major riverfront redevelopment opportunities has taken a significant step forward, with Lendlease selected as the Queensland Government's preferred development partner for the former Visy site in South Brisbane.

The seven-hectare industrial site, positioned between South Bank and West End and 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, will be transformed into a mixed-use precinct expected to deliver more than 4,000 new homes alongside extensive public open space and riverfront parkland.

The project is one of the largest urban renewal opportunities currently planned in Brisbane and is expected to play a key role in accommodating the city's growing population ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Plans for the precinct include a network of riverfront promenades and boardwalks, new public plazas, parkland, amphitheatre-style gathering spaces and shared pedestrian and cycling links designed to reconnect the long-isolated site with the Brisbane River.

The Queensland Government is targeting delivery of the first homes and key public spaces before the 2032 Games, allowing the precinct to begin contributing new housing and public amenity well before the broader masterplan is complete.

The redevelopment is also expected to support more than 3,000 jobs across planning, construction and ongoing operations.

For Lendlease, the appointment adds another major urban regeneration project to its Queensland portfolio. The developer has operated in the state for more than 70 years and has delivered a number of large-scale mixed-use precincts in partnership with government.

Lendlease Development CEO Claire Johnston said the project represented one of Brisbane's most significant redevelopment opportunities.

"The transformation of the former Visy site represents a rare opportunity to reimagine one of Brisbane's most significant riverfront locations, deliver thousands of much-needed homes, and create long-term legacy," Johnston said.

"In partnership with the Queensland Government, we have the opportunity to create a new riverside destination that will help shape Brisbane's growth and how people experience the city for decades to come.

"This is exactly the type of large-scale, city-shaping development that will provide lasting benefits for Queensland, bringing together housing, jobs and world-class public spaces."

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the riverfront transformation would deliver a thriving new community precinct.

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering this golden opportunity to unlock a riverfront jewel for all Queenslanders,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment to reshape a significant slice of Brisbane and deliver lasting benefits – thousands of new homes, and public spaces for all Queenslanders to enjoy well beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – unlike Labor’s plan which would have delivered zero benefits and zero new homes.

“Queensland is well and truly open for business and through partnership with the private sector, we are accelerating delivery while ensuring strong housing, community and economic outcomes."

Early works on the precinct are expected to commence in April 2027.

Joel Robinson

Lendlease selected to deliver transformative South Brisbane riverfront precinct

Eddy Haddad's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> is levelling up its approved Wollongong development, as the coastal city south of Sydney continues to prove popular in the high-density development space.

Level 33, a longtime developer in the Wollongong area, has gone through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to upsize its approved two-tower development on the corner of Crown Street and Gladstone Avenue, just 100 metres from Wollongong Station.

The developer currently has approval for 252 apartments across two buildings rising to 19 storeys. It is now seeking approval for 33 and 38-storey towers that would deliver 467 apartments, including 67 affordable homes.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the development would comprise apartments above a three-level podium with around 1,100 sqm of retail space, along with basement parking for 448 vehicles.

According to the Urban Design Report by BKA, the proposal has the capacity to "reinforce the precinct's identity by strengthening links between health, education, and transport services, while also contributing to Wollongong's ongoing evolution as a key regional centre."

Wollongong is somewhat in vogue. Between Level 33 and Urban Property Group, the two developers have several thousand apartments planned across the city.

Level 33 is currently delivering Easterly Wollongong, one of its most boutique projects to date with just 21 high-end apartments, as well as Atchison &amp; Kenny, a 329-apartment development due for completion later this year.

The developer plans to redevelop the 13,088 sqm WIN Grand megasite into <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crown-square-216-238-keira-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Crown Square</a>, a new $500 million precinct with nearly 600 apartments. It also has more than 900 apartments planned for the former Bunnings Warehouse site at the intersection of Gipps and Flinders streets.

Urban Property Group is also playing a major role in the city's transformation. Its five-tower Keira Place precinct will deliver more than 800 homes, and it has recently lodged plans for a further 300 apartments near Wollongong Station.

First look: Level 33 upsizes Wollongong apartment towers

Just a week after filing plans for the final stage of its major Keira Place masterplan, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has unveiled another significant housing proposal in Wollongong, this time targeting a prominent site opposite North Wollongong Station.

