<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> offers plenty of reasons to live vertically, but moving from a substantial family home into an apartment can expose the compromises of high-density living. Privacy, room for guests and usable living space tend to matter more when an apartment is intended as a permanent home rather than an occasional coastal base.

A typical residential floor at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a>, on Surf Parade,&nbsp;contains just four apartments. The 94-residence development by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> is predominantly made up of expansive three-bedroom homes, with a limited collection of half-floor penthouses above.

Across the apartment floors, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has used the relatively limited number of residences to give each home greater access to natural light and outlook. Living spaces extend towards full-height glazing, while a series of bay windows frame selected views across the Pacific Ocean, city and hinterland rather than treating the building edge as a continuous wall of glass.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360965]

“The apartment floors deliver a collection of homes that embrace controlled outlook via a series of bay windows deliberately framing moments of view,” Rothelowman Director Kim Lowman said.

From outside, those projecting forms contribute to the tower’s faceted profile. Strong horizontal and vertical elements establish its proportions, while the changing position of the sun alters the light, shadow and reflection across the façade throughout the day.

The same attention moves inside the apartments, where the material palette combines warm timber, natural stone, metallic detailing and softer curved forms. Kitchens sit within the main living zone, with stone island benches, integrated joinery and European appliances, before the living areas extend towards the glazing and the outlook.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360981]

Three genuine bedrooms provide room to accommodate family and guests, while two secure car spaces and storage address some of the practical considerations that can become more noticeable when moving from a larger home. Feedback from the display suite has centred on the warmth and restraint of the interiors, with buyers commenting that the residences feel like homes rather than conventional coastal apartments.

A limited collection of half-floor penthouses occupies the upper levels, increasing the scale of the living spaces and adding private balconies and elevated finishes. From this position, the outlook extends between the ocean and hinterland.

Outside the private residences, The Eveleigh separates its shared spaces between the podium and rooftop. The podium is centred on wellness, with subtropical landscaping surrounding a swimming pool and pool terrace, yoga garden, private gymnasium, sauna and hot and cold plunge facilities. Landscaped retreats and pavilions provide additional places to sit away from the main recreation areas.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360966]

Higher in the building, a rooftop pavilion and private dining suite sit alongside resident lounge, barbecue and outdoor dining areas, opening towards panoramic views across the ocean, city and hinterland.

“Buyers are no longer just looking for an apartment, but a lifestyle where they can relax, reset, and enjoy a balanced way of living,” Hirsch &amp; Faigen Director of Sales Matt George said.

Interest to date has come from established owner-occupiers and interstate lifestyle purchasers, including buyers planning a future move to the Gold Coast. Many are coming from larger homes and want to reduce ongoing maintenance without giving up space for family and guests, privacy, two car spaces or the ability to entertain at home.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360969]

Much of that daily life can also take place beyond the building without requiring a drive. Kurrawa Beach and Pratten Park are an easy walk from Surf Parade, while Pacific Fair, Oracle Boulevard, The Oasis, restaurants, cafés, entertainment and public transport are also within walking distance.

The Eveleigh is Hirsch &amp; Faigen's fourth Gold Coast development since entering the market in 2021, following The Hemingway at Palm Beach, The Emerson at Kirra and Yves at Mermaid Beach. Each of the preceding projects sold out before completion.

“Broadbeach had been on our radar throughout our time operating on the Gold Coast,” the developer said. “Following our projects in Palm Beach, Kirra and Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach represented the natural next step for the business.”

The Surf Parade site brought together proximity to the beach, protected coastal outlooks and walkability to dining, shopping and recreation. Hirsch &amp; Faigen also identified the street as an emerging premium residential address, with enough separation from Broadbeach's busier destinations to retain a quieter environment at home.

The Eveleigh is now under construction by Maxcon, with completion forecast for mid-2028. Three-bedroom residences are currently available from $2.87 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149670]

Joel Robinson

The Eveleigh brings house-like apartments to Broadbeach

A long-stalled Campbelltown development site is back in play, with new plans for 139 apartments set to supersede a mixed-use scheme approved almost a decade ago but never built.

The new proposal for 28 Cordeaux Street would deliver 116 market and 23 affordable apartments in a part 14-storey building, bringing a substantial new project into a Campbelltown market where new apartment supply remains limited.

Plans have been filed over the 3,092 sqm corner site at Moore-Oxley Street, around 600 metres from Campbelltown Railway Station and the city-centre retail core.

The site already carries a mixed-use residential approval dating to 2016. Doroch Architects has now been engaged on a larger replacement scheme, which is progressing as a State Significant Development Application following a Housing Delivery Authority determination in August 2025.

The apartment mix comprises 39 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom apartments make up just over half of the project, while three-bedroom homes account for 20 per cent.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="136dd5b9-3791-4da6-9e31-76f533f5b4de" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da2.png?VersionId=LgOSy9nwf5u.MGswBBwaGGxuX8QpHSl_" />

Of the 139 apartments, 23 will be delivered as affordable housing under the in-fill affordable housing provisions of the Housing SEPP. The affordable component represents 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area and will be managed by a registered Community Housing Provider.

Doroch has sought to break the scale of the building into two distinct elements, with a masonry podium of around four storeys establishing the street edge before the residential tower steps back above.

The corner position has shaped that approach. Cordeaux Street faces toward the commercial and civic centre, while Moore-Oxley Street leads into the lower-scale residential neighbourhood to the south, and the design verification report describes the site as "bridging the commercial core to the north and established residential areas to the south."

