IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Joel Robinson

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

When the opportunity arose for South Australian developer Palumbo to return to Kent Town, where it had previously delivered East Park Apartments and the East 
Rundle Apartments, it wasn't one the longstanding developer-builder was going to pass up.

The decision was quickly vindicated, with more than 30 apartments sold within the first month of launching <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/royal-apartments-kent-town-2-8-north-terrace-kent-town-sa-5067">Royal Apartments</a> to the market.

The 206-apartment development, which will bring significant new supply to Adelaide's tightly held eastern city fringe, also gives <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/palumbo">Palumbo</a> the opportunity to bring new life to one of Kent Town's most recognisable watering holes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376073]

Royal Apartments incorporates the historic Royal Hotel, a venue Palumbo Managing Director Daniel Palumbo said has a longstanding connection with the local community.

"Everyone in the area has history with the Royal Hotel," Palumbo told Apartments.com.au.

"It was quite an active pub and social gathering place for locals. We want to bring it back to its former glory."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376072]

The wider development will comprise two residential towers alongside the restored hotel, sitting on North Terrace opposite the Adelaide Park Lands.

For Palumbo, the project also marks a return to familiar territory.

The developer completed East Park Apartments next door more than a decade ago and jumped at the opportunity to develop in Kent Town again when the Royal Hotel site became available.

"The opportunity emerged, and we moved to secure the site," Palumbo said.

"We were approached by the previous landowner, who said they had extensive commitments in Sydney and weren't in a position to deliver the project.

"We took over the site and within six months recut the design scheme to be more in keeping with the type of development we want to bring to Adelaide.

"Now we're on the market and those changes have really resonated with local buyers."

That has translated into a strong start to sales, with 33 apartments transacting in the project's first 35 days.

Palumbo said the early purchaser profile had been consistent with the group's traditional focus on owner-occupiers rather than investor-led apartment stock.

"Local owner-occupiers have always been our market," he said.

"There are always some investors, but we've never developed what would be called traditional development stock. Owner-occupiers are very much our market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376068]

The buyer mix has been diverse so far, with downsizers and younger professionals both accounting for a significant portion of early sales.

South Australia's current stamp duty settings, which allow&nbsp;eligible homeowners in South Australia aged 60 savings of up to $103,830 on stamp duty when they downsize to a new property valued at up to $2 million,&nbsp;have helped encourage downsizer activity, while younger buyers in their late 20s and early 30s have been attracted to the opportunity to live immediately outside the CBD while still being able to walk into the city.



Location has been a major part of the proposition for both buyer cohorts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376075]

Royal Apartments sits on North Terrace directly opposite the Adelaide Park Lands, with residents able to walk through the parklands toward the East End, Rundle Street and Rundle Mall.

Apartments have been positioned to capture views across the parklands, Adelaide skyline, Botanic Gardens and Adelaide Hills.

Palumbo believes the scarcity of developable land along this section of the Park Lands makes the site particularly difficult to replicate.

"There's very few allotments on that side that can be developed," he said.

"If this location was in New York and you were sitting on Central Park, you'd be talking about a $60 million apartments."

Royal Apartments will offer a broad mix of residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.

Current listings include one-bedroom apartments from $680,000, while larger three and four-bedroom residences are priced around $2.5 million.

Residents will have access to a swimming pool, gym, barbecue and recreation areas, residents' lounge and dining space, and a communal deck.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6109 project_image_fid=376067]

The apartments will feature generous balconies, while secure parking, bicycle storage and storage cages will also be provided.

A porte-cochère-style arrival and drop-off area has also resonated with buyers, particularly those attracted to being able to walk into the CBD during the day while retaining secure vehicle access at home.

Palumbo is acting as developer, architect and builder on Royal Apartments, continuing the vertically integrated model it has used across its South Australian portfolio.

The group was also behind the $150 million Sofitel Adelaide, the 251-room five-star hotel and residential tower which opened in 2021.

Palumbo said Royal's launch had come at an interesting time for the broader Adelaide apartment market.

Buyer confidence had initially been impacted by uncertainty surrounding the Federal Budget and broader economic conditions, but Palumbo believes sentiment is beginning to improve against a backdrop of significant investment flowing into South Australia.

He pointed to increased activity across defence and resources, including Olympic Dam, as potential long-term drivers of the state's economy and housing market.

"Money is starting to flow into Adeliade, significant amounts as Adelaide bucks the trend of the rest of the country.," Palumbo said.

"There's a lot of activity in the economy over the next decade. I think more investment will come into this market."

Early works on Royal Apartments are expected to commence this year, with major construction activity and cranes anticipated on site from early next year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6109]

Palumbo's return to Kent Town strikes early chord with buyers

Go-to builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">GRAYA</a> is continuing to bulk out its already impressive and diverse apartment portfolio across South East Queensland. Their latest milestone is securing development approval for Silk, its boutique riverfront apartment development in St Lucia.

The approval clears&nbsp;the way for the team to begin construction planning for the 22-residence project.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/silk-st-lucia-16-18-sandford-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">Silk</a> will rise 15 levels from an 810 sqm site at 16-18 Sandford Street, occupying a prominent bend of the Brisbane River with a prized northern aspect across Orleigh Park toward the Brisbane CBD.

The approved scheme will comprise 16 split-floor and six full-floor residences, continuing GRAYA's move into larger-format apartment developments targeting Brisbane's prestige owner-occupier market.

The project has been designed around the site's broad river frontage and dual-direction views, with GRAYA prioritising larger residences, privacy and outlook over apartment yield.

<img alt="Silk St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa5c2349-f96c-4914-a812-1f2cd6827af8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%208.25.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=WY0vEU_7vYjeRJKQHiCwFdMxu8PvFh52" />

GRAYA Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Rob Gray said the project had been shaped around local homeowners wanting to remain in St Lucia without maintaining a traditional family home.

"St Lucia is one of those suburbs people do not want to leave," Gray said.

"They know the river, the trees, UQ, the golf course, Toowong and Indooroopilly, and that familiarity is hard to replace.

"True riverfront opportunities here are exceptionally scarce. What we have designed at Silk is a way to stay in the suburb people love, with the scale and privacy of a private home and far less to maintain.

"This is not typical apartment product. It is a proper home on the river, and that is exactly what this market has been missing."

The approval comes as new apartment development continues to increase across the St Lucia and neighbouring Toowong corridor, although direct riverfront sites remain considerably more tightly held.

GRAYA Co-founder and Managing Director Andrew Gray said securing the approval had removed a significant element of development risk from Silk.

"Genuine riverfront sites of this quality in St Lucia are not something that comes up regularly," Gray said.

"The approval removes a substantial layer of execution risk, and the location underwrites demand in a way very few inner-city sites can.

"The fundamentals here are as strong as anything we have assessed in Brisbane."

<img alt="Silk St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d0f3d734-65e1-48e8-8ed3-2e0715ffcdd9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%208.25.56%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sOLSs_jdHkXLWbBKzRyayf5BfTb2vPsD" />

Silk will see GRAYA return to a stretch of the Brisbane River where it already has recent construction experience. The vertically integrated group recently completed ARC in neighbouring Toowong as builder for developer Spyre, delivering the riverfront project on a constrained site.

GRAYA will take a different role at Silk, controlling the project from design and development through construction and aftercare under its vertically integrated model.

The development will include a gym and resident leisure areas at ground level, integrated with the river's edge.

Silk joins a growing pipeline for GRAYA across Brisbane and the Gold Coast, which includes Enclave, The Gallery, Coral and Ripple.

The developer-builder has also recently lodged plans for its largest project to date, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-silo-19-chester-street-newstead-qld-4006">The Silo</a>, a proposed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/graya-buys-frasers-newstead-site-plans-the-silo-between-james-street-and-gasworks-precincts">$700 million mixed-use development</a> in Brisbane's James Street precinct.

Silk is expected to predominantly target local owner-occupiers and prestige buyers seeking a permanent riverfront home in Brisbane's inner west.

Registrations of interest are now open, with further details on the project and construction program to be released as it progresses.

<hr />
<h2>SILK PROJECT FACTS</h2>

Developer-builder: GRAYA

Project: Silk

Location: 16-18 Sandford Street, St Lucia

Apartments: 22

Built form: 15 levels

Site: 810 sqm riverfront holding

Mix: 16 split-floor and six full-floor residences

Status: Development approved

Next step: Construction planning underway

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152168]

GRAYA greenlit for riverfront St Lucia apartment development, Silk

Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378718]

Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

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?

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.

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.

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.

Find out how to get iCIRT rated <a href="https://www.icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.pdf">here</a>.

<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>
As Australian operators prepare for the year ahead, IBISWorld unveils its annual list of the top five industries set to soar in 2013, and the five expected to sink.
 
<h2>Industries to fly</h2>
1. Oil and gas production
Forecast to grow by 15.9% to reach $44.4 billion in 2013, the oil and gas production industry has been highlighted by IBISWorld as this year’s top industry performer, with growth driven by higher output and substantially higher global prices.
Australia’s liquefied natural gas production and exports are expected to increase significantly over the coming year. This reflects a switch in favour of gas for electricity generation, which will be driven by more volatile demand and carbon pricing on oil, and an expected increase of 8.4% in US dollar crude oil prices.
With abundant reserves in Queensland and New South Wales, LNG output is rapidly growing and is expected to reach 6.8 billion cubic metres in 2013. Most of this production is expected to come from Queensland, where coal seam methane is already used in electricity generation, and where a number of export-oriented LNG plants are currently under construction.
Strong growth in export demand for LNG is expected to increase world prices by 15.7% over the next year.
2. Organic farming
Organic farming has grown at a compound annual rate of 10% since 2008, and is expected to continue to rise as consumers factor in the health benefits and environmental impact of their food choices. IBISWorld forecasts an increase of 12.5% across the industry over the coming year, boosting revenue to $617 million.
Consumers are becoming increasingly eco and health conscious. This means they are more willing to pay a premium price to prevent environmental degradation caused by conventional farming methods and to ensure the products they consume are free from added chemicals and hormones. Major retailers, such as Coles and Woolworths, continue to respond to this trend, increasing the convenience in which these foods are purchased.
Income growth – forecast to rise 3.4% over the coming year – will be a key factor driving demand for organic products. As Australian incomes rise, we are seeing consumers move away from conventionally farmed produce towards natural, chemical- and hormone-free counterparts.
3. Online education
IBISWorld anticipates revenue for Australia’s online education industry to increase by 10.5% in 2013, to reach just under $5.6 billion. Growth has been supported by the continued uptake of high-speed internet services, growing acceptance of online education, government support for students and efforts to expand access beyond the typical school-leaver demographic.
We are seeing an increase in demand for convenient education, particularly among working adults who wish to gain new skills and qualifications, but are too time poor to attend classes full-time or in person. The NSW Department of Education is also assisting industry growth, with technologies expanding at a rapid rate to deliver education to remote parts of Australia.
4. Online shopping
Forecast to grow by 9.1% to reach almost $11.8 billion in 2013, the online shopping industry has continued to flourish as consumers demand more of their goods and services via the online realm.
Australians are increasingly expecting traditional retailers to have an active investment in the online sphere, and to provide options for online browsing and shopping to complement their storefronts.
Over the coming year, IBISWorld expects online retailers to move into the bricks-and-mortar space, providing convenient pick-up and return locations for consumers. This phenomenon will lead to a greater increase in the convenience provided by online retail.
5. Multi-unit apartment and townhouse construction
Strong population growth in the late 2000s has fuelled underlying demand for housing, in particularly for the multi-unit apartment and townhouse construction industry, which is forecast to grow 9% over the coming year to reach $16.6 billion.
IBISWorld is seeing an urban shift towards medium to high density residential developments as occupants opt to remain close to the CBD, transport and commercial hubs.
Property investors – primarily funded from Asia – kick-started new apartment projects in 2010 and 2011. This, coupled with several interest rate cuts since November 2011 and the flow through of government assistance to both homebuyers and investors, is projected to have a buoyant effect on the industry.
<hr>
<h2>Industries to fall</h2>
1. Gaming and vending machines manufacturing
The gaming and vending machines manufacturing industry is set to follow suit in the overall decline of manufacturing in Australia, with revenue expected to fall by 6.4% in 2013.
The replacement cycle for gaming machines in Australia has increased from 12 years in 2005 to 35 years since 2008. This, along with legislative limits on the number of poker machines, has restricted demand for new machines.
With high labour costs and the Australian dollar remaining strong, production is increasingly moving offshore, with hardware going to Asia and software to the US.
2. Wired telecommunications carriers
Intense competition in the mobile space continues to have a negative effect on wired telecommunications carriers. The industry is expected to fall by 5.5% in 2013, bringing total revenue down to $9.7 billion, from its peak of $21.5 billion in 2002.
Competition in the mobile sphere is driving prices down to the extent that it is now cheaper for some consumers to disconnect their landlines and rely solely on mobile services. Increased wireless broadband penetration and strong growth in the number of naked DSL internet subscribers are also eating into industry revenue.
Prices for the industry’s services continue to be cut in attempts to retain clientele. Consumer confidence with email and SMS has grown significantly over the past five years, causing customers to move away from the traditional home phone. Branding and cross-selling are becoming increasingly vital to the industry, with product bundling being a popular strategy to reduce customer turnover rates.
3. Mineral exploration
Revenue for mineral exploration is expected to fall to $3.7 billion over the coming year, a decline of 5.1% from 2012 – driven by falling investment (forecast to decrease by 6.5%) in the sector as firms shift their focus to production.
The combination of generally lower commodity prices, weak global growth, slowing demand from China and economic uncertainty is expected to result in reduced spending on mineral exploration over 2013.
4. Newspaper printing or publishing
As advertisers and consumers opt for other types of media, the newspaper printing or publishing industry continues to lose advertising market share – with revenue forecast to decrease by 4% in 2013. Printed newspapers’ share of advertising – which accounts for 75% of newspaper revenue – is expected to fall to under 30% of total advertising revenue in 2013, down from a 41.8% share in 2000.
Declining circulation over the past five years, caused by time restraints, the rising popularity of new media like the internet, pay TV, and mobile devices, and competition from consumer magazines has continued to adversely affect the industry. In the coming years, environmental concerns are also expected to affect demand for printed newspapers.
5. Recorded media manufacturing and publishing
Recorded media manufacturing and publishing, including CDs and records, has declined steadily over the past five years. IBISWorld expects this trend to continue – forecasting a decline of 2.8% in 2013.
Physical format music sales have dropped by an estimated compound annual rate of 15.9% since 2007, compared with a compound annual rise of 32.6% for digital music.
Consumers have turned away from purchasing physical media in favour of paid online subscription services, such as Spotify and Pandora, and limited free services such as YouTube and VEVO. The industry also has been dramatically exposed to high levels of music and video piracy.
Online distribution of media has allowed companies to cut bottom line costs, and has resulted in a variety of new products on the market for consumers to view new media.
Licensing and publishing services have provided some reprieve for industry participants as the use of music, sound effects and video in advertising and marketing has increased, particularly with the rise of social media.
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Industries to fly
</td>
<td>
Revenue 2012
($million)
</td>
<td>
Revenue 2013
($million)
</td>
<td>
Growth
(%)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="300">
Oil and Gas Production
</td>
<td width="104">
38,314.1
</td>
<td width="113">
44,422.9
</td>
<td width="104">
15.9
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="300">
Organic Farming
</td>
<td width="104">
548.8
</td>
<td width="113">
617.1
</td>
<td width="104">
12.5
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="300">
Online Education
</td>
<td width="104">
5,048.5
</td>
<td width="113">
5,577.6
</td>
<td width="104">
10.5
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="300">
Online Shopping
</td>
<td width="104">
10,790.2
</td>
<td width="113">
11,771.7
</td>
<td width="104">
9.1
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="300">
Multi-Unit Apartment and Townhouse Construction
</td>
<td width="104">
15,225.0
</td>
<td width="113">
16,600.0
</td>
<td width="104">
9.0
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td>
Industries to fall
</td>
<td>
Revenue 2012
($million)
</td>
<td>
Revenue 2013
($million)
</td>
<td>
Decline
(%)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="298">
Gaming and Vending Machines Manufacturing
</td>
<td width="108">
434.5
</td>
<td width="108">
406.5
</td>
<td width="107">
-6.4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="298">
Wired Telecommunications Carriers
</td>
<td width="108">
10,215.5
</td>
<td width="108">
9,655.0
</td>
<td width="107">
-5.5
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="298">
Mineral Exploration
</td>
<td width="108">
3,936.4
</td>
<td width="108">
3,736.7
</td>
<td width="107">
-5.1
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="298">
Newspaper Printing or Publishing
</td>
<td width="108">
6,673.9
</td>
<td width="108">
6,407.0
</td>
<td width="107">
-4.0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="298">
Recorded Media Manufacturing and Publishing
</td>
<td width="108">
888.9
</td>
<td width="108">
863.9
</td>
<td width="107">
-2.8
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
For more information on these, or any of Australia’s 500 industries, log on to <a href="https://www.ibisworld.com.au/" rel="nofollow">www.ibisworld.com.au</a>, or follow<a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/IBISWorldAU"> IBISWorldAU</a> on Twitter.
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php">SmartCompany</a>.
<h1 class="contentheading2"></h1>
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Multi-unit construction set to fly in 2013: IBISWorld

