Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

&nbsp;

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Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

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Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

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While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

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The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

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Joel Robinson

Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

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Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

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A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6390]

“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

The Walden pairs house-scale living with North Sydney connectivity

The ACT will become the first jurisdiction in Australia to abolish stamp duty for all first home buyers, with no income caps and no property price thresholds from 1 July.

The move, announced as part of the ACT Budget, completes a key election commitment from the Barr Government and removes what Chief Minister Andrew Barr described as one of the biggest barriers to entering the housing market. The reform forms part of the ACT's long-running transition away from transaction taxes and towards a broader-based property tax system.

"This budget marks a major milestone in our long-term tax reform program," Barr said, adding that the government had maintained a sustained focus on removing barriers to home ownership. He said stamp duty had long been one of the largest upfront hurdles facing buyers and that from July, "that barrier is gone" for first home buyers in the Territory.

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The changes come alongside a range of measures designed to encourage new housing supply, including support for the delivery of so-called "missing middle" housing such as terraces, townhouses and low-rise multi-unit developments.

The announcement has renewed debate around whether the ACT's approach could provide a blueprint for improving housing affordability nationally.

New research from OurTop10.com.au, conducted by Primara Research, suggests the Territory's decade-long reform agenda has produced outcomes unmatched elsewhere in Australia.

While stamp duty costs have increased by an average 67 per cent nationally over the past decade, the ACT has recorded growth of just 15 per cent, the lowest increase of any jurisdiction.

The Territory has also emerged as one of the strongest performers on housing delivery. Based on population-weighted housing targets, the ACT is sitting less than one per cent behind its target. Victoria is the next closest at seven per cent behind, while the national average sits 25 per cent below target. New South Wales is tracking 39 per cent behind.

The latest reform removes one of the final barriers facing first home buyers in Canberra.

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The average Australian home buyer currently pays $61,714 in stamp duty. In the ACT, that figure is $38,399 despite the Territory having the third-highest median house price in the country.

Until now, the ACT's first home buyer concession scheme only applied to purchases up to $1.02 million, around $51,000 below Canberra's median house price of $1.071 million. In practical terms, many first home buyers were unable to access the median-priced home without losing the concession.

From July, those restrictions disappear.

Every first home buyer in the ACT will pay no stamp duty, regardless of income or purchase price.

Canberra remains one of Australia's most expensive housing markets, with dwelling values increasing 82 per cent over the past decade. However, that growth ranks only 11th among Australia's 15 major housing markets, suggesting affordability pressures have been less severe than in many other parts of the country.

Simon Ma, CEO of OurTop10.com.au, said the latest reforms recognise that many first home buyers have simply outgrown thresholds set years ago.

"Many first home buyers aren't just looking for a way onto the ladder, they want a home their family can actually live in," Ma said.

"In a market where the median house price is over a million dollars, a concession scheme that cuts out at $1.02 million was never going to get them there.

"Removing the ceiling entirely means ACT first home buyers can now pursue the home they actually want, rather than limiting themselves to a price point designed for a very different market."

Whether other states follow remains to be seen. But at a time when most jurisdictions are struggling to improve affordability while also increasing housing supply, the ACT has quietly become the national test case for both.

15% stamp duty growth. Just 1% off the national housing target. Zero stamp duty for FHBs. Is the ACT the blueprint for the great Australian dream?

ACT abolishes stamp duty for first home buyers

A rooftop pool and spa overlooking the Brisbane CBD, private dining spaces, expansive landscaped gardens and a residents' lounge are set to crown <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/callista-on-park-west-end-49-mollison-street-west-end-qld-4101">Callista on Park</a>, the final residential building within Brisbane's West Village precinct.

The rooftop amenity collection has been designed as an extension of the lifestyle already established throughout West Village, providing residents with a series of indoor and outdoor spaces that capitalise on the building's elevated position above West End.

A swimming pool and heated spa form the centrepiece of the rooftop offering, surrounded by landscaped gardens developed through a collaboration between developer Sekisui House and ASPECT Studios. The design incorporates expansive lawn areas surrounded by English garden-inspired planting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134800 project_image_fid=370648]

Residents will also have access to two barbecue and outdoor dining areas positioned to take advantage of views across Brisbane's skyline, neighbouring Mollison Park, and the surrounding inner-city landscape.

