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New apartment sales in Melbourne are slowing, along with supply, according to property consultant Urbis.
The consultancy's fourth quarter 2016 survey suggested 10 surveyed projects had already met pre-sale thresholds.
But others have "likely been affected by moderating short-term demand conditions", according to Urbis whom issued the report as the market responds to the latest curbs on investment.
Mark Dawson, director of property economics and research, said supply volumes were starting to scale back as financial and regulatory measures applied the brakes.
"Future launches will give a more genuine indication of market appetite for central city projects, since there has been some easing of momentum at the tail end of major projects," Dawson told Fairfax Media.
"Sales volumes have held firm in precincts outside the central city, yet continue to remain modest in the context of central city volumes over the last two years.
"Successful suburban projects are delivering similar sales numbers on a quarterly basis compared to central precinct projects, as market appetite continues to spread to the suburbs." 
According to Urbis, prices for new apartments rose in the last quarter last year compared to the previous quarter in the inner-north and inner-west precincts.
But they fell in the central, inner-east and inner-south precincts and overall.
The weighted average sale price in inner Melbourne was $658,000.
"Prices tend to move around on a quarterly basis due to variation in stock, so we have not seen evidence of a pullback in pricing," Mr Dawson said.
Separate figures from consultancy Charter Keck Cramer last month showed the number of apartment commencements in Melbourne dropped<a href="https://www.afr.com/real-estate/melbourne-apartment-correction-could-tip-into-affordability-disaster-udia-20170308-gut6pz"> </a>from 24,500 in 2015 to 16,300 last year.
The Weekend Australian reported more than half the apartments bought off the plan in Melbourne’s CBD, Docklands and Southbank since 2011 have changed hands at a loss, according to research from BIS Oxford Economics.
The rash of losses sets a lower bar for valuers, meaning banks are willing to lend less on the next sale, according to BIS analyst Angie Zigomanis.
“The risk is that this cascades down, setting lower benchmarks for the next round of apartment projects,” he said.
According to BIS Research, Melbourne city, which includes the CBD, Southbank and Docklands, Whitehorse city (including Box Hill, Burwood and Mitcham) and Port Phillip city (including Port Melbourne, St Kilda and part of Southbank) saw more than half units bought off the plan since 2011 breaking even or reselling at a loss.
Melbourne’s building cycle will peak in 2017 with 18,350 new high-rise units completed compared with 13,453 last year. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

New apartment sales in Melbourne slowing: Urbis

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Pubs group Dixon Hospitality has ditched its initial public offering plans, after it received an approach from a domestic private equity firm late last week.
It has entered into discussions around a potential takeover.
Sources said Dixon's board, led by chief executive (and former Spotless Group boss) Bruce Dixon, decided on Monday afternoon that there was more value for shareholders in pursuing a sale to private equity than an ASX listing, Fairfax Media's Street Talk column reported.
The float was mooted at 13.8-times forecast 2018 financial year profit. 
Dixon owns 50 leasehold venues, primarily in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. 
The Australian also reported the development, but with a different rationale.
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Dixon Hospitality attracts private equity takeover interest

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The Mornington Peninsula had the highest auction clearance rate in Melbourne, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says that out of the 54 auctions that were known to them, 87 percent resulted in a successful outcome.
This is followed by the North West with 86.1 percent and the Inner East with 85.3 percent.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/10/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-10%20at%2010.45.26%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/2017/04/10/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-10%20at%2010.45.26%20am.jpg" alt="">
The Inner region had the lowest auction clearance rate with only 76.1 percent of its 255 auctions cleared.
A five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-mornington-124910194">12-14 John Rowell Lane</a>, Mornington (above) was sold for $2.945 million.
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-tootgarook-124858538">26 Kareela Drive</a>, Tootgarook (below) was sold for $640,000.
<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/2017/04/10/26%20Kareela%20Drive.jpg" alt="">
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Mornington Peninsula scores highest weekend auction clearance rate in Melbourne: CoreLogic

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Monomeith Park at Monomeith, just over 15 minutes from Pakenham, has been listed by the Bourke family after three generations of ownership.
The Bourke family has successfully run sheep and beef cattle on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-livestock-vic-monomeith-7888982" target="_blank">the 228 hectare grazing property</a>.
It is for sale at $24,710 per hectare ($10,000 an acre) through Ruralco Property, Pakenham agent Ray Cullen.
Robert Bourke said his family’s ownership stretched back to 1907 when the run was about 3000 acres running beef cattle and, until the late 1940s, 8000 sheep.
The old woolshed and press are still here.
Sir Sidney Kidman was a great friend of the family and often visited Bourke's grandfather.
The double-fronted weatherboard homestead, built in 1899 and heritage-listed by Cardinia Shire, is surrounded by the sea of flowers in Vivienne Bourke’s garden.
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Monomeith Park, Pakenham listed by Bourke family

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Falling vacancies and lower incentives are promising a windfall for landlords across the country, according to Colliers International’s latest CBD Office research and forecast report.
The report projects that positive net-effective rent conditions from net face growth will continue to drive tenant demand throughout 2017 on the back of suite strategies, such as that in Chifley Tower in Sydney, and pre-commitment to new developments, such as the new ANZ building in Docklands.
Despite office investment volumes being down in Sydney and Brisbane, and plateauing in Melbourne thoughout 2016, an increase is expected in 2017, as domestic and offshore building owners trade out of their profitable assets.
“The landlord’s market is in full swing in Sydney and Melbourne,” John Marasco, Colliers International’s chief executive for Victoria, said.
“Enquiry levels are still strong, with the majority coming from business services, health and community services, IT and finance, which is resulting in a more positive environment than what has been experienced in the past few years.
“With large players, both domestic and offshore, striving to achieve access and scale, we expect more capital partnering, like what was witnessed between Charter Hall and Morgan Stanley last year for 1 Shelley Street in Sydney, and possibly more merger-and-acquisition opportunities to emerge in 2017.”
Daniel Lees, Colliers International’s research director, said that with the reduction of office supply continuing in Sydney and Melbourne, significant increases in rent and reduction on incentives would be experienced.
“We predict the low supply pipeline will see vacancy rates well below long-term averages in Sydney and Melbourne, beginning to fall in Brisbane, Adelaide and Canberra, and stabilising in Perth,” he said.
Colliers International’s mangaging director for valuations, Dwight Hillier, said the report indicated that the total internal rate of returns would strengthen throughout 2017, prompted by strong effective rental growth in the Sydney and Melbourne CBD office markets.
“Yield compression is forecast for the Sydney metropolitan office market in particular, as purchasers are forced to hunt for initial yield and total return beyond the CBD,” he said.
Sydney’s vacancy is anticipated to trend lower to 3.7% in early 2020, before rising to 5.7% by mid-2022.
“Sydney will enjoy a brief period of respite from negative net supply during the next six months as refurbishments come online.
But negative net supply will quickly return for the subsequent 18 months,” Simon Hunt, Colliers International’s managing director for office leasing, said.
“It won’t be until the first half of 2019, when withdrawals subside and the first building of the next Sydney supply cycle – 60 Martin Place – is complete, that Sydney finally starts a period of positive net supply.”
Vacancy in the Melbourne CBD is declining and will continue to do so during the next few years, with the total vacancy forecast to hit 4.3% in July 2021, due to the lack of supply.
“Melbourne’s supply levels have been far less sporadic than Sydney’s and accompanied by stable absorption,” Hunt said.
“We expect that healthy levels of demand will be sustained throughout the next two years, resulting in vacancy falling to 4.2% by the end of 2018, before the next supply cycle kicks in in 2019.”
Brisbane’s prime vacancy is also expected to continue falling during the next two years as tenants upgrade office space, enticed by incentives and competitive effective rents.
Office vacancy is likely to have peaked in Adelaide, as the construction cycle comes to an end this year and there is limited new supply in the pipeline in the short- to medium-term.
Sales activity remains strong as investors stake their claims in new builds, contributing to a volume of more than $453 million for 2016.
“This cap on new development supply and limited existing additions will help reduce the overall national vacancy from record levels to more historic 10-year averages,” Hunt said.
A-grade vacancy is also declining in Canberra, spurring effective rents to rise on the back of dwindling supplies.
Vacancy in the Perth CBD is stabilising, with major supply likely to be limited to new developments during the next two years.
Smaller tenants are most active, joining the office sector’s “flight to quality” movement to secure the best affordable stock.
The report highlights the increasing demand for suites across the country, with premium landlords carving up whole floors to cater to smaller tenants’ needs and boost effective rent values.
“We anticipate that a lack of whole floor space availability will see 2017’s leasing activity weighted to suites,” Hunt said.
While most grades across the CBD are seeing an increase in face-effective rents, the real story is in the sub-500 square metre B-grade market in fitted-out options, the report said.
Landlords are taking advantage of this demand and building new fitouts in these smaller suites or refurbishing suites with existing fitouts.
"Flexible spaces and the activation of areas for work are rapidly rising and filling the needs of tenants looking for lease flexibility," opined Hunt.
"Even though small businesses and start-ups have favoured flexible space, we should start to see larger businesses taking up more space in 2017, as the preference for flexible lease structures permeates through the market.”
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2017 tipped to be the year of the office landlord