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More than half the property auctions scheduled for this week are in Queensland, with the vast majority to be held outside of Brisbane, especially on the Gold Coast.
Several Gold Coast estate agencies will hold mega auctions this week, with multiple properties going to auction in a single day. The trend began with Ray White and has expanded to other agencies. 
Ray White Surfers Paradise is preparing for its 20th annual summer auction, dubbed The Event – which is now spread over three days, January 27, 30 and 31.
As one of Australia’s largest auctions, The Event will bring more than 100 residential, prestige, industrial and commercial properties as well as land sites and even boats go to auction.
Professionals Broadbeach, Ray White Broadbeach and Professionals Paradise Point <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/gold-coast-auctions-seek-to-climb-out-of-its-five-year-chasm/2013011758834">all have auctions on January 24</a>, which would explain Queensland's mid-week auction boom. 
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/01/rpjan22.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2013/01/rpjan22thumb.gif"></a>
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Gold Coast has lion's share of auctions this week as Ray White and others hold mega auction

<html><body>
One reason many economists and journalists prematurely pronounced the death of the resources boom last year was the alleged “slowdown in China”. 
The definition of “slow growth” in China is two to three times the growth of anywhere else. Such was the case in 2012, when the world trembled because China’s economic growth rate was below 8%.
But the latest figures from China’s National Bureau of Statistics depict on economy that should never been mentioned in the same sentence as “slow”.
The economic growth rate in the December Quarter rose from 7.4% to 7.9%. That’s about 140% higher than our growth rate – and Australia ranks highly on a global scale.
China’s industrial output rose 10.3%, and fixed-asset investment rose 20.6% last year. Retail sales grew 15.2%, year on year, to the highest point in eight months.
China is Australia's largest trading partner and a major customer for our resources, so it’s positive news that it continues to grow so strongly.
But, of course, it’s not all about China. We have plenty of other important customers, and one of the most important is India.
India has a particularly big appetite for coal, something that’s not so good for the global environment but decidedly good for the Australian economy.
Queensland, in particular, stands to benefit from Indian investment in the coal industry, with two entities each planning to spend around $10 billion on mines, rail links and export facilities.
All this has been percolating while people have been writing the obituary for the resources sector.
Now we have India’s Ministry of Coal instructing the country’s mining companies to be “more aggressive” in securing mining projects internationally, with Australia at the top of the list. India has a massive and growing population creating big demand for power supplies, and coal-fired power stations are very much in vogue in India.
So we have two of the biggest customers for Australian resources in an expansionary phase.
That feeds into property markets around the nation, especially in Queensland and Western Australia, but also in South Australia, the Northern Territory and New South Wales.
I have recently written reports including National Top 10 Best Buys 2013 and National Top 10 Boom Towns – and many of the 20 locations that feature in those two reports are touched by the resources sector. Most are not dependent on the mining industry, but the influence of that sector often elevates these places from solid economies (and property markets) to very strong ones.
So the ongoing health of the resources industry is important to key property markets.
I believe “the resources revolution” is only getting started and will extend beyond my lifetime because the growth processes under way in China, India and elsewhere. I always thought claims of its demise in the second half of last year, mostly because of a short-term fall in commodity prices and the so-called slowdown in China, were ill-advised – more to do with the short-term news cycle than properly informing people.
Now we have iron ore prices climbing again, China growing strongly, India hungry for coal and multiple massive gas ventures charging ahead.
It will be the basis for strong price growth in many markets in 2013.
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Australia's resources revolution is only getting started, and it feeds into property markets around the nation: Terry Ryder

