<html><body>
Large retailers and transport and logistics occupiers are supporting industrial demand, taking advantage of the competitive pre-commitment market to improve and consolidate their supply chains, according to Dexus Property Group’s latest quarterly report.
Occupier demand varies widely between states with Sydney and Melbourne solid, Brisbane improving and Perth remaining weak.
The manufacture of core stock is a primary focus for many institutions, particularly in Sydney and Melbourne, due to the solid pre-lease demand in these markets and the strong values that can be achieved for fully leased buildings.
<a href="/images/2016/10/28/Figure%2015.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/28/Figure%2015.jpg" alt="">
The industrial supply pipeline will be solid in 2016, in line with the 10 year average, however 2017 is likely to be more subdued following a reduction in planned projects in Brisbane and Perth.
Consequently, rents are likely to remain relatively subdued and stable in the short term as the pre- commitment market remains competitive.
Land constrained markets are the best placed for rental growth in the future.
<a href="/images/2016/10/28/Figure%2016.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/28/Figure%2016.jpg" alt="">
The key themes for this quarter include:
<ul>
<li>Demand for assets with a long WALE remains strong, however prime investment stock is limited as owners hold income producing properties</li>
<li>The closure of the Ford plants in Geelong and Broadmeadows (VIC) could result in these large industrial sites being released to the market in the coming years after site remediation. Holden and Toyota are expected to close in 2017</li>
<li>The privatisation of Australian ports has continued with The Port of Melbourne sold on a 50 year lease to Lonsdale Consortium (consisting of QIC, Future Fund and Global Infrastructure Partners) for $9.7bn</li>
</ul>
<a href="/images/2016/10/28/Table%205.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/28/Table%205.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Industrial property support from large retailers and transport occupiers

<html><body>
Commercial property transaction volumes rose in the September quarter, however they were well below the same period last year, according to Dexus Property Group's latest quarterly report.
Foreign investors were active, comprising 47 percent of activity.
Total transaction volumes for the September quarter increased to $7.2 billion, partially due to the industrial portfolio sale from Goodman to Blackstone, however volumes were down on the prior year due to a lack of prime assets for sale.
<a href="/images/2016/10/28/Figure%209.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/28/Figure%209.jpg" alt="">
Major sales included the David Jones Market Street Store for $360 million, with CBus Super and Scentre Group each acquiring a 50% share.
An ARA managed fund purchased the Southgate Complex in Melbourne ($439 million at 6.5% yield and reported IRR of 7.5%).
Charter Hall Prime Retail Fund purchased the sub-regional centre, Campbelltown Mall for $197 million on a yield of 6%.
With limited core CBD assets available for sale, there were a number of office assets purchased in metropolitan or fringe locations e.g. Toorak Road, Hawthorn, New South Head Road, Edgecliff and Coward Street, Mascot.
<a href="/images/2016/10/28/Figure%2010.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/28/Figure%2010.jpg" alt="">
Foreign investment activity increased this quarter, comprising the majority of larger acquisitions in the office and industrial sectors.
Domestically, Privates and A-REITS were the most active, with A-REIT activity largely concentrated in the retail sector including SCA acquiring a number of centres.
Investment yields continued to tighten over the past six months with prime assets in the Sydney and Melbourne CBDs trading below 5.5%, while Brisbane and Perth assets trading slightly higher.
Values continue to firm in most sectors and markets.
<a href="/images/2016/10/28/Table%202.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/28/Table%202.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Commercial volumes down year on year

<html><body>
Bob Day, the Family First senator, has tendered his resignation effective immediately.
Day tendered his resignation to Senate President Stephen Parry this morning after his home building company went into liquidation.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as a Senator for South Australia and I am sorry it has ended this way,” he said.
“I will now devote my time and energy to assisting those who have been affected by the company’s closure.”
In a statement, he said that potential investors would not be financing his Home Australia company.
"While a number of offers for various parts of the Home Australia business have been received, the major investor who has been examining the group's portfolio of assets over the past fortnight, has decided not to proceed," he said.
"Accordingly, I have today tendered my resignation to the president of the Senate effective immediately. It has been an honour and a privilege to serve as a senator for South Australia and I am sorry it has ended this way."
Day's company, Home Australia, was put into liquidation owing about $38 million to creditors. It also left around 200 homes unfurnished.
He said will now work to assist those affected by the closure of the company.
Day's former chief of staff Rikki Lambert has confirmed he will put his hand up for the vacant position.
 
