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Results released by SQM Research reveal national residential listings dropped 8.3 percent to 322,400 over the month of April 2017, as school holidays and Easter impacted the market.
The data reveals Sydney and Melbourne posted the biggest drop in listings, down 12.7 percent and 15.2 percent, respectively, with vendors waiting for higher prices before they sell.
Property listings fell in all capital cities over the month. In Hobart, listings dropped 10.6 percent, followed by Brisbane at 9.7 percent and Canberra, where stock levels fell by 8.9 percent.
Over the year, listings were also down in all capital cities, led by a steep drop of 23 percent in Melbourne, followed by Hobart with a 19.3 percent decrease over the year.
Sydney listings are down 8.7 percent over the year.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/02/Graph-1.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/2017/05/02/Graph-1.jpg" alt="">
Louis Christopher, the Managing Director of SQM Research, said the sharp fall in listings in Sydney and Melbourne reflects the fact that many property owners are hoping prices will rise further before selling.
“Home owners are looking for higher prices to be convinced to sell their properties.
This is causing many would-be vendors to stay side-lined, which is only perpetuating price increases.
Some vendors are reluctant to sell as they might not be able to buy back in,” he said.
“Listings also fell in April given the school holidays and Anzac Day held some vendors back.
March was a longer month than April, so we’ve also recorded a seasonal dip.
However, one should note the large year-on-year falls indicate the market may be tighter now for buyers compared to this time last year.
“Underlying property demand remains very strong in Sydney and Melbourne, with population growth rates high and interest rates still low.
Combined with strong local economies, these factors are working together to drive property prices higher.
“Contrary to recent reports of a slowdown taking place, I see no signs of a slowdown in either Sydney or Melbourne.
Canberra property prices have also picked up, which we expect to continue through the second half of this year,” Christopher said.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Property listings tumble in April as house prices increases in cities: SQM

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Construction is currently underway of a new luxury residential building at Waterloo, which is set to feature the largest man-made waterfall, right in the heart of the Waterloo district.
Developed by Crown Group and designed by Australian architecture firm SJB, Waterfall is located five kilometres away from the Sydney CBD
It is well connected to public transport with a train station nine minutes away, along with bus routes and cycle ways.
Waterfall will encompass a selection of studio, one, two and three bedroom apartments as well as penthouses. The four buildings are to be connected by long open-air walkways, with three towers being eight stories high while the last one is 20 stories high.
<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/2017/04/20/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-20%20at%202.03.11%20pm.jpg" alt="">
Each apartment has been positioned on densely planted tropical foliage, and residents can expect open plan layouts, floor to ceiling windows, and views of the landscape. The kitchen features Miele appliances along with bespoke cabinetry, topped by stone bench tops.
Facilities available at Waterfall includes a rooftop infinity pool, tranquil ground-level water gardens, gym, music room, rooftop sky garden and much more.
Sydney beaches are only 20 minutes drive away and shopping, café and restaurants are all nearby.
 For more information visit the website: <a href="https://waterfallbycrowngroup.com.au" target="_blank">https://waterfallbycrowngroup.com.au</a>.
The developer unveiled its $400 million development Waterfall in Sydney late in 2016, and said it had received strong expressions of interest ahead of its launch.
The development is scheduled for completion in 2019. 
"I would not be surprised if stage one of Waterfall sold out as there is a strong demand from local buyers wanting to live closer to amenities," said Crown Group chairman and chief executive Iwan Sunito.
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Waterfall, luxury Waterloo development begins construction