For larger gatherings, the rooftop includes a private dining room centred around a substantial stone island bench, complete with a full kitchen and a 10-seat dining table set beneath four-metre-high ceilings. The space has been designed to overlook both the rooftop gardens and the Brisbane CBD skyline.

A separate residents' lounge provides an additional indoor retreat connected to the broader rooftop amenity offering, creating another space for residents to work, relax or entertain guests.

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The attention to detail extends beyond the rooftop.

Upon arrival, residents will enter through a lobby featuring a bespoke ceiling light installation developed in collaboration between Sekisui House and Alcorn Middleton Architecture. The arrival experience is complemented by private resident mailboxes and carefully considered interior finishes designed to reflect the premium positioning of the building.

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The amenity offering forms part of Callista on Park, the final residential release within the decade-long transformation of the former Peters Ice Cream Factory site into West Village, one of Brisbane's most established mixed-use communities.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a>, Callista represents the most premium residential offering within the masterplanned precinct.

Construction is now entering its final stages, with scaffolding beginning to come down and completion expected in the first quarter of 2027.

Prices for the three-bedroom plus MPR apartments start from just over $2.6 million.

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Callista will mark the final opportunity to purchase within West Village, where residents have direct access to more than 35 retail, dining, wellness and medical operators including Harris Farm Markets, Woolworths, Function Well and Goodlife Health Clubs, Metro Arts, and a growing collection of restaurants and cafés.

Located just 800 metres from the Brisbane CBD, the precinct also places residents within walking distance of South Bank, West End's dining scene, riverfront parklands and major public transport connections.

For Sekisui House, which has delivered more than two million homes globally, Callista serves as the concluding piece of the West Village masterplan, bringing together the precinct's heritage character, parkland setting and emphasis on walkability in a final collection of larger-format residences.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134800]

Rooftop pool, private dining and skyline gardens to crown West Village's final apartment release, Callista on Park

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/wahroonga-nsw-2076">Wahroonga</a>’s enduring appeal has long been tied to its balance of bushland, established amenity, and access to some of Sydney’s most respected education and healthcare institutions.

Along Fox Valley Road, that combination is becoming increasingly sought after by buyers looking to remain connected to the Upper North Shore lifestyle while prioritising walkability, wellbeing, and convenience.

Developer Capital Corporation's initial vision of a 62-hectare site on Fox Valley Road was that they could create their own walkable community, bordered by&nbsp;more than 25 hectares of bushland and adjoining Coups Creek.

<img alt="Wahroonga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b84917a1-0d75-49b9-888c-ddf7ebfd6692" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/NEW2026_Wahroonga_Walkway.gif?VersionId=Gk3_xi5ssYfalmwuQQ5umQakddceC31j" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-residences-at-wahroonga-estate-169-fox-valley-road-wahroonga-nsw-2076">The Residences at Wahroonga Estate</a> draws directly on the area’s natural landscape, with walking trails and green corridors linking into sections of Lane Cove National Park. The surrounding network of bushwalks, cycling tracks, and reserves reinforces the suburb’s long-standing reputation as one of Sydney’s most nature-oriented residential pockets, while still maintaining close ties to village retail and transport infrastructure.

The address places residents within minutes of Wahroonga and Turramurra villages, where cafés, local grocers, boutiques, and everyday services support a highly localised lifestyle. Popular nearby venues including The Fox Café and Breeze Valley Café provide easy options for morning coffee or casual dining, while longstanding retailers such as IGA Wahroonga Fresh and Novella Fine Books continue to anchor the area’s village character.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Wahroonga" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4a950f7-4f05-4370-b360-b106359788e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/2026_Wahroonga_Entry_Gates.gif?VersionId=7n5kh9ymu.azYEYDemJkPgiIAfSw44oj" />

Healthcare access remains one of the defining locational advantages of the estate. Sydney Adventist Hospital, known locally as The San, sits directly adjacent and is one of the largest and most respected private hospitals in New South Wales. The hospital precinct incorporates specialist medical services, radiology, physiotherapy, and outpatient care, contributing to growing buyer demand from downsizers and owner-occupiers seeking long-term convenience and peace of mind.

Research commissioned by Capital Corporation found that health and wellbeing considerations are increasingly influencing downsizing decisions, particularly among buyers wanting to remain within familiar neighbourhoods while accessing medical infrastructure more easily.

Education has also historically underpinned demand across Wahroonga and the broader Upper North Shore. The estate sits close to several of Sydney’s leading private and independent schools, including Knox Grammar, Abbotsleigh, Barker College, Pymble Ladies’ College, Ravenswood School for Girls, and Loreto Normanhurst. Co-educational options including Wahroonga Adventist School and Sydney Adventist School further strengthen the area’s appeal to established families looking for long-term schooling pathways within a tightly held catchment.

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Transport connectivity supports the suburb’s liveability without compromising its quieter residential character. Wahroonga and Turramurra train stations provide direct rail access into the Sydney CBD, while the nearby Pacific Highway and M1 motorway strengthen links across the North Shore and broader metropolitan area. At the same time, the heavily treed streetscape and low-density character continue to distinguish the precinct from more urbanised parts of Sydney.

The Residences at Wahroonga Estate forms the first stage of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/capital-corporation">Capital Corporation</a>’s broader masterplanned vision for the precinct, delivered alongside the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135247 project_image_fid=364995]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/group-gsa">GroupGSA</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/coco-republic-interior-design">Coco Republic</a>, the development integrates landscaped communal spaces including a pet-friendly Green Spine, resident lounge, BBQ pavilion, and direct bushland access, reinforcing the project’s focus on outdoor connection and community-based living.

Now under construction by Gold Star iCIRT-rated builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/dasco-australia">DASCO</a>, The Residences at Wahroonga Estate will deliver a collection of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments priced from $990,000, with completion anticipated in 2027.

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Capital Corporation to cater to Upper North Shore downsizers by creating walkable community at The Residences at Wahroonga Estate

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?

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Mortgage relief? NAB forecasts RBA rate cut, not hike, after softer economic conditions

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Inner city Sydney shows every sign of following the bad example of Melbourne down a slippery slope to oversupply. 
   Indeed, over-building of apartments in and around capital city CBDs is a major danger for consumers all around Australia.   Melbourne’s serious inner city oversupply is well documented. Canberra also has an apartment surplus, though not of Melbourne proportions. Darwin is shaping up for another unit surplus, with 500 new units entering the market in the next year or so and 2,000 more approved (remembering that this is a city of only 120,000 people).   Sydney’s situation may end up as crazy as Melbourne’s – and for similar reasons. Developers continue to bring on new projects around inner Melbourne despite big vacancies, because they’re able to flog their apartments to ill-informed offshore investors at high prices.   Sydney developers clearly want a piece of that action.   And, in keeping the careless manner in which they report real estate issues, newspapers are characterizing the looming construction frenzy as a renaissance in city living leading to an exciting boom time.   What I wouldn’t give for some reasoned, balanced analysis of a situation by media.   This is a clear and present danger for Australian buyers. Developers don’t care who buys their units as long as someone does, nor are they concerned if their buyers later find themselves unable to tenant their units or sell without taking a capital loss.   But it is a concern for the market and for real estate consumers.   So I urge investors to stay away from the inner city Sydney apartment market. There are many other, better places to buy around Australia.   The trap for investors is that the current statistics suggest this is a healthy market. The vacancy rates are acceptable and the research suggests solid increases in median apartment prices. And if supply remained at current levels, this might well be a good place to invest.   But the danger lies in what’s coming up. According to a weekend report, the City of Sydney says the number of residential towers completed or proposed since 2010 is more than the total for the preceding decade.   We’re meant to be impressed, but we should be alarmed. The report characterised this as developers responding to pressing demand for “people who want to be urban dwellers”.   But high-rise apartment developers don’t respond to demand – they attempt to lead it. That is what’s happening in the Sydney inner-city.   And it extends beyond the CBD. Reports suggest there are 25,000 units planned in the inner south, with predictions Sydney is moving into the biggest apartment building cycle since the 1970s.   We’ve recently seen investors clamouring to buy in the early apartment stages of Barangaroo, with the first 159 apartments reportedly sold within four hours of release.   We can expect to see more stories like that, as real estate consumers indulge that overpowering impulse to follow the herd, which these days is described as the FOMO syndrome – fear of missing out.   Real estate consumers should indeed be fearful – but not of missing out. The ones who miss out may well be the lucky ones.
 
<hr>
 Terry Ryder is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" rel="nofollow">hotspotting.com.au</a> and you can contact Terry via <a href="https://mailto:%20ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email</a> or on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.
 
