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Marshall Baxter has listed Goulburn’s grand Bishopthorpe Manor for sale, after a decade at the 21-hectare estate.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-goulburn-125289558" target="_blank">32 Bishopthorpe Lane</a> is a landmark rural property of historical significance, having been carved from bluestone in 1870 as the residence for the first Anglican Bishop of the Diocese of Goulburn. It retains a chapel housed in the original stables, as well as monks quarters.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/28/rsz_manor.png" alt="">
The home has previously enjoyed extensive renovations to be transformed into a boutique guesthouse in both 2003 and in 1999, and provides a minimum of 7 bedrooms – 5 of which come complete with gas fireplaces and each with a full bathroom ensuite and spa bath.
It is has also been reincarnated over the years as a girls’ school, the home of Yarralumla Station owner Frederick Campbell in 1913, a conference centre, boutique guest house, and as the host of the 2005 Celebrity Overhaul reality television show.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/28/rsz_bedroom.png" alt="">
First National Real Estate Goulburn agent Barry McEntee is marketing the listing as luxurious and full of character, with its multitude of living areas including a grand foyer, formal dining room, billiard room, casual living rooms, library and study.
Located 2 hours' drive from Sydney and an hour to Canberra, other benefits of the Manor are district views, climate control, and a manager's residence comprising a fully self-contained 2 bedroom apartment.
Baxter, an executive running the Baxter’s Boots business his great-grandfather acquired in 1885, originally bought Bishopthorpe in 2007 from liquidators for $2.3 million.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Marshall Baxter lists Bishopthorpe Manor 

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The federal budget has taken positive steps toward infrastructure commitment by the government, but it still is a missed opportunity to capitalise on low bond rates and a triple-A credit rating, according to a senior industry executive.
Megan Motto, chief executive of built-environment body Consult Australia, welcomed the direction of the 2017/2018 Federal Budget but declared it a missed opportunity to capitalise on historic low borrowing rates.
Consult Australia represents 49,000 consulting firms in the built environment.
The government plans to spend $75 billion on development and upgrade of infrastructure, which includes a potential buy-out of the Snowy Hydro scheme from the states. Also included is a $20 billion rail line upgrade.
Major projects like Snowy Hydro, Inland Rail, a National Rail Program, and Western Sydney Airport, all point to a government that understands the long-term nature of infrastructure projects. But real spend on infrastructure delivery would fall as share of GDP from 25.5% to 25.2% in 2020-21, Motto said. 
Yet, “historically low bond rates and a triple-A credit rating means it has never been a better time to borrow, to take on more good debt,” Motto said.
 “This is an Infrastructure Budget 1.0 that begs for an Infrastructure Budget 2.0 to better connect the strong sense of direction to implementation and the opportunity for Australia to maintain future economic growth,” said Motto.
“This was a budget big on planning for longer-term infrastructure dividends.” 
“It recognised infrastructure as a tool to increase productivity, the importance of business case development to get the right projects off the ground, and the role of government in being able to drive economic growth.
“Over $14 billion of direct government equity in major infrastructure delivery and financing agencies,” she said.
But Motto added that “in the short term there is a sense of missed opportunity”.
Motto also lamented the foreign worker levy for businesses that will make it harder for them to bring in skills needed to deliver Australia’s infrastructure agenda.
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Budget fails to capitalise on historic low borrowing rates

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The latest research from Sydney Units Cityscope shows that apartment sales in Sydney’s CBD have increased both in number and total sales value in the last quarter.
For the three months to April 2017, there were 133 sales at a total value of $164.3 million, compared with 113 sales at a total value of $128.8 million for the previous quarter.
However, the yearly figures have decreased in total sales value and number, with 723 sales at a total value of $969.6 million for the 12 months to April 2017, compared with 821 sales at a total value of $972.9 million for the previous year.
The table below shows sales recorded for the past eight updates of Sydney Units Cityscope:
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/26/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-26%20at%2010.25.12%20am.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/2017/04/26/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-26%20at%2010.25.12%20am.jpg" alt="">
Notable sales in the April 2017 update of Sydney Units Cityscope include:
    The long term leasehold of Unit 25, Macquarie Apartments, at 155-161 Macquarie Street, Sydney, a three bedroom 189 sqm apartment with balconies on level 13 and four car spaces on basement level four, which was sold for $4.75 million through City Living;
<ul>
<li>Unit 23, Bennelong, at 5 Macquarie Street, Sydney, an 186 sqm apartment including balconies on level two and a 32 sqm car space on basement level five and a five sqm storage space on basement level four, which was sold for $4.15 million through Morton Circular Quay;</li>
<li>The long term leasehold of Lot 2, known as Borrowdale, Reynall Terraces, at 185 Gloucester Street, The Rocks, a split level residential apartment with 98 sqm on level three and 103 sqm on level four and a 32 sqm car space on level one, which was sold for $3.9 million and</li>
<li>The long term leasehold of Lot 4, known as Charlotte, Reynall Terraces, at 185 Gloucester Street, The Rocks, a split level residential apartment with 113 sqm on level three and 112 sqm on level 4 and a 40 sqm car space on level 1, which was sold for $3.85 million;</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/26/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-26%20at%2010.25.42%20am.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/2017/04/26/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-26%20at%2010.25.42%20am.jpg" alt="">
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Sydney apartment sales increase in value and number: Cityscope