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RealestateVIEW.com.au has developed a tool to help real estate agents comply with the new underquoting laws introduced on 1st May by Consumer Affairs Victoria.
The tool, named 3Comps, is designed to help real estate agents and prospective buyers gain a realistic value of a home based on three comparable sales in the area.
Enzo Raimondo, chief executive officer, RealestateVIEW.com.au welcomes the legislative change because it will improve transparency.
“Whilst the SOI ensures compliance, 3Comps not only compliments and exceeds this compliance, it does it in a way that is responsive, intuitive and in a language, that will improve the user experience for those searching for property," he said,.
“This tool, which has been released today, allows agents to display three comparable properties dynamically on their listing, while creating a personalised, branded SOI for agents, improving the online user-experience for property seekers, further enhancing the industry’s credibility."
Philip Webb from Philip Webb agency said anything that adds transparency, anything that gives the real estate industry and the profession more integrity, is a good thing.
“We have to keep complying with what is needed and I see this as just an extension of that. I think it will turn out to be a very positive thing,” he said.
As part of the Estate Agents Act 1980, real estate agents in Victoria will soon be required to provide a Statement of Information (SOI) and three comparable property sales to prospective buyers across all residential listings.
For more information on the 3Comps tool, the legislation and how it affects both real estate agents and consumers, please click <a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/3comps/?utm_source=press&amp;utm_medium=social&amp;utm_campaign=3comps" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Toolkit helps agents comply with new Victorian underquoting legislation