The podium will be expressed predominantly in face brick, while the upper levels shift to brushed and grooved concrete cladding with darker metal detailing. Recessed sections, deep balcony edges and landscaping break down the upper form, with an approximately 11.8-metre setback to the northern boundary addressing the adjoining St Peters Anglican School.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b3d2d3-c561-4bfc-a5d9-a68c0c10dac1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da1.png?VersionId=AeAEyJU02Gk2k5noUj2StziCvdQ7fW4B" />

Campbelltown has been starved of new residential developments in the last decade.

The only other notable development set to come to market this year is ALAND's Queen Square, a mixed-use precinct on over two hectares that will comprise apartments above a vibrant ground-level retail and hospitality dining precinct.

First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
</main>

Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

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>

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Ellen Walker

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

For most Australians, buying an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make

The location, floorplan and price are often the first considerations, but in recent years another question has become increasingly important: who is actually delivering the project?

A series of high-profile builder collapses, construction delays and defect concerns have fundamentally changed how many Victorians approach buying off the plan. The collapse of Porter Davis in 2023, which reportedly left around 1,700 homes unfinished, became one of the most visible examples of the risks that can emerge when a construction company fails. <a href="https://www.equifax.com.au/sites/default/files/lpassets/pdf/Final-Business-Market-Pulse-June-Sector-Deep-Dive-Report-2.pdf">Similar challenges across the broader construction sector</a> have left buyers asking more questions before signing a contract.

As Victoria continues encouraging higher-density housing to address supply shortages, transparency is becoming just as important as location or price.

One tool increasingly entering the conversation is the <a href="https://icirt.com/">Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT)</a>, an independent assessment framework designed to help buyers better understand the developer or builder behind a project. Originally developed by Equifax in consultation with government and industry as part of NSW's Construct NSW reforms, the system has since expanded nationally.

<h2 data-end="1519" data-section-id="7nmx3" data-start="1492">What is an iCIRT rating?</h2>

Most Australians are familiar with independent ratings in everyday life.

We compare ANCAP safety ratings before buying a car. We look at Health Star Ratings in supermarkets. Banks rely on credit assessments when lending money.

Until recently, however, there has been very little independent information available to help apartment buyers assess the business responsible for delivering a residential project.

That gap is what iCIRT was designed to address.

Builders, developers and other construction professionals with an iCIRT rating have demonstrated high-trust characteristics through an independent, evidence-based assessment across six criteria: Character, Capability, Conduct, Capacity, Capital and Counterparties. This involves a rigorous review of financial health, past project track record, and ethical conduct. Crucially, an iCIRT rating could help provide property buyers with confidence that they are working with a professional who has demonstrated the capability, capacity, and willingness to return and rectify issues.

<img alt="iCIRT" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dcbb59af-3d5a-43aa-b28e-a66e55a83568" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Announcement.png?VersionId=6OD8r.v.oucEF01BWxR85urzoD9seQ9e" />

Importantly, iCIRT is not a recommendation to purchase a particular property, nor is it a traditional credit rating. It is an independent assessment framework designed to provide objective information about a construction business using a <a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Methodology-Issue1-May-2021.pdf">published methodology</a>.

The system has been widely adopted in New South Wales, where more than one-third of medium and large residential builders and developers now hold an iCIRT rating, representing over two-thirds of the state's residential building market by value as of 2025/26.

<h2 data-end="3126" data-section-id="h6ohtj" data-start="3084">Why buyers are doing more due diligence</h2>

For many buyers, particularly those purchasing off the plan, the biggest risk isn't whether they'll like the kitchen finishes.

It's whether the project will be delivered on time, to the expected quality, and by a company capable of completing the development.

<a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/iCIRT%202025%20Consumer%20Survey%20Report%20v05.pdf">Consumer research commissioned by iCIRT</a> found more than half of respondents believed current protections do not adequately safeguard buyers from builder insolvencies or defective projects. Other research found 88 per cent of prospective buyers would seek independent ratings or due diligence before purchasing, while 90 per cent said trust in construction professionals is essential.

That doesn't mean buyers should rely on a single rating alone.

Independent legal advice, understanding the contract, and seeking financial advice all remain important parts of the due diligence process.

However, an independent assessment can provide another source of information alongside those traditional checks.

<h2 data-end="4138" data-section-id="pquzxc" data-start="4094">Trust is becoming a competitive advantage</h2>

The conversation isn't only changing for buyers.

Developers are also recognising that trust has become an increasingly important part of the sales process.

<img alt="mirvac" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1c11c691-e8cd-46c3-88fd-6c8d614e8357" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mirvac.png?VersionId=ZqDqNL36WJOOCmNMmmO93Q2GTrFOBomz" />Mirvac is a 5 Gold Star iCIRT rated developer, the highest possible rating a developer can get: Harbourside by Mirvac

Five years ago, purchasers typically asked about floorplans, finishes and settlement dates.

Today, sales teams are increasingly being asked about the developer's experience, financial stability, previous projects and construction partners.

For companies with strong governance and established delivery records, an independent iCIRT rating provides another way to demonstrate those credentials before buyers even visit a display suite.

According to Equifax, the assessment can also help businesses drive sales and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/icirt-rating-helps-scion-secure-high-value-projects">secure high-value projects</a>, as well as identify operational improvements and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/mirvac-reinforces-brand-trust-and-quality-independent-icirt-rating">attract top talent</a>.

<h2 data-end="4962" data-section-id="1j54ng5" data-start="4912">Beyond buyers: lenders are paying attention too</h2>

The influence of independent construction ratings is also extending beyond consumers.