 
 
</body></html>

Home builder Senator Bob Day tenders his resignation effective immediately

<html><body>
A significant off-market sales trend has emerged in Australian prestige property due to an undersupplied market, better use of database marketing, the rise of the buyers’ agent and increased opportunity for wealthy clients to maintain total privacy, according to McGrath's latest report.
Most popular in East Coast capital city markets, off-market selling is where a property is sold without any public advertising.
Instead, the McGrath report noted owners quietly list with a trusted professional who then introduces their home to pre-selected clients without ads or open homes.
Off-market selling is happening across all price brackets but particularly the prestige sector, where privacy is a priority for high profile clientele.
Impressive record prices have been set off-market, none more so than the $70 million Australian record for a single residence set in 2015 when Chinese-Australian developer, Dr Chau Chak Wing purchased James and Erica Packer’s former home in Vaucluse, Sydney.
This year, suburban records have also been set off-market in <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/28-lucretia-ave-longueville-nsw-2066" target="_blank">Sydney’s Longueville ($11.88 million) </a>and Rozelle ($4 million); in Melbourne’s Northcote ($4.3 million); and in Brisbane’s New Farm ($10.5 million) – the city’s highest sale in 2016.
Lack of stock has been a major contributor to stronger off-market selling in 2016. Frustrated buyers are asking agents for early notice of new listings and making premium offers to snap them up and avoid open market competition.
Agents are approaching home owners directly off the back of clients’ requests for a particular street or a home with very specific criteria. This proactivity has given many owners the chance to sell for a premium, avoid marketing costs and remain off the radar.
In Brisbane, off-market selling is occurring more so because vendors are worried they won’t achieve their price in this current market.
They don’t want to pay for marketing then potentially face the risk of not selling.
The report noted agents are orchestrating deals using their databases to match listings to buyers in a far more discreet and personalised way.
Database marketing has facilitated the rise in off-market selling. In terms of sales strategy, database marketing is nothing new but today’s technology is enabling agents to do it better.
The size of agents’ databases, built up over many years as our industry has shifted to a more personalised style of marketing as part of the mix, means agents can create real competition and achieve solid prices while also meeting their vendors’ desire for privacy.
Agents are dedicating more time to developing personal relationships with buyers especially in the high end market, as our industry evolves from a largely transactional to relation relationships-based business.
Some agencies in Sydney and Melbourne have introduced password-protected online platforms that allow pre-qualified buyers to log in and view properties not advertised on the major portals.
The proliferation of buyers’ agents has also led to more off-market selling. Clients of buyers’ agents are time poor and looking for a more efficient way of finding a new home.
Selling agents often introduce new listings to buyers’ agents first and quick sales can ensue.
Chinese social media, particularly the Facebook equivalent WeChat is also enabling effective international marketing to buyers willing to move quickly to secure the best homes on offer.
"We believe prestige property will be the next growth story in Australian real estate. This sector did not move as much during the boom and the price growth is overdue," the report stated.
Demand for prestige property improved this year, with Chinese buyers continuing to move here for lifestyle and expats purchasing future homes in suburbs delivering solid rental yields until they relocate back home.
Growing demand from foreign buyers, expats and local upgraders should move prestige prices forward as long as the global economy remains stable
Volatility in the share market, which is directly and immediately hit by events such as Brexit, might also attract more investment into Australian real estate over coming years.
It also wouldn’t be surprising to see more people investing greater capital into their homes due to changes to superannuation and the opportunity for tax-free capital gains.
</body></html>