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A premier six bedroom property known as Cintamani in the Noosa hinterland has been repriced to $5.7 million.
The elevated single level residence at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/430-sunrise-road-tinbeerwah-qld-4563-2013141176" target="_blank">430 Sunrise Road</a>, Tinbeerwah, is located 15 kilometres from Noosa. 
It offers panoramic views of Noosa Heads, ranging from the coastline to Double Island Point, and the waterways of Noosa River.
Positioned on 35 hectare estate, highlights include a secure gated entry opening on to a long private driveway, chefs kitchen, helipad, tennis court, cinema and commercially equipped bar.
The grounds provides landscaped botanical gardens, an established nursery, barbecue pavilion, poolside terraces, fully equipped gym, billiard room, machinery sheds and separate maids quarters.
The property was last sold in 1994.
Garvan Institute chief operating officer Philip Knox and wife Marianne recently sold Lagoona House, their contemporary Noosa Heads weekender.
Australia's 7-Eleven co-founder Beverley Barlow and husband Douglas recently sold their Paul Clout designed Noosa waterfront that cost the couple $535,000 in 1999.
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Premier hinterland property Cintamani listed at reduced price

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With the deadline for the new superannuation rules set to take effect from July, retired Australians should focus on a strategy to claim capital gains tax relief on investments such as property that become partly taxable as a result of the new rules.
And the transfer from super savings from a pension to an accumulation account must be done by June 30. 
CGT relief is available for self-managed super funds (SMSFs) to provide temporary relief from certain capital gains that might arise as a result of individuals complying with the transfer balance cap, and Transition to Retirement Income Stream (TRIS) reforms, commencing on 1 July 2017, says the Australian Taxation Office website.
CGT relief allows profitable investments in super pensions, currently tax-free, to have their cost bases reset to a higher value.
The transfer balance cap is $1.6 million at the moment, and it limits the amount of capital individuals can transfer to the retirement phase of their superannuation accounts. This in turn, limits the amount of superannuation fund earnings that are exempt from taxation, says the ATO.
Retirees who will be affected by the rule change are those who have, or are deemed to have, a pension interest in a total super balance that exceeds $1.6 million, as well as anyone with profitable investments in transition to retirement income streams (TRISs). From July the earnings generated by TRISs will no longer be tax free.
CGT relief could be worth many tens of thousands of dollars to retirees or TRIS holders. It's also an entitlement that many might delay or forgo because of the complexity. But not using the opportunity of the concession window could lead to regret down the track, says an article in The Australian Financial Review.
If you haven't already drafted a plan, now is the time, says self-managed super strategist Darren Kingdon of Kingdon Financial Group. 
An action plan should involve being aware of the capital gains that exist for each investment you own in a super pension and where the new rules will oblige you to transfer assets to an accumulation account. Once in accumulation, assets will be either fully or partly taxed, albeit concessionally.
The plan should also involve having an estimate of the additional tax that will need to be paid because pension assets will no longer be tax free and the impact this will have on a retiree's overall income. 
Earnings on assets rolled to an accumulation account will be taxed at 15 percent and capital gains at either 10 percent or 15 percent, depending on how long they are held for. 
An action plan will require being aware of the procedures that need to be  followed in order to implement CGT relief, a task not helped by the fact that important documents, such as an approved form on which the assets in question must be recorded, are not yet available.
Investments should be assessed on an asset-by-asset basis, says Kingdon in the post in AFR. For investment property and interests in investments owned through trusts, up-to-date valuations will be needed.
To illustrate how CGT relief might work, a 65 years-plus retired reader asks about his $4 million SMSF pension portfolio that is broadly made up of two $2 million commercial property units that are wholly dedicated to paying a pension. The properties each cost about $1 million.
Even though the reader will only be allowed to have $1.6 million of investments in a pension account from July 1, he expects both properties will remain in super because stamp duty will prohibit him from moving them elsewhere, even if he wanted to.
The reader asks if he will be able to commute property A to an accumulation account after having its tax base reset to $2 million under the CGT relief rules shortly before midnight on June 30.
And, in the case of property B, can he designate 80 percent of its value, or $1.6 million, as being in the pension phase and 20 percent, valued at $400,000, as being in accumulation phase and reset the cost base to $2 million as at June 30? And how would this property be taxed if, in two years' time, it was sold for $3.5 million?
Unfortunately, says Kingdon, it is not possible under Tax Office guidelines for an SMSF to partially segregate a single asset in the manner described for property B. Tax accountant Gordon Cooper of Cooper and Co says this is because you can't split the ownership of a single asset within the same legal entity.
In order to trigger an entitlement to CGT relief for both assets, a "cessation event" must occur between November 9, 2016  and  June 30, 2017.  
In order to claim CGT relief and reset the value of each property from $1 million to $2 million, the reader will need to commute the total excess of $2.4 million back to an accumulation account on or before June 30 and use what is known as the proportionate method to calculate tax for the remainder of the 2016-17 financial year, and in future years. 
This approach locks in the CGT relief to $2 million. If property B is later sold for $3.5 million, the notional $1.5 million gross capital gain is reduced to $1 million under the one-third CGT discount available to SMSF assets owned for more than one year, or one year beyond the CGT reset date.
But that's not the only calculation that must be performed.
Under the current rules, 100 percent of the $4 million pension is exempt from tax. Under the new rules, because only $1.6 million of $4 million is in tax-free pension phase  – or 40 percent – and 60 percent will be in a taxable accumulation account, this proportion will apply to any future CGT liability.
It means 60 percent of the $1 million gross gain, or $600,000, will be added to the fund's taxable income. It will be taxed at 15 per cent, resulting in a $90,000 tax bill. Without the CGT relief, the notional gains will be $2.5 million, discounted to $1.675 million. With 60 per cent or just over $1 million taxable, the tax liability will be around $151,000.
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You only have two months to plan for the CGT relief on super pensions 