According to Stamford Capital's Real Estate Debt Capital Markets Survey, an increasing number of lenders now incorporate iCIRT ratings into their due diligence processes when assessing residential development finance applications.

The survey found lender adoption has continued to rise, with many respondents saying independent assessments provide additional insight into governance, counterparties and delivery capability beyond traditional financial analysis. Some lenders also reported declining funding applications where businesses had poor or no ratings.

As construction costs remain elevated and access to development finance becomes more selective, demonstrating credibility is becoming increasingly valuable.

<h2 data-end="5801" data-section-id="1qazuxs" data-start="5772">What it means for Victoria</h2>

Victoria's apartment market is entering a new phase.

The state is seeking to accelerate higher-density housing while simultaneously introducing reforms aimed at improving confidence in residential construction.

For buyers, that means there are more tools available than ever before to research the businesses behind a project.

For developers, it signals that transparency is becoming another point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

Buyers are asking more questions than ever before and increasingly expecting independent information, not just marketing material, before making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.

<img alt="iCIRT" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="958e1497-8151-4689-aadc-baf59f6e6122" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.png?VersionId=7KyVcwSo4vCLXBYBdq382e3Si.R.9PWQ" />

<hr data-end="6469" data-start="6466" />
The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal, financial, legal or tax advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

This article contains links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Equifax Australia does not control and is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of external sites.

Copyright © 2026 Equifax Australia Information Services and Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Buying off-the-plan in Melbourne? How independent iCIRT ratings are set to change Victorian property

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of auction results in Brisbane for the weekend of June 22. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Brisbane.pdf" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

APM's Brisbane auction results for June 22 weekend

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 278 auctions in Melbourne for the weekend of  June 22. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Melbourne.pdf" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

APM's Melbourne auction results for June 22 weekend

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 347 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of June 22. The clearance rate was 4.7%. <a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

APM's Sydney's 347 auction results show a 74.7% clearance rate

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A 22% rise in the number of new houses and apartment built is anticipated in Greater Brisbane over the next year.

Almost 3,000 more new dwellings are expected to commence being built over the next 12 months than the previous 12 months, according to forecasts from BIS Shrapnel.
In total, 15,859 new house and apartments are expected to be built in the Greater Brisbane area in 2013/14 compared with 12,963 in 2012/13.
Brisbane will pick up the slack from Melbourne, the now declining, but still the epicentre of new dwelling construction in Australia.
Melbourne dwelling starts are forecast to fall 18% from 38,471 new homes under construction in 2012/13 to 31,423 in 2013/14.
This is still greater - for now - than Sydney, which is forecast to manage a solid 10% growth in residential starts rising from 26,806 dwellings to 29,360.
Much of the new construction in Brisbane will be focused on apartments projects in the inner city with <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/brisbane-apartment-market-heats-up-as-more-buyers-choose-apartments-over-houses-terry-ryder-hotspotting/2013060561953">hotspotting.com.au’s Terry Ryder</a> writing earlier this month that two new reports by Place Advisory and Colliers International confirm that off-the-plan sales in the March quarter were the highest since September 2004, boosted by the release of six new projects.
Place Advisory records 625 off-the-plan sales in inner Brisbane in the March quarter – double the number in the December 2012 quarter, 40% up on the same quarter last year.
In Queensland, the pick-up in residential building is not confined to the capital city, with a number of lifestyle locations such as Wide Bay and Toowoomba, a property investment hotspot, also included in the Top 20 residential building growth markets.
<img width="470" height="474" src="/images/stories/2013/larry_uploads/dwellings_up.jpg" alt="dwellings_up">
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
"The Wide Bay region lies just above the Sunshine Coast and includes the major regional cities of Bundaberg, Gympie, Hervey Bay and Maryborough. The region is a lifestyle location with tourism being a key industry in the local economy,” says Kim Hawtrey, associate Director of BIS Shrapnel. “We expect continued strong economic activity to drive a pick up in home construction in regions such as Wide Bay (forecast to be up 16%) and Toowoomba (up 12%) in 2013/14 and beyond.”
Greater Brisbane ranks 10th overall among residential building hotspots over the next 12 months, but is by far the biggest market in the top 20.
Other notable larger markets expected to experience strong growth in residential dwelling construction include Bunbury in WA (up 27%) and Newcastle and Lake Macquarie (up 19%).
The pick-up in Bunbury, the Wheat Belt (forecast to grow by 29%), Esperance (+27%) are part of a building focus shift “strongly towards the southern half of the state, especially the south west corner”.
“Bunbury, Esperance and the Wheat Belt cover the south-west corner of the state, including the Margaret River wine region and Manjimup,” says Hawtrey. “The area includes a number of manufacturing operations as well as a local tourism industry and a lifestyle component of demand. A new rail link to Mandurah is promising to open up the region.”
By comparison, the resources-rich Pilbara region is set to undergo a significant residential building correction as the mining investment boom peaks with a forecast 36% drop in dwelling commencements in 2013/14.
<img width="470" height="472" src="/images/stories/2013/larry_uploads/dwellings_down.jpg" alt="dwellings_down">
Other towns tied to mining that are expected to undergo a residential construction slowdown include the Kimberley region (-22%), Greater Darwin (-12%) and Mackay (-8%) in Queensland.
While a relatively tiny market by comparison to Brisbane and Sydney, Coffs Harbour will undergo a mini-residential building boom with a forecast 52% rise in dwelling commencements over the next 12 months.
“Coffs Harbour-Grafton hugs the coast towards the north of New South Wales, sandwiched between Richmond-Tweed and the Mid-North Coast. It has an older age profile, with a median age of 44 compared to 38 across the state as a whole, and has a significant lifestyle and retiree component to demand,” says Hawtrey.
 
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Brisbane to lead residential construction pick-up as Melbourne and Pilbara region contract: BIS Shrapnel

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I was reading an article last week in Technology Spectator – <a title="Going native in search of an online ad antidote " href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2013/6/20/technology/going-native-search-online-ad-antidote" target="_blank">Going native in search of an online ad antidote </a>which immediately had me thinking. “They say that for change to occur in an industry or an organisation three things must happen.”
“One, the organisation or industry must be dissatisfied with the current conditions. Two, an appropriate alternative must exist. Three, the organisation or industry must believe in their capabilities to implement this alternative.”
My mind went back the ‘’recession we had to have” in the early 1990s, the real estate industry was severely impacted due to our inability to communicate because of the high cost of print advertising. The birth of the online revolution (internet) in the mid-1990s has significantly changed how we communicate today, we now promote our businesses and products much more cost effectively through this online medium. Some businesses adopted this change with more vigour and passion, like most things there are the leaders and the followers.
So it should not be that disconcerting to then read that <a title="Saul Eslake joins the recessionista " href="https://www.macrobusiness.com.au/2013/06/saul-eslake-joins-the-recessionista/" target="_blank">Saul Eslake joins the recessionista </a>where he put the odds of Australia slipping into recession in the second half of 2015 at 25%, with an expectation that gross domestic product will rise one per cent in 2015 and shrink 0.1% the following year.
<a title="Australia not heading into recession, says Clyne" href="https://www.smh.com.au/business/markets/australia-not-heading-into-recession-says-clyne-20130617-2odem" target="_blank">Australia not heading into recession, says Clyne</a> “business confidence remained low, with companies holding back investment plans. One bright spot remains consumer confidence which was holding up. “Consumer confidence is less of a problem than business confidence,” Mr Clyne said.“Generally there is always an uptick in consumer confidence after an election”. “Because by definition the party that wins, most people voted for and they feel good about the outcome.”
I guess having Australia’s longest ever election is only compounding the problem. As I have written on many occasions the Australian economy is recalibrating as <a title="Aust dollar drops below 93 cents" href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/news/2013/6/20/australian-dollar/aust-dollar-holds-below-93-us-cents" target="_blank">Aust dollar drops below 93 cents</a> which then brought about an immediate warning <a title="prices to soar as dollar falls, economists and retailers warn " href="https://www.smh.com.au/business/prices-to-soar-as-dollar-falls-economists-and-retailers-warn-20130620-2okqv" target="_blank">prices to soar as dollar falls, economists and retailers warn </a>the days of cheap overseas travel and attractive online prices are over. Petrol, whitegoods and electronic equipment prices are expected to rise by up to 10%. I’m not sure what this will do for consumer confidence?
<a title="Dollar’s decline sends a clear warning" href="https://www.businessspectator.com.au/article/2013/6/20/economy/dollar%E2%80%99s-decline-sends-clear-warning" target="_blank">Dollar’s decline sends a clear warning</a> – “World markets are warning Australians that the glory days are over and that we must start the painful adjustment process. The good news is that in many diverse areas Australians are showing signs that they are prepared to adapt.” Adapting is the key ingredient as our economy changes although it would come as no surprise if the mining industry experienced a turn-around following the election of a new government.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/06/simeonjune24one.jpg" width="470" height="392" alt="simeonjune24one">
<img src="/images/stories/2013/06/simeonjune24two.jpg" width="470" height="217" alt="simeonjune24two">
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<a title="Overvalued, unaffordable property keeping first-home buyers on the sidelines: QBE LMI survey" href="/news" target="_blank">Overvalued, unaffordable property keeping first-home buyers on the sidelines: QBE LMI survey</a>. I must admit I have never been a fan of these grants and I remember an analogy that it is like “throwing lollies onto a highway”. What we are seeing within the property industry is a severe shortage of stock, in Mosman, Cremorne and Neutral Bay there are just 87 houses on the market and 96 apartments. These figures are almost 50% down on previous years and the markets remain in conservative mode although the market up to $2.500 million is very strong.
One of the obvious reasons as to why the property markets have plateaued is that unlike previous years, capital appreciation in property no longer exists. Fundamentally, consumers were all over property simply because prices were constantly increasing where today the markets (houses especially) have been in a reverse swing. This also means that the previous tax-free capital gains in trading property are for the moment a thing of the past.
That’s not to say that it won’t happen again, our property markets are just taking their time adapting to the new market conditions. The positive is that vendors are not panicking, this is obvious when analysing the stock levels which continue to drop – although it should be noted that this is a seasonal transformation.
Source: Australian Property Monitors
MOSMAN – 2088
• Number of houses on the market this time 2012 – 85
• Number of houses on the market last week – 76
• Number of houses on the market this week – 71
• Number of apartments on the market this time 2012 – 89
• Number of apartments on the market last week – 60
• Number of apartments on the market this week – 56
CREMORNE – 2090
• Number of houses on the market this time 2012 – 14
• Number of houses on the market last week – 9
• Number of houses on the market this week – 7
• Number of apartments on the market this time 2012 – 20
• Number of apartments on the market last week – 9
• Number of apartments on the market this week – 7
NEUTRAL BAY – 2089
• Number of houses on the market this time 2012 – 17
• Number of houses on the market last week – 13
• Number of houses on the market this week – 9
• Number of apartments on the market this time 2012 – 50
• Number of apartments on the market last week – 34
• Number of apartments on the market this week – 33
Last week, I predicted a political spill (I was a week ahead of myself) I still believe it will happen during the course of the week.
When we enter the colder months it is the perfect time to roll-out new online platforms and get rid of all the associated bugs before the market heats-up again and the peak selling markets reappear. It is all about adapting to new market conditions and having the latest and best technologies behind your brand; it is definitely the way to go.
Robert Simeon is a director of <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/" title="RWM">Richardson  Wrench Mosman and Neutral Bay </a>and has been selling residential real estate in Sydney since 1985. He has also been writing real estate blog <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.rwm.com.au/news/" title="Virtual Realty News">Virtual Realty News</a> since 2000. The RWM real estate model has sold in excess of $1 billion in database sales globally.
 