Significant prestige off-market sales occuring: McGrath

<html><body>
Bribie Island in Queensland is hosting an auction which will allow interested parties to bid from their own homes using broadcast technology.
Ray White's in-room event on the island is set for nine properties.
It will incorporate live online bidding.
Kris Bradford, Ray White Bribie Island principal said it was an event of firsts.
“The auction will be telecast in real time and with real bids,” Bradford told Domain Group.
Bradford said they still expect 60 to 70 people to come out despite the option to bid from home.
“I don’t think numbers will change just because people can bid online – but I do think we’ll get a big increase of viewers.” 
Ray White agent Julian Ellis has six of the nine properties.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-white+patch-115192579" target="_blank">130 White Patch Esplanade</a> property has had the most attention from buyers.
<img src="/images/2016/11/01/Esp.jpg" alt="" width="395" height="200">
It’s on 2000 square metres on the water.
The listing for <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bongaree-122684258" target="_blank">3 Miramar Street</a> suggests a recent sales contract crashed and the house must be sold.
<img src="/images/2016/11/01/ESPLANADE.jpg" alt="" width="394" height="234">
The nine properties that will be auctioned on November 18 are:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-white+patch-115192579" target="_blank">130 White Patch Esplanade, White Patch</a> </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bongaree-122684258" target="_blank">3 Miramar Street, Bongaree </a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bongaree-123456450" target="_blank">24 Gidya Avenue, Bongaree</a> </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bongaree-123905970" target="_blank">58 Wattle Avenue, Bongaree</a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-banksia+beach-120701565" target="_blank">29 Dianthus Avenue, Banksia Beach </a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bellara-123825930" target="_blank">50 Bellara Street, Bellara </a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-woorim-123875686" target="_blank">24 Arcadia Avenue, Woorim </a></li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-banksia+beach-123946102" target="_blank">15 Avon Avenue, Banksia Beach</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-banksia+beach-122952178" target="_blank">10 Magdalena Court, Banksia Beach</a>
 
</li>
</ul>
</body></html>

Bribie Island auction allows parties to bid online

<html><body>
Multiplex has been appointed to deliver the $206 million Learning and Teaching Building for Monash University.
It includes a large underground carpark and regional transport interchange in the multi-story 30,000 square metre facility.
The brief was undertaken by architect John Wardle to feature a new front door experience for all visitors arriving at the University through a new transport interchange.
Construction of the new facility is underway and is scheduled for completion in February, 2018.
Multiplex also recently completed Monash University’s $145 million student accommodation precinct, comprising four new residential buildings providing a combined total of more than 1,000 studio apartments, with associated retail and student informal learning spaces.
</body></html>

Multiplex appointed to build visionary Monash University building

<html><body>
In Sydney’s growing north-west, the AUX Group is to bring forward the next release in The Boulevard.
It is the company’s debut apartment project that is attached to Rouse Hill Town Centre.
Stage 2 of The Boulevard includes a boutique release of 58 apartments with a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom units on the doorstep of a bustling shopping, dining and entertainment precinct.
Prices for one-bedroom apartments range from $515,000 - $640,000, two-bedroom apartments are priced from $660,000 - $865,000 and three-bedroom apartments range from $895,000 - $1,015,000.
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/The_Boulevard_salebook_Concept1.jpg" alt="" style="font-size: 12.16px; line-height: 1.3em;">
AUX is also in partnership with Castle Hill RSL Group allowing buyers to enjoy shared facilities.
Castle Hill RSL Group CEO David O’Neil says the recent renovations at Lynwood Country Club make it the destination of choice for golf, dining, families and entertainment in the growth area of the north-west.
“The philosophy behind our venues at Lynwood Country Club, Castle Hill RSL Club, Parramatta RSL Club and C2K Fitness &amp; Aquatic Centre is all about convenience and quality and that’s a philosophy we share with AUX Group,” he says.
The Boulevard is being jointly marketed through international firm Colliers International and PRDnationwide Norwest.
Stage 1 of The Boulevard is more than 80 percent sold attracting a mix of downsizers and young professionals who want to stay in the area they love but prefer apartment living over traditional house and land parcels in the north-west.
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/V7_Balcony.jpg" alt="">
 
