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.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

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.

First look: Winx billionaire’s beachfront Surfers Paradise apartment development greenlit

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

Roberts Co has entered a new phase of growth following its acquisition by Arada, one of the world’s fastest-growing property developers in Australia.

The acquisition is supported by a $50 million capital injection into Roberts Co’s Australian balance sheet, consisting of the previously announced $25 million recapitalisation and an additional $25 million in new funding from Arada.

This investment strengthens Roberts Co’s financial position, stabilises operations, and provides the foundation for strategic expansion beyond its New South Wales base, with a focus on new opportunities in Queensland, including the Brisbane and Gold Coast regions.

With Arada’s international resources and financial backing, Roberts Co will broaden its portfolio across residential, commercial, and infrastructure sectors, reinforcing its strong market position in New South Wales and setting itself to capture growth in one of Australia’s most dynamic construction markets.

Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said Roberts Co has a proud Australian heritage, an outstanding delivery record, and a strong reputation for collaboration with clients and partners.

"By combining this expertise with Arada’s global scale and financial capacity, we are creating a platform for sustained growth in the Australian market,"&nbsp;Alkhoshaibi said.

“Our $50 million capital injection, including new funds from Arada, underlines our commitment to both stabilise and expand Roberts Co’s operations, particularly into the fast-growing Queensland market. We see significant potential in South-East Queensland’s pipeline and are confident Roberts Co is well placed to deliver lasting value for clients and communities.”

George Kostas, CEO of Roberts Co, said Queensland, and particularly South-East Queensland, is one of the most active and opportunity-rich regions in Australia right now.

"The lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games will bring unprecedented investment across housing, transport, and infrastructure. Roberts Co is eager to play a major role in that transformation and secure a meaningful share of this fast-growing market.”

Arada pours more funds into Roberts Co, flags expansion into South East Queensland construction market

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A demand for affordable and housing is driving a continuing drop in median lot sizes across Melbourne’s greenfield market.
The median lot size has dropped from 514 square metres in 2009 to 405 square metres in 2017, according to data cited by AVID Property Group.
The developers are looking to capitalise on the demand with its recently released Orbit Homes Tempo Living collection at Bloomdale, a masterplanned community in Diggers Rest.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/11/22/Tempo%20Living%20-%20Madrid%20Facade%20low%20res.jpg" alt="">
AVID Property Group Senior Development Manager Chris Monahan said the group was seeing the benefits of partnering with builders such as Orbit Homes to produce smaller, smarter and affordable homes.
“The Tempo Living homes are a well-designed and well-priced product, which offer a unique opportunity for buyers to snap up some of the best-located blocks in Bloomdale’s masterplanned community,” Monahan said.
“Following its success in Bloomdale in early 2017, the Tempo Living collection offers three- bedroom house and land packages, priced from $442,340, all within 45 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD.”
Orbit Homes Sales and Marketing Director Paul Millson said smart design and functionality can go a long way in making homes on smaller blocks feel spacious.
“We have a dedicated team working on the functionality and layout of our Tempo Living designsto ensure we maximise the use of space, open planning and low maintenance living to meetconsumer’s accommodation needs,” Millson said.
“As the dream of quarter-acre blocks fades into the past, people are seeing the value of living within an existing community.
“These homes may have a smaller yard, but we ensure the lots are integrated into well located communities like Bloomdale with surrounding parks, amenity, open space and infrastructure.”
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Smaller, smarter and affordable homes the focus of new release at Bloomdale

