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The ATO has issued a guide to explain how to treat rental income and expenses, including how to treat more than 230 residential rental property items.
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<a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/uploadedFiles/Content/IND/downloads/Rental-properties-2020.pdf" target="_blank">Rental properties 2020</a> will help owners of rental property in Australia to determine:
* which rental income is assessable for tax purposes 
* which expenses are allowable deductions
*which records you need to keep
* what you need to know when you sell your rental property.
The guide explains how to apportion your expenses if only part of them are tax deductible.
It advises tax payers can no longer claim tax deductions for the cost of holding vacant land.
It also advised the situation if your rental property income and deductions have been affected by COVID-19 or recent natural disasters.
 
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2020 ATO tax guide for rental property expenses - how investors should treat 230 residential property items

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Queensland Sotheby's International Realty agent Dominique Vasers Williams will be championing the Sotheby's brand in the NSW Northern Rivers area, which will include Byron Bay and the Tweed.
She intends building the business from scratch.
"Clientele on the east coast will be familiar with the Sotheby's International Realty brand.
"The Northern Rivers is such a beautiful lifestyle area and has such a diversity of property."
Ms Williams anticipates Sotheby's International Realty will thrive in the lifestyle location.
"Sotheby's International Realty has always been city-centric, with the exception of Port Douglas, so it's going to be really nice to see it established in this coastal and hinterland lifestyle," said Ms Williams.
Ms Williams said her first task will be to pull together a portfolio of properties to present to a growing client database who are wanting to buy in the Northern Rivers market.
Paul Arthur, CEO of Queensland Sotheby's International Realty secured getting Ms Williams on board "as the next piece of the Sotheby’s International Realty puzzle."
"It further compliments and builds on our business plan to establish ourselves in key lifestyle locations.
"We have done that in Port Douglas, the Gold Coast and the Whitsundays and look forward to offering our services to the greater Byron area."
Dominique Vasers Williams is the daughter of Rick Vasers, who was owner-operator of Pacific Palms Real Estate on the NSW Mid North Coast in Forster.
She bought the business from him and grew it to three offices with 30 staff.
Two years ago Ms Williams sold her business and then bought the management rights to Cabaret Lake Apartments.
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Sotheby's International expands into Byron Bay

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A five-bedroom, four-bathroom luxury family residence in Mont Albert sold for $3.4 million.
The 36 Churchill Street property sold through Woodards estate agents, Maria Xu and Robert Le.
The 1920s attic-style period residence features a tessellated verandah, leadlight glass, parquetry entrance hall, decorative ceilings and ornate fireplaces.
The 1,369 square metre parcel of land with two street frontages offers a flexible floorpan with multiple living areas and bedroom accommodation.
On the ground floor, front section of the home, there is the large master bedroom with fireplace, dressing room, ensuite and bay windows that overlook the manicured gardens, as well as a study, home office, music room or library.
Upstairs, the two large bedrooms have built-in robes serviced by a family-sized central bathroom, reading room, and a retreat with adjacent north-facing balcony terrace overlooking the trees. 
The rear section of the home features an oversized open plan dining, living and kitchen area with large windows and bi-fold doors which open up to the spacious backyard. The gourmet kitchen comes fully equipped with Miele appliances, stainless steel bench tops, breakfast bar and walk in pantry. 
Additionally, there are two extra bedrooms and a rumpus room serviced by another bathroom privately sectioned off to the right wing of the home - ideal for teenagers or guests. 
The luxury home's also showcases a formal lounge with north-facing bay windows and fireplace, as well as a large heated pool with pool house fitted with powder room and a small workshop. 
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The property was last sold for $1,477,500 in 2005 and $280,000 in 1985. 
According to Domain, four other five-bedroom houses have been sold in Mont Albert. 
Recently, a similar five-bedroom, three-bedroom house on Windsor Crescent sold for $4,025,000 on February 29 and a five-bedroom, five-bathroom house on Gordon Street on March 14, 2020 with price withheld. 
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1920's period Mont Albert trophy residence sold for $3.4 million

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There are opportunities available by way of renovation works in the far northern New South Wales and southern Gold Coast suburbs, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
The report notes the more established and desirable suburbs such as Coolangatta are showing opportunities for the savvy investor or existing resident to manufacture capital growth in an uncertain market.
Across most of the area, selling agents have advised a reduction in stock levels and slightly longer selling periods as a result of the recent border closure and COVID-19.
"Be it DIYers looking to be productive during lockdown, forward-thinking homeowners looking to manufacture equity or a lack of confidence in the current market, homeowners appear to be taking the opportunity to add value to their homes through renovation works, rather than selling in a perceived slower market," the valuation firm said. 
Predominantly the more established areas such as Tweed Heads, Palm Beach and Coolangatta have seen an increase in this style of work, however it has been noticed in the newer pockets of Casuarina and Pottsville as well. 
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There has been an increase in smaller scale works amongst the investor space as a result of a supply increase, particularly in coastal, holiday driven areas with investors looking to secure good tenancies, the report noted. 
 Internal painting works, floor coverings and updated electrics are appearing in the market as well as minor façade updates and landscaping works.
A two bedroom unit in Palm Beach which was renovated throughout has recently been sold for $495,000. 
The ground floor unit at 2/79-82 Townson Avenue (pictured below) comprises two bedrooms, two bathrooms and two secure car spaces. 
It is located within walking distance to local shops, schools and public transport. 
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A currently offering is a three bedroom apartment in Tweed Head priced at $649,000.
The renovated apartment at 9/1 Botany Crescent (pictured below) has been offered to the market for the first time in 27 years. 
It comes with gourmet kitchen, huge laundry and covered balcony. 
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Southern Gold Coast established areas see increase in renovation works: HTW residential 

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Lifestyle developer Bottega Group has been granted development approval for the Broadbeach development project 123OBR. 
The development comprises 14 ‘vertical beach houses’ across 17 floors, designed by globally-renowned architects Woods Bagot.
Once complete, the 646 square metre site will boast a ground level five bedroom beach house set over two floors including a private pool; plus 12 full floor homes and a double- storey penthouse. 
123OBR is part of a project pipeline across three sites for the local Queenslanders, who are currently in due diligence on a number of diversified assets across the eastern seaboard of Australia.
Revealing the first design details for 123OBR, Bottega Group managing director Nick Malloch said he and his Bottega Group partners were thrilled to enable a true design collaboration come to life.
 “We wanted 123OBR to feature a vertical stack of beach houses that not only catered for the luxury end of the market, but also offered a design aesthetic that evoked a playful, nautical reference, given its proximity to the beach and the ocean.”
Woods Bagot associate principal David Lee said collaborating with Bottega was a rare opportunity to create a true landmark that would impact the community.
“A home designed with careful consideration of the future resident, and its neighbourhood, and executed with expert craftmanship, carries a sense of permanence,” said David.
“These homes are here for the long run – they will age gracefully in the everchanging coastal environment.”
The architecture of the slender tower is defined by sculpted, raft-like balconies – articulated slab edges that mimic the sand, shaped to provide privacy, but still maintain views and amenity.
David highlights breathable veranda rooms as a design standout, which are concealed from public view and provide entry to each residence.
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“Entrance directly into a timber lined breezeway is a contemporary interpretation of the traditional Queenslander ‘welcome’, and walking through this space to reach your front door is what makes it so special,” said David.
Nick said not only does 123OBR crystallise the Bottega Group’s vision to contribute to the Broadbeach landscape and its residents aesthetically, but also economically.
“We’re thrilled the 123OBR development poses a significant opportunity to generate local jobs and stimulate the local economy,” Nick said.
 