</body></html>

Rouse Hill becomes a new beacon for apartment living

<html><body>
Having bought around the corner in Clontarf, the former Aussie fast bowler Brett Lee and wife Lana have listed their flash Seaforth home.
Recently renovated, every level of <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-seaforth-123958158" target="_blank">the three storey home overlooks Middle Harbour</a>, from the opulent master suite to the gas heated infinity pool and spa.
The couple paid $4.25 million for the four bedroom waterfront in 2013. They bought well as price had gone backwards from its 2007 trade when it went for $4,285,000.
For the fitness fanatic, there's a 20 sqm gym, a nordic-style sauna and a spacious rumpus area opening to a sun-drenched balcony.
Clarke and Humel agents Cherie Clarke and Michael Humel have scheduled a November 19 auction date.
When Lee bought the home with deep water frontage, it came with a full marina facility with a registered 20 year lease.
The family are moving from waterfront to beachfront.
Their new abode on an elevated 1138 sqm has five bedrooms, five bathrooms and also enjoys an infinity pool.
It offers a number of harbourside terrace, an outdoor kitchen and a separate poolside guest studio.
Lee, who grew up in Wollongong, ended his Test career with 310 wickets in 76 tests, the fourth highest Australian total behind Shane Warne, Glenn McGrath and Dennis Lillee.
He announced his retirement from all forms of international cricket in 2012, 13 years after playing his first test against India in 1999.
Lee played for the Sydney Sixers until 2015 when he joined Channel Nine's cricket coverage. 
He parted company with Channel Nine last week and won't feature in a new-look line-up headed by former Test captain Michael Clarke.
Lee married Lana Anderson in 2014 and they have an 11 month old daughter Helena. There's son Preston from his first marriage to Elizabeth Kemp.
He is a popular figure in India and featured in the film UnIndian opposite Tannishtha Chatterjee that was released last year.
His connections in India haven't always been rosy.
He was previously an ambassador to the Pearls Group, which unbeknownst to him were allegedly ripping off billions of rupee from as many as 50 million property investors.
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph.
</body></html>

Retired cricket great Brett Lee lists in Seaforth

<html><body>
Foreign investment has been a significant driver of Australia’s property market and in many ways a contributing factor to our strong economy, particularly over the past decade as China has boomed and its rising middle and upper class have looked for new ways to invest in a volatile international economy, according to McGrath's latest report.
Australia’s attractive lifestyle, clean air and food supply, political and economic stability, high quality education and health facilities, safe cities, a similar time zone and attractive property market has proven an irresistible combination for our northern neighbours.
According to the latest Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) data, $60.75 billion was invested in Australian residential real estate by foreign buyers in FY2015, up 75% on FY2014.
<a href="/images/2016/10/31/Foreign%20investment.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/31/Foreign%20investment.jpg" alt="">
By far, New South Wales and Victoria were the favoured destinations and for the third consecutive year, the lion’s share of investment came from China – and at record levels, too.
Chinese buyers invested $24.35 billion in residential and commercial real estate last year, almost double that of FY2014 and more than four times the investment of FY2013.
Clearly, Chinese appetite for Australian property is increasing, so what happens when governments – Australian and Chinese, tighten controls on foreign investment?
<a href="/images/2016/10/31/Top%2010.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/31/Top%2010.jpg" alt="">
In December 2015, the Australian Government introduced fees for foreign real estate acquisitions, starting at $5,000 for purchases below $1 million – which represents the majority of foreign real estate purchases.
In June 2016, the New South Wales Government introduced a 4% stamp duty surcharge for foreign buyers and a 0.75% land tax surcharge from 2017.
In July 2016, the Victorian Government raised their stamp duty surcharge for foreign purchasers from 3% to 7% and announced an increase in the absentee owner land tax surcharge from 0.5% to 1.5% from 2017.
<a href="/images/2016/10/31/Top%2010.2.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/31/Top%2010.2.jpg" alt="">
The Queensland Government also introduced a 3% stamp duty surcharge on foreign purchases in October 2016.
And there’s even more hurdles for foreign buyers to jump with Australian banks tightening their lending criteria and the Chinese Government limiting the amount of capital exiting the country.
While it’s too early for official numbers, anecdotal evidence from our agents suggests mainland Chinese investors have pulled back while Chinese clients already here continue to upgrade to new homes and purchase for investment.
The effect of the new fees won’t be fully realised for another 12-18 months but we think it will be largely limited to the new apartment market.
FIRB figures show about 80% of all foreign purchases are under $1 million – indicating that reduced Chinese demand and settlement defaults will hit the apartment sector most, with some impact also felt in the mid-priced house market too.
As Chinese investment slows down – at least in the short term, FIRB figures show increasing interest from other parts of Asia, primarily Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Thailand.
<div>
We are also seeing an increase in investment from emerging economies such as India, Vietnam and Indonesia.
</div>
</body></html>

Reduced Chinese demand and settlement defaults will hit the apartment sector most: McGrath

