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Perth home buyers looking to trade up are now seeing more opportunity in areas such as Peppermint Grove, Applecross and North Coogee, which topped reiwa.com’s list of affluent suburbs that have become more affordable.
REIWA President Hayden Groves said while prices in these suburbs were still well above the Perth median house price, they had become more affordable for buyers looking to trade up into those million dollar suburbs.
Peppermint Grove saw the biggest annual average change in its median house price over the past five years, shifting from $3,750,000 (year to April 2012) to $3,350,000 (year to April 2017).
“Buyers are looking for opportunities in areas with a good lifestyle scene, cafes and restaurants. In particular, we are seeing buyers placing more importance on proximity to good public schools.
“Suburbs such as Applecross, Nedlands and Peppermint Grove are within the catchment for some of Perth’s best public schools.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/02/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-02%20at%2011.27.30%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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“Due to the easing off in median house prices of these suburbs, the opportunity is there to secure your ideal family home if you have the means,” said Mr Groves.
There’s also good news for sellers in Applecross, City Beach, Nedlands and Peppermint Grove, as properties are selling quicker in comparison to five years ago.
“In 2012, it took on average 120 days to sell a property in Peppermint Grove for instance. In more recent figures, the average selling days for the suburb sits at 90 days.
“We are also seeing sellers willing to negotiate and discount their initial asking price to achieve a sale,” said Mr Groves.
The average discount sellers in the five suburbs are applying to their asking price is around the eight to 10 per cent mark in the year to April 2017 data.
“Both buyers and sellers are benefitting from the current market conditions in these million dollar suburbs,” said Mr Groves.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Buyers experiencing improved affordability in some of Perth’s million dollar suburbs

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The hillside nine bedroom Christopher and Pixie Skase-built mansion in Hamilton Hill has returned to the market again.
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“I believe it will exceed the latest highest sale in Queensland of $25 million,” the Sotheby’s International Realty Ascot agent Stephen Weber told The Australian.
Dr Soo Hian Beh and her estranged husband the Malaysian Chinese industrialist Sir Yii Ann Hii, who is in dispute with the Australian Taxation Office over a $64 million tax bill, bought the Dickson Terrace mansion for $6.5 million in 2001.
Only Soo Hian Beh’s name remains on the title.
They got around town in a with 1VIP numberplates on their 2005 Rolls Royce Phantom.
Bromley was built in 1988 into a 2759 sqm parcel with views across the Brisbane River and the CBD.
The grounds include a large pool, cabana, floodlit tennis court, ponds and fountains.
An eight-person lift services three floors including a self-contained housekeeper’s quarters at the Dickson Terrace property.
“This is very much Queensland’s trophy home and Sotheby’s is looking for a visionary, like Christopher Skase who, let’s face it, built some amazing developments in the late ‘80s, to update it and bring it to its former grandeur,” Weber said.
“To replace this property would be cost prohibitive,” Weber told The Australian.
Skase and his wife Pixie quit Australia for Majorca in 1991.
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Sotheby's seeking a Christopher Skase-like visionary for Hamilton Hill property offering

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A French-style Balwyn house has been sold for $3.812 million making it Melbourne’s most expensive weekend auction sale.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-balwyn-125831142" target="_blank">27 Burroughs Road</a>, the property was built in 2012.
The property was last sold in 2013 for $3.27 million on the block of land sold in 2009 for $1.175 million.
Featuring a living/entertaining zones as well as a sixth or guest bedroom that are linked to five upper bedrooms with ensuite and balcony.
The kitchen has Miele appliances and butler’s pantry.
<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/2017/07/30/27%20Burroughs%20Road-2.jpg" alt="">
There are also two living areas that open to al fresco terraces.
Other feature includes two double garages.
The property is close to the park, 109 tram and shops.
The property was offered through VicProp agents Jack Zhang and Janssen Xiang.
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French-style Balwyn house sold for $3.812 million