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A Middle Park duplex, part of the estate of late cricket legend Ian William Johnson, has been sold for $6,985,000.
In his 11-year career Johnson achieved a Test-career double, scoring 1,000 runs in Tests (average 18.51) out of a total of 4,905 first-class runs (average 22.92) and taking 109 Test wickets (average 29.19) out of a first-class total of 619 (average 23.30).
Johnson captained the Australian cricket team in 17 Tests and was a member of the legendary 'Invincibles' team that remained undefeated during their tour of England in 1948.
The longtime secretary of the Melbourne Cricket Club died in 1998.
The property, which has been owned by the family for nearly 80 years, occupies 670 square metres at 206 Page Street.
The top residence was added to the single-level home just after WWII in 1945.
The local buyer plans to convert it into one residence.
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Cricketing great Ian Johnson's Albert Park estate sale

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More than $1.5 million is tipped by Teska Carson for a modern office and warehouse property at Cremorne in Melbourne’s inner eastern suburbs.
The property will be sold by auctioned May 5.
Located at 81 Green Street, the property is situated within a sought-after precinct of Cremorne, between Adelaide and Balmain streets.
The property comprises a 245 square metre, single level, tilt slab warehouse with a mezzanine area covering 50% of the building area, and a container height roller door.
The building covers the entire 245 square metre site, which is zoned Commercial 2 under the City of Yarra planning scheme and has 10 metres street frontage.
There is also a rear laneway entry point providing pedestrian and loading bay access.
According to the marketing agent, Teska Carson’s Luke Bisset, the property is ideally suited to an investor or owner-occupier.
It was in a relatively tightly held zone with very few vacancies, Bisset said.
"Opportunities such as this, so close to the CBD and the amenity it offers, are becoming scarcer and scarcer with the gentrification and residential conversion of many inner city suburbs,’’ he said.
The property will be sold with vacant possession.
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Modern Cremorne, Melbourne warehouse listing on CBD fringe

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There has been limited sales activity within Coffs Harbour’s retail market as property within the CBD is tightly held and rarely offered, according to Herron Todd White’s (HTW) latest report.
The property valuation firm says that this is despite there being a prevailing high vacancy rate within the prime strip centre.
Many retailers are finding it difficult to meet overheads.
"There is a trend for affordable retail rental space outside prime locations, however overall vacancy rates remain high for retail space," the report said.
"The high vacancy rate in the CBD is due to the difficult local economy with limited consumer discretionary spending, the reluctance of landlords to reduce rents or meet the market and the poaching of tenants by the Central and Plaza Shopping Centres.
"There is steady demand for the purchase of retail property emanating from investors against a shortage of supply in recent times."
The Gowings Central shopping centre development and the eastern end of the CBD appears to be trading well after the upgrade transformation.
The renovated ex-CBA bank building has increased the appeal and feel of this end of the retail precinct, HTW said.
Gowings are proposing an extension to the retail centre to office and hotel accommodation.
"Retail yields are generally in the 6% to 8% range depending on tenant, lease terms, location and property detail," said the report.
"Grafton commercial retail market displays higher investment yield rates.
"Yields are generally within the 7% to 9% range.
"The market remains steady with a slight uplift in the local economy.
"Nambucca and Macksville retail centres appear steady with some vacancy but improved local economy due to the Pacific Highway relocation works and associated workforce."
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Limited sales activity in Coffs Harbour retail market: HTW

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Globally, monetary policy remains accommodative as global growth continues a below-average rate of growth, according to Savills’ latest report.
When reported, the numbers for the second half of 2016 are expected to show global growth marginally improving.
Growth in China has stabilised and the Government continues to support property markets and infrastructure spending.
GDP in the US picked up in the September quarter of 2016 whilst growth in Europe and Japan remained at modest levels.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-21%20at%205.08.04%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/2017/02/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-21%20at%205.08.04%20pm.jpg" alt="">
 Whilst conditions remain supportive of consumption growth around the world, business investment remains relatively subdued.
Labour markets globally have seen substantial improvement however the quality of work the wages offered and the part-time and contractual nature of the employment growth undermines the quality of employment growth.
Substantial capacity through underemployment remains.
Consequently, headline inflation numbers remain below most central bank’s target ranges.
Inflation expectations have been little changed over the past twelve months however a late pick-up in inflation expectations following the results of the US presidential election has seen bond yields move substantially at the end of 2016.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-21%20at%205.08.18%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/2017/02/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-21%20at%205.08.18%20pm.jpg" alt="">
The capital markets have been relatively strong over the six months to end of December 2016 with the S&amp;P500 finishing the six months up over 7 percent.
European bourses fared better with most indices up strongly over the six months to December 2016.
Bourses in Asia have been generally healthy over the last six months of 2016.
10 year bond yields have risen by an average of 44 basis points around the world in the past six months and average around 1.7%.
The negative rates prevalent in Japan and Germany in mid-2016 have reversed to be 0.05% and 0.21% respectively.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-21%20at%205.08.53%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/2017/02/21/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-21%20at%205.08.53%20pm.jpg" alt="">
Most of the move in global bond yields followed the outcome of the US presidential election in early November.
The move in bond yields were associated with expectations of infrastructure spending, tax cuts, trade renegotiations and further support for economic growth.
Expectations for rising interest rates in the US firmed.
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Hanoi tops world office market yields: Savills