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Broadbeach's 17-storey 'vertical beach house' project granted permit approval

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As lockdowns ease across the globe, people are emerging into a new normal.
Businesses are reopening and market activity across almost all sectors is resuming.
Real estate is no exception: the loosening of lockdown means that listings, viewings, and sales can once again take place. 
Savills Research has carried out a sentiment survey of the Savills global residential network to assess how COVID-19 is changing the residential property market as restrictions lift and what the future trends might be. 
In a promising result for property markets globally, 78 per cent of respondents said that most or almost all of the buyers in the areas they cover are still looking for a new property. 
Similarly, the majority of vendors across over 90 per cent of markets surveyed are still planning to sell their properties. This sustained level of interest from both buyers and vendors bodes well for the resumption of transactions as restrictions continue to ease. 
There is a disconnect when it comes to price expectations, however. 78 per cent of respondents stated that buyers were expecting to see lower prices than before lockdown. Conversely, 78 per cent of vendors are anticipating pricing to remain the same. Resort and second home locations such as the Algarve and the French Riviera report both buyers and vendors expect prices to remain the same, however respondents in urban markets, such as Bangkok, Sydney and Prague report expectations of lower pricings from both buyers and sellers. 
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Despite the pandemic and prospect of a global recession, 33 per cent of respondents report the same number of new buyers post-lockdown compared to this time last year. Some markets are even beginning to see more activity with 10 per cent of respondents reporting that since lockdowns lifted, there are more new applicants than the same time last year, particularly in second home and resort locations.
The general sentiment across survey respondents is that things are looking positive, but the market hasn’t quite recovered yet. Respondents in China, which has been out of lockdown for the longest, stated that the market took two to three months to recover, though activity has largely returned to normal. Many survey respondents reported that it was simply too early in the recovery to make any comparisons, either because flights for international buyers are still not allowed, or because potential buyers are still waiting to view properties in person. 
As activity resumes in the property markets globally, changes to the way people lived and worked during lockdown are already affecting buyer preferences. Respondents in 33 per cent of markets are reporting increased interest from buyers looking to upsize their main residence. Urban centres such as Sydney, Rome, and Monaco reported increased interest in upsizing particularly as residents likely endured lockdown periods in smaller spaces. 
For second homes, the overwhelming trend is that there has been little change in level of interest in 2020 from 2019. The number of buyers looking for investment properties could dip in 2020, however, as 30 per cent of markets are reporting a decrease in buyers looking for investment properties compared to last year.
Optimism is returning to the market as restrictions ease and commercial activity restarts. The new normal will present many opportunities for both buyers and vendors. Key to growth will be increased confidence from market participants and the resumption of travel after lockdowns are lifted and borders are reopened. As restrictions have eased, survey respondents are reporting increased demand, particularly from domestic buyers, and are anticipating stronger activity levels going forwards.
Respondents anticipate slightly increased stock levels, particularly in the near term as lockdowns are lifted and business activity returns to a more normal level. Resort markets in particular are reporting the potential for increased supply as international travel remains more difficult and buyers prioritise upsizing their primary residence in the near term. 
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In Australia, Paul Craig, CEO, Savills Australia and New Zealand expects buyer sentiment to strengthen as confidence returns to the market.
“90 per cent of vendors surveyed globally are still planning on selling, and this is also true locally as stock levels are beginning to increase now in what seems counter cyclical for Australia’s winter period.
“The market is coming off an extremely low base of listings so whilst some say the higher stock levels coming to market will create great opportunities for bargains, I believe we’re just seeing a return to normal levels which should see us return to a balanced market” he said.
Chris Orr, Director, Residential at Savills Australia said it is easy to be negative right now as there are a lot of Australians doing it tough. What many may forget though is while rental yields and capital values have dropped recently, so too have interest rates and incentives are now being offered to boost turnover. 
“This has made it an even better time to buy in many cases than Pre-COVID for investors and people wanting to upsize or just get into the market. 
“We won’t know the full impact on buyer sentiment until we look in retrospect, however a key piece of information we’re looking forward to will be when the ABS release their Lending Indicators report on 9 July” he said.
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Global residential markets show signs of renewed activity 

