Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Joel Robinson

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

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

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

A local downsizer has splashed $6.5 million on a penthouse in Perifa's Alex &amp; Willow development in Crows Nest. 
&nbsp; 
The purchaser sold their long-held family home in the area before embarking on a six-month search for the right apartment. After inspecting a range of options across the Lower North Shore, the buyer returned to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/alex-willow-crows-nest-82-90-alexander-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Alex &amp; Willow</a>. 
&nbsp; 
The buyer profile reflects the project’s broader purchaser mix. <a>Alex &amp; Willow</a> has attracted predominantly local downsizers looking to transition from larger homes without compromising on space or quality, alongside a smaller cohort of upsizers and investors drawn to the project’s location and design credentials. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone sale comes as the project, developed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">Perifa</a>&nbsp;and delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile-made-construction">Versatile Construction</a>, both part of Versatile Group, reaches 60 per cent sold.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6680 project_image_fid=371325] 
&nbsp; 
Eddie Mansour, Managing Partner of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/ray-white-projects">Ray White Projects</a>, said the result demonstrates not only a headline price but also depth of demand. 
&nbsp; 
“This is an exceptional outcome and a clear reflection of sustained buyer demand for premium, well-located downsizer product,” Mansour said.

“We’re seeing a consistent pattern of local homeowners selling family residences and reinvesting into high-quality apartments that allow them to remain within their community. Alex &amp; Willow has resonated strongly with this group because it offers genuine scale, thoughtful design and immediate proximity to the village.” 
&nbsp; 
The sale reflects a broader and consistent trend of local downsizers actively seeking high-quality, low-maintenance residences close to established village centres. Agents report that demand for this product type has remained resilient, particularly where developments offer a rare combