<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Gardner Vaughan Group breaks ground on first Gold Coast development, Bronze on Chevron

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?

Australia Post is one of the country’s most trusted institutions, powering one of the largest delivery networks in Australia. As online shopping continues to scale, Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online.

That scale of eCommerce activity has fundamentally changed expectations around how and when parcels arrive, and what happens when someone isn't home.

<h3>Problem solved with Parcel Lockers</h3>

The traditional alternatives to home delivery are far from ideal. Buildings can rely on reception teams to manage deliveries, which introduces ongoing staffing costs and liability concerns. Parcels can be left in common areas, which creates security and aesthetic issues. Or residents are redirected to nearby Post Offices for collection, which shifts the inconvenience rather than solving it.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dVG5ChLHf7E?si=D9hQRGCBuzlSQBqK" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The data behind that frustration is significant. Nationally, around 9 per cent of deliveries are carded, meaning the recipient was not home and must collect the parcel from a Post Office. That figure reflects the national average reported between November 2025 and January 2026. In Melbourne, that figure rises to 20 per cent. In high-density living, it climbs again to 28 per cent. In other words, more than one in four deliveries in Melbourne apartment buildings results in a failed first attempt.

<h3>How Parcel Lockers work</h3>

The mechanics are simple. When a parcel arrives, the resident receives a notification either through the Australia Post app or via SMS. They scan a QR code, use their one-time PIN and the compartment opens. The parcel is secure, accessible and removed from the lobby floor.

Located in thoughtfully chosen, easily accessible areas, including external building interfaces, mixed-use precincts or shared communal zones, Parcel Lockers enhance convenience without requiring internal building access or additional operational oversight.

<h3>The scale of the network</h3>

This expansion represents Australia Post's largest investment in parcel infrastructure to date, building on momentum that began in 2011 when the first 24 Parcel Locker sites were introduced.

Today the Australia Post Parcel Locker network spans over 1,400 locations and more than 105,000 individual compartments, with major investment already underway to significantly expand the network further.

<h3>What it means for developers and building operators</h3>

A Parcel Locker bank is free to install and free for residents to use. That removes one of the primary barriers to adoption and shifts the conversation from cost to integration.

Australia Post's preference is to engage with developers during the design phase. That allows Parcel Lockers to be located in a considered, publicly accessible space that works for residents and the broader community. Retrofit is possible, and existing buildings can be assessed, but the strongest results occur when Parcel Lockers are treated as part of the core services plan rather than a bolt-on solution.

While the iconic Australia Post red is widely recognised, Parcel Lockers can also be delivered in more muted palettes such as beige or green to align with architectural intent.

For developers, they offer a tech-forward amenity that meets modern expectations, a reduction in courier congestion and building-management load supporting lower emissions and better ESG outcomes, and a meaningful marketability advantage in high-density, eCommerce-active areas, all at no cost for installation and maintenance, with Australia Post funding the program aside from power access.

<h3>Who's using them</h3>

Generational shopping behaviours show strong, sustained growth across all cohorts. Millennials (27–43) led online spend in 2024, contributing nearly $25 billion. Baby Boomers (60–78) increased their online spend by 17.6 per cent, becoming the fastest-growing adopters. Gen Z (13–26) and Gen X (44–59) continue to lean on delivery services as part of their everyday shopping habits.

Internationally, uptake is even more pronounced. Overseas markets are seeing rapid adoption by both developers and consumers, positioning Parcel Lockers as standard infrastructure in many new residential projects. For Melbourne's development community, this signals a shift in baseline expectations. Just as secure bike storage and dedicated parcel rooms have become more common, integrated Parcel Locker networks may soon be viewed as part of the essential service mix.

<h3>The bigger picture</h3>

Parcel Lockers aren't just a logistics fix. Developers invest heavily in lobby design, materials, lighting and landscaping to shape first impressions. Yet a stack of unattended parcels can undo that effort in an instant. Embedding parcel infrastructure early allows projects to respond to how people actually live today, supporting resident satisfaction, reducing operational strain and aligning with broader community and ESG outcomes.