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It’s almost impossible to think about any aspect of marketing today that does not involve the use of online applications and this includes project marketing. However, before we start to look at some of the key trends, I want to suggest some clear pointers for our industry. 
To help keep a focus relative to project marketing it is useful to approach this topic in two main areas: content and delivery, with delivery including both applications and devices.
The main reason I have done this is to help ensure that we aim to discuss practical examples of how to use online media across the varied sales roles we undertake for any project. And further, which tools might be best suited to relevant parts of the sales path, from a registrations of interest campaign to the ongoing marketing. We must appreciate how online media and other technology can enhance the sales path, while the buyer experience needs to remain central outcome.
I think that this is a reasonable approach because according to comScore, there are more than 1 trillion digital interactions monthly, and given this huge number and all of the new technologies out there, our industry needs to be sure that the varied options we use to drive our business are relevant. There can be lots of opportunity, but we need to make sure we are not being swept up by the allure of the technology without a clear focus on the benefits it will bring to the sales path. As an industry we are now spending more and more money in the online environment with each project, but we need to keep a balance and be sure that we are fully engaged with the buyer and not simply relying on technology.
The digital environment is, however, a part of every consumer’s world and is more accessible than ever. Our role is to use this in a positive way but not become lazy.
So as we start to look at some of the key trends for 2013, as project marketers we need to be actively involved in helping to build sales paths that in turn match the digital tools available and produce content that will help sell the projects we are marketing.
Smartphone and tablets
The first point is one connected to the key aspect of delivery: how are our marketing messages being received?
The use of smartphones and tablets is growing rapidly, and it is only a matter of time until they become the main way people access the web.
How the devices are used varies greatly. If we think about this, we need to start delineating our messages and at the very least this will address full consideration of how project websites are designed.
I am sure we have all seen a tablet being used in a café or at the airport, and this helps underline that research shows most tablets are used for research and entertainment
Consumers on smartphones who are out and about looking at property are not really in the frame of mind to stop and fill out a long online forms or view a complex PDF about your project or fiddle about to re-size an image, and so specific mobile web sites are required.
As we are dealing with mobile communications, it’s also important to remember that neither tablet nor mobile users will have immediate access to a printer.
The value of content needs to be seen through the eyes of a buyer who might be very much on the move and so content needs to be planned according – again, this brings us back to the value of content. When we set out to plan the goals for mobile marketing and communications we need to be sure and match the various devices that consumers use.
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Send to a friend
Look at almost any digital marketing you now receive, or think back to those digital Christmas cards you prepared or received in December, and you will more than likely recall the words – ‘share or send to a friend’. Interaction with others is now at the heart of digital marketing. We need to be aware of this and how information of every kind is being shared is starting to change how a product received by the market.
Our target market is almost guaranteed to share the content (information) we provide with their family, friends and associates and all mobile devices make this very easy. It is also going to be shared by Facebook, Instagram, etc, and our target will of course almost always add their own comments –  both good and bad!
We will be working to encourage comments that we want to be positive – ‘look at this great image’ we do not want ‘look at this rubbish that so and so just sent me,’ and again this brings us back to the quality of our content.
In looking at content from now on we need to ensure that we produce content that our target will want to “send to a friend” and this will enhance our marketing efforts.
Make sure there is enough interesting material, material that will have content to engage our target, so that they buy into our message, we need to have a clear vision and the third item is to ensure our content has variety and is relevant.
Peter Chittenden is managing director for residential of <a href="https://www.colliers.com.au/Colliers%20Corporate/Residential.aspx" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Colliers International.</a>
 
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What changes in technology will mean for residential development project marketing in 2013: Peter Chittenden

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Hopes of a recovery in demand for tourist accommodation in 2013 on the Gold Coast have been dealt a blow, with young Australians increasingly shunning it as a holiday destination, according to the latest Roy Morgan survey.
Based on a survey sample of 22,000 Australians aged under 30 taken just before the key Christmas holiday period, Roy Morgan found that 4.1 million Australians (22%) want to take a holiday in Melbourne within the next two years, compared with 3.3 million (18%) who would choose the surf, sun and sandy sequins of the Gold Coast.
Also reflecting the rise of big city-based holidays, Sydney is now almost equal third with the Sunshine Coast as a favoured destination, with 2.2 million Australians (12%) choosing Sydney and 2.3 million the Sunshine Coast (12%).
Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road rounds out the top five, with 2 million (11%) wanting to visit.
Reflecting the devastating impact of the GFC on tourism-dependent locations, the Gold Coast was the top tourist destination in Australia from 2001 to late 2007, before Melbourne overtook it in late 2008.
Since then Melbourne’s tourism star has risen and continues to rise while the Gold Coast has continued to decline with both its holiday accommodation market and overall property market slumping.
The November quarter Midwood Report tallied just 19 high-rise apartment sales on the Gold Coast over the November quarter, a 70% plunge from sales figure a year ago, with 705 new high-rise apartments still available for purchase and receivers appointed to high-rise developments Oracle and Soul among others.
Top 5 domestic holiday destinations Australians would like to visit in next two years
<img alt="roymorgan" height="216" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/01/roymorgan.gif">
Source: Roy Morgan
Commenting on the latest results, Jane Ianniello, international director of tourism, travel &amp; leisure at Roy Morgan Research, says beach destinations such as the Gold and Sunshine coasts have suffered in popularity over the past decade due to increased competition from short-haul overseas beach destinations such as Bali, Fiji and Thailand.
She says Melbourne is only domestic holiday destinations to have increased in preference over past decade.
“Australians under 30 are particularly attracted to it, with 28% saying they would like to take a holiday there in the next two years. The shopping, dining, nightlife, and special events all appeal to this younger age group. “Sydney has regained popularity as a holiday destination over the past three years after suffering a large drop in preference after the Cronulla riots in December 2005. A guide to the top 10 destinations for 2013 by accommodation booking website hostelworld.com ranks Taipei, Taiwan, as the top destination following a rise in tourist numbers in 2012 and the opportunity to view the city from one of the world’s tallest buildings (Taipei 101), along with "gloriously tasty and extremely affordable food and more”.
Porto, Portugal, the "city of bridges", ranks second for being “visually stunning”, followed by Christchurch, New Zealand – the closest to an Australian destination, as it rises from earthquake disasters.
The others in the Hostelworld top 10 are Amsterdam, San Diego, Rio De Janeiro, Budapest, Tokyo,  Girona (Spain) and Cape Town. 
 