 
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robertsimeon-hRNTwJyXkQ

Tax-free capital gains in trading property are for the moment a thing of the past: Robert Simeon

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Focusing on the height of a new development has become somewhat of a sport in Melbourne of late. Yesterday was no exception with the Associate Editor of The Age Shane Green writing a column titled <a href="http://www.theage.com.au/comment/highrise-utopia-or-another-pieinthesky-pipe-dream-20130621-2oo4s">High-rise utopia or another pie-in-the-sky pipe dream?</a>

In it, Green states "The real risk he [Planning Minister Matthew Guy] faces is that this [Fishermans Bend] will be another Docklands - our last big urban renewal idea that was so poorly executed that it has become a case study in what not to do, and a byword for unmet potential". Notwithstanding the organisation Green works for has been every much a part of the real problem with Docklands (Fairfax's Media House like many other new Docklands / CBD fringe offices - we call them groundscrapers - consume more land than an office skyscraper in an attempt to flatten organisational hierarchies yet these buildings occupy prime sites which are for the most part inactive outside of normal business hours), the comparison of the supposed non-success of Docklands and his main point "there are early signs it will be a place where high-rise is king, in keeping with the government's love affair of all things tall in the rest of Melbourne" is dubious at best.

I know Apartments.com.au has only been live since March, but like the comment I made at the time in response to the op-ed written by ABC producer Daniel Ziffer and published in The Age a few weeks ago (<a href="/expert-insights/buying/melbournes-future-a-sip-of-tsim-sha-tsui-and-a-gulp-of-brooklyn">my response</a>, <a href="/news/caroline-springs-in-the-sky#content">response by Nick Harrison</a>), I'd like to point out Green's statement "in keeping with the government's love affair of all things tall in the rest of Melbourne" can be negated by spending just a few short minutes on our <a href="/developments">project database</a>. The "rest of Melbourne" has a very healthy mix (in built-form, use and height) of urban developments proposed, before planning authorities (local and state), at sales or under construction.

<h2>Human scale means different things to different people</h2>

Green needs to define what "human scale" means to him and what exactly his definition of a high-rise is otherwise the debate about our future development is going to be muddled in a large cacophony of hurbis. Quoting trusty (tongue-in-cheek intended) old <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_scale#Human_scale_in_architecture">Wikipedia</a>:

<blockquote>
Humans also interact with their environments based on their sensory capabilities. The fields of human perception systems, like perceptual psychology and cognitive psychology, are not exact sciences, because human information processing is not a purely physical act, and because perception is affected by cultural factors, personal preferences, experiences, and expectations. So human scale in architecture can also describe buildings with sightlines, acoustic properties, task lighting, ambient lighting, and spatial grammar that fit well with human senses. However, one important caveat is that human perceptions are always going to be less predictable and less measurable than physical dimensions.
<cite><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_scale#Human_scale_in_architecture">Wikipedia: Human scale</a></cite>
</blockquote>

Focusing on the cultural factors, personal preferences, experiences and expectations part of the quote above - we have a problem in Melbourne with regards to our shift toward a higher-density future. Like many Anglosphere cities, we are overwhelmingly suburban and we've had at least 3 generations of people growing up with cars as their primary mode of transport. "Human Scale" to many of the good burghers of Melbourne will mean the single family dwelling on its own land title with distant retail, employment and social destinations. If we only frame the future urban development debate around this mindset we are going to shoot ourselves in the foot.

Further quoting the same Wikipedia page:

<blockquote>
Human scale in architecture is deliberately violated for monumental effect. Buildings, statues, and memorials are constructed in a scale larger than life as a social/cultural signal that the subject matter is also larger than life.
<cite><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Human_scale#Human_scale_in_architecture">Wikipedia: Human scale</a></cite>
</blockquote>

In 1889, the <a href="http://www.walkingmelbourne.com/building3_apa-building-the-australian-building">APA Building</a> was completed and with its completion a title of being one of the world's tallest skyscrapers at the time. Can you imagine what Melburnians thought back then? A new 12 level building towering over everything else when the majority of the Hoddle Grid was in the 4-5 level range? The gall of it all, stop the press we have a crisis on our hands! Fast forward more than a century, design, construction and overall engineering capability has evolved to allow us create buildings such as Eureka and Rialto and with it, theoretically, our sense of what human scale means. These two towers are the leaders of the pack, they are not the norm and we shouldn't expect Fishermans Bend to be entirely comprised of buildings in this height range.

<h2>A modern story of progress, focusing on where all humans interact: the street</h2>

Back on the 2nd of April we reported on a planning application which depicts 3 high-rises sitting atop an active podium which would be completely out of place in the adjacent Southbank precinct. Why? Because the architect has taken a leaf out of the City of Port Phillip Montague structure plan and incorporated the design principles for streets and public areas. It's hard not to have high hopes for the wider precinct when <a href="/news/planning-application-123-125-montague-st-south-melbourne">123-125 Montague Street</a> has a strong focus on providing non-residential spaces to an area which is currently semi-industrial - new residents in the podium and towers above and the wider precinct, as it is developed, will benefit immensely from the mooted supermarket space and 16 other retail spaces at ground level.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2s9t1et.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Ground landscape plan with ground floor uses © Peddle Thorp architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/2s9t1et.jpg?itok=cOzCIMZx" title="Ground landscape plan with ground floor uses © Peddle Thorp architects" typeof="Image"></a>

<figcaption>Ground landscape plan with ground floor uses © Peddle Thorp architects</figcaption></figure>Peddle Thorp have also incorporated a public laneway - attempted in Docklands, unheard of in Southbank - right through the middle of the site which can conceivably be the start of a network throughout other sites to the north and south.

The podiums have engaging facades which will wrap around the entire site allowing the car parks located behind them internally to be "out of sight, out of mind" (as they should be) - this concept is not new and has been deployed in many new developments in Docklands and Southbank.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2s9t1et.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Engaging podium facade and calm street - exactly what we want for Fishermans Bend © Peddle Thorp architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/Image4.jpg" style="height: 429px; width: 702px;" title="Engaging podium facade and calm street - exactly what we want for Fishermans Bend © Peddle Thorp architects"></a>

<figcaption>Engaging podium facade and calm street - exactly what we want for Fishermans Bend © Peddle Thorp architects</figcaption></figure>Here's the current view looking East along Thistlethwaite Street

<iframe frameborder="0" height="400" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="https://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&amp;source=embed&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=&amp;q=Montague+Street,+South+Melbourne,+Victoria&amp;aq=0&amp;oq=Montague+Street&amp;sll=-37.860283,145.079616&amp;sspn=1.875722,4.22699&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;hq=&amp;hnear=Montague+St,+South+Melbourne+Victoria+3205&amp;t=m&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=-37.831717,144.951339&amp;panoid=4l6jSwe6j5WW0l5bO4LxUQ&amp;cbp=13,55.19,,0,-0.35&amp;ll=-37.839479,144.951382&amp;spn=0.027113,0.06094&amp;z=14&amp;output=svembed" width="702"></iframe>

<a href="https://maps.google.com.au/maps?f=q&amp;source=embed&amp;hl=en&amp;geocode=&amp;q=Montague+Street,+South+Melbourne,+Victoria&amp;aq=0&amp;oq=Montague+Street&amp;sll=-37.860283,145.079616&amp;sspn=1.875722,4.22699&amp;ie=UTF8&amp;hq=&amp;hnear=Montague+St,+South+Melbourne+Victoria+3205&amp;t=m&amp;layer=c&amp;cbll=-37.831717,144.951339&amp;panoid=4l6jSwe6j5WW0l5bO4LxUQ&amp;cbp=13,55.19,,0,-0.35&amp;ll=-37.839479,144.951382&amp;spn=0.027113,0.06094&amp;z=14">View Larger Map</a>

And this, straight from the planning application, is what Peddle Thorp have put forward for Thistlethwaite Street of the future, noting:

<ul>
<li>the strong emphasis on providing places for people to sit and converse with each other - you can't do that on City Road or Queensbridge Street.</li>
	<li>the significant reduction in space available for vehicular traffic which will calm the street even after new residents move in allowing dedicated bike lanes and urban greenery to become a signature piece of the street - you won't find that in Southbank when you step back from the Yarra promenade.</li>
</ul>
<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2s9t1et.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Proposed Thistlethwaite Street cross-section © Peddle Thorp architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/Image15.jpg" style="width: 702px; height: 353px;" title="Proposed Thistlethwaite Street cross-section © Peddle Thorp architects"></a>

<figcaption>Proposed Thistlethwaite Street cross-section © Peddle Thorp architects</figcaption></figure><figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/2s9t1et.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Thistlethwaite Street - Peddle Thorp's vision © Peddle Thorp architects"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/Image1_0.jpg" style="width: 702px; height: 431px;" title="Thistlethwaite Street - Peddle Thorp's vision © Peddle Thorp architects"></a>

<figcaption>Thistlethwaite Street - Peddle Thorp's vision © Peddle Thorp architects</figcaption></figure>Here's the issue: Shane Green was oversimplifying what expanding the Capital City Zone means when he stated "the minister will be responsible for approving plans for projects over a certain size - high-rises". You will note I have intentionally left out the renders of the towers associated with this proposal (you can view them in the <a href="/news/planning-application-123-125-montague-st-south-melbourne">original article</a>) for the simple purpose of highlighting: attractive, calm, urban streets and high-rises are not mutually exclusive. High-rises are very much a part of the solution for housing a growing population in appropriate areas - and I can't think of a more appropriate area than blank canvas Fishermans Bend - because at the end of the day, if you get the most important aspect of redevelopment right - the public realm - its attractiveness will lure people regardless of the usual negative connotations associated with high-rises: some overshadowing at certain times of the day and wind tunnel creation.

Just look at Queensbridge Square and Freshwater Place, an area prone to large wind gusts created by the towers behind and the East End of Collins Street which is perpetually in shadow throughout the day - both hyper-density precincts with a lot of localised activity owing to the attractive public realm created over the years.

