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There were more homes for auction in Melbourne and Sydney in the past six months than at any time over the past two years.
Over the first six months of the year, Sydney had 16,370 auction listings, a 29 percent increase on the 12,708 over the same period last year.
It was also a 5.7 percent gain on the 15,486 of the first six months of 2015, Domain Group figures show.
Melbourne showed a similar pattern, with 18,175 auction listings in the first half, a 13 percent gain on last year's 16,083 and 10.2 percent higher than the 16,486 in the first half of 2015.
The increase in auction listings from last year is partly due to the quiet start of 2016, when owners delayed putting their homes on the market after a surprisingly quiet final quarter of 2015, when prices fell fell in the two largest cities and the average auction clearance rate fell from 73.4 percent in the September quarter to 62.1 percent.
There was also a Federal election that interrupted the 2016 market.
"There's been a real rush into the marketplace this year for both Melbourne and Sydney," Domain chief economist Andrew Wilson told Domain.
"The market did rebound with lower interest rates last year and the end of last year was quite strong for markets.
"Perhaps there's also a sense of the market peaking."
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

More 2017 property auctions than in the past two years

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A architect-designed Gnarabup house has been listed for $1.495 million.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-gnarabup-125086906" target="_blank">101 Baudin Drive</a>, the 1592 sqm WA property is situated on the coast of the famous Margaret River Wine Region.
Built in 2007 the block of land was last sold in 2005 for $565,000.
It was designed by Perth architect John Lewis who was commissioned by Scott and Jenny Colquhon to take advantage of the views of the ocean and adjoining national park.
Upstairs is the open plan living/kitchen/dining area allows residents to have views of the surrounding landscape or go to the north facing BBQ deck.
There is also a spacious kitchen which leads to an alfresco BBQ area.
Master bedroom is located upstairs and has views of the National Park and the ocean, it also has a double vanity and ensuite.
<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/2017/07/10/101%20Baudin%20Drive-2.jpg" alt="">
Downstairs are three bedrooms, two having built-in robes, and another large enough to be a second master bedroom.
There is also a heated pool area and workshop to the rear of the property.
The property is just three hours south of Perth and 14 minutes from Margaret River cafes.
The property is offered through JMW Real Estate agent David Cross.
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Architect-designed Gnarabup house listed for $1.495 million

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An architecturally-designed Burradoo house has been listed for between $2.35 million to $2.45 million.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-burradoo-125861574" target="_blank">55 Sunninghill Avenue</a>, the property is being marketed as representing the ideal Southern Highlands country property.
With a north-facing aspect the layout includes an open plan living/dining area with gas log fire.
There is a large loft that overlooks the gardens.
There is also a separate formal living area with woodfire and opens up to the covered alfresco area.
The kitchen has a German limestone benchtop, Miele downdraft rangehood, Blanco and Bosch appliances, 900mm double sink along with a large butler’s pantry with limestone bench and sink.
<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/2017/07/07/55%20Sunninghill%20Avenue-2.jpg" alt="">
There are four large double bedrooms with the master suite featuring its own custom made robes, ensuite and benchtop.
Other features includes a separate self-contained accommodation above the triple garage that has its own living area, double bedroom and bathroom.
The property is offered through DiJones agents Ben Olofsen and Scarlett LaPlanche on behalf of Elizabeth Ergaver of Ergaver Constructions.
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Architectually-designed Burradoo house listed for sale

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A three bedroom McMahons Point, NSW terrace has been sold for $4.05 million.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-mcmahons+point-125673478" target="_blank">2/12 Commodore Street</a>, the property has views of the harbour.
Built in 2005 it was last sold in 2011 for $1.648 million.
With contemporary finishes it has a rear courtyard and a shared roof top terrace with views of the city and Berrys Bay.
<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/2017/07/09/2_12%20Commodore%20Street-2.jpg" alt="">
The kitchen has stainless steel appliances while the master suit has its own terrace and views.
Other features includes a double garage plus separate workshop/wine cellar.
The property was offered through Stone agents Annika Bongiorno and Aaron Bongiorno.
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McMahons Point terrace sold for $4.05 million