<html><body>
The Fairlight apartment of the late Sir Ian and Lady Turbott has been sold for $4.075 million after having a price guide of $4 million.
The five bedroom luxury apartment with <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-fairlight-123690346" target="_blank">huge verandahs was the perfect venue</a> for the couple's lavish cocktail parties.
Large family gatherings would congregate for the start of the Sydney to Hobart every year to watch the spectactular yachts pass through the heads.
Ian was the Hon Consul for the Cook Islands and on several occasions invited the Cook Islands dancers and rummers to entertain their guest.
Ian was a successful sportsman, a decorated military officer, a long-time serving colonial civil servant, a governor, successful businessman and Australian father of the year.
The two level apartment was sold by Belle Property agent Luke Burgess.
The Turbott's bought the home for $1,225,000 in 1995 having previously lived in Clontarf for 20 years. 
 
 
</body></html>

Sir Ian and Lady Turbott's Fairlight apartment sold

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

Kew has long been regarded as one of Melbourne's premier residential suburbs. It's a location defined by its grand period homes, leafy streets and some of the city's most prestigious schools, yet it has often sat just outside the spotlight cast on neighbouring Hawthorn and Camberwell.

Increasingly, however, buyers are recognising that Kew offers much of what draws people to those suburbs, with a quieter residential setting, exceptional amenity and long-term owner-occupier appeal.

Within a few minutes' walk, residents can access Kew Junction, one of Melbourne's most established village centres. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, boutique retailers and everyday services are all on the doorstep, with local favourites including Centonove, Adeney Milk Bar Cafe, and Frank &amp; Harri creating the type of walkable lifestyle that has become increasingly difficult to find in Melbourne's inner east. Beyond the immediate neighbourhood, Glenferrie Road's renowned shopping and dining precinct in Hawthorn and the retail, dining and entertainment offerings of Camberwell Junction are both just a short drive or tram ride away.

The suburb is equally well connected. Tram routes 48 and 109 provide direct access to the CBD, while High Street and Cotham Road connect residents to the wider inner east.&nbsp;Nearby access to the Eastern Freeway also places the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne Airport within easy reach, adding another layer of convenience for weekend travel.&nbsp;It's a rare combination of connectivity and tranquillity, where quiet residential streets sit just moments from some of Melbourne's most established shopping and lifestyle precincts.

For families, Kew remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held addresses. Carey Baptist Grammar School, Xavier College, Methodist Ladies' College, Trinity Grammar, Ruyton Girls' School and Genazzano FCJ College are all nearby, while the Yarra River parklands, walking trails and sporting clubs provide another layer of lifestyle appeal.

It's within this established pocket that developer Ricdanic is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wimba-ave-kew-9-11-wimba-avenue-kew-vic-3101">Wimba Ave</a>, a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings named after its location on the tree-lined Wimba Avenue,&nbsp;within one of Kew's most prestigious pockets where homes have been known to sell up to and above $8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=354809]

The residences prioritise the space that buyers are increasingly searching for but struggling to find in established suburbs. Living areas extend beyond five metres in width, ceiling heights range from three to five metres, and apartments open onto private gardens averaging around 125 sqm. Selected residences also feature balconies of approximately 60 sqm, while premium inclusions include Miele appliances, double-glazed windows, EV readiness, fully electric systems and a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.

Architect Chris Idle says opportunities to deliver homes of this scale within established suburbs have become increasingly uncommon.

"There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs," he says. "To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The architecture draws on Kew's established character through the use of handmade Krause bricks, while landscaping by John Patrick introduces 23 plant species, including nine native varieties, creating an environment which focuses just as much on nature as it does the building.

Construction on Wimba Ave is well underway by renowned high-end builder Sinjen, with completion expected in late 2027. Prices start from $2.22 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

The enduring appeal of Kew's tree-lined streets and village lifestyle

"For me, it's the location." That was the first thing Chris pointed to when reflecting on why he and his wife Marita decided to purchase at Candela Ivanhoe, the under-construction new apartment development by Salter Brothers in the heart of the north-eastern M​elb​ourne​ suburb. ​

"We've lived here before… everything is here," Chris said.

"Our doctor is around the corner, there's dentists, pilates, everything we need, restaurants, fast food places, two train stations, Ivanhoe and Darebin, both in walking distance. You don't need anything else."