The recently released <a href="/news/gazing-into-the-fishermans-bend-transport-crystal-ball">PTV plan</a> shows a rail line entering Fishermans Bend linking it with the CBD and the rest of the rail network which in turn will support residential and employment densities in the redevelopment zone well beyond the 200 people per hectare figure Green states in his comment piece. I believe the State Government was right to expand the Capital City Zone to Fishermans Bend with one caveat, and mentioned by The Age's Associate Editor, the structure plan should force all new development in the Fishermans Bend zone to have a strong public realm emphasis like 123-125 Montague Street does, and developers should be free to incorporate a diversity heights in their developments, excluding transition areas.

We should never aim to plan ourselves into a restrictive corner - we must resist the temptation to oversimplify what's actually happening and we must also not restrict architectural diversity via arbitrary height limits in areas which scream for more diversity - as they say in the financial world and how 123-125 Montague Street superbly illustrates: past performance is not necessarily an indicator for the future.
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Alastair Taylor

High-rises can work with the public realm

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Despite hesitant buyer pre-auction manoeuvring, the injured Wests Tigers champion Braith Anasta and his actor wife Jodi Gordon secured $1,855,000 when their four-bedroom, two-bathroom Clovelly home went to weekend auction.

Initially <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/braith-anasta-and-jodi-gordon-list-clovelly-home-weststigers/2013060261856">more than $1.8 million </a>was being suggested for the two-storey semi, but the agents then adjusted their marketing to $1.7 million plus.
Agents hoped the lowering of the price guide would introduce stronger competition in the lead-up to the auction.
It was bought for $1,805,000 in 2011 by Anasta, so the sale price represents a loss after expenses including $84,000 purchase stamp duty.
It had sold previously at $1.76 million in 2009.
RP Data gives Clovelly's median house price as $1.365 million, down 9.8% over the past year.
Its down 3.8% over the past five years, according to RP Data.
Its purchase by Anaasta was funded when the then Sydney Roosters captain sold a Malabar investment property for $1.32 million in early 2011.
It sold through his estate agent brother Damon Anasta at McGrath Coogee inconjunction with his colleague, Mark McPherson.
Its initial price hopes were based on a Winchester Road semi that sold recently at $1.85 million.
<a target="_blank" href="/news">The average discounting required of private treaty vendors is typically around 10% to secure a sale</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Braith Anasta and Jodi Gordon escape Clovelly downturn with $1,855,000 sale

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The long-held Surry Hills headquarters and vehicle rank of Legion Cabs has sold under the hammer for $18 million with more than 200 people attending today’s auction at the Ray White auction room in Sydney. 
It was bought by the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/the-carlton-at-vaucluse-at-halfway-sales-mark/2012091356563" target="_blank">RDA Property Group</a> (part of the Discovery Group)  which developed the 14-apartment boutique development Carlton at Vaucluse under the stewardship of Danny Avidan.
Legion Cabs has owned and occupied the 1,370 square metre property at 69-81 Foveaux St for more than 50 years. 
It paid 50,000 pounds for it in 1961.
The taxi business decided to sell after committing to new headquarters in Wolli Creek and will be making the move over the next 12 months. 
It represents one of Surry Hills' largest ready-to-develop sites with flexible zoning permitting a range of uses and is likely to make way for either a residential or office development. 
Bidding started at $9.88 million with three parties pushing the price quickly beyond $13 million. 
Auctioneer James Price sold the property at $18 million. 
Pre-auction expectations were above $10 million. 
Maroun Ajaka of Legion Cabs said the co-op "very pleased with the result which will no doubt benefit our members (shareholders)"
“There’s a lot of history, we’ve been there exactly 50 years. and the company has been around for 66 years.”
The property was exclusively marketed by Ray White director Dan White, Andrew Jolliffe of Ray White Hotels and Marcello Bo of Ray White Projects. 
“Under the new Sydney local environment plan (LEP), the site can be developed for a whole range of uses including a residential development, an educational institution or corporate headquarters. It could also be developed into a hotel or pub,” said Dan White. 
“It’s in a fantastic location, close to Central Station and the city. As we expected the site has attracted a lot of interest.”
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Auction of Surry Hills Legion Cabs rank site draws a crowd and sells to apartment developer for $18 million