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A heritage Bundaberg West house has been listed for sale with a $945,000 asking price having been listed with initial $1 million hopes.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bundaberg+west-125418970">314 Bourbong Street</a>, Old Cran House was built in 1894 by Robert Cran, who operated the local sugar mill refinery.
Renovations has been carried out over the years and a local architect, Bronwyn Innes have been involved with the renovation project.
<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/2017/07/31/314%20Bourbong%20Street-2.jpg" alt="">
Featuring original features including a ballroom, which has hosted many local events, along with French doors and enclosed verandah.
There are also two working fireplaces, a pool and a four car garage.
The west side of the building formerly worked as an Accountancy Practice with entry reception, main office and consulting room.
Currently the property could allow further rooms from this business and turn it into a variety of commercial businesses with 8 bitumen car parks plus room for an additional 10 spaces if needed.
The property is offered through LJ Hooker agent Violette Sinclair.  
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Heritage Bundaberg West Old Cran House listed for $1 million

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The RBA held at the August 2017 meeting.
The central bank last moved on rates in August 2016, when it cut rates to 1.5 percent. Rates have stayed at the record low of 1.5 percent since.
Investors in residential property are facing higher interest rates, said the RBA.
It said there has also been some tightening of credit conditions following recent supervisory measures to address the risks associated with high and rising levels of household indebtedness.
It warned that growth in housing debt has been outpacing the slow growth in household incomes.
"Conditions in the housing market vary considerably around the country. Housing prices have been rising briskly in some markets, although there are some signs that these conditions are starting to ease," the RBA Governor Philip Lowe said in a statement.
"In some other markets, prices are declining. In the eastern capital cities, a considerable additional supply of apartments is scheduled to come on stream over the next couple of years. Rent increases remain low in most cities." 
REINSW President John Cunningham said the decision sees interest rates remain steady for the past 12 months after the RBA last cut interest rates in August 2016.  “While the RBA has not acted over the last year, there has been considerable activity from the banks," he said.
“The Sydney property market has settled down after a whirlwind period of growth but solid competition remains and will continue into the normally strong spring market. 
“Buyers must prepare themselves for several interest rate rises in the future, but the outlook remains positive,” Mr Cunningham said.  The RBA will next meet on September 5. 
Even though the RBA held rates, but the bottom of the market has already passed for fixed rate mortgages, according to RateCity.com.au.
RateCity research showed that fixed rates across the board bottomed out in November of last year.
RateCity money editor Sally Tindall said funding cost pressures and increased government regulation had taken their toll on the fixed rate market.
 
 
 
 
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Investors facing higher rates, as the RBA holds at August 2017 meeting - a full year without any movement up or down

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Bangarra has announce their move to International Towers at Barangaroo, Sydney in 2018.
The company is vacating their current premises at Pier 4/5 to make way for the construction phase of the major redevelopment of the Walsh Bay Arts Precinct.
The theatre's Philippe Magid, said the company is excited to have secured a temporary new home featuring a dance studio for rehearsals and office space for administration.
“This is a great partnership between the private sector and the arts.
“It was an extensive search and we are extremely thankful to the NSW Government and International Towers for their generosity and flexibility.
“As a world-class dance company, we require a very specific space and International Towers have made innovative use of a vacant area within Tower Three to ensure we are properly accommodated during this interim period,” said Magid.
International Towers general manager, Tony Byrne said Bangarra is a welcome addition to the growing innovation community at International Towers.
“They are a wonderful addition to our current ecosystem of tenants - bringing an arts perspective and an innovative, global outlook as well as a deep connection to our indigenous culture and heritage within the precinct."
International Towers was developed by Lendlease.
Bangarra has been a national partner in Lendlease’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) for the last two years.
Bangarra has been based at Pier 4/5 at Walsh Bay since 1997, and the premises have been refitted numerous times to accommodate burgeoning staff and production needs.
Bangarra have just finished their sold out season of their acclaimed new work Bennelong at Sydney Opera House.
The company then tours to Canberra, Brisbane and Melbourne.
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Bangarra finds a temporary home at Sydney's Barangaroo