 
 
 
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Younger Australians increasingly prefer holidaying in Melbourne over the Gold Coast: Roy Morgan

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Are your loans stopping you from being a successful property investor?
Many investors wonder how they will ever build a property portfolio when they’ve been told they can’t access any more equity by their lender.
Or they feel like they can’t afford the payments on the loans they already have and even one property feels like a stretch, even though on paper their properties are nearly cashflow neutral or even positive.
Or they feel like they are still paying too much tax.
You would be surprised how many times people come to us with these same questions and don’t realise that often the loans they took out are causing some of the problems and holding them back from being a successful.
So how does this happen?
The first thing to remember is that banks and lenders are not property investing or tax specialists. Their job is to sell a product. It’s a bit like buying a car to tow a caravan; if you just ask for the cheapest car and don’t mention they want to tow a caravan you will probably end up with the wrong car.
John’s case study
Here is a typical case study from our team in Melbourne, where John* was referred by a friend.
John explained that he has 10 properties all with loans to one major big four bank lender, and would like to buy property number 11. However, this time when John approached his previously helpful bank manager, he was told that the bank could not lend him anymore money and he didn’t have sufficient equity.
For John this was a big surprise because he was on a much higher income than his last property purchase and the majority of his properties had also increased in rent and market value, thus increasing his equity position. He was also sure by his calculations that because of this all his properties were almost positively geared and in fact his previous accountant had told him that he would have to pay tax on the new rental earnings.
So, what was going on and why couldn’t his bank manager assist him?
After reviewing John’s financial position and completing a preliminary assessment, John’s finance strategist and accountant were able to determine that:
<ol>
<li>John’s current bank loans had expired on interest only and rolled over into principal and interest payments. This had the effect of increasing his monthly commitments and reduced his cashflow;</li>
<li>John's current bank had also cross collateralised his whole portfolio (10 properties including his owner occupied property), which impacted his overall equity position and borrowing capacity. Therefore, any changes to the current loans (and/or any request of additional lending) required the valuation and reassessment of all the properties/loans in his portfolio. This meant that his borrowing capacity was being tested on the total loans at the higher of the bank new loan testing interest rate further restricting what he could potentially borrow;</li>
<li>Due to John’s substantial borrowings with the one bank, he had also reached the bank's loan limit and mortgage insurer exposure level of $2.5 million, meaning that he could not borrow any“additional money” and/or had to reduce the overall loan-to-value ratio (LVR) to 70%. This also negatively impacted what equity could be accessed and also what John could then borrow;</li>
<li>Several of John’s loans where on older loan products with interest rates that were 0.1 percentage points or more  higher than new more competitive loans being offered by the same bank; and</li>
<li>John’s previous accountant had been overlooking some depreciation that John was entitled to. The team also identified some tax deductible loan portions that further improved John’s tax position &amp; negative gearing add back for serviceability.</li>
</ol>
 
The solution for John was to regain control of his financial position
Once John had worked with his lending and accounting specialist he was in a much better position to achieve his goals.
The 1st step was to have his team arrange for valuations on each property in his portfolio, all ten in total. Once the valuations were received, he was able to ascertain his equity position and start reviewing his borrowing capacity on all the current loans in his portfolio and ascertain whether further equity could be obtained as well as funding for the new purchase.
The 2nd Step was the “uncrossing” John’s securities with his current Bank so that all loans were secured against individual properties/or the property in which they related to. This provided John more flexibility in his portfolio and the ability to change lenders/access equity/sell property more readily should his financial position require this.
Once the 2nd step was completed, the uncrossing securities and overall restructure, he was able to refinance 2 of his current properties loans to a new lender to release further equity of $300K and obtain a  pre-approval with a third lender of $500K to purchase his 11th property.
Keep in mind that all of this has allowed John to rebalance his portfolio and exposure levels for future property investing. And the initial steps of reducing his loan exposure with his current Bank to below the $2.5 million has given him enough room to potentially increase these facilities in the future.  In addition simply by completing these steps, he has drastically improved his cash flow position, saving over $2,000 per month!
The end result
<ul>
<li>Ensuring John’s property portfolio was uncrossed and balanced to suit him (and not the bank);</li>
<li>John’s borrowing capacity was maximised by utilising his negative gearing and add backs to access $300,000 additional equity for further investment and “buffer” purposes;</li>
<li>All his loans and sub accounts were structured correctly for accounting and tax purposes;</li>
<li>His loans were negotiated to obtain the maximum discounted rates where possible to improve cashflow;</li>
<li>All his investment loans were interest only and not principal and interest; and</li>
<li>A loan approval for his 11th investment property at $500,000 loan amount.</li>
</ul>
 