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This week I’m grateful for a fabulous team that I can trust and who I know are doing their absolute best for our business and clients.
Being brought up by a loving and religious mother (dad kind of stayed clear of this ‘emotional’ stuff), gratitude was one of the many virtues I learnt as kid.
After finishing school and working just long enough to save what I needed, I boarded my first aeroplane and flew to Europe.
I backpacked around the world for a couple of years. Coming home to a loving family and securing a great job that was the start of a 10-year career, I remember saying to myself: "How lucky am I, what a fabulous life I’m leading".
It was true, as I experienced life, I came across people who led far less fortune lives than me and who were working on themselves to try and move on from some terrible experiences. That made me more grateful.
As I grew my business and started a family, I came to realise that gratitude is a very important business and personal trait. So I thought we could look at this today in relation to property investing and developing.
A quick internet search delivers a brief yet I think, accurate meaning: ‘Gratitude, thankfulness, gratefulness, or appreciation is a feeling or attitude in acknowledgment of a benefit that one has received or will receive.’
In my day to day dealings I always try to thank people I interact with. It's good manners but also so important as you build relationships. My theory is to be nice and others will be nice back. It doesn’t always work but that’s the fun part.
I can still hear my mum saying "if you haven’t got anything nice to say, say nothing at all" ...and I’ve already started using this on my kids.
Sure, you will think a lot of non-positive thoughts during your day, but if you can manage your thoughts and deal with people with gratitude then I believe it will get you further than those who stamp their feet and who are rude and negative.
My husband used to call me ‘Mary Poppins’ - always so cheerful. I have to admit that these days, Mary may have left the building but I do strive to be as positive as possible.  It makes me feel good to be happy, it’s contagious and those you deal with may just reflect your mood.
If you’re in a bad mood, don’t take it out on others - that’s just selfish and lots of people fall into this trap.  But once you stop being selfish you appreciate other people and therefore appreciate when they do something nice hence you can be grateful. Gratitude can motivate the recipient to seek out their benefactor and to improve their relationship with them.
According to my internet source wikipedia.org, grateful people are happier, less depressed, less stressed, and more satisfied with their lives and social relationships. Grateful people also have higher levels of control of their environments, personal growth, purpose in life, and self acceptance.
Grateful people have more positive ways of coping with the difficulties they experience in life, being more likely to seek support from other people, reinterpret and grow from the experience, and spend more time planning how to deal with the problem.
I find it helpful to be thankful for negative things (when you can!). The other week I was pulled over for speeding, as I waited for the police officer to approach my car, all sorts of things flew through my mind...”shall I mention my brother is a senior sergeant in the hope he’ll let me off?
I used to do that but now I’m more responsible...or shall I try and make an excuse?  I did neither, instead I apologised for going too fast and after I was issued my ticket and drove off, I thanked the Universe for the lesson. I shouldn’t have been speeding, it was my own fault, I take full responsibility and this was a lesson to learn – a $243 lesson at that.
So as you proceed with your property investments and research, be thankful for what you’ve discovered along the way. Offer a small word of thanks, or send a card or leave a message for those who have helped you; your accountant, financier, solicitor, real estate agent and your tenant whose rent is helping pay for your investment.  You may find that gratitude will be returned to you sometime soon in the way of a fabulous investment opportunity.
Jo Chivers is director of <a style="font-size: 14px;" title="Property Bloom" href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Property Bloom</a>, which manages property development.
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jochivers-wq5Bp59R5a

Be grateful for what you discover on your property investment journey: Jo Chivers

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Melbourne property developer Deal Corporation recently embarked on its $100 million project, Kubix.
It's been touted to offer a new way of living in Knox - assisting in helping to stop migration to the inner and middle ring suburbs.
<img alt="kubixjune18one" height="403" width="578" src="/images/stories/2013/06/kubixjune18one.jpg">
Located opposite the Westfield Knox Shopping Centre on the Stud Rd and Burwood Highway intersection in Wantirna South, the development will comprise of a three building complex with 236 apartments.
Designed by the award-winning Fender Katsalidis Architects who designed Melbourne’s Eureka Tower, <a href="https://www.kubix.com.au/" target="_blank">Kubix is expected to be a landmark development for the region</a>.
Already some 40% of stage one has been sold, Michael Radcliffe of DealCorp told Property Observer, with the display suite set to be open late June 2013, while completion is likely to be in early 2015.
<img alt="kubixjune18two" height="403" width="365" src="/images/stories/2013/06/kubixjune18two.jpg">
“Kubix was designed to appeal to one of the most rapidly emerging trends in the region – the rise of couple or single person households,” Deal Corporation managing director David Kobritz said.
The development is also designed to appeal to people downsizing from traditional homes as well as people looking to remain in the local market and young professionals living and working in the area.
Kobritz said buyer demand has been strong with construction of the first stage of the complex due to start within months following a short sales campaign. With very few large developments slated for construction, demand for smaller apartments was not being met by supply.
<img alt="kubixjune18four" height="328" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/kubixjune18four.jpg">
According to data from the 2011 Census, over 26,000 Knox households had either one or two residents.
In addition, flats, units and apartments only account for 3.7 per cent of housing in Knox, with only 2053 units out of a total of over 55,000 private dwellings in the area.
Between 2006 to 2011, over 20,000 residents moved out of the City of Knox to other parts of Victoria, according to data from the Census of Population and Housing.
Kobritz suspected many people were moving because of the lack of diversity in housing options.
“The total number of apartments in Kubix will provide for just 1% of the potential population suited to apartment living so we see it as a development perfectly timed for today’s new housing options,” he said.
He said other medium density developments in Knox tended to be in-fill projects in traditional residential areas, while Kubix would offer spectacular views and provide a whole new perspective on the region.
Kobritz believes the development is also a suitable alternative for the university student housing market, therefore suiting both investors and owner-occupiers.
While Knox is widely regarded as a family suburb, Deal Corp believes there is an emerging market segment looking to downsize to a secure and convenient apartment lifestyle while remaining in the Wantirna/Knox area.
Kobritz said the trend toward apartment living was spreading out from the inner city but this was the first time it had crossed the Eastlink.
Kubix is located near five golf courses, and is also close to freeways for access to the Mornington Peninsula and the CBD.
Apartments are priced between $310,000 and $535,000.
Stage one of the development will comprise 82 one and two bedroom residences over 9 levels, complete with secure basement parking and storage.
Already some 40% of stage one has been sold, according to the website, with the display suite set to be open late June 2013, while completion is likely to be in early 2015.
According to the <a href="/news">latest report by RP Data</a>, the median sale price for units in Wantirna South is $415,000, up 5.1% on last year. The average discount required to sell a unit is 7.8%, while private treaty sales usually average 44 days on market.
The median asking rent for units is $370 a week, while average rental yield stands at 4.6%.
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