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A one-day auction resulted in the sale of 22 homesites at the new Epiq masterplanned community in Lennox Head.
At the October 27 auction, lots between 640 square metres and 1074 square metres were sold from $400,000 to $595,000 for a combined $10,675,000.
Elders Real Estate Lennox Head principal Michael King said the result demonstrated the strong demand for coastal property in northern New South Wales.
"Land supply in the coastal corridor between Tweed Heads and Ballina is drying up, and at the same time the $4 billion program to upgrade the motorway connecting to this region is encouraging more people to consider living and working here," he said.
"The 22 lots that went under the hammer were among the best on offer in the Epiq Lennox Head community, many with ocean views and within proximity to a recently approved $30 million Woolworths-anchored neighbourhood shopping centre which is expected to be completed by mid 2020.
"Most of the purchasers who secured an Ocean Ridge homesite were intending owner-occupiers from Lennox Head, Ballina and surrounding areas, which indicates that locals understood the limited supply and opportunity on offer. 
"We also had half a dozen purchasers at the auction who had previously purchased in Epiq and were looking to re-invest.
"Individual homesites sold for up to $80,000 above reserve as purchasers pushed for their preferred lot, with titles expected to be available by April 2019 so most buyers are able to occupy their homes by Christmas next year."
Clarence Property Managing Director Peter Fahey said Epiq Lennox Head had achieved a one-day sellout for the majority of its previous land stages, with more than $83 million in property sold to date at the community.
"Stages one, two and three, comprising a total 260 homesites, also sold in one day under a ballot system, with names drawn out of a barrel to provide equal opportunity for registered purchasers to secure their preferred lot at market price," he said.
"For Ocean Ridge we opted for an auction-style event due to the limited number of premium lots available and the strong demand for seaside homesites close to amenities like parks, shopping centres and schools.
"The success of Ocean Ridge has prompted us to considering releasing another small stage of premium homesites with ocean views in the coming months for those who missed out in the recent auction."
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Lennox Head community Epiq sells 22 homesites in one-day auction

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GUEST OBSERVATION
On average, renovating a home generates far more waste than building a new one from scratch.
This waste goes straight to landfill, damaging the environment. It also hurts your budget: first you have to pay for demolition, then the new materials, and then disposal of leftover building products.
By keeping waste in mind from the start and following some simple guidelines, you can reduce the waste created by your home renovation.
1. It starts with the design
Waste is often treated as inevitable, factored into a building budget with no serious attempt to reduce it.
By raising the issue early with your architect, designer or builder, they can make decisions at the design stage that reduce waste later. Often the designers and architects don’t see their decisions contributing to waste – or rather, they don’t really think about it.
During my research on reducing construction waste, I asked one architect what he thought happens to the waste generated. He laughed with a glint in his eyes and said, “I think it disappears into pixie dust!”
One simple early decision that dramatically reduces waste is designing with material sizes in mind. If you have a ceiling height that does not match the plasterboard sheet, you end up with a tiny little strip that has to be cut out of a full sheet. In the case of bricks, not matching the ceiling height is even more wasteful.
Obviously not all materials will work together at their standard sizes (and you need to fit your renovation to the existing house). But sensitive design can make intelligent trade-offs, reducing overall waste.
When I asked architects why they don’t design zero-waste buildings more often, they said clients don’t ask for it. Make it part of your brief, and ask the architect how they can save money by using the materials efficiently.
2. Get your builder involved early
If you’re using an architect for your renovation, it’s common to have very little collaboration between them and the builder. Any errors or issues are usually spotted after construction has begun, requiring expensive and wasteful rework.
Instead, ask your architect and builder to collaborate on a waste management plan. Such integrated approaches have worked well in Australia and the United States.
This means clients, engineers and builders are collaborating, rather than taking adversarial roles. For such contracts to work, it’s important to involve all parties early in the project, and to encourage cooperation.
The briefing stage is an opportunity for architects, quantity surveyors and builders to work together to identify a waste minimisation target.
3. Whatever you do, don’t change your mind
One the biggest contributions to waste on sites is late design changes. Client-led design changes are identified in all literature as having far-reaching implications on waste.
These are mostly due to owners changing their mind once something is built. Reworking any part of a building due to design changes can account for as much as 50% of the cost overrun, as well as causing delays and generating waste.
The early work with your design and construction team outlined in the first steps gives you the chance to make sure you’re committed to your original design. Skimping in the planning stage can end up costing you far more in the long run.
4. Deconstruction, not demolition
Ask your builder not to demolish the building, but to deconstruct it. Deconstruction means taking a building apart and recovering materials for recycling and reuse. This provides opportunities for sorting materials on site.
Salvaged materials can be resold to the community or reused in the renovations. It greatly reduces the tip fees which are usually higher for mixed waste (typical from demolition process) and lower for sorted waste.
Of course this takes more time and has an additional cost. Therefore you do have to balance the cost of deconstruction against the savings.
Denmark, which recycles 86% of its construction waste, has made it mandatory for all government buildings to undergo selective demolition and sorting of construction waste. A good place to start in Australia is your state environment department, which may have guidelines on what is involved.
5. Choose materials carefully
Good-quality materials last longer, reducing maintenance later. Choosing manufacturers that use minimal packaging also reduces waste (be careful here to check the difference between “minimal” and “inadequate” packaging, as the latter can mean your material breaks).
Reusing materials from your renovation may also be an option (you will need to discuss this with architect and builder at the beginning of the project). Finally, using materials with recycled content is a great option, and boosts our recycling industry.
In March 2017 the Housing Industry Association released data suggesting the Australian residential building industry will increasingly become more dependent on renovation work rather than new construction,
If you’re renovating your home, making efficiency and low waste a priority helps cut costs and reduce landfill.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/103942/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
Deepika Mathur, Researcher in sustainable architecture, Charles Darwin University
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/five-ways-to-reduce-waste-and-save-money-on-your-home-renovation-103942" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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Five ways to save money and reduce waste on your home renovation