 
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Sydney risking the slippery slope into oversupply: Terry Ryder

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Spring shone on the property market over the weekend, with auction clearance rates up in both Melbourne and Sydney.
Results from Australian Property Monitors (APM) showed Melbourne auction clearance rates at 80.1% (up from 72.6% last week) and for Sydney at 86.3% (up from 79.2% last week).
The results were up dramatically on the same weekend last year, which saw auction clearances at 62.6% for Sydney and 61.2% for Melbourne.
The Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) recorded a clearance rate of 78% across the state, up from 74% last week and 59% compared to the same weekend last year.
Markets were still slower in Brisbane with clearance at 31.3%, down from 43.2% last week. The result for Adelaide was not yet recorded.
APM senior economist Andrew Wilson said this morning that the results for Sydney and Melbourne show the markets are on the rise, particularly Melbourne which he says has “shifted up two gears”.
The first rise was to clearance rates in the 70% range, now it is sitting in the 80% range.
“It is moving into strong territory,” Wilson says. “It shows the enthusiasm in the market, and the impact of the low interest rates.”
Wilson says there were higher property listings in Melbourne, which also demonstrates enthusiasm from sellers and more confidence. However, he says it is still not at the same level as peaks of 2009, 2007 and 2001.
The REIV reported that 837 houses were up for auction across the state on the weekend. Wilson says this is in high contrast to next Saturday, September 28, which will see the property market “pause and reflect” due to the Australian Football League grand final. There will only be around 50 to 60 auctions listed.
For Sydney, Wilson says the weekend results were “almost at record levels”.
“Sydney is on track for its strongest spring ever. It is averaging over the 85% clearance mark.”

<hr>
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au">SmartCompany</a>.
 
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moliver-7qYWqnHmyR

Property sales buoyant ahead of a pause for footy fever

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Aussie Home Loans has recently tweeted out about thinking outside of the box with an Ikea hack. 
For the uninitiated, this is where you get IKEA furniture and use it in a way it wasn't necessarily intended to be used in. 
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Fancy an IKEA hack? Think outside of the box and turn a shelf into a bench seat! <a href="https://t.co/6Ay9kKJxsm" target="_blank">https://t.co/6Ay9kKJxsm</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23IKEA&amp;src=hash" target="_blank">#IKEA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23IKEAhack&amp;src=hash" target="_blank">#IKEAhack</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23DIY&amp;src=hash" target="_blank">#DIY</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23furniture&amp;src=hash" target="_blank">#furniture</a>
— Aussie (@Aussie) <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/Aussie/statuses/380523011537129472" target="_blank">September 19, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
The results can be amazing, and there's even <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ikeahackers.net">a website for it</a>.
Aussie later tweeted at Property Observer to say this is their favourite IKEA hack... <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ikeahackers.net/2012/08/dachshund-dog-ramp?showComment=1344925215332">the Dachshund Dog Ramp</a>!
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/JennieDuke">@JennieDuke</a> have you found a favourite hack? So far ours is <a target="_blank" href="https://t.co/1UCK69ptwS">https://t.co/1UCK69ptwS</a> having a Dachshund, you need to think creatively :)
— Aussie (@Aussie) <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/Aussie/statuses/380529507179827200">September 19, 2013</a>
</blockquote>
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po-LsXgBTHBmX

Ikea hacking furniture

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Some 30% of apartments have already been snapped at The Andalusian, the latest development to grace Melbourne’s leafy suburb of Balwyn.
The six-storey development by Spec Property will comprise of 65 one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments ranging from $359,000 to $1.5 million.
One-bed apartments range in size from 45 square metres to 66 square metres internally.
Two-bedroom apartments range from 65 square metres to 129 square metres and three bedders range from 111 square metres to 153 square metres.
Located at 182 Whitehorse Road, residents on level four and above will have views towards the city and Macedon ranges and will be able to design their ideal home with over 1,400 possible combinations of personal touches available.
Designed by Internal, apartments feature veneer surfaces, ceramic gloss beveled tiles, black chrome tap ware, wool carpets and porcelain bench tops in the kitchen.
The development will also include a resident’s lounge, reading room and dining table, as well as a BBQ terrace with an outdoor kitchen.
Tanya Sanchez of Synergy BSM says over 95% of sales have been to owner-occupiers, due to the fact that buyers can customize their apartment.
The Andalusian is only <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/balwyns-school-zone-continues-to-draw-asian-buyers/2013031158731">being sold locally</a>.
“We don’t want to take our development offshore because we’re not targeting an investment market,” says Sanchez.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.theandalusian.com.au/">The Andalusian</a> was officially launched on August 4 and has a scheduled completion date of mid-2014.
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ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

Balwyn's The Andalusian targets owner-occupiers with customised floor plans

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When asked by people to list my rules for successful property investing, I always begin by saying: “Rule one, stop reading newspapers.”