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Australian dwelling prices rose by a moderate 0.8% m/m in seasonally adjusted terms in July, which was the strongest monthly result since February.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-01%20at%2011.28.35%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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The market remains healthy despite tighter regulation and higher borrowing costs, although auction results do point toward a further cooling in the market in coming months.
APRA’s macroprudential regulation and the subsequent increases in borrowing costs (primarily for investors) have been felt in the market, with annual dwelling price growth slowing to 10.4% y/y, down from the 13% peak earlier in the year.
Interestingly, Sydney prices have slowed markedly, but Melbourne prices have been more resilient and are still 16% higher than a year ago.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-01%20at%2011.28.43%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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As we noted in this morning’s Canadian housing insight, British Columbia’s experience suggests that regulation can indeed slow the housing market, but questions remain over the sustainability of such movements.
Subsequent tightening in Ontario has also had a negative impact on prices in recent months, and we will be watching closely to see if these moves become permanent.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-01%20at%2011.28.51%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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In Australia, weaker auction results in recent months suggest that price growth will continue to ease, especially in Sydney.
But there is no suggestion that prices will materially fall, as per Canada.
Yesterday’s private credit data showed that while investor credit growth has slowed in response to the regulatory changes, there has been an improvement in owner-occupier borrowing.
This suggests that overall sentiment in Australia’s property market remains positive.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-01%20at%2011.29.01%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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Daniel Gradwell is the senior economist for <a href="https://www.anz.com.au/" target="_blank">ANZ</a>.
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Australian house prices still solid despite regulation: ANZ's Daniel Gradwell

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Geelong held the top spot for the highest regional weekend auction clearance rate, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that out of the 26 auctions in Geelong 84.6% were cleared.
This is followed by the Sunshine Coast with 66.7% and the Hunter region with 65.4%
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/07/31/Screen%20Shot%202017-07-31%20at%2012.02.40%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click 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/2017/07/31/Screen%20Shot%202017-07-31%20at%2012.02.40%20pm.jpg" alt="">
Gold Coast had the lowest with only 38.2% cleared.
A five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-belmont-125877410" target="_blank">47 Roslyn Road</a>, Belmont (above) was sold over the weekend for $600,000.
A three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-bell+post+hill-125859534" target="_blank">10 Jedda Street</a>, Bell Post Hill (below) was sold for $420,000.
<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/2017/07/31/10%20Jedda%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Geelong takes top spot in regional weekend clearance rate: CoreLogic

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A 3.1 percent gain in Melbourne dwelling prices over the month drove combined capital figures in the July 2017 CoreLogic Home Value Index.
The July 2017 CoreLogic Home Value Index results recorded a 1.5 percent rise in dwelling values across the combined capital cities.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-01%20at%2011.25.19%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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Tim Lawless, CoreLogic head of research , the latest housing market results highlight the diversity of housing market conditions, with dwelling values down over the month in Brisbane (-0.6 percent), Perth (-1.3 percent) and Darwin (-1.2 percent).
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/08/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-01%20at%209.52.28%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/08/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-08-01%20at%209.52.28%20AM.png" alt="">
“The recent bounce in capital gains may be partially due to a recovery from the seasonal slump in values recorded in April and May," he said.
"However, other factors, such as stamp duty concessions for first home buyers in New South Wales and Victoria, may also be having a positive impact on market demand. 
“It’s still too early to measure the effect of first home buyer incentives, which went live on July 1st. However historically, the first time buyer segment has been very responsive to stimulus measures.” 
"Despite the higher month-on-month capital gains in June and July, the quarterly trend rate of growth has clearly reduced. 
"The rolling quarterly pace of capital gains across the combined capitals has fallen from 3.6 percent in February earlier this year to reach 2.2 percent at the end of July. 
"The slowdown in growth conditions is most evident across the hottest markets, with the quarterly growth trend reducing from 5.0 percent in Sydney earlier this year to 2.2 percent at the end of last month. 
"Melbourne growth conditions have also slowed, though to a lesser extent, with growth easing from a 2017 quarterly peak of 5.5 percent to 4.2 percent. 
“Melbourne appears to be benefitting from consistently high population growth which is creating strong demand for housing, as well as consistently high jobs growth and more affordable housing options relative to Sydney.”
"At the other end of the growth spectrum, Perth and Darwin have continued to see dwelling values slip lower over the month, taking the cumulative decline to 10.2 percent in Perth and 14.5 percent in Darwin since both markets peaked in 2014. 
"The ease in the rate of decline has been most visible in Perth, providing a signal that the Western Australian capital may be approaching the bottom of the downturn; listing numbers have been falling across Perth which is a positive sign of improving conditions, and transaction numbers have found a new floor at around 2,500 sales per month."
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Melbourne's stellar mid-year price growth leaves other capital cities behind: CoreLogic