As Belinda Quinn, Senior Transaction Manager – Retail &amp; Out of Home at Australia Post, puts it, residents increasingly expect delivery solutions that align with real life, are flexible, secure and available whenever they need them.

How Australia Post is solving the parcel problem for apartment living

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One of Japan’s largest property developers, Sekisui House, launched the first of three environmentally friendly homes in its 150-home Coolum Residences development in the Sunshine Coast on Friday, in conjunction with Lend Lease.
The homes are built using the company’s Shawood system – billed as an environmentally friendly system of building that Sekisui House say has some of the most advanced eco-friendly design elements ever built in Australia.
The homes are developed with Queensland Architects using a combination of imported technology and local materials.
Construction materials for the homes are pre-engineered offsite, including the timber frames and metal joints. According to Lend Lease, each home uses photovoltaic roof tiles, highly insulated windows, wall ventilation and energy monitoring systems. The buildings are billed as low maintenance and include a self-cleaning external webbing.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/shawood1.jpg">
Lend Lease says there could eventually be 150 Shawood homes at the Coolum Residences development.
Coolum Residences is a 150-hectare block 120 kilometres north of Brisbane, with much of the project marketed towards Japanese investors.
Prices for the Shawood homes start at $1.5 million.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/shawood2.jpg">
Sekisui House, which bought AV Jennings in 2009, increased its exposure to the local property scene through an agreement with Lend Lease in 2010.
The 50/50 joint venture partnership focuses on residential master-planned projects in Queensland and Victoria.
As part of the 2010 agreement, Sekisui House bought land holdings from Lend Lease at Hyatt Coolum on the Sunshine Coast, as well as a 50% interest in the adjoining Hyatt Coolum resort.
Sekisui House intends building up to 450 new homes on the land, while Lend Lease will provide development management services.
Lend Lease Development bought the Hyatt Coolum in 2003 from Japan's Kumagai Gumi for about $35 million.
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Sekisui House debuts Shawood environmentally friendly homes at Coolum Residences on the Sunshine Coast

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Property development can be daunting, so I’ve put together some FAQs to help address some of the important questions that will arise as you start your development.
This has been broken down to a three-part series:
<ol>
<li><a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/how-to-get-started-in-property-development-jo-chivers/2012061355113">Getting started (as seen last Thursday)</a></li>
<li>Design, planning and approvals</li>
<li>Construction time </li>
</ol>
 