The developer has lodged a State Significant Development Application for a 38-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-4a-flinders-street-north-wollongong-nsw-2500">4-4A Flinders Street</a>, around one kilometre north of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place precinct</a> currently taking shape on the edge of the CBD.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b6428f1-6405-4038-8476-897de440e90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium.png?VersionId=QLqEvK0OuCEwRC47oHNftrw2B1YqaHF8" />

Designed by Studio.SC, the proposal comprises a 38-storey mixed-use development containing 303 apartments, including 45 affordable housing units, alongside 174 co-living residences. The scheme also includes ground-floor retail space, extensive landscaping and public domain improvements.

Studio.SC noted in the proposal it "outlines a vision for a landmark transit-oriented mixed-use development centred around North Wollongong Station, designed to support the city’s future growth while responding to the NSW Government’s housing and planning reforms."

The architecture firm said the proposal responds to the opportunities and constraints shaping future growth within the 400-metre catchment of the station and represents "a coordinated and future-focused approach to urban intensification, contributing to the long-term evolution of North Wollongong as a connected, walkable and high-density station precinct."

The site occupies a strategic corner bounded by Flinders Street, Station Street, Stafford Street and the Princes Highway, directly opposite North Wollongong Station.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7863adad-1f71-4022-b850-f44b252738fd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium%20a.png?VersionId=WsU7av0g8_8R2tGHWxgHeFSlhu7yeY1V" />

The proposal follows Urban Property Group's recent submission for the second and final stage of Keira Place, which would deliver a further three buildings comprising 657 homes opposite Beaton Park. It builds on the first stage, which features 150 apartments across two towers and recently commenced construction.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said breaking ground on the first stage marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/urban-property-group-unveils-trio-of-towers-for-next-stage-of-new-wollongong-precinct-keira-place">Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place</a>

First look: Urban Property Group plans next major Wollongong tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/arada">Arada</a> has wasted little time expanding its ambitions in Campsie, lodging plans for a second major project in the rapidly transforming town centre just months after unveiling its three-tower One Campsie proposal on Beamish Street.

The UAE-backed developer has now taken aim at one of the suburb’s most strategically positioned sites, filing a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/10-north-parade-campsie-nsw-2194">33-storey mixed-use tower</a> at 10 London Street and 43 North Parade, directly opposite the future Campsie Metro Station. The proposal is currently on public exhibition and represents another significant vote of confidence in Campsie's emergence as one of Sydney’s key transit-oriented growth centres.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the development would deliver 156 apartments above a podium containing retail and commercial space, creating a new residential and commercial gateway to the town centre. The scheme also includes a four-level above-ground parking podium and a dedicated residential amenity floor featuring wellness and recreation facilities. At least 10 per cent of the apartments would be allocated as affordable housing for a period of 10 years.

The proposal occupies a 1,631 sqm site bounded by London Street, North Parade and Dispensary Lane, immediately adjoining the future Metro station precinct and just metres from Beamish Street’s retail and dining strip. According to the Urban Design Report, the project seeks to deliver "a great place that prioritises human-scaled experience and provides spatial improvements to the area."

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="175a8324-015b-4856-abe3-ce6f23199fa7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium%20campsie.png?VersionId=742UGwXFhFBX4GEl6wX4PYIWREAgn6il" />

Woods Bagot describes the tower as a key marker within Campsie's next phase of growth.

"Located directly opposite the new Campsie Metro Station on North Parade, 10 London Street is a thoughtfully composed 33-storey mixed-use tower that contributes to the ongoing transformation of the town centre," the Architectural Design Report states. The report says the project is intended to provide "high-quality homes within a vibrant, connected urban environment, while helping define Campsie's future skyline."

A strong emphasis has been placed on the public realm. The ground floor incorporates over 500 sqm of retail space and active frontages along both London Street and North Parade, while the podium is wrapped by extensive landscaped planting intended to soften the building's scale and strengthen the pedestrian experience. The development would also widen surrounding footpaths and improve connections between the Metro station and the broader town centre.

Above the podium, residents would have access to more than 1,400 sqm of communal amenities, including a pool, gym and landscaped recreation spaces. A distinctive green-wall treatment extending across four podium levels forms a major architectural feature, helping differentiate the project within the emerging high-density precinct.

The tower's design is closely tied to the broader Campsie Town Centre Master Plan and the arrival of Sydney Metro. The Urban Design Report notes the proposal "directly supports the Campsie Town Centre Master Plan by delivering new homes in a location explicitly identified for growth, improved accessibility, and high-quality urban renewal." It adds that the project contributes to the master plan's vision for a strengthened town centre supported by thousands of new homes around the future Metro station.