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/X8K0Bozug7A?si=Puwc6vx_ZO0qQZF8" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Just 10 kilometres from Melbo​urn​e's CBD, Ivanhoe combines direct city connectivity with the amenity of an established village community. Residents have access to highly regarded schools, expansive parklands, public transport, and a thriving retail and hospitality precinct centred around Upper Heidelberg Road, all within a neighbourhood that has retained its leafy character despite its proximity to the city.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Candela Ivanhoe</a> sits within the heart of this established landscape, positioned just moments from Ivanhoe Village and within walking distance of many of the suburb's most sought-after amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=364553]

From Candela, residents can access cafés, grocers, wine bars, restaurants and essential services on foot, while Ivanhoe Station and Darebin Station provide direct connectivity across Mel​bour​ne. The development is also surrounded by some of the suburb's best-known lifestyle destinations, including Pinkie, Laurent, Enni, Docasa and Woodfire Pizza e Cucina, alongside Ivanhoe Plaza, Woolworths, pharmacies and specialty retailers.

Green space is another defining feature of the suburb. Darebin Parklands, Ivanhoe Park, Nellie Ibbot Park and the Yarra River trail network provide extensive opportunities for recreation, while Ivanhoe Golf Course and Ivanhoe Tennis Club continue to underpin the area's long-established lifestyle appeal.

The suburb's education offering further strengthens demand. Ivanhoe Grammar School, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Mary Immaculate Primary School and Ivanhoe Primary School have helped establish the area as one of Melbou​​rne's most sought-after schooling precincts, attracting families and downsizers alike who want to remain connected to the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=357510]

While location was the priority for Marita and Chris, the project itself also needed to meet their expectations.

"Whilst location was paramount, I was also looking at design of the environment and Candela ticked every box," Marita said.

"We're just thrilled with our choice."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=342 project_image_fid=336455]

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>, Candela Ivanhoe has been designed to complement its village setting, with an emphasis on generous floorplans, natural light and practical everyday living.

Residents will have access to a range of shared amenities, including a communal rooftop garden and dedicated residential lounge, complemented by a ground-floor café and lifestyle wellbeing centre, helping foster the sense of community already emerging among future owners.

That approach has resonated strongly with the market. More than 90 per cent of purchasers at Candela Ivanhoe are owner-occupiers, with buyers ranging from downsizers and second-home buyers to young families and first home buyers, creating a genuinely multi-generational community of grandparents, parents and children. It reflects a broader shift across Melbo​​urne's apartment market, where buyers are increasingly prioritising neighbourhood quality, lifestyle amenity and long-term liveability.

Currently under construction by Ironside, Candela Ivanhoe comprises 58 apartments. Candela Ivanhoe is scheduled for completion in the coming months, and residents can move in from September. One to four bedroom residences, prices from $649,000 and limited opportunities remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Location and lifestyle drive demand at Candela Ivanhoe

As apartment buyers increasingly look beyond the four walls of their residence, the quality and depth of shared amenity has become a defining factor in how developments are designed and experienced, particularly in the high-rise, new apartment development space.

In Southbank, where high-density living continues to evolve, developers are placing greater emphasis on creating environments that support wellbeing, connection, and convenience as part of everyday life.

That approach sits at the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aura-at-melbourne-square-7-hoff-boulevard-southbank-vic-3006">AURA</a>, the latest residential tower in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a>’s $3.5 billion Melbourne Square precinct. Rising 67 storeys above Hoff Boulevard, the 673-apartment development has been conceived around what OSK describes as a “vertical wellness ecosystem”, a layered collection of amenities that extends throughout the building rather than being confined to a single podium level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=370263]

The amenity offering begins on the seventh level within the AURA Club, a dedicated resident hub focused on health, relaxation, and daily convenience. Here, residents will have access to an indoor swimming pool, cold plunge, spa, sauna, and steam room, alongside a fully equipped gym, reformer Pilates studio, and yoga room.

The wellness facilities are complemented by a range of spaces that acknowledge the changing ways people live and work. Work-from-home lounges and co-working areas sit alongside a library, music room, games room, cinema facilities, and open-air terrace spaces, providing residents with flexible environments that can adapt throughout the day.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367468]

Beyond the internal amenity, AURA introduces a series of Japanese-inspired gardens that form a quieter counterpoint to the tower’s social spaces.