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finder.com.au’s monthly cash rate survey shows all 35 economists and experts surveyed are forecasting the Reserve Bank to leave the cash rate untouched today, on August 1.
Experts and economists were asked to shed light on the direction of the next rate move, and the majority (87%, 26) think the next rate movement will be in a positive direction. Only four experts (13%) are expecting a rate cut. 
Graham Cooke, Insights Manager at finder.com.au, says a rate hike is in the pipeline.
“It looks as though April and May next year may be the most likely months a rate cut will be enforced.
“If the economy continues to stabilise, we can expect to see more rate rises throughout 2018,” he says. 
The panellists do not agree with the view of former RBA board member, John Edwards, that eight rake hikes over the next two years is “distinctly possible.” 
The majority surveyed on this topic (69%) expect three or fewer hikes over the next two years, while one in four (23%) expect four hikes. Just one economist, John Caelli from ME Bank, agrees with Mr Edwards that eight hikes may take place over the next two years. 
Panellists were asked to identify their greatest economic concerns for Australia right now, and the two highest ranked concerns were household debt and wage growth, cited by six experts each. 
“Wage growth is at record lows, currently sitting at about a quarter of inflation. Meanwhile, house prices continue to soar in the capitals and credit is cheaper than ever. This combination could be troublesome,” Mr Cooke says.
Since the Australian dollar hit a two-year high against the USD this month, it’s no surprise the high AUD was the third most cited concern, mentioned by three economists.  
“A high Aussie dollar could harm our exports as goods become more expensive for foreigners to buy,” Mr Cooke says.
Panellists were divided about the future of the AUD, with a slight majority (55%, 12) saying it peaked last week at 80 US cents. Just under half (45%, 10), however, said the dollar may reach 85 US cents by the end of this year.
“However, the strength of the local currency against the greenback is good news for travellers heading to the US as they'll find their dollar will go that little bit further.
“Anyone importing or buying goods from US sites, such as eBay or Amazon, will be get better value for money,” Mr Cooke says. 
Other concerns raised among panellists were the unemployment rate, the future of the Chinese economy, and a lack of entrepreneurial innovation in Australia.
Here’s what our experts had to say:
Jordan Eliseo, ABC Bullion (Hold): "The RBA has made it clear it thinks that it has the appropriate monetary policy settings in place. None of the data that we've seen come out this month (on inflation, business confidence, employment etc) will have meaningfully impacted that view. As such, notwithstanding their renewed concern regarding the strength of the AUD, we think they will keep rates on hold when they meet next week."
Tim Nelson, AGL Energy (Hold): "Low wages growth means inflation is largely in check. High levels of household debt mean increasing rates is challenging."
John Hewson, ANU (Hold): “[Insufficient] info to move one way or the other."
Shane Oliver, AMP Capital (Hold): "While growth was weaker than expected in the March quarter, recent data suggests its back on track reducing pressure to cut rates again but risks around the consumer, weak inflation and a rebound in the $A indicate its way too early to hike rates. So best to remain on hold."
Alison Booth , Australian National University (Hold): "Little change in the main indicators." 
Peter Munckton, Bank of Queensland (Hold): "Cash rate is at the right level."
Darryl Gobbett, Baillieu Holst Ltd (Hold): "The RBA doesn't see the current cash rate as necessarily all that expansionary and remains concerned about the impact of rate rises on households with the very high gearing, stagnant wages and rising utilities prices."
Richard Robinson, BISoxford economics (Hold): "Although RBA would like to cut rates to take upward pressure off the Aus dollar, it can't cut rates as it fears re-stoking the residential property market. With inflation low and particularly wages growth very low, there is no need to raise rates for at least 2 years."
Paul Dales, Capital Economics (Hold): "The RBA does not want to cut interest rates for fear of boosting the housing market and debt levels, but equally the economy and inflation aren't strong enough to warrant interest rate hikes. 
Savanth Sebastian, Commonwealth Bank (Hold): "Inflation remains well contained. RBA would be concerned about the lift in the Aussie dollar. Focus will be on how economy tracks over the next few months."
Saul Eslake, Corinna Economic Advisory (Hold): "The RBA would clearly prefer not to have to cut rates any further, but is also in no hurry to start raising them (even if central banks elsewhere in the world do). Economic data since the last board meeting (more good data on employment, business conditions, offset by another quarter of very low inflation, softness in household spending) don't present a strong case to move in either direction."