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Sydney has been a hot spot for renovators over the past several years which is largely due to high demand levels, low interest rates and record capital growth in underlying value levels, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
"While we have seen this renovation trend booming across most property types and locations throughout Sydney, we are now starting to see some property types, price points and locations reacting differently to the changing markets and property cycle," HTW suggested. 
It appears that renovation and construction have been on the rise over the past year or two within inner Sydney. Generally additions or extensive renovations are more popular on the inner eastern side of town (Darlinghurst, Paddington, Surry Hills), often with significant architectural prowess.
"As inner Sydney is an expensive area, renovations or additions would be more appealing to some than the costs and hassle of moving," the report suggested. 
On the inner western side of town, whilst renovations and additions are still common around the very inner areas (Newtown, Camperdown, Glebe, Chippendale) as you get further out to Leichhardt, Lilyfield and Strathfield, knockdown and rebuilds are more common due to larger blocks, fewer heritage restrictions and better accessibility (from a materials perspective).
HTW noted that Darlinghurst has seen quite a few well renovated homes sell recently. Darlinghurst neighbours the superior suburbs of Paddington to the east and Potts Point to the north, with inferior Woolloomooloo to the north-west and slightly inferior Surry Hills to the south.
A recent example of a well renovated home is<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/4-thomson-st-darlinghurst-nsw-2010" target="_blank"> 4 Thomson Street, Darlinghurst</a> (pictured below) which sold in original condition for $1.4 million in July 2015 and after being fully renovated, sold again for more than double in June 2018 for $2.9 million. While this represents a very strong increase, it needs to be noted that this time period also had the benefit of record capital growth regardless of renovations.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/darlinghurst%20before.jpg" alt="">
 4 Thomson Street, Darlinghurst (before)
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/darlinghurt%20after.jpg" alt="">
 4 Thomson Street, Darlinghurst (after)
In the inner city, some of the easiest ways to add value would be to utilise rear lane access for parking or add an attic level bedroom or en-suite. Wide terraces or detached dwellings (where available) are preferred. Given that these areas are quite expensive, a typical buy-in price point could be something similar to<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-terrace-nsw-darlinghurst-127936406" target="_blank"> 43 Craigend Street, Darlinghurst </a>(pictured below)<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-terrace-nsw-darlinghurst-127936406" target="_blank"> </a>which sold for $1.85 million in May 2018.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/43%20craigend%20st%201.jpg" alt="">
This is an original terrace in close proximity to a busy road. Many areas of inner city Sydney are heritage conservation precincts, meaning that the façade is not able to be altered and most additions are required to be unobtrusive.
Some of the suburban community facilities and infrastructure helping drive construction in these established areas include the light rail construction in the CBD/Surry Hills, gentrification of Kings Cross and surrounding areas and proximity to the CBD which generally facilitates good work and family life balance.
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Inner Sydney renovations on the rise: HTW