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Ray White chairman Brian White has reported record June sales. Australasia's biggest property group, Ray White recorded total sales of $4.3 billion in June 2017.  
"We just had our biggest June ever, it was 20 percent above June last year and its our third highest of any month on record."
June 2016 sales were noted as at $3.6 billion which given the Federal election was seven percent lower than June 2015.
"The property market has been remarkable across the world and Australia is no exception, but one of the things that can occur when there are expressions of concern or expressions of doubt is that people start thinking of getting back in," <a href="https://www.raywhite.com/blog/white-paper/white-paper-june-2017/" target="_blank">Mr White said</a>.
June's strong results suggested any talk of the property market easing appeared to be premature.
"For a month that can often disappoint, this June was a special one.
"Our June result was underpinned by particularly strong activity in New South Wales – which recorded $1.3 billion in sales revenue –  and Victoria which produced $606 million this month.  
"The Lower North Shore team headed up by Geoff Smith and Richard Harding wrote $120 million in their first month of trading at Ray White – which is certainly a debut to remember!" Mr White said.
The Queensland result of $776 million was well up on last year, evidencing of a firm trading market.
Ray White's May was the second strongest month ever for the Ray White Group.  
The group has actually now recorded four personal bests in the financial year with November, March, May and June sales.
The May sales revenue came in at $4.4 billion, compared to $3.74 billion in April.
The figure was the second highest ever month for the group, after March came in at $4.6 billion.
In the year to May, Ray White had finalised a total of $40.9 billion, which includes all residential and commercial sales in Australia and New Zealand, plus Indonesia and Rural.
 
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Ray White secures record June sales

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Non-bank lender Homeloans has introduced stricter measures using loan-to-income (LTI) ratios when determining credit decisions for interest-only home loan applications. 
Effective from last Saturday (8 July), interest-only applications are now either declined or referred depending on the income structure of clients with an LTI ratio of greater than eight.
LTI is calculated as the ratio of the total limit of the loan applied for against the client’s total gross annual income.
“Homeloans has access to multiple funding sources, and the use of the LTI in assisting with credit decisions is now a requirement of one of these funding sources.
"It should be noted that the use of an LTI will initially be limited to the assessment of loans where the borrower has elected for interest-only repayments, and will only apply to our Ultra Plus product range,” Homeloans said. 
Brokers can complete a manual calculation to determine what the LTI is for each client and are urged not to proceed with the application if the LTI is below the threshold of eight (unless the loan amount or gross annual income changes).
The Homeloans Ultra Plus Serviceability Calculator has been updated to reflect these new criteria. 
“We're committed to lending responsibly, and ensuring our customers can meet their home loan repayments today and into the future,” the lender wrote in a note to brokers.
“Regulatory bodies have raised concerns about Australia's household debt-to-income ratio, which has risen significantly over the past decade. 
“With this in mind, we're making changes to our home lending credit policy to better assess a customer's ability to service their home loan, and to assist Homeloans’ monitoring of risk settings.”
Australian Broker also advised Advantedge Financial Services will increase the interest rate on all new and existing variable rate interest only home loans by 0.35% p.a., effective Tuesday 8 August 2017. The interest rate on all new fixed rate interest only home loans will increase by 0.35% p.a. These changes apply to both owner occupier and residential investor home loans, across all of Advantedge’s white label partners.
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Homeloans tightens interest only home loan applications

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The former Sapphire Lounge venue in Sydney's Kings Cross, now known as The Carlisle Bar, is up for lease.
This 400sqm split-level <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://metrocommercial.com.au/property/rental/2185" target="_blank">venue</a> has three bars, VIP area, indoor showpiece tree, birdcages and white decor.
It features a 24 hour liquor license (currently trading until 3am), 300 patron capacity, a full commercial kitchen and designed to cater for large corporate functions, product launches and special events.
The property is up for lease through Metro Commercial agents Jerry Leis, Dillon Frain and Nik Simonovic.
It has been an on off operation over the past decade, among the premises caught amid the lockout laws.
According to a News Ltd report last October, several Kings Cross club owners were intent on joining forces to amalgamate and then sell the adjoining properties on the infamous strip to a developer.
<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/2017/07/12/2%20Keellett%20Place-2.jpg" alt="">
The Sunday Telegraph noted the consortium hoped the area will be rezoned to make way for two high-rise buildings modelled on Malaysia’s Petronas Towers with the development comprising 500 luxury apartments.
Sapphire Lounge owner Charlie Saleh told The Sunday Telegraph he began collecting signatures from the 65 property owners.
“It took a long time and a lot of money but we finally got the last landowner on board that we needed,” Mr Saleh said.
“This is a huge parcel of land that we think has great potential. You have the train station across the road, the CBD is 20 minutes away and you have views of everything from the Blue Mountains to Bondi and Manly.
“I think it’s the last great pocket of city land that hasn’t been redeveloped and if it’s done the right way I think it could transform Sydney.”
<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/2017/07/12/2%20Keellett%20Place-3.jpg" alt="">
He said the area will never again be what it once was, due to the lockout laws, driving the decision of landowners to sell.
The lockout laws, introduced in 2014, state venues in the CBD and nearby Kings Cross close by 3am with last entry at 1.30am.
The nearby former nightclub and music recording studio known as “Studio X”, the 1200 sq m floor span immediately under Kings Cross’ famous “Coca Cola” sign, is for sale.
Colliers International’s Miron Solomons is marketing the property with Gunning Commercial’s Daniel Gunning.
Solomons says the property has been priced to sell at $13 million to $14 million. It is in two strata lots so it can be sold in one line or two separate areas. 
The expressions of interest close Wednesday 26 July. The two empty lots have total outgoings for rates, strata, land tax and water of $116,476.
Solomons says the listing typifies the changing use of Kings Cross/Potts Point from the old bar and nightclub scene to a work and lifestyle environment. 
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Iconic Kings Cross venue up for lease