Andrew Wilson, Domain Group (Hold): "The RBA is clearly determined to leave rates at current level taking a more medium-term view of the macroeconomy regardless of the current insipid intransigence of key economic performance indicators. 
Scott Morgan, Greater Bank (Hold): "No indication of likely move from recent commentary."
Mark Brimble, Griffith Uni (Hold): "Bias remains to the down side as the economy struggles to gain any traction.  The dampening impact of credit controls (while assisting with medium term risk around credit risk and elements of the property market) and retail interest rate rises by financial institutions have not helped.  Indeed the puzzling comments from the RBA that have related to a spike in the AUD also have a dampening impact.  Despite this, the RBA is unlikely to move rates for some time." 
Paul Bloxham, HSBC (Hold): "Inflation is still below the target band, so no immediate move in sight." 
Alex Joiner, IFM Investors (Hold): "Robust labour markets and a soft headline CPI outcome for Q2 (and 'core' measure being inline with the RBA's forecasts) underscores there is no economic rationale to move rates in either direction. Financial stability concerns seemingly prevent further easing. And a higher A$ deters premature hiking." 
Michael Witts, ING Bank (Hold): "The RBA will be concerned about the rise in the AUD and will not be looking to add fuel to the fire." 
Nicholas Gruen, Lateral Economics (Hold): "[The rate will hold because] Philip Lowe said so!"
Leanne Pilkington, Laing+Simmons (Hold): "The RBA has indicated its intention to cautiously manage inflation to the preferred 2-3% range while at the same time appears reticent to reduce rates further. The weak inflation forecast in the June CPI figures point to a steady rate scenario for the short term. With employment levels also steady, this is good news for the property market on the whole.” 
Matthew Tiller, LJ Hooker (Hold): "There has been little discernible change in economic indicators since last month’s RBA meeting." 
John Caelli, ME (Hold): "With the high dollar, low inflation and low wage growth there is no rush to put up rates just yet."
Michael Yardney, Metropole Property Strategists (Hold): "The RBA can't raise rates as it would stifle our fragile economy and would lead to a higher AU$. Similarly, it can't lower rates as this would  fuel the Sydney and Melbourne property markets." 
Mark Crosby, Monash University (Hold): "Probably the strongest signal in history that the RBA will sit on its hands for the next couple of meetings, particularly given the latest inflation outcome." 
Jessica Darnbrough, Mortgage Choice (Hold): "Last month, the Reserve Bank of Australia made it clear that its current monetary policy setting is appropriate for the time being and I believe this will continue to be the case at the August Board meeting.”
Chris Schade, MyState Bank (Hold): "Interest rate settings remain appropriate. Economy performing a little below trend, inflation remains at the lower end of target, and the Aussie dollar is higher than the RBA would like. Holding rates at their current highly accommodative level is appropriate to allow the economy to continue to gain momentum as the unwind of the mining boom ends, the housing construction peak passes (but activity remains at a robust level for some time – i.e. no major drop) and, hopefully, other sectors pick up." 
Alan Oster, NAB (Hold): "Still too early, watching wages and the labour market.” 
Noel Whittaker, QUT (Hold): "I think we are at the bottom of the cycle but don't see any urgent need to raise rates."
Nerida Conisbee, REA Group (Hold): "While earlier in the month strong jobs growth figures suggested that the economy was on track, the strengthening Australian dollar put a dampener on the need for an increase. Inflation figures out today are likely to further cemented the RBA’s decision to take a wait and see approach with these figures continuing to be below the target of between 2 and 3%. Despite the RBA likely to hold, it is likely that banks will continue to increase the rates they charge home owners. This is partly because their costs of wholesale funding have increased but also because there is continued pressure from APRA to moderate their lending. The banking tax announced in the budget is also likely to be passed on to homeowners.”
Janu Chan, St.George Banking Group (Hold): "RBA will still have concerns about spare capacity and low inflation. However, risks of another rate cut have clearly dissipated." 
Brian Parker, SUNSUPER (Hold): "No signs in the data that they need to change their views of the world or their policy stance."
Nicki Hutley, Urbis (Hold): "Current settings are appropriate for employment and inflation settings."
Clement Allan Tisdell, The University of Queensland (Hold): "RBA statements and the increase in the value of the AUD [indicate no change]."
Other participants: Bill Evans, Westpac (Hold), Jonathan Chancellor, Property Observer (Hold).
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Rates on hold, with next move up: finder.com.au survey