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Home owners are always on the lookout for ways to increase the value of their homes, and 2018 has been a big one for the renovation industry, says a new survey.
According to the annual Houzz &amp; Home Australia survey 57% of home owners on the platform are planning to renovate their home.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/4/renovation%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge:</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/4/renovation%201.jpg" alt="">
In 2017, over 50% of home owners renovated their homes at a median spend of $25,000.
Repeat home buyers invested the most in home renovations at a median spend of $30,000.
More than a quarter of renovating home owners tackling kitchens (26%), the top target for interior renovation, with a median spend of $20,000 for a large kitchen (more than 10 square metres).
Living/family rooms, bedrooms, master bathrooms and laundries (24, 18, 18 and 17% respectively) followed on the priority list.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/4/renovation%202.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge:</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/4/renovation%202.jpg" alt="">
Houzz principal economist Nino Sitchinava said the survey results were a strong signal for the industry.
"All of the evidence from our research points to 2018 likely being another robust year for the home improvement industry,” says Sitchinava.
“Recent buyers and long-term homeowners alike are keen on investing in major projects like kitchens and bathrooms and they’re validated by the value these projects have brought to their homes."
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/4/renovation%203.jpg" target="_blank">Click here to enlarge:</a> <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/4/renovation%203.jpg" alt="">
The report’s other conclusions include:
<ul>
<li>More Deliberate Planning and Budgeting: Over the past two years, homeowners have become more deliberate in planning and budgeting for renovations and were seven percent more likely to set a budget in 2017 than in 2015 (74 and 67%, respectively).</li>
<li>Plumbing and Electrical Top System Upgrades: Homeowners prioritised plumbing and electrical over any other system during renovations (32 and 31%, respectively). First-time home buyers are twice as likely to upgrade electrical systems during renovations as long-term homeowners (52 versus 25%, respectively).</li>
<li>Home Professionals in High Demand: Over nine in 10 renovating homeowners chose to hire a home professional for renovation needs (92%). Repeat home buyers are the most likely to seek professional assistance (94%), followed by long-term homeowners and first-time home buyers 89 and 88%, respectively). </li>
</ul>
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Home owners continue to look for renovation benefits

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A new list of masterplanned community sales has been released, with Stockland placing three times in the top five.
The National Land Survey by Research4 reports on vacant land sales in new residential communities around Australia.
Stockland’s Aura community on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast claimed first place with 746 sales in the past year.
Stockland Elara in Sydney’s north-west was the second most popular community with 674 sales in the 2017-18 year, while Stockland Highlands in Melbourne’s northern growth corridor ranked fourth with 632 sales.
Andrew Whitson, Group Executive and CEO, Stockland Communities, said it was an outstanding result for the company.
“Our closest competitor achieved a market share of 5 per cent in the June quarter, highlighting our strong national position in the creation of masterplanned communities,” he said.
“We have a long track record for delivering many of Australia’s best new communities and a clear vision for meeting the future housing needs of Australian families.
“These latest national land survey figures confirm that our focus on liveability, affordability and the owner occupier market has made Stockland the first choice for home buyers in masterplanned communities.”
Whitson said is currently sell over 75% of its product to owner occupiers and over 50% to first home buyers.
AT Aura, more than 20,000 new homes will be created on the 24 square kilometre site over the next 30 years. 
Other products in the company’s development pipeline include the Highlands community in Victoria  and the Elara community in Sydney.
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Stockland's Aura project records the most masterplanned community sales in Australia 

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A new residential project, known as Third Avenue, is set to come to the inner south-western suburb of Adelaide, Everard Park.
The $15 million development from Arcadian Property comprises 27 new two and three-storey homes. 
Prices at the development, which is currently in planning assessment, will start from around $500,000 when released to the market next month, said Arcadian Property Chief Executive Officer Warwick Mittiga.
“Everard Park is one of the best kept secrets in Adelaide real estate,” said Mr Mittiga.
“Within walking distance to the popular shopping and café strips of Goodwood Road and King William Road, Everard Park is only 2km from the CBD and just 10 minutes from Glenelg beach. Yet despite its amazing location and quality established homes, it remains relatively unknown.
“So we’re really excited about Third Avenue, which is going to become one of the best addresses in the inner south-west. We have direct connection to Brownhill Creek, dedicated walking trails through Unley Council and are very close to some fantastic reserves and ovals too.
“The development itself is going to be exceptional. From exterior architecture to the interior design, every element has been carefully considered to maximise living standards for residents and promote the value of their home for many years to come.
“Indeed, while we could have pushed for a bit more density in the project, we specifically chose to reduce the number of new homes and create larger houses with an increased amount of private and public open space. This enables us to focus more on quality rather than quantity, and ultimately that’s what Third Avenue is all about.”
Construction of Third Avenue is expected to commence next year ahead of estimated completion in 2020.
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New $15m development Third Avenue coming to Adelaide's Everard Park