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A six bedroom Calamvale, Queensland house has been sold for $7 million making it Brisbane’s most expensive recent sale.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-calamvale-125720410" target="_blank">390-402 Benhiam Street</a>, the 20,400 sqm property has been marketed as having a big development potential.
Built in 2002 the property was last sold in 2009 for $1.59 million.
It sold in 2007 for $1,937,150.
Its peak price was $2.5 million in 2004.
Commercial offices, residential or shopping town could be possible with the site STCA.
The existing home is two storeys tall, 25 years old with a veranda that stretches across its front.
Featuring lounge room, dining area and five bathrooms, there are two kitchens.
<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/2017/07/09/390-402%20Benhiam%20Street-2.jpg" alt="">
The median price of a house in Calamvale is $647,000.
The property was offered through Ray White agents Eric Li and Martin Ma.
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Calamvale house sold for $7 million

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A five bedroom Breadalbane rural estate has been listed with $2.8 million plus hopes.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-tas-breadalbane-123384418" target="_blank">717 Hobart Road</a>, Old Marchington is one of Tasmania’s finest rural country estate.
Built in 1961 it sits on a 5.4 hectare overlooking lush fields and award-winning vineyards.
It was last sold in 1994 for $250,000 and again in 1986 for $197,000.
“There’s not a neighbour in sight,” says Robert Knott who, along with his wife Vicki, took a detour 23 years ago when they bought the property.
A large fountain forms the centre piece of a garden that surrounds the property.
<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/2017/07/10/717%20Hobart%20Road-2.jpg" alt="">
Originally part of the Marchington Estate it has a Baroque period design alongVersace inspired antiquities.
Inside are five bedrooms, two bathrooms, powder room, library/office and living spaces
The kitchen has black granite bench tops, splash backs and breakfast bar.
There is a separate wing with its own self-contained accommodation.
Other features includes multiple patios and decks, swimming pool, tennis court, garage and a large office/studio/workshop.
Launceston is 10 minutes away from the property.
The property is offered through Harcourts agent Jeremy Wilkinson.
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Breadalbane rural estate, Old Marchington, listed for $2.8 million plus

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Architectural firm BVN’s projects recently won two awards at an industry event in Melbourne.
The Australian Institute of Architects Victorian Chapter Architecture Awards gave the Alan and Beth Coldicutt Award for Sustainable Architecture to BVN’s South East Water Head Office, while Bunurong Memorial Park won for Public Architecture. The function was in Melbourne on June 30. 
On the South East Water Head Office, the jury said the building incorporates biophillic design “by connecting people and nature visually”, and also promotes physical activity via the “irresistible stair”.
It has also been certified as a 5 Star Green Star office.
The latest win gives BVN two nominated projects for the National Sustainable Architecture Award, the other is 480 Queen Street, Brisbane and both are commercial office buildings, it said in a media release.
About the Bunurong Memorial Park, the jury said it was a place for the public that “celebrates all aspects of life, from memorial services, to broader community and public events such as weddings, functions and family events.” 
The jury also commended the design of the memorial halls for their inclusiveness and “pared back contemporary buildings [that] can accommodate all faiths”.
BVN chief executive James Grose said “receiving the affirmation of peers in the architecture awards process instils a level of confidence in the profession, the public and importantly all levels of government.”
The architecture firm also transformed the Hilton Hotel complex at 255 Pitt Street for its office space at Sydney Open.
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BVN wins industry awards for sustainable design and public architecture

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" />

&nbsp;

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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