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Creating more housing could make property more accessible to first home buyers, while the official cash rate is likely to remain unchanged at today's RBA board meeting, according to finder.com.au.  
The survey shows all 34 experts and economists are expecting the Reserve Bank to hold the cash rate at 1.5 percent for May 2017.  
Graham Cooke, Insights Manager at finder.com.au, says despite the survey results, rate changes have not been uncommon at this time of year.  
“In the last seven years, the Reserve Bank has cut rates five times in May. By this time of year, inflation and GDP data is released and the Bank has enough confidence to make a move. However, economists are universal in expecting no movement tomorrow,” he said. 
 "When providing cash rate forecasts, the majority of panelists surveyed (78 percent, 25) expect the next move to be a rise. This is a slightly down compared to last month (86 percent), but it still indicates strong sentiment for a future increase."
<div><button class="_at_6 o365button" type="button"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/K07Klxsp0kNbmbbDThi3IhSWcMPeoAxpR6TDkdNTKTvCpXT19Iean6oJ2RkiUGu-OYVTjIMxuIkKqMPQbFrhnqvEBJwXaD4JFvTHSwYiHsWUejWhAWmUkg_aDhXWWrw_xYYoUyI" alt="rise2.jpg" width="434" height="206"></button></div>
 Of the experts and economists predicting a rate rise, the vast majority (81 percent, 22) believe the rise won’t happen until 2018, with most of this group (15) not expecting a rise until April 2018 at the earliest. Given the current economic climate, panelists were asked if locking in a fixed-rate home loan for the next five years was a good idea. The responses were largely affirmative with 72 percent of respondents indicating it was a good time to fix. Mr Cooke says fixing mortgage rates now could be a wise move. “Fixed home loans provide certainty, and there are some competitive rates available on the market today, despite some lenders <a href="https://www.finder.com.au/home-loan-interest-rate-changes-for-april-2017?utm_source=pr_pressrelease_internal&amp;utm_campaign=4cd5cd00dd-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_04_28&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=0_5921dab448-4cd5cd00dd-295349757" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">increasing fixed rates recently</a>.  “The expectation across the board is that rates will rise in the next year, so locking in a low rate now could help you manage your repayments both now and into the future,” he says. Of the minority (7) who believe a rate cut is on the horizon, all bar one economist predict the cash rate will go no lower than 1.0%. The exception is Jordan Eliseo of ABC Bullion who expects an eventual low of 0.75%. With respect to improving housing affordability for first home buyers, creating more supply is the most favoured solution, supported by 97% (29) of the panelists. Mr Cooke says creating more housing should put downward pressure on property prices. “If the government works to establish more housing supply, this could remove heat from the property market as dwelling prices fall. For first home buyers, this could mean that saving for a deposit and committing to a purchase will become more attainable.  “Having said that, the most recent data indicates that growth in values may be slowing in cities such as Sydney, so any new supply will need to be carefully monitored,” he says. Eleven (37%) experts and economists recommended getting rid of or reducing negative gearing, while eight (27%) said eliminating or <a href="https://www.finder.com.au/stamp-duty?utm_source=pr_pressrelease_internal&amp;utm_campaign=4cd5cd00dd-EMAIL_CAMPAIGN_2017_04_28&amp;utm_medium=email&amp;utm_term=0_5921dab448-4cd5cd00dd-295349757" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">reducing stamp duty</a>could make housing more affordable.  Interestingly, five panelists (17%) cited increasing the first home buyer grant and allowing property purchases through superannuation as measures to improve Australia’s housing affordability issue. Here’s what our experts had to say: Jordan Eliseo, ABC Bullion (Hold): "The RBA remains in no rush to cut interest rates, despite the fact that most economic data has been soft, and inflation remains well controlled. Financial stability concerns are still a factor, though we remain of the view that there is more downside to come for rates in the next 12 months." Shane Oliver, AMP Capital (Hold): "Worries about excessive home prices and debt growth prevent a cut, but low underlying inflation and wages growth prevent a hike and meanwhile growth is okay." Alison Booth, ANU (Hold): "Key indicators suggest this." John Hewson, ANU (Hold): "[We are] waiting on budget." Darryl Gobbett, Baillieu Holst Ltd (Hold): "The RBA would see Australian inflation as moving in line with its longer term view, particularly with the signs of rising inflation, albeit from a very low base, overseas. In addition, the RBA would still see the potential systemic risks from increased household debt of cutting rates as being higher than any potential benefits." Kishti Sen, BIS Oxford Economics (Hold): "Domestic demand remains weak." Paul Dales, Capital Economics (Hold): "The rise in underlying inflation in the first quarter has reduced the need to cut interest rates further, especially when lower rates would boost the still hot housing market. " Michael Blythe, CBA (Hold): "Low inflation says no need to raise rates. Hot housing markets says don't cut rates." Savanth Sebastian, CommSec (Hold): "The Reserve Bank doesn’t need to cut rates again with inflation trending higher, rather than lower. And there are doubts that rate cuts would actually do much in terms of driving the economy higher and lifting inflation. But similarly rate hikes are off the agenda. Given the slow growth in wages and range-trading in global oil prices, it is unlikely to result in a change to the domestic inflation landscape." Dr Andrew Wilson, Domain Group (Hold): "Although momentum building for a rate cut, no clear case yet. RBA increasingly pincered between its narrative of high house price growth, a clearly weakening economy and independently higher mortgage rates." Saul Eslake, Economist (Hold): "Both current and prospective conditions remain much as they have been at recent meetings - 'underlying' inflation below target but heading in the right direction; unemployment and other indicators of 'spare capacity' in the labour market higher than the RBA wants - so no case for raising rates; but also too much risk of fuelling further house price inflation to warrant cutting rates any further." Mark Brimble, Griffith Uni (Hold): "While broad economic indicators suggest the economy needs further support, the concerns re certain elements of the credit and housing markets is likely to keep the RBA on the bench." Shane Garrett, Housing Industry Association (Hold): "No particular advantage in changing rates one way or the other at this stage." Alex Joiner, IFM Investors (Hold): "No justification to move - inflation data for Q1 was inline with the RBA's forecasts" Michael Witts, ING Bank (Hold): "The broader economy is progressing in line with the RBA's expectations. The recent increases in housing loan rates especially for investors will slow this segment of the market." Leanne Pilkington, Laing+Simmons (Hold): "Again, there are insufficient drivers to force the Reserve Bank to adjust rates at this time. While recent inflation figures appear to suggest the economy is moving in the right direction, concerns around demand for employment remain, and the forthcoming Federal budget is yet to go under analysts' microscopes. Against this background, we believe the prudent course is for the Reserve Bank to hold." Nicholas John Gruen, Lateral Economics (Hold): "They're not sure of what to do." Matthew Tiller, LJ Hooker (Hold): "Despite the recent rise in inflation, ongoing strong property price growth should ensure the RBA holds steady over the short term." Stephen Koukoulas, Market Economics (Hold): "RBA continues to misread inflation, unemployment, wagers and growth. It should cut but it won't." Michael Yardney, Metropole Property Strategists (Hold): "The recently released inflation figures, while moving into the RBA's target range, are on the low side. Until job numbers improve it would be safe to assume the RBA won’t be hiking interest rates to slow the property markets down. On the other hand they can't afford to drop rates and fuel our property markets." Mark Crosby, Monash University (Hold): "The RBA will wait another month or two to evaluate global developments and assess the probability of a new US rate rise before considering raising." Emily Dabbs, Moody's Analytics (Hold): "Inflation pressures are strengthening, full-time employment has improved, and high household debt continues to pose a risk to financial stability" Jessica Darnbrough, Mortgage Choice (Hold): "The latest economic data suggests the Australian economy is tracking along quite nicely at the moment. Inflation has bounced slightly higher, the unemployment rate remains relatively low, and consumer confidence continues to sit around the point where optimists and pessimists are in equal number. With that said, I don't think there is anything out of the ordinary happening at the moment that would force the Reserve Bank to adjust its stance on monetary policy. " Christopher Schade, MyState Bank (Hold): "The hurdle for another cut is high. While inflation remains subdued and the outlook for economic growth over the next couple of years is slightly below trend, interest rate settings in Australia are very accommodative and remain appropriate at their current level. The RBA appears particularly reluctant to deliver further cuts in light of the very buoyant housing market in certain regions." Alan Oster, NAB (Hold): "[The] RBA [is] stuck between cutting for the broader economy and house price pressures" Jonathan Chancellor, Property Observer (Hold): "All the numbers are settling into place nicely." Matthew Peter, QIC (Hold): "Housing market risks constrain any attempt to lower the cash rate. Growth and inflation remain tepid constraining any thought of a rate hike." Noel Whittaker, QUT (Hold): "No reason to move either way." Christine Williams, Smarter Property Investing (Hold): "Even though the major banks have chosen to increase, for the most part our resources, unemployment rates and retail sectors have not seen an increase." Steven Milch, Suncorp (Hold): "Growth and inflation [are] gradually firming but not yet warranting higher rates." Brian Parker, Sunsuper (Hold): "Inflation figures provide no great reason for RBA to change their views." Clement Tisdell, UQ-School of Economics (Hold): "No reason to change." Nicki Hutley, Urbis (Hold): "Growth and inflation remain well-behaved" Bill Evans, Westpac (Hold)
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Finder.com.au predict the RBA will hold