Albert Waldron and Lauren Mamaj are part of the team of property investment specialists at <a href="https://www.chan-naylor.com.au" target="_blank">Chan &amp; Naylor</a>, national property, business tax accounting and wealth advisory group 

 
 
<ul></ul>
<ol></ol>
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How your loan structure could be hindering your property investment potential

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As the Commonwealth Bank’s chief economist Michael Blythe says, the RBA pays “a lot of attention” to the unemployment data – and so should property investors and buyers.
Most home owners need to have a job in order to secure and pay off their mortgages.
Unemployment rose – as expected – by 0.1 percentage points over November to 5.4%, but there’s more to the monthly labour force data than just the change to the headline unemployment rate.
Here are seven points to ponder from the December figures:
Nationally, employment is trending upwards
On trend measures (rather than using seasonally adjusted figures) employment is trending upwards at a modest pace, with 7,000 jobs added. According to bullish HSBC chief economist Paul Bloxham, the trend data “cuts through the month-to-month noise”. Rising employment could temper the RBA’s eagerness to cut the cash rate. Bloxham is the only bank economist tipping the cash rate to rise to 3.25% this year.
However, a fall in the participation rate is masking higher unemployment rate 
The participation rate (those employed or unemployed but looking for a job) was flat in December but is trending down. Westpac points out that if the participation rate were holding closer to its average since March 2008, then the unemployment rate would now be around 6% rather than 5.4%.
 Employment is growing in some non-mining sectors
Looking at December quarter data (October, November and December combined), Bloxham points out that employment is rising in some of the “exchange rate sensitive industries” including manufacturing, as the “effect of the high Australian dollar starts to wear off”. Again this suggests the economy may be starting to rebalance away from mining, suggesting a wider economic recovery.
But unemployment is rising in Queensland and is at 6.2% 
Those hopeful of a recovery in house prices in south-east Queensland should keep in mind that the state still has the highest unemployment rate on the mainland, well above the national average, and that it rose by 0.1 percentage points to 6.2% while the national unemployment rate fell. Westpac labelled the Queensland December unemployment result as “very poor”. The state’s unemployment rate has been above 6% since August last year – a drop in this rate could bode well for a pick-up in demand for housing, but should it continue to remain elevated a recovery could be further off.
Unemployment rate lowest in WA, but higher than six months ago
The biggest beneficiary of the mining boom, Western Australia, has the lowest unemployment rate of any state or territory at 4.3% – well below the national average. Six months ago, though, WA had an unemployment rate of 3.5%. ANZ notes that employment growth in Western Australia was strong over 2012 but “moderated towards the end of the year as the iron ore price fell sharply and the global outlook became more uncertain. Strong population growth has meant that the unemployment rate has increased a little in WA as a rising share of jobseekers has not found work”.
NSW employment trending upwards
NSW employment growth is up a solid 1.6% year-on-year, with ANZ noting that this was  accompanied by a “broadly unchanged jobless rate over the year”. This bodes well for expectations of moderate recovery in house prices in Sydney and other parts of the state in 2013.
 
Unemployment rate among youngest-seeking work at 14.1%
Loans to first-home buyers fell from 18.7% to 15.8% over November according to ABS housing figures. December unemployment figures show that those aged between 16 and 24 seeking full-time work, the unemployment rate stands at 14%, up from 13.5% in November. A year ago the unemployment rate for this category of prospective workers was 13.3% and it was less than 10% before the GFC – many of these people seeking work are potential first-home buyers.
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Unemployment rises to 5.4%: Seven insights for property investors and buyers