Often an audience will react with polite laugher. I have to tell them I wasn’t joking.

Most of the questions I get about property investment are based on misinformation, absorbed from newspapers. Many would-be buyers procrastinate on taking action because of fear, created by relentless media negativity.

People who make calamitous investment decisions – buying the wrong product, or in the wrong place, or at the wrong price, and sometimes all three in the one deal – are often reacting to propaganda disguised as genuine news.

On the subject of real estate, you’re more likely to find misinformation than facts from newspapers.

I say this as someone who started working life 35 years ago as a newspaper journalist and who, until recently, wrote columns twice a week for The Australian. I quit that position because I thought the newspaper was a disgrace to journalism, despite its self-appointed status as a quality national publication.

There’s never been a time when the reporting of news and issues around the real estate industry has been so poor. And I think consumers would be better off if they kicked the newspaper habit and started finding the information they need via the internet.

And, yes, Property Observer is a good place to start. It specialises in property news and analysis, it’s written by specialists and it presents a range of divergent views, without fear or favour.

So here are my top reasons for real estate consumers to stop reading newspapers:-

1). Few newspaper journalists writing on real estate have any expertise on the subject. The outcome, often, is misinformation.

2). There is no expert analysis of real estate information because the writers are not experts.

3). Newspapers regurgitate press release material (propaganda designed to benefit the submitter) as fact.

4). There is little or no scrutiny of sensational statements by those seeking publicity for themselves or their cause. How many times in the past five years have overseas spruikers gained free national publicity by forecasting a collapse in Australian property values?

5). Newspapers present economists as experts in real estate analysis, despite their appalling track record on the subject.

6). The misinformation in newspapers can cause consumers to make bad decisions.

7). The tone of newspapers is overwhelmingly negative. Witness how the first signs of city price growth in three years have been turned into a screaming negative (it’s a bubble and we’re all going to die!).

8). Anyone willing to make sensationally negative comments on real estate will always get a run in newspapers, their lack of credibility notwithstanding. The ongoing profile of failed forecaster Steve Keen is a fine example.

9). Newspapers sensationalise – everything. Values never fall, they plummet. Prices don’t rise, they soar. Every property development ever proposed is “controversial”. The result is distortion of reality.

10). Too often newspapers present real estate spruikers as folk heroes to be admired. In reality, they’re people seeking to exploit real estate consumers for profit. When the crook is eventually exposed, newspaper will savage the monster they helped to create.

11). Many newspapers present real estate advertorials (paid advertisements dressed up to look like articles) as genuine news.

12). Newspapers report the real estate past, when investors want clues about the potential future. If you’re reading about a “hotspot” in a newspaper, it’s already too late to buy there.

13). Newspapers censor material that is seen as harmful to the publisher’s commercial or political interests. The truth (often information consumers need to know) is suppressed or distorted. Newspaper journalists appear happy to let it happen.

14). Mistakes in newspapers are picked up by other media and repeated as facts. An example is the newspaper report, some years ago, that RBA Governor Glenn Stevens had said he was concerned about a real estate bubble. This was repeated around the nation as accurate information, when Stevens did not say that or anything like it. (That was the birth of an endless stream of bubble stories ever since).

Do yourself a favour. Find other sources of real estate information.
 
<hr>
 Terry Ryder is the founder of <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a> and you can contact Terry via <a target="_blank" href="https://mailto:%20ryder@hotspotting.com.au">email</a> or on <a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting">Twitter</a>. 
 
 

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My first rule for successful property investing - stop reading newspapers: Terry Ryder

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Brisbane-based asset manager Blue Sky Private Real Estate has acquired a building in Brisbane's Bowen Hills for $2.45 million.
The 24 Brookes Street property sits on a 607 square metre site, which is earmarked for redevelopment.
Steve Black and Dillon Murphy of Ray White Commercial Pine Rivers negotiated the sale.
Mr Black described Bowen Hills as one of the fastest growing urban areas in Queensland, with billions of dollars’ worth of infrastructure proposed for the area.
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Bowen Hills redevelopment site sells for $2.45 million