Part two: Design, planning and approvals 
Winston Churchill famously once said “He who fails to plan, plans to fail”.
The design and planning phase of your property development will directly impact your end result.  So this is a very important stage.  Don’t rush it, take time to think about what you want to achieve and ensure you are happy with each milestone before proceeding on, as it can be costly to turn back and start again. 
Who do I need in my team for this phase of my project? 
You’ll need a surveyor, architect or draftsperson, builder, town planning consultant (not always necessary), the local council, perhaps a private certifier and a development project manager such as Property Bloom if you are time poor or inexperienced. Also your accountant can play an important role in helping you run your feasibility studies. 
Where do I start? 
You must start with clear concept of what you want to achieve.  Here are some questions to ask yourself:
How many dwellings do you want to get onto the land?
How much equity do I want to create by developing this land?
What does the DCP (development control plan) allow?
Design single- or double-storey dwellings – what does the market want?
Are you building to hold or sell?
Who is the target market – tenants or owner-occupiers?
If holding, what do tenants look for in rental properties?
What is the demand for the number of bedrooms?
What do I need to do to differentiate my development in the market?
How much can you finance?  It’s extremely important to have a preapproval on your development finance so you know you can complete your project.
What is the best structure to purchase and develop in?  This is a good question for your accountant. 
What do I do once I’ve found some land to develop? 
The first thing you’ll need to do is to have a surveyor completed a contour and detailed survey. Contour and detail surveys give a true representation of the shape, features and services of a site. They normally include manmade improvements, trees and, if required, adjoining property information.  Once you have this survey, you can pass it onto your architect, draftsperson or builder.  They need this to start on the concept plan.
Another important investigation tool is a geotechnical report. This will classify the site, soil and wind affecting your site.  This information is important to consider when starting on the design and critical for the engineering plans. 
Do I need to use an architect to design my project? 
This will depend on your goal and the area you are developing in. Sometimes it’s not necessary to use an architect if you know what you’ll be building is fairly basic. But if you are looking to create something a little different or need some expert advice on a tricky site then engage an architect. Property Bloom has a great relationship with our builder and we use the builder’s in-house drafting service to save our clients money. We will use our architect for more high-end developments. 
Steps in the design phase include: 
<ul>
<li>Concept plan. This will be the first concept of what can be achieved, and you can make changes to this. You can use this plan to show the council town planner to ensure you are designing within council guidelines. It’s easier to make any changes now then after you’ve submitted the DA to council. </li>
<li>DA plans. Once you’ve approved the concept plan, then you’ll move to the full development application plans, which are more detailed and may include other documents such as statement of environmental effects and Basix reports that need to be submitted to council with the DA plans. </li>
<li>CC plans.  Construction certificate plans are require after your DA has been approved. They will include engineer’s stormwater and slab design. </li>
</ul>
How long with my DA take in council? 
What a great question and one that has many different answers. It will depend on the complexity of your project and your council.  A single dwelling will be processed quicker than a medium-density project, for instance.  You may be doing a complying development and not even need to lodge with the council.  Speak to your council to get an idea of their processing times so you can plan this into your timeline.
Should I use a private certifier? 
Property Bloom always uses a private certifier once we’ve received our DA consent. We find it is much quicker to obtain the construction certificate consent, and the inspection process during the build phase is usually also speeded up when using a private certifier. To us this is well worth the small additional cost as time is money. 
What is a project schedule? 
At Property Bloom we prepare an initial project schedule that shows our clients the estimated timeline for the project. We use this tool to cross check each phase and gauge how we are progressing.  Each project is different and will take different amounts of times over each phase, but our job is to keep the project moving forward as efficiently as possible. so using the services of a project manager can really assist especially if it’s your first project, as you’ll learn so much from being guided through the often complex process of property developing. 
How do I complete a feasibility study? 
It’s important you undertake a detailed feasibility analysis before you decide to proceed with your development.  There are various software around you can use, but you’ll need to know what estimates to include, that’s the tricky bit.  At Property Bloom we base our analysis on recent and similar projects we have completed. As we’ve project managed over 50 developments in the Hunter region of NSW, we have a very good idea on the costs involved and are able to make quite accurate estimates.  From your analysis, you need to calculate the expected cost of the project and likely profit or equity that you can create from it and gross yields if you are planning to hold.  Once you’ve completed your feaso, keep updating it with the actual costs as you proceed through the project to keep track of the viability your development. 
“Planning is bringing the future into the present so that you can do something about it now.” - Alan Lakein.  That’s what I love about property development – bringing the future into the present.  You really can’t spend too much time on the design and planning phase of your development, but try not to get overwhelmed by all the detail.   While this is the most time-consuming phase, remember to step back and visualise the “big picture” to ensure you keep moving forward towards your end goal.
Jo Chivers is director of <a target="_blank" title="Property Bloom" href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/">Property Bloom</a>, which manages property development.
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Mastering the design, planning and approval stage of a property development