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Transport and Logistics as well as pre-commitments are driving Melbourne’s industrial property market, with a shortage of serviced lots driving hikes in land values in some precincts, according to Savills.
Monica Mondkar, associate director research, Savills, said Transport &amp; Logistics accounted for 320,330 square metres or 36 percent of the 891,964 square metres leased in the 12 months to March 31.
She said the total square metres leased was down on the 970,317 square metres reported leased in the previous 12 months but remained well above the five year average of 740,010 square metres.
"Savills research also revealed a continuation of the strong pre-commitment market with the 251,270 square metres of pre-committed industrial space adding to the 316,191 square metres pre-committed in the previous corresponding period, bringing to well over half a million (567,461sqm) square metres in total pre-commitments over the last 24 months," she said.
"The trend to online sales in particular was a key factor behind continued growth in demand for warehouse and distribution centres.
"Melbourne’s industrial market has traditionally been home to a wide range of occupiers including manufacturing, engineering and wholesale sectors, however tenant demand from the transport &amp; logistics sector over the past two years has been increasing steadily and the rise in online retailing has been a key driver,’’ Ms Mondkar said.
"Household goods and housing construction were also significant industrial demand drivers in Victoria, as population growth continued to outstrip all other capitals.
Melbourne’s population growing at 2.4 per cent - the fastest in the nation – ahead of Brisbane (1.8 percent) and Greater Sydney (1. percent).
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="110">
Square metres reported leased   
</td>
<td valign="top" width="80">
Year to March 2017
</td>
<td valign="top" width="80">
Year to March 2016
  
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Five year
  average
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Year on Year
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Five Year change
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="110">
Melbourne
</td>
<td valign="top" width="80">
891,964
</td>
<td valign="top" width="80">
970,317                  
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
740,010
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Down 8 %
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Up 20%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: Savills Australia Research
Greg Jensz, Savills’ Victorian Head of Industrial Sale &amp; Leasing said the very strong pre-commitment market was being driven by a number of factors including attractive rental deals and the lack of suitable stock.
"In some cases tenants are finding more attractive rental agreements than available with existing buildings but this has generally been negotiated over longer, circa 10 year lease arrangements," he said.
"In other cases buildings have been purpose-built to suit the peculiar requirements of tenants, for example cold storage users, which in most cases is simply not available, and generally these are larger requirements and so inflate total leasing data.
"A shortage of available serviced land had seen significant hikes in value.
"Land prices are through the roof due to a severe shortage of available serviced land.
"Small lots in the north are now going for up to $325 a square metre and lots of one hectare plus have sold for up to $250 a square metre.
"Meanwhile in the west small lots are achieving $275 a square metre and one hectare plus up to $210 a square metre.
"Embryonic growth of a new speculative industrial construction push was another factor driving land values, especially around key transport routes, however rental growth had not been a contributor.
"What speculative construction there is has, more often than not, been on land purchased some time ago at cheaper rates allowing construction to stack up for some developers at current rents."
Key industrial leases 12 Months to March 2017
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="141">
Tenant
</td>
<td valign="top" width="191">
Address
</td>
<td valign="top" width="77">
GLA sqm
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
Lease type
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="141">
Seaway Logistics
</td>
<td valign="top" width="191">
11-25 Toll Drive, Altona North
</td>
<td valign="top" width="77">
16,144
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
Direct
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="141">
Metro Trains
</td>
<td valign="top" width="191">
610 Heatherton Rd, Clayton South
</td>
<td valign="top" width="77">
24,065
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
Direct
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="141">
Ceva Logistics (Toyota)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="191">
8 Doriemus Drive, Truganina
</td>
<td valign="top" width="77">
22,840
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
Direct
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="141">
Isuzu Trucks
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="191">
66 Foundation Rd, Truganina
</td>
<td valign="top" width="77">
21,685
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
Precommit
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="141">
Anmar
</td>
<td valign="top" width="191">
14 Felstead Avenue, Sunshine West
</td>
<td valign="top" width="77">
15,720
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
Precommit
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="141">
Woolworths
</td>
<td valign="top" width="191">
Portlink Estate, Dandenong
</td>
<td valign="top" width="77">
60,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
Precommit
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="141">
Spectrum Brands
</td>
<td valign="top" width="191">
Chifley Business Park, Mentone
</td>
<td valign="top" width="77">
30,668
</td>
<td valign="top" width="86">
Precommit
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 Source: Savills Research
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Transport & Logistics, pre-commitments, driving Melbourne industrial market: Savills

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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