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Brisbane property developers Anthony Moreton Group and Pryde Group have acquired the Beach Hotel in Broadbeach and two adjoining properties for $6 million.
The joint venture partners bought the 1,768 square metres property, at 2663 Gold Coast Highway, along with the two adjoining vacant parcels of land with a view to redevelop the site over the next few years.
The three properties have a combined area of 2,982 square metres and were taken to the market as one offering by vendor Rothmont Projects - a company owned by Gold Coast developer John Fish.
The total site has council approval for a 35-storey, 198 apartment complex.
Selling agent Darrell Irwin and Brad Johnston of Colliers International said the properties drew strong interest from a range of buyers, including Chinese investors and developers.
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Property developers acquire Broadbeach's Beach Hotel

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A new report has been released highlighting the critical condition of accessibility Australia's largest CBDs are experiencing, providing a 'game-changer' for each city that will shape residential demand in years to come.
The Tourism &amp; Transport Forum's (TTF) report, Accessing Our CBDs, analyses how to improve transport in the CBDs of Australia's five biggest cities and how this will shape them, and the surrounding areas.
"In recent years, CBDs and inner suburbs have been subject to rising residential demand. In Adelaide for example, the number of dwellings in the city centre increased by approximately 25 per cent between 2006 and 2011," the report explains.
"To realise the full potential of a city, it is important that linkages between its CBD and broader metropolitan area are continuously upgraded to cater for the additional travel demand generated by population growth and increased employment."
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" alt="Capital_vs_Regional" height="537" width="441" src="/images/stories/2013/09/16/Capital_vs_Regional.png">
As the population continues to expand, particularly in greenfield urban fringe developments, the average distance travelled by car also tends to increase and so transport links become increasingly more important and valuable to residents.
Investors are certainly aware of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/infrastructure-is-key-when-considering-where-to-invest-jo-chivers/2013050761116">importance of infrastructure and accessibility when it comes to capital growth in their area</a>, and tenant demand.  We've also previously provided <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/economy/the-34-infrastructure-australia-projects-that-might-interest-property-investors-list-of-the-day/2013070763068">a list of 34 infrastructure developments that may be of interest</a>.
In cities where population forcasts are strong, these issues become even more critical to be aware of early.
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" alt="pop_growth" height="528" width="412" src="/images/stories/2013/09/18/pop_growth.png">
TTF deputy chief executive and director, Transport Policy, Trent Zimmerman said it is largely this issue of growing population that is putting the pressure on our CBDs.
“The level of urbanisation and concentration of activity in Australian city centres means that together they are the engine room for Australia’s economy,” Zimmerman said.
“However, the high density of CBDs also creates numerous challenges for mobility and connectivity."
With this growth putting pressure onto the strained transport network, it's interesting to note that the report has found that a significant proportion of this growth is occurring on the outskirts of the major cities.
"In Sydney, for example, the north-west and south-west growth centres, which have been planned to accommodate around 181,000 new dwellings, are located on the fringes of Sydney. Significant population growth is also occurring on the outskirts of Melbourne, specifically in Cardinia in the south, and Wyndham and Melton in the west," the report outlines.
<img style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" alt="Capture3" height="550" width="433" src="/images/stories/2013/09/18/Capture3.png">
Dispersed employment is flagged as part of the approach to diversify travel patterns and keep the heat off of the infrastructure. For instance, Sydney's polycentric employment locations with the development of secondary CBDs, such as Parramatta, has seen some level of success. Similar trends are proposed for Melbourne, which may provide investors to get in to the Victorian equivalent of Sydney's Parramatta.
The 'game-changer' proposals:
Sydney
Current situation: CBD is the largest employment centre, with a job density of almost 70,000 workers per sqkm, largely concentrated on the northern end of the CBD. Also has one of the fastest growing residential populations.
Forecast situation: An estimated growth from 4.3 million inhabitants to 5.6 million in 2031.  Within the City of Sydney LGA, employment is expected to grow by 31%, and population by 60% between 2006 and 2036.
Barangaroo will add significant demand, with expectations of 33,000 visitors attracted daily. 
New rail projects including the North West and South West Rail Links are outlined, however neither is said to provide relief to CBD.
Much of the game-changing plans will be to direct attention away from the City of Sydney and towards the development of regional centres, such as the 20 strategic centres recently identified by the NSW government.
Some of the solutions: Northern Beaches Bus Rapid Transit; Light Rail Extension; Wynyard Walk; Long-term rail strategy; Sydney’s missing-link motorways; Additional ferry services to Barangaroo. Melbourne
Current situation: Within the City of Melbourne in 2008, 413,281 people were employed, with 252,959 in the CBD. Over 21,000 are housed in the CBD, which grew by 34.4% between 2005 and 2010.
Forecast situation: Population estimations are that Melbourne's population will grow from 3.5 million in 2006 to 5.4 million in 2031. Within the CBD, a growth rate of 93% is expected over the 20 years to 2031. 
Growing residential and commercial development in Southbank and Docklands will also push up demand on the transport network.
Victorian government and the City of Melbourne have acknowledged that transport connections will have reached capacity by 2031.
Some of the solutions:  East-West Link; Port of Hastings; Regional Rail Link; Metro Tunnel Rail Project.
Brisbane
Current situation: More than 140,000 employees worked in the CBD in 2006, in the CBD, there are an estimated 8,500 residents.
Forcast situation: Between 2006 and 2026, population growth will be at 2% per annum to reach 2.7 million. CBD employment is expected to rise at 3% per annum. 
CBD is expecting substantial residential development, with another 18,000 dwellings over this time period.
Some of the solutions: Changing bus routes and servicing; Construction of Cross River Rail project; Upgrades to ferry terminals; Development of additional bus stations; Completion of TransApex road projects.
Perth
Current situation: More than 1.6 million residents in 2010 in all of Perth. In 2011, approximately 75,181 journeys to work were undertaken to the CBD. 
Forecast situation: Population with grow by 35% to over 2.2 million by 2031 (Western Australian Department of Planning). Up to 429,000 jobs will be needed to cater for the growth.
State government announced $105 million of funding to address CBD congestion in April 2012, including widening the Graham Farmer Freeway and increasing lane capacity on the Mitchell Freeway.
Specialist hubs are also being promoted, including Stirling which is creating 25,000 jobs.
Proposed initiatives: The Perth City Link projec;. Enhancement of buses and rolling stock; Park and ride.
Adelaide
Current situation: CBD catered to 109,904 jobs in 2011, and had 19,900 residents in the City of Adelaide.
Forecast situation: Population is expected to grow 2.9 to 3.6% per annum to 38,565 in 2031.
Another 450 new dwellings per annum are expected with the majority in the eastern and southern CBD areas.
Proposed initiatives: Greenways project; North-South Corridor; Rail Revitalisation Project.
For a full copy of the report <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ttf.org.au/Content/cbds110913.aspx">head onto the TTF website</a>.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