A trio of Queensland property groups have unveiled plans for a $300 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Noosa Bowls Club site, a proposal that would deliver more than 200 new homes in one of the Sunshine Coast's most supply-constrained markets.

Kilter Property, Frank Developments and Calile Malouf Investments are behind the plans for the 1.8-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-noosa-drive-noosa-heads-qld-4567">99 Noosa Drive</a>, which would transform the long-vacant site into a new residential precinct featuring 208 apartments, retail, hospitality and public space.

The proposal comes as Noosa continues to grapple with housing affordability and a shortage of permanent accommodation, particularly for key workers. The site's location in Noosa Junction, close to shops, public transport and employment, aligns with the direction of Noosa Council's Housing Strategy, which encourages higher-density housing within established activity centres rather than continued urban expansion.

The draft plans include 48 affordable-by-design apartments and 48 rooming accommodation units aimed at key workers. Around 2,000 sqm of ground-floor retail and food and beverage space would activate the street frontage, alongside a new public town square and landscaped open space.

<img alt="Noosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd02f53-1360-4e51-801e-bfd61a6c980e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-26%20at%208.44.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=x1iNs3BSMN6Jy7YUwaBZMHRrrKX2hMpy" />

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Frank Developments Founder and Director Frank Licastro said the development would continue the company's focus on architecturally-led residential projects while addressing one of the region's biggest challenges.

"Not only will this project exude a sense of luxury, it will also enhance not only the built environment but also the surrounding community," Licastro said.

"Noosa's success relies on the people who live and work here. Providing well-designed accommodation for key workers is critical to supporting the local economy and ensuring the Shire can continue to thrive."

Kilter Property Co-Founder Huw Williams said the focus was on delivering additional permanent housing while creating a mixed-use destination that benefits both residents and the wider community.

"Our focus is on delivering a well-considered mixed-use project that provides more permanent housing options, supports local workers and businesses, and delivers an exceptional product for the local market," Williams said.

"The redevelopment vision aligns with the long-term evolution of Noosa Junction as a vibrant activity centre, creating a destination that enhances the area's character while delivering significant economic and community benefits."

Calile Malouf Investments, best known for its role in Brisbane's James Street precinct and The Calile Hotel, will bring its place-making experience to the project. The company recently commenced construction on The Calile Noosa hotel and says the residential development will complement its growing investment in the region.

CMI Director Cal Malouf said the aim was to create a walkable precinct combining housing, retail and hospitality while remaining true to Noosa's character.

"We see a similar opportunity in Noosa to deliver a vibrant, walkable destination that combines exceptional housing, hospitality and retail in one integrated project," Malouf said.

Brisbane-based Cavill Architects has been appointed to design the project.

Joel Robinson

Noosa Bowls Club to be redeveloped into mixed-use apartment precinct

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.

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 Australia</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 Australia'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 Australia 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 Australia files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada Australia 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.

Staff reporter

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