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Melbourne’s newest, masterplanned residential development by EIG Developments, Opalia, was last launched last Saturday.
The debut release, <a href="http://www.opalia.com.au" target="_blank">Eaglevale</a>, had 31 lots ranging in size from 231 square metres to 670 square metres.
EIG Developments’ CEO George Georgiou said that as of four days after release, 95% of lots has sold and that affordability is critical for families.
In launching the development, the City of Melton Mayor, Bob Turner, said that Melton is one of the fastest growing municipalities in Australia.
He said the the area combined urban and rural lifestyles within a comfortable commuting distance of Melbourne.
"Melton Council embraces the opportunity to work collaboratively with developers and, across all levels of government to deliver quality infrastructure and services for our growing community," Turner said.
"Opalia is truly a community where residents can come together, to gain a real sense of belonging and feel they are part of something special."
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Opalia's first release 95% sold out after four days

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The Future Melbourne Committee has unanimously endorsed plans for the first new urban park in the Hoddle Grid since City Square was developed in 1980.
The Market Street public park is adjacent to Cbus Property and ISPT’s <a href="/expert-insights/investing/collins-arch-melbourne-signs-up-third-law-firm-office-tenants">Collins Arch development at 447 Collins Street</a> in the CBD’s western grid.
The new park will introduce 1,900 square metres of open space.
Collins Arch is set for completion late next year.
The Market Street park in 2020.
The City of Melbourne will decide on a name for the park at a future date.
Cbus Property is developing the park which will then be handed back to City of Melbourne for public use and management.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/19/Hoddle%202.jpg" alt="">
The new park will be connected to a further 1,750 square metres of publicly accessible and occupiable space within the Collins Arch development via a large amphitheater.
The total open space added to the block will be nearly 30 percent larger than the previous forecourt of <a href="/expert-insights/buying/cbus-secures-approval-for-its-447-collins-street-project">the National Mutual building</a> which was demolished despite its architectural merit.
It was among a handful of CBD buildings rejected by the state government for heritage protection as some regarded the 27-level building as a prime example of post-war International style. 
It is being designed by landscape architects Oculus, incorporating a collection of spaces, including a City Garden, Central Plaza, a Terrace and Northern Lawns.
Each space will create clear pedestrian connections via north-south links to public transport, the Northbank, as well as the broader precinct, including the Immigration Museum.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/19/Hoddle%203.jpg" alt="">
The creation of the park will see the western side of Market Street repurposed into public space, while the eastern side will be transformed to include a new bike lane.
The remainder of Market Street will become a single lane carriageway for southbound traffic and kerbside parking.
The $1 billion plus mixed-use Collins Arch development will include 49,000 square metres of premium-grade office space, 940 square metres of ground floor retail and a <a href="/expert-insights/investing/collins-arch-to-feature-melbourne-s-first-w-hotel">five-star W Hotel</a>, as well as 184 luxury apartments.
Pictured below is the now demolished National Mutual Building
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/9/19/Arches.JPG" alt="">
(source: Victoria State Library)
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Collins Arch garden plans revealed for Market Street

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Pimpama Village, the master-planned land development located on the old Coulters Farm on the Gold Coast, is approaching its third stage sell out.
The 53-hectare estate house and land packages start at $508,778, and comes with a number of customisable house designs.
Stages one and two have both sold our already and stage three has nearly sold out, just <a href="https://www.choicehomes.com.au/estate/pimpama-village" target="_blank">7 lots remain of the 74 which were on offer.</a>
The only properties remaining are four bedroom homes, which can span either one or two levels (above).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/9/14/Pimpama%202.JPG" alt="">
The development is just south of Hotham Creek and sits near the soon to be opened Pimpama City Shopping Centre.
Pimpama City (pictured below), which has 18,000 sqm of retail space, is set to open on September 21, with a line up of retailers including Coles, Coles Express, ALDI plus Best &amp; Less. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/19/PImpaming.jpg" alt="">
The estate is situated a short distance from Ormeau train station, the M1 Motorway, providing it easy access to the Gold Coast and Brisbane.
 Pimpama Village includes a central town centre with proposed Coles, Aldi, KFC, Hungry Jacks, a medical centre, childcare, and specialty shops.
For more information on Pimpapa Village, <a href="https://www.choicehomes.com.au/estate/pimpama-village" target="_blank">click here.</a>
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