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Victorian first-home buyers who buy a residential lot or a house-and-land package in the outer-Melbourne development of Potters Grove before June 30 would save themselves in excess of $8,000 compared with those who wait until after this date.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/potters1.jpg">
And developer Integrated Development is throwing in an extra $5,000 sweetener for first-time buyers of land or house-and-land packages in Potters Grove, in Officer, about 50 kilometres south-east of Melbourne.
Marketed by Oliver Hume Real Estate, the 26 lots in the first release of Potters Grove range from 325square metres to 512 square metres and are priced between $169,000 and $222,000.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/potters2.jpg">
A number of house-and-land packages are also available, ranging from $332,124 to $495,640. All of these are substantially below the Victorian government’s $600,000 threshold for first-home buyers to secure the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/time-running-out-for-first-home-bonuses-and-stamp-duty-concessions/2012052854863">$13,000 first-home bonus</a>, which expires on June 30.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/potters3.jpg">
From July 1 this year, first-home buyers  will be entitled to a 20% reduction in stamp duty on houses under $600,000. A buyer of a $495,640 house-and-land package at Potters Grove would receive $13,000 from the Victorian government towards the purchase of her new home on June 30, compared with a savings of $4,342 in stamp duty on July 1.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/potters4.jpg">
The developer’s own $5,000 bonus also expires on June 30.
“Officer is fast becoming one of Victoria’s most sought-after address, and we’re excited to be able to give first-home buyers a helping hand in purchasing their very own home at Potters Grove,” says Integrated Development director Jeff Garvey.
The project launched on April 21, and 15 lots have been sold so far.
Potters Grove is named for the nearby Berwick Pottery, and it is less than a kilometre from Officer railway station.
The median house prices in Officer fell 8.1% in the past year to $320,000, according to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/">RP Data.</a>
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Officer development Potters Grove lures first-home buyers with additional sweetener as government deadline looms

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Hobart’s Museum of Old and New Art has won the people’s choice award at the Australian Institute of Architects’ 2012 Tasmanian Architecture Awards.
Designed by Fender Katsalidis, MONA also won the Alan C Walker Award for Public Architecture.
The museum is carved into a peninsula of Hobart’s Moorilla wine estate and features interconnecting chambers that eschews a programmed circulation strategy for individual journeys of discovery.
“MONA is a place of mystery, exploration and wonder – unconventional, unpredictable, where the visitor can feel comfortably lost amongst extraordinary art,” the jury noted.
The museum was started by eccentric millionaire and professional gambler David Walsh in 2011. It’s the largest privately funded museum in Australia. The gallery represents the whims of Walsh, who says the museum acts as a subversive Disneyland.
Visitors arrive to the sex- and death-themed museum via a ferry service, which docks near the grand entrance. Entry leads down into the subterranean chambers, where the journey begins.
Nonda Katsalidis and Walsh became friends after Walsh moved into the penthouse designed by Katsalidis in Melbourne.
“He is the greatest architect in the world for my purposes, in terms of what I wanted to do,” Walsh told Australian Design Review.
“He doesn’t build the same building over and over again.”
In total, 23 prizes and commendations were awarded at the ceremony.
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Hobart’s Museum of Old and New Art wins people’s choice award for Tasmanian architecture

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Wind and rain briefly caused mild disruption to construction, but the Forté project by Lend Lease in Melbourne’s Docklands is heading skywards rapidly – comparative to the norm.
Works only began last Saturday after the timber residential tower project was unveiled in late May. Construction is quieter than in more traditionally built developments.
It’s set to be a 10-storey timber building, the tallest of its kind in the world, in the Victoria Harbour precinct.
Known as Forté, the $11 million will be built at 807 Bourke Street.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/forteimpression.jpg">
It will be Australia’s first timber high-rise building. Set on an elevated concrete podium, the building will rise to 32 metres and will be built with prefabricated wooden panels made from cross-laminated timber and will feature 23 apartments.
Site work commenced in February with a targeted completion date of October – quicker than it takes to build some single-family houses.
{module Would you buy an apartment in a timber building?}
Property Observer photographer Alistair Walsh will undertake a photographic timeline study.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/fortesite1.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/fortesite2.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/fortesite3.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/2012/06/fortesite4.jpg">
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Timber high rise Forté off to a quick, quiet start despite inclement weather 

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Stockland will build its new Brooks Reach community park in Horsley in the Illawarra based on the ideas and insights from 150 Dapto Public School kids aged five to 10.
The 6,800-square-metre park – the size of a football field – will incorporate many of the featured suggested by the kids, including a three-metre-high, seven-metre long “tower slide”; a large circular “bird’s nest swing”; and a spinning “supernova” carousel-like ride. 
It marks the first time in Australia that a developer has asked for children's input through consultation prior to the planning of an urban development. 
Last year the developer partnered with Professor Karen Malone of the University of Western Sydney last year to conduct research around what local children wanted to see in their own neighbourhood and the new one being developed at Brooks Reach.
The Wollongong Council has granted the park DA approval, and construction is expected to start mid-year, with completion due around October 2012. 
Malone said the top five things the children wanted from their playground were: 
1. Secret and shady places for cubby building
2. Thrill seeking
3. A play space where they could create their own space
4. A place that promotes learning /a place that keeps and protects nature
5. A place where we can create communities
 