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ANZ bank has reported a $3.4 billion cash profit for the six months to March 31 and lifted interest rates on home loan deals.
The profit figure is down from previous expectations of $3.5 billion.
ANZ's move to lift interest rates on home loan deals follows the Commonwealth Bank and Westpac, who increased interest rates on both owner occupier and investor loans.
Owner occupiers and investors with interest-only fixed rate deals may be hit with increases of 0.4 percent on 2, 4, and 5 year fixed owner occupier interest-only loans the rates will rise on the bank’s Breakfree products.
Three-year owner occupier interest-only loans will rise by 0.3 percent to 4.49 percent.
For investors on a three-year fixed-rate interest-only Breakfree deal the rate will rise 0.3 percent 4.69 percent.
The three-year fixed rate owner occupier principal and interest deal will fall by 0.2 percent to 3.99 percent.
On a three-year fixed rate investor principal and interest deal the rate will fall by 0.1 per cent to 4.44 percent.
Mozo spokeswoman Kirsty Lamont said the increases by ANZ are a result of the financial regulator, the Australian Prudential and Regulation Authority limiting their interest-only lending.
“With the Federal Reserve jacking up rates in the US and inflation just scraping within the Reserve Bank target, we expect a cash rate increase in the next 12 months which means these fixed rates are unlikely to be around for a long time,” she said.
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ANZ six month profit down, lifts some interest rates