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Another inner-Brisbane apartment project will soon start to rise above the Brisbane River, with developer Devine to begin construction of its $58 million, 111-apartment DoubleOne3 project in February.
<img alt="teneriffe11" height="600" width="437" src="/images/stories/2013/01/teneriffe11.jpg">
The project in the riverside suburb of <a target="_blank" href="/news">Teneriffe </a>has sold strongly since being launched late last year, with 70% of the 111 apartments now sold, worth more than $37 million.
Construction will begin one month ahead of schedule, with completion and settlements set to take place in May next year.
Teneriffe was only officially classified a suburb in January 2010, having previously been included as part of <a target="_self" href="/news">Newstead</a>.
It is just east of Fortitude Valley, in between New Farm and Newstead and has a ferry service connecting the suburb to the CBD.
DoubleOne3 is one of four inner-Brisbane projects that commenced off-the-plan sales in the November quarter, with the others being The Plaza (Metro Property Group), Atrio (Drew Group/Trident Corp) and Evvien (Evviden Development).
Inner Brisbane is a hotspot of apartment projects, with the November 2012 Midwood Report noting more than 50 high-rise and medium-rise apartment projects currently being marketed off the plan or being sold while under construction.
The top-selling project over the November quarter was Metro Property Development’s Cambridge Towers, part of its Central Village project, which managed 79 off-the-plan sales since launching around the same time as of DoubleOne3.
DoubleOne3 with 39 sales recorded over the same time period, was the second-best selling project. 
Devine’s major project in inner Brisbane is its Hamilton Harbour development, in partnership with Leightons, five kilometres further up the Brisbane River.
According to Midwood figures, Harbour One and Harbour Two are almost sold out, with just 20 out of 521 apartments still up for sale.
There are still 62 apartments for sale in Hamilton Harbour – Riverside Hamilton, which features 189 apartments.
According to Devine’s general manager of apartments and development, Cameron Mana, the DoubleOne3 project has proven popular with a geographically diverse range of owner-occupiers and investors, underpinned by the ongoing recovery of the local apartment market.
“To be commencing construction ahead of schedule is a great result for our buyers and an endorsement of both the project and the appeal of the Teneriffe area.
“With sentiment continuing to improve as borrowing costs fall we are confident the remainder of the apartments will be sold prior to the completion of construction,” he says.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
Among the features of DoubleOne3 is a rooftop terrace with views of the Brisbane CBD skyline.
<img alt="teneriffe2" height="353" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/01/teneriffe2.jpg">
The ground floor will include offices and retail tenancies, which has already been sold to Arthur Properties and is earmarked for a café, takeaway pizza, wine bar and bottle shop, hair salon, convenience store and gymnasium.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/01/teneriffe3.jpg" width="470" height="353" alt="teneriffe3">
One-bedroom apartments in the project start from $375,000, and two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments start from $580,000, with both including secure car parking.
They feature spacious balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows, with some offering views of the CBD and the Brisbane River.
Since 1996, Devine has completed more than 3,000 apartments valued at more than $1 billion in Brisbane, with completed projects including Charlotte Towers, Festival Towers, River City Apartments and River Place.
According to census 2011 data analysed by <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/news/inner-brisbane-apartment-market-dominated-by-investors-with-20-something-tenants-angie-zigomanis/2012110557620" target="_blank">BIS Shrapnel’s Angie Zigomanis,</a> occupants in inner-Brisbane apartments are heavily skewed into the young adult age groups, being dominated by those aged 20 to 39 years old.
Zigomanis says the inner-Brisbane apartment market is “dominated by investors”.
“At the 2011 census, 58% of apartments were owned by investors and were rented out. Some 11% were reported as unoccupied.
“While some of these unoccupied dwellings are vacant and available for rent or sale, or by occupants who were away on census night, the majority are likely to be “lock-up and leave” – apartments owned as a second home by an owner living elsewhere, or as a long-term speculative purchase,” he says.
Midwood recorded 189 new apartment sales over the November quarter, compared with 74 in the previous corresponding quarter.
In total there are around 1,300 new apartments up for sale.
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Devine to begin building Teneriffe apartments with rooftop CBD views early after strong off-the-plan sales

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There are few auctions scheduled for this week as the auction market gets off to a slow start for 2013. 
Just 96 auctions are scheduled across all capital cities from January 14 to January 20. Australia's auction capital, Melbourne, has just 37 auctions scheduled for this week, including some in Portsea.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/01/rpjan16.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/01/rpjan16thumb.gif"></a>
 
 
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Auctions off to a slow start in 2013: RP Data

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Foreign tourists are travelling to Australia in record numbers, an increase the tourism industry is attributing to savvy marketing by Tourism Australia in Asia.
Figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics released yesterday show the number of people travelling to Australia was up 6.9% on the same time last year.
While New Zealand continued to be the biggest source of tourism arrivals for Australia, Chinese visitors rose by about 14% in November. China is now Australia's second largest source of foreign tourists, beating the United Kingdom.
The growth in tourists from Asia was not limited to China, with Malaysian and Thai tourists increasing by 35% and 27% respectively.
The industry's peak body, the Tourism and Transport Forum, attributed the boost in numbers to an increase in flights by Asian airlines and successful marketing campaigns in the region by Tourism Australia.
John Lee, chief executive of the TTF, told SmartCompany there were increases across the board, with the exception being the UK.
"The passenger movement tax in the UK is just decimating outbound travel from the UK. It means a family of four pay just under $800 in taxes alone to travel from the UK to Australia," he says.
Lee says the strength of the tourist numbers coming from China, north Asia and south-east Asia is "heartening".
He attributes much of the growth to Tourism Australia's advertising campaign that was launched in June last year and garnered over 24 million hits on the ad, with 20 million hits in China.
"Millions and millions have seen the ad and have transferred their psychological intention to booking tickets and that is great news for our sector," he says.
"Now it is the Asian Century with huge growth from Malaysia, India and Thailand and, if we get it right, rather than the rivers of coal of the past 10 years in Australia there is an opportunity to have rivers of visitors from Asia."
Lee describes Tourism Australia's digital campaign and strong reach into new markets as "phenomenal" and singles out the leadership of managing director Andrew McEvoy and chairman Geoff Dixon.
"We are seeing the fruits of that intelligent strategy deployment. It is all about marketing where you are going to make a difference," he says.
"Andrew jokes China is an overnight success but it has taken 10 years to come to fruition."
Some 66,000 visitors traveled to Australia for business purposes. 
The ABS figures also revealed Australians are continuing their love affair with overseas travel, with the number of people flying abroad for holidays or business rising by 2.5% in November.
For the year to November, a record high of almost 8.18 million Australians travelled overseas.
"We still have a passenger deficit of six million inbound and eight million outbound but we were seeing outbound growth of over 10% last year and that is shrinking and is now back to 5.6% and dropping," Lee says.
"So it seems as though that is capped and it is dropping. I think there was an absolute spurt of outbound movement with the rise of the dollar and a perception of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see other parts of the world."
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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