 
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/06/kiddieplayground.jpg" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/06/kiddieplaygroundthumb.jpg"></a>
“This feedback from the kids means that Stockland is now able to create a playground that gives kids all the things they want and dreamed of – a chance to be imaginative, explore, test their limits, learn and laugh with their friends,” says Malone. 
“The Brooks Reach park research been a fantastic project to lead, and is something new for Australia and in fact globally to have children involved in a design process initiated by a developer like this. 
“It’s great that Stockland actively looked to get the community involved in this way. It is not something that happens every day, and I’m sure the result will be terrific.” 
Stockland senior development manager Michael Braithwaite says the kids’ involvement has added an exciting element to the design process. 
“Encouraging a healthy and active life is something Stockland is really passionate about, so we wanted to come up with something that the kids and their families would enjoy and use regularly. 
“The best way to give the kids what they really wanted was to involve them from the outset. We’ve now got a design that caters to all age groups in a really meaningful way. It’s been a very exciting and eye-opening experience for everyone,” he says.
 Dapto Public School deputy principal Cheryl Seagrove says: “Most of the children who will be living at Brooks Reach will attend Dapto Primary School, so we were very interested in establishing a link between the school and the new neighbourhood. 
“We’ve worked with Stockland in the past on similar initiatives, such as the recent launch of the Walking Bus here in Dapto. It’s been wonderful to see a developer take on board the insights of local children and allow them to authentically participate in the planning process,” she says.
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Brooks Reach estate developer gets playground lesson from school kids

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Does the disappearance of one timber building make a sound if people aren't around to hear it?
No one will ever know because all cameras were pointed towards the recent launch of Lend Lease's new Forté development as Grocon's Delta plans were quietly put on hold.
Lend Lease have started construction on the world's tallest timber residential building in Docklands.
Grocon had announced plans in March last year to build the world's tallest timber residential building on the former Carlton United Brewery site in Melbourne.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/05/delta3.jpg">
The 10-storey Delta was due to take the title from London's nine-storey Stadthaus, but Lend Lease will now beat Grocon to it.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/lend-leases-docklands-project-forte-will-be-worlds-tallest-residential-timber-building/2012052554840/Page-2">Lend Lease's Forté will rise 32 metres from the ground to be the world's tallest</a>, and Melbourne's first timber residential tower.
Construction is due to be finished in October.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/05/delta2.jpg"> After Grocon's March announcement not much more was heard.
In September last year, Grocon's national design manager and general manager of the CUB site, David Waldren, gave a talk at the Building Australia's Future conference suggesting plans were going ahead.
But Property Observer spoke to Grocon spokesperson Jane Wilson, who confirmed industry whispers that the plans for the building were on hold.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/05/delta4.jpg"> 
"The situation with Delta is pretty much that it's on hold at the moment," Wilson says.
"It's still a concept at the moment, but we do hope to build it next year.
"We certainly do want a timber residential building, and we hope it will go ahead.
"Lend Lease is obviously going to be ahead of us."
<img src="/images/stories/delta.jpg">
Grocon will for now focus on the Swanston Square development on the same site.
"We have been selling apartments in Swanston Square development, which is part of the CUB site.
"We're due to start construction there soon," Wilson says.
Grocon need not worry too much as if any of three mooted plans around the world go to plan, Lend Lease will have the title taken away from them soon enough.
{module Would you buy an apartment in a timber building?}
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Timber! Grocon’s wooden Melbourne building Delta on hold as Lend Lease’s Forté to grow quickly

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There can often be some misunderstanding around a fixed-price contract.  If you don’t know a builder, then there can also be a little mistrust as you look over the tender. Am I being overcharged?  Is everything included?  Will there be many variations?