Landscaped retreats feature curated outdoor dining, tranquil courtyard seating, fire pit, and a tea house pavilion. Rather than functioning as simple recreational areas, the gardens have been designed as places for reflection and informal gathering, drawing on principles of balance, nature, and calm that underpin the project's broader design philosophy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367810]

The social amenity continues to evolve as residents move higher through the building. Levels 49 and 50 house the Meridian Club, where a lounge bar, conservatory spaces, and private dining rooms take advantage of elevated city views. At the summit of the tower, the exclusive Cumulus Club spans Levels 66 and 67, offering additional lounges, private dining, and meditation and treatment rooms positioned above Melbourne’s skyline.

For OSK Property, the extensive amenity offering reflects a broader focus on wellbeing as a core component of apartment living rather than an added feature.

“Aura stands tall as an exemplar of holistic wellness – its focus on social, physical and mental health culminate in a building that is calming, restorative and relaxing, where residents will have their own sanctuary within the well-connected and sought-after Southbank,” says OSK Property CEO Chong Boon Woon.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367796]

AURA’s amenity strategy extends beyond the tower itself through its integration with the wider Melbourne Square precinct.

Residents will have direct access to Kennedy Park, Southbank’s 3,745 sqm landscaped public park, alongside a full-line Woolworths supermarket, childcare centre, hospitality venues, and approximately 1,600 sqm of additional retail planned within AURA’s lower levels. Together, these elements create a highly connected residential environment where daily needs, recreation, and wellness are woven into the fabric of the community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=370253]

As Melbourne’s apartment market continues to mature, developments are increasingly judged by the lifestyle they provide beyond individual residences.

Through its combination of wellness facilities, landscaped retreats, social clubs, and precinct-wide amenity, AURA represents a shift toward a more comprehensive model of vertical living, one where shared spaces play as significant a role as the homes themselves.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151921]

AURA elevates amenity living at Melbourne Square

Builder-developer Scion is the latest to target Sydney's booming Hills Showground Metro precinct, filing plans for more than 100 apartments within walking distance of the station.

Scion has lodged a concurrent rezoning and State Significant Development Application for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/27-33-middleton-avenue-castle-hill-nsw-2154">27–33 Middleton Avenue</a>, where it plans to replace four existing homes with an 11 and 14-storey mixed-use development comprising 109 apartments, six affordable housing dwellings, and a ground-floor café.

Designed by BHK Architects, the proposal includes three levels of basement parking with 174 spaces, more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space, and extensive landscaping across the 3,791 sqm site.

The development has been designed as two buildings connected by a recessed wintergarden spine, with the 14-storey building positioned to the south and the 11-storey building to the north.

<img alt="Scion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64dc359d-736b-43b8-87a8-70a8285cab47" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-25%20at%208.47.01%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=PXh.m8id_aevBPHEckPf88wQ2RQThPos" />

The apartment mix has been weighted towards owner-occupiers, with 13 one-bedroom apartments, 55 two-bedroom residences, 31 three-bedroom apartments, six three-bedroom lofts, and four four-bedroom homes. Six apartments will be dedicated as affordable housing in line with the NSW Housing SEPP.

According to the Architectural Design Report by BKH, the proposal seeks to create "a place-responsive architecture" inspired by the natural landscape surrounding Cattai Creek, while strengthening the public domain through landscaping, active frontages and a neighbourhood café.

Atlas Urban, in its Urban Design Report, says the proposal takes a different approach to increasing density around Hills Showground Station by favouring a more slender, vertically articulated built form over a conventional mid-rise outcome. The report argues this allows for greater deep soil planting, improved solar access and a better public domain outcome, while still delivering additional housing close to rapid public transport.

The site sits around 500 metres from Hills Showground Metro Station, within a precinct earmarked for significant residential intensification following the opening of the Sydney Metro Northwest line. Planning documents accompanying the application note that Greater Sydney's population has grown by more than one million people since planning for the precinct first began, reinforcing the need to accelerate housing delivery around existing transport infrastructure.

Scion is expanding its development pipeline which also includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/chatham-west-ryde-2-6-chatham-road-west-ryde-nsw-2114">Chatham in West Ryde</a>, 62 apartments which are approaching completion. They also have a State Significant Development Application with the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/96-anzac-avenue-west-ryde-nsw-2114">145 apartments on Anzac Avenue</a>, also in West Ryde.

Staff reporter

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News