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Australian real estate investment trusts (A-REITS) have good gearing buffers to withstand the looming property value declines, according to a recent report from Moody's Investors Service.
The predicted downturn is due to weak demand and slowing economic activity caused by the coronavirus pandemic.  
The report found that property values would need to fall significantly for A-REITs to breach gearing and covenant thresholds.
“We expect retail property values to decline in the next 12-18 months because of weak demand and economic activity resulting from coronavirus related disruptions,” saidsenior analyst Saranga Ranasinghe.
“Office property values will fall to a lesser degree, and continued demand will support industrial property values.”
The report futher found that average property values would need to fall 34% to breach the top end of the rated REITs' target gearing (debt/asset) ranges and fall 55% to breach their covenant thresholds.
The REITs came into the downturn with balance-sheet buffers to withstand an increase in gearing. 
According to the report retail A-REITs will experience the largest declines in property values.
“In response to coronavirus disruptions, Vicinity Centres (VCX, A2 negative), Shopping Centres Australasia Property Group (SCP, Baa1 stable) and Charter Hall Retail REIT (CQR, Baa1 stable) raised equity to strengthen their balance sheets,” added Ranasinghe.
CQR's gearing will approach covenant thresholds if property values fall more than 25%. Without debt reduction, Scentre Group's (SCG, A2 negative) gearing will breach its rating tolerance levels if property values fall more than 27%.
But SCG's gearing will remain well within its covenant thresholds.
Diversified A-REITs with retail property are also exposed to devaluations; office value declines are likely to be moderate.
Despite exposure to retail, the risk to diversified A-REITs is mitigated by exposure to industrial as well as office properties.
Stockland Group (SGP, A3 stable) has the largest exposure to retail. SGP has significant buffers within its covenants, but it will approach its rating threshold if its retail property values decline more than 30%.
We expect office property values will decline only moderately over the next 12-18 months and do not see material risks to gearing levels of other diversified A-REITs.
Industrial property values supported by e-commerce penetration and increasing focus on supply chains.
Unlike retail and office, we expect industrial property values will be flat to up slightly over the next 12-18 months.
The pandemic has accelerated e-commerce penetration in Australia and increased focus on supply chains.
The report concluded that Goodman Group (GMG, Baa1 stable), Goodman Australia Industrial Partnership (GAIP, Baa1 stable), and Charter Hall Prime Industrial Fund (CPIF, Baa1 stable) will benefit most.
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Most Australian REITs can withstand property value declines: Moody’s Investors Service

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There are 1,363 capital city auctions being tracked by CoreLogic this week, increasing on the 1,251 auctions last week.
CoreLogic data showed that this week’s volumes are expected to be higher than one year ago, with 1,295 auctions held over the same week last year.
In Melbourne, 567 auctions are scheduled across the city this week, increasing on the 558 auctions last week, and higher than volumes from the same week last year (535).
There are 617 Sydney homes scheduled for auction this week, up on the 522 held last week according to final figures, and higher than the 503 held one year ago.
Across the smaller markets, scheduled volumes are set to increase week on week across Adelaide, Brisbane and Perth, while fewer auctions are scheduled in Canberra and only 1 home is set to go to auction in Tasmania this week.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2020/6/25/CL%20June%2021.JPG" alt="">
Ray White’s auction data shows that despite the tight COVID-19 restrictions, sellers still received nine per cent more than their highest offer prior by selling under the hammer.
From 1 March to today, the group conducted 2707 auctions in Australia alone, many of them were online auctions at the height of the isolation period.   
On average, the prices achieved for sellers were nine per cent more than any offers received prior to their auction. There were 3.9 average registered bidders (up 1.1 on a year ago) and 53 per cent of all stock sold under the hammer. These metrics are all considerable higher than the same time last year.
An example of an upcoming auction is 16/5 Gurrigal Street, Mosman (pictured in title).
The three bedroom, two bathroom apartment comes with a price guide of $2.3 million - $2.5 million.
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Winter auction season in full swing post-coronavirus 