Today I opened an email that made me smile and really feel grateful for such a wonderful builder we are working with on our development projects.

The email came from the office of my builder. It related to a three-villa project under construction. It had two variations attached to it; one for the site preparation and the other for slab piering.  I’d been overseeing the works with the site manager so I was expecting the variations but weren’t sure on the exact cost they’d come in at.

“Variations are changes to the original contracted work, which involve either an addition or reduction in the scope or value of work,” so the <a href="https://consumer.masterbuilders.asn.au/the-building-process/contracts-and-variations/variations">Master Builders Assoc describes</a>.

So you’ll always find some items marked as provisional in your builder’s contract, because you can’t always plan the entire “scope or value of work” required when developing.

In this builder’s contract this clause was clearly included:  “Provisional sum is the estimate cost of labour and materials; it includes an amount for the builder’s margin. If the cost is more than the allowance, the difference including builder’s margin will be added to the contract price. “

Back to our three-villa project variations.  The first one covering the site preparation was for tree removal.  The builder’s tender covered vegetation clearing but from the time Property Bloom located the site, ran our analysis, designed the project, lodged the development approval and construction certificate and the client had her construction loan finalised and we could start to build, the vegetation had grown to a rather large tree.  We did get a quote from a tree lopper to clear it, but we decided that it would be cheaper for the builder’s excavator to push it over and clear it as part of the site preparation. So we did expect a little increase to this provisional cost but wouldn’t know until the excavator submitted his invoice to the builder. It ended up being a little over $1,000 for this work.

The other variation was for under slab piering.  Once work was completed, we knew that we hadn’t needed to use the entire provisional allowance in the builder’s tender.  When on site with the concreter, I could see that the depths he was drilling to were not as deep as expected and so there were less lineal meters of piering required.  For this work our client was receiving a credit as the provisional allowance was over-estimated.

I needed to let my client know that there had been some variation to the build cost.  After all, she had signed a fixed-price contract a few weeks earlier, but I had made a point to explain the items marked provisional in her contract.  Usually provisional items are:

<ul>
<li>Disposal of stormwater – even with an engineer’s plan, this may vary during construction</li>
	<li>Retaining walls – the square meters of retaining often can’t be totally confirmed until the site is cut</li>
	<li>Piering to under the slab – dependant on how deep they may need to drill to hit solid support</li>
	<li>Site preparation – excavation – cut and fill.  There can be more fill required to bring in or take away</li>
</ul>
The conversation I had with my client was easy. She was coming out in front with the credit on the piering more than covering the variation on the site clearing.  This is the kind of outcome we strive for, but it doesn’t always work that way.

In property developing or home building, there can often be a degree of disappointment once under construction as issues arise.  Mostly this comes down to the developer or home owner’s expectation that the costs won’t change.

The more developments or home builds you manage, the more issues you become aware of. But if you can go into it knowing there is a degree of risk that you must take, then you won’t be disappointed if an issue does come up.

No one can really know what will happen once you start work, but as project managers, it’s our job to manage the issues in the most effective way so that we minimise costs and the valuable time in may take to sort out the issue.  And when it goes the other way and a credit is issued, then that’s a wonderful feeling.

<h2>Recently listed properties:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3490]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3783]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3565]
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Why the cost can change, even in a fixed-price building contract

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The R. Corporation’s Cheltenham development Central Park is selling briskly as first-home buyers seek to purchase a property under $600,000 before the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/time-running-out-for-first-home-bonuses-and-stamp-duty-concessions/2012052854863">Victorian government’s $13,000 first-home bonus expires on June 30</a>.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/05/chelt1.jpg">
The 208-townhouse development launched in late March, and 40 of the 52 in the first stage have sold. Just over half of the townhouses sold in the first three days.
<img src="/images/stories/cheltcentralpark1.jpg">
The majority of the offerings in Central Park are priced under the all-important $600,000 threshold. There are five styles of townhouse offered in this release, all named after flowers. Buyers of the three-bedroom offerings Gardenia (135 square metres, from $630,000) and Orchid (170 square metres, from $825,000) will not be eligible for the government’s first-home bonus, but the other styles are under the threshold. These include the three-bedroom Camellia (117 square metres, from $595,000), three-bedroom magnolia (138 square metres, from $592,000) and two-bedroom Jasmine (121 square metres, from $530).
<img src="/images/stories/2012/05/chelt2.jpg">
“For first-home buyers now is the perfect time to buy,” says R. Corporation marketing manager Rohan Ames.
<img src="/images/stories/cheltcentralpark4.jpg">
“With as little as $45,000 [deposit], access to the first-home buyers’ extra $13,000 for new homes and their first-home buyers’ grant … Central Park townhouses offer a modern and affordable way into home ownership in the bayside area.”
The median sale price for houses in Cheltenham, which is about 20 kilometres south-east of Melbourne CBD, is $605,000, according to RP Data.
 