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The former Windsor Smith shoe factory on High Street in Melbourne's Preston is being developed into a seven level apartment complex due to be completed in 2019.
One bedroom prices will start from $334,000, with 62 one bedders slated to be built. 
The development will also feature 58 two bedroom apartments priced between $442,000 and $582,000. A display suite at 436 Johnston Street, Abbotsford, is open from 10am to 4 pm daily.
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Apartment complex slated for former Windsor Smith shoe factory, Preston

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The number of new properties listed for Darwin over the past four weeks has declined, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that compared to 12 months ago, the number of new properties listed in Darwin has fallen by 24.1% to only 154.
The total number of properties listed in Darwin is down too, falling by 7.3% to 1532.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%2012.23.22%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/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%2012.23.22%20pm.jpg" alt="">
This is in contrast to Canberra which has reported the highest growth in new properties being listed with an increase of 21.5%.
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nt-rosebery-125123094">21 Delissaville Place</a>, Rosebery in the NT (above) has been listed for over $599,000.
Similarly a two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nt-stuart+park-125117954">304/29 Duke Street</a>, Stuart Park (below) has been listed for $580,000.
<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/2017/05/01/304_29%20Duke%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Darwin listings fall so tighter market set to emerge: CoreLogic

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The average price of a property in Perth currently range between the high $300,000 to low $500,000, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that the median house in Perth costs around $505,000 while units costs around $390,000.
Sydney remains the most expensive place to purchase a property with houses costing around $996,250 while units cost around $730,000.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%2012.23.31%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/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%2012.23.31%20pm.jpg" alt="">
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-viveash-125007974" target="_blank">2 Harford Avenue</a>, Viveash (above) has been listed for $449,000 plus.
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-bassendean-125225222" target="_blank">42 Third Avenue</a>, Bassendean (below) has been listed for $520,000.
<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/2017/05/01/42%20Third%20Avenue.jpg" alt="">
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Bulk of Perth property prices sit between $390,000 to $505,000

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Melbourne private treaty properties take, on average, a month to sell once listed on the market, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that Melbourne homes take around 29 days to be sold while units takes 30 days.
This is slightly slower than Sydney where houses and units are currently being sold by estate agents within 27 days.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%2012.23.39%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/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%2012.23.39%20pm.jpg" alt="">
Darwin places last with houses taking 87 days to sell while units take 76 days to sell.
Similarly Perth houses and units takes around 82-83 days to be sold.
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Melbourne properties taking one month to find buyers: CoreLogic

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Preliminary clearance rate strengthened after last week saw the final clearance rate fall below 70 per cent, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that the combined capital city preliminary clearance rate rose to 76.9 per cent this week, increasing from last week, when final results saw the clearance rate fall to 69.8 per cent after 10 consecutive weeks remaining in the mid-70 per cent range.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%2010.59.40%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/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%2010.59.40%20am.jpg" alt="">
The rebound in the preliminary clearance rate has occurred against a backdrop of higher auction volumes, with 2,347 properties taken to auction across the combined capital cities, up from last week’s 1,751, however lower than one year ago (2,675).
The higher clearance rate and increase in volumes this week were attributable to stronger results across the two larger auction markets of Melbourne and Sydney, with performance across the remaining capitals remaining varied over the week.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%2010.59.49%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/2017/05/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-01%20at%2010.59.49%20am.jpg" alt="">
Considering the slowdown in auction markets over previous weeks as well as widespread speculation that the housing market is moving through its peak, the final auction clearance rate, published by CoreLogic on Thursday, will be an important follow up to this strong preliminary result.
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April auction clearance rate bounces back: CoreLogic

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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