The game-changers for accessing capital cities' CBDs

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With the Sydney market heating up, one analyst has come out and said that he expects house prices to skyrocket by 15% to 20% over 2014.
SQM Research's Louis Christopher predicted a significant price increase for Sydney over next year on the back of low interest rates and an improvement in sentiment towards the national economy.
In the 3rd annual Housing Boom and Bust report, Christopher said that this also took into account an interest rate rise expected around mid- to late-2014.
"The housing recovery that commenced in the third quarter of 2012 for most capital cities is now about to enter into a more accelerated phase from what has generally been modest price rises to date," said Christopher.
The results, however, will vary significantly among the capital cities. Canberra is expecting a house price drop of between 1% to 4%. 
Melbourne will be in-line with the average range, when Sydney is excluded, of 4% to 7%. "Sydney though is turning into a beast unto itself. We have a strong conviction that the ABS will record 15% to 20% house price rises next year for that city. Such a rise will create a large dilemma for the RBA, especially if the national economy is still running below average growth," he said.
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Sydney to jump up 15-20%, ACT to fall

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A studio unit in Auburn was the most affordable auction sale in New South Wales over the past weekend, according to Australian Property Monitors.
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-studio-nsw-auburn-114633195">333/95 Station Road</a>, the unit sold for $150,000 through Richardson &amp; Wrench Auburn.
Listing agent Nell Wu told Property Observer there were three registered bidders present.
The successful bidder was an owner-occupier.
The reserve price was set for “$140,000 to $150,000” according to Wu.
Prior to this sale, the unit was last sold in 2001 for $65,500, in 1997 for $67,000, and in 1993 for $64,500, according to RP Data records.
According to the <a href="/news">latest RP Data report</a>, the median price for units in Auburn is $342,680, up 10.5% on last year. The average discount required to sell a unit is 5.6%, while private treaty sales average 81 days on market.
The median asking rent for units is $390, while gross rental yield currently stands at 5.9%.
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