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd17654-253e-489a-bade-6278d63db412" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/base%20campsie.png?VersionId=3roJPMQGs36dazpkhvpvbDDP73Ld.Ica" />

The application follows Arada's recently lodged One Campsie project at 124–142 Beamish Street and 16–18 Ninth Avenue, where the developer is seeking approval for 346 apartments across three towers rising 24, 32 and 39 storeys. Together, the two proposals would cement Arada as one of the most influential developers shaping Campsie's future urban form.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-arada-files-for-trio-of-apartment-towers-in-campsie-town-centre">First Look: Arada files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada entered the Australian market in 2024 and has rapidly assembled a significant development pipeline across Sydney. Alongside its Campsie holdings, the developer is soon to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wattle-green-2-fishburn-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Wattle Green</a> in Castle Hill, and has expanded its local operations following its acquisition of construction firm Roberts &amp; Co.

Located around 14 kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, the site sits at the centre of one of Sydney's fastest-changing middle-ring precincts. The Metro conversion of Campsie Station, combined with Canterbury-Bankstown Council's master planning framework, is driving significant residential intensification around Beamish Street and North Parade, with thousands of new homes expected over coming decades.

First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans

For the first time in a long time, Australia's inflation story is starting to look more like a landing than a fight.

The latest Consumer Price Index figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed annual inflation eased to four per cent in May, down from 4.2 per cent in April. On the surface, that might not seem like a major move. Inflation remains above the Reserve Bank's target range and some categories continue to record stubborn price growth.

But the significance of this result lies less in where inflation sits today and more in what it means for where interest rates are likely heading next.

The biggest takeaway is that inflation continues to move in the right direction.

Markets had been bracing for another sticky result after a period where progress appeared to stall. Instead, headline inflation came in softer than expected, helped by falling fuel prices and easing transport costs. Annual transport inflation halved from 6.6 per cent in April to 3.3 per cent in May, while automotive fuel prices fell 11.9 per cent during the month following lower oil prices and the impact of reduced fuel excise measures.

While petrol prices don't solve Australia's affordability challenges, they are one of the most visible and immediate costs for consumers. Falling fuel costs feed through the economy quickly, helping ease pressure on household budgets and business operating expenses.

The ABS data also showed headline inflation is now sitting at its lowest annual level in several months, reinforcing the broader trend that price growth is gradually moderating.

That trend is important because it aligns with what many economists and lenders have been saying for the last month.

Prior to this week's inflation data, ANZ, NAB and Commonwealth Bank had all shifted their forecasts, now believing the Reserve Bank had likely reached the peak of the interest rate cycle. Following the May inflation release, ANZ reaffirmed that view.

In its latest economic update, ANZ said it expects quarterly trimmed mean inflation to come in at 3.7 per cent for the June quarter, slightly below the Reserve Bank's forecast of 3.8 per cent. Importantly, the bank said that outcome, when combined with slowing economic activity, "supports our view that the cash rate has peaked".

The Reserve Bank has spent the better part of three years attempting to bring inflation under control through higher interest rates. If Australia's major banks are correct and rates have now peaked, the conversation shifts from how much higher rates could go to when they might begin coming down.

Westpac's caution comes from underlying inflation. The trimmed mean, the measure most closely watched by the Reserve Bank, increased from 3.4 per cent to 3.6 per cent annually. Housing inflation remains elevated at 6.5 per cent, reflecting ongoing increases in rents, electricity costs and new dwelling construction.

Electricity prices remain particularly problematic, rising 21.1 per cent over the past year following the removal of government rebates.

Housing construction costs are also showing signs of renewed pressure. ANZ noted new dwelling costs rose 0.9 per cent in May and are now running at an annualised pace of 8.6 per cent over the past three months. Builders continue to face higher labour, fuel and material costs, a reminder that inflationary pressures have not completely disappeared.

Housing affordability has deteriorated largely because of higher interest rates rather than higher property prices alone. Even modest reductions in mortgage rates would improve borrowing capacity, increase buyer confidence and reduce repayment pressure on existing homeowners.

While August is far from a certainty, the latest inflation result has strengthened the view that the next move in rates is more likely to be down than up. For borrowers, buyers and the development sector, that alone represents a significant shift from the conversation that dominated much of the past two years.

Staff reporter

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