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A luxurious country estate sitting on 40 hectares in Mia Mia, Victoria has been listed for sale with a price guide of $1.3 million. 
The interior-designed four bedroom main residence at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-other-vic-mia+mia-7879978" target="_blank">359 Wild Duck Road</a> and two bedroom guest house have been built to capture the stunning outlook across to Wild Duck Creek.
Mia Mia is a picturesque area located 119 kilometres north of Melbourne and 56 kilometres south of Bendigo. It is largely an area of broadacre farms raising cattle and sheep.
The residence features a glass enclosed hallway, family room, and office with a marble topped chef’s kitchen facing an open plan dining and living room to the Jetmaster fireplace.  Touches of double oak-doors, travertine marble and black butt floors have been included throughout.
A main bathroom is finished in floor to ceiling tiles, under floor heating, double shower, vanity and a bath. The master bedroom offers a walk in robe, Belgian linen curtains, frameless windows leading onto the wooden deck.
The two bedroom guest house showcases lime washed oak floors, marble bathroom with feature shower and underfloor heating, as well as floor to ceiling frameless windows and custom made doors.
Established native gardens are set against the backdrop of the rolling hills and creek frontage.
A three bedroom residence at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-mia+mia-118528219" target="_blank">61 Valley Road</a> sold for $325,000 in December 2016.
The property is offered through Pat Rice and Hawkins agent Bart O'Sullivan. 
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Mia Mia country estate listed 

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Henzell Construction is set to build a $15 million residential development overlooking the new Pelican Waters marina on the Sunshine Coast.
The Carlyle Terraces will feature 25 three bedroom, double storey terrace homes sized from 200sqm to 254sqm.
Mclean Henzell of Henzell Construction said Carlyle Terraces was the first terrace home project for the masterplanned Pelican Waters community.
<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/2017/04/4/CT01M2.jpg" alt="">
“Its prime location at the gateway to the emerging town centre and marina means a vibrant mix of waterfront dining, shopping and professional services is a short 100m stroll away, accessible by private pedestrian access from each residence,’’ he said.
"Priced from $540,000 to $660,000, the terrace homes would appeal to retirees, downsizers, professionals and small families.
“The terrace homes offer the choice of upstairs or downstairs master bedrooms, water and marina views, low maintenance pet-friendly yards plus shared facilities including elevated tropical pool, private putting green and barbecue with kitchenette.
Other nearby features include Pelican Waters Golf Course, bowls club, local supermarkets, Caloundra CBD, patrolled beaches, numerous parks and waterways, health services, a range of primary and secondary schools and easy access to the Bruce Highway.
<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/2017/04/4/f02.jpg" alt="">
The Carlyle Terraces features 21 superbly-crafted three-bedroom, 2.5 bathroom terrace homes and four villas and is presently being sold off the plan, with construction expected to be completed by 2017.
<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/2017/04/4/f24.jpg" alt="">
Visit The Carlyle Terraces onsite sale office at Coral Sea Drive Pelican Waters, open daily except Friday from 10am to 4pm.
For more information visit <a href="https://www.thecarlyle.com.au/">https://www.thecarlyle.com.au/</a>
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Henzell Construction launches $15 million residential sanctuary The Carlyle Terraces