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Agents in Mackay reported a slight decrease in sale volumes towards the start of COVID-19 restrictions, however as the government slowly starts to lift restrictions, volumes are slowly starting to improve, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
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The report notes new listings and property values appear to have held steady with no material change in market value.
The Mackay rental market was already tight prior to the pandemic with vacancy levels under two per cent, however agents have reported increased interest, particularly from fly in fly out workers who have been unable to travel due to restrictions and will be further hampered by the effects of Virgin’s possible closure.
"We have not seen any indication to suggest that renovations have changed during lock down.
"We consider renovations to have remained steady and are still predominantly occurring in inner city locations (Mackay, East, West and South Mackay). They are generally of older style, low set or high set dwellings purchased for less than $300,000," the valuation firm said. 
There are a mix of owner-occupiers and investors looking to renovate, however the investor types tend to be tradespeople who can undertake much of the work themselves and flip them straight away.
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Depending on the size of the dwelling and the degree of ancillary improvements, they are worth between $350,000 and $550,000 on completion, the report noted.
Smaller dwellings on smaller than average lots with basic ancillary improvements are worth between $350,000 and $400,000.
Larger dwellings with significant ancillary improvements and over 700 square metre allotments are worth anywhere between $450,000 and $550,000.
A renovated house in West Mackay has recently been sold for $379,000.
The three bedroom, two bathroom home is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-west+mackay-133582790" target="_blank">57 Mogford Street</a> (pictured below).
It features open plan living zone, study, storage and backyard. 
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A current listing is a three bedroom Queenslander in West Mackay priced at $549,000.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-west+mackay-133632014" target="_blank">414 Bridge Road</a> home (pictured below) comprises three bedrooms, multiple living areas, entertaining deck and in ground pool.
It also features features polished floors, stone bench topped kitchen and cupboard storage. 
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Mackay renovation activities remain steady: HTW residential 

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There has been little change in regard to COVID-19’s impact on Gladstone’s property market, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The valuation firm suggests in locations across the nation, the downtime delivered by isolation has spurned on owners looking to improve their assets through maintenance and upgrade. 
This month’s HTW report highlights where renovations are on the rise and the price points and outcomes those markets can expect.
"It’s just about business as usual for our market. Sales continue to tick over with no evidence of any further declines in value," the valuation firm said. 
The HTW report notes rental vacancies remain tight with a vacancy rate of 1.6%, the lowest they have been since the peak of the market.
Affordability is still the key driver in our market and while we are not out of the woods just yet, it’s looking more and more likely that COVID-19 will be remembered as just a very minor blip on the radar for Gladstone’s residential market.
In terms of renovations, there has really been very limited activity in the past 12 months, apart from every man and his dog doing minor maintenance or landscaping work during lockdown, the report noted. 
The reason for the lack of renovation work is really unknown. Despite the market looking up, a significant portion of homeowners in Gladstone would have negative equity in their homes from the market downturn, so in essence cannot afford to renovate.
"We’ve seen the odd, full internal renovation, in most cases of a mortgagee sale property that is in a state of disrepair and that sold towards the bottom of the market range.Completing only minor cosmetic works to these types of properties adds considerable value to the property," the valuation firm dais. 
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While not quite considered a renovation, construction of new sheds on existing properties has surged over the past several months.
"The reasoning behind this sudden increase in sheds being built is also unknown. Interestingly, the size of the sheds is also increasing," the valuation firm said. 
Once upon a time, a six metre by six metre shed in the back yard was the norm, however this is no longer the case. Longer and wider sheds with higher clearance are becoming the norm along with features such as mezzanines and internal bathrooms.
"We have also noticed a distinct uplift in pricing for sheds in the region. Costs appear to have jumped about $100 per square metre in the past few months and this sudden jump in cost has not yet been reciprocated in the added value of a shed to a property." 
An original three bedroom home in West Stowe with a renovated kitchen has recently been sold for $278,000.
The four bedroom, one bathroom house is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-west+stowe-132524586" target="_blank">1130 Calliope River Road</a> (pictured below). 
It features hardwood timber floors, three bay shed and mountain views.
The property was last sold in 2012 for $60,000. 
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A new listing is a renovated home in Sun Valley priced at $179,000.
The three bedroom, one bathroom house is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-sun+valley-133794026" target="_blank">2 Franmaur Street</a> (pictured below).
It comes with three bedrooms, lounge and dining areas, functional kitchen and covered entertainment area. 
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Gladstone sees limited renovation activities: HTW residential 

Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

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Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

Staff reporter

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