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
 
<img src="/images/stories/cheltcentralpark2.jpg">
The development was initially marketed at the second-home buyer market, but Ames says first-home buyers are finding they can afford several of the offerings.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/05/chelt3.jpg">
“Our sophisticated product and considered design aesthetic is, most importantly, attainable.  First-home buyers will be genuinely surprised that they can afford to live in an R. Corporation townhouse,” says Ames.
<img src="/images/stories/cheltcentralpark3.jpg">
All of the townhouses have two bathrooms, and they all include landscaped courtyards, balconies or gardens. Every property also comes with a carport or garage.
 
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First-home buyers buying sub-$600,000 townhouses in Cheltenham’s Central Park project

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Until <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/lend-leases-docklands-project-forte-will-be-worlds-tallest-residential-timber-building/2012052554840">Lend Lease's Docklands project Forté is completed, </a>London currently holds the record for the world’s tallest timber residential building with Waugh Thistleton's nine-storey Stadthaus (pictured below).
The building took just 49 weeks to complete, with the basic structure taking just nine weeks.
Some 265 trees were used in its construction. It houses 29 apartments and a ground-floor office.
<img src="/images/stories/stadhaus.jpg">
Photo courtesy of Waugh Thistleton
One building perhaps not counted among official records was Russian gangster Nikolai Sutyagin's DIY creation (pictured below). He cobbled together 13 storeys to build a reported 43-metre ramshackle house in Arkhangelsk. Unfortunately it was partially torn down in 2009 and the remaining structure burnt down earlier this month.
<img src="/images/stories/russian.jpg">
Arkhangelsk wooden mansion. Photo courtesy of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.flickr.com/">Flickr</a>
And it seems Melbourne isn’t the only city to reach for the canopy.
Vancouver has mooted plans for a 30-storey wooden tower aptly titled Tall Wood Tower. Michael Green Architecture designed the tower.
<img src="/images/stories/tallwood.jpg">
Tall Wood Tower. Photo courtesy of Michael Green Architecture
Dornbirn in Austria may soon be home to a 20-30 storey mixed used wooden tower called the LifeCycle Tower, designed by Creative Renewable Energy and Efficiency.
<img src="/images/stories/lifecycle.jpg" width="470">
LifeCycle Tower. Photo courtesy of CREE
And Kirkenes in Norway will join the game too, with plans approved to build the 20-storey Barentshouse Kirkenes.
<img src="/images/stories/barents.jpg" width="470">
Barentshouse Kirkenes. Photo courtesy of Reiulf Ramstad Arkitekter
Building things entirely out of wood isn’t a new concept, either. Considered the tallest wooden structure in Europe, Northern Transylvania’s 56-metre Barsana Monastery was built in 1720.
<img src="/images/stories/monastery.jpg">
 
Barsana Monastery. Photo by Brandon Atkinson, courtesy of <a href="https://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank">Flickr</a>
The tallest wooden structure still standing is a radio tower in Gliwice Poland built in 1935. It stands at 118 metres. It’s still not as tall as the tallest wooden tower ever built though. The 1933-built Mühlacker Transmission Tower in Germany once stood at 190 metre before it was destroyed in 1945.
<img src="/images/stories/radiotower.jpg">
Gliwice tower. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Poland
 
 
{module Would you buy an apartment in a timber building?} 
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