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Franklin in the ACT has plenty of opportunities to purchase a house at around a $780,000 median, according to Investar’s latest report of the most active sale suburbs.
The property investment firm says that the median price of a house at Franklin sits around $789,000.
This is followed by Crace with $770,000 and Forde with $729,000.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
Current median price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Franklin
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2913
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$789,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Crace
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2911
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$770,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Forde
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2914
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$729,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Nicholls
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2913
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$699,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Palmerston
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2913
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$670,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Harrison
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2914
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$660,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Gungahlin
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2912
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$658,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Amaroo
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2914
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$638,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Monash
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2904
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$635,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="74">
Bonner
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2914
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="122">
$632,500
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A four bedroom house at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-franklin-124864510" target="_blank"> 79 Patrick White Circuit</a>, Franklin (above) was sold March this year for $782,000.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-franklin-121929114" target="_blank">6 Gavin Long Street</a>, Franklin (below) was sold March last year for $760,000.
<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/2017/04/18/6%20Gavin%20Long%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Franklin ACT median house price around $789,000: Investar

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Dora Creek has the fastest median price growth for houses in New South Wales, according to a recent Investar report.
The property investment firm says that the median house price in Dora Creek has grown by 52 percent in the past year.
This is followed by Green Point with 51 percent and Airds with 46 percent.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="95">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
Postcode
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Current median price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
Median price 1 year ago
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Growth in 1 year
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="95">
Dora Creek
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2264
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$579,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$379,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
52%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="95">
Green Point
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2428
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$750,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$494,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
51%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="95">
Airds
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2560
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$563,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$385,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
46%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="95">
Dural
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2158
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
5
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$2,298,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$1,600,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
43%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="95">
Barrack Heights
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2528
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$637,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$460,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
38%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="95">
Culburra Beach
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2540
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$484,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$350,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
38%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="95">
Leumeah
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2560
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$420,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$310,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
35%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="95">
Warners Bay
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2282
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$499,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$377,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
32%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="95">
Suffolk Park
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2481
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$1,187,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$899,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
32%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="95">
Manyana
</td>
<td valign="top" width="64">
2539
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$695,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="83">
$526,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
32%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-culburra+beach-124872850" target="_blank">5 Plimsoll Place</a>, Culburra Beach (below) was sold in April this year for $487,000.
Similarly a two bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-culburra+beach-124954410" target="_blank">2 Mowbray Road</a>, Culburra Beach (above) was sold in March this year for $460,000.
<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/2017/05/11/2%20Mowbray%20Road.jpg" alt="">
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Culburra Beach ranks sixth behind Dora Creek for fastest NSW median house price growth: Investar

<html><body>
While the financial position of households has been fairly resilient, vulnerabilities persist for some highly indebted households, especially those located in the resource-rich states, the recent RBA's Financial Stability Review has noted.
Household indebtedness (as measured by the ratio of debt to disposable income) has increased further, primarily due to rising levels of housing debt, although weak income growth is also contributing.
Rising indebtedness can make households more vulnerable to potential income declines and higher interest rates.
This is of most concern for households that have very high levels of debt.
Low interest rates are helping to offset the cost of servicing larger amounts of debt and hence total mortgage servicing costs remain around their recent lows (Graph 2.5).
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/13/Graph%202.5.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/2017/04/13/Graph%202.5.jpg" alt="">
In this regard, lenders have tightened mortgage serviceability assessments in recent years to include larger interest rate buffers, which should provide some protection against the potential effects of higher interest rates.
Prepayments on mortgages increase the resilience of household balance sheets.
Aggregate mortgage buffers – balances in offset accounts and redraw facilities – are high, at around 17 per cent of outstanding loan balances or around 21⁄2 years of scheduled repayments at current interest rates.
However, these aggregate figures mask significant variation across borrowers, with available data suggesting that around one-third of borrowers have either no accrued buffer or a buffer of less than one month’s repayments.
Those with minimal buffers tend to have newer mortgages, or to be lower-income or lower-wealth households.
Weak economic conditions, and declining housing prices, continue to present challenges to the financial health of households in regions with large exposures to the mining sector.
For example, the rate of personal administrations in Western Australia increased further over the second half of 2016.
While commodity prices have increased, this seems unlikely to translate into significantly improved labour market outcomes in these regions in the near term.
If housing prices continue to decline in these locations, then banks may face additional losses on their mortgage portfolios.
Find the RBA's latest Financial Stability Review 2017 <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au" target="_blank">here</a>.
</body></html>

Households continue to have high levels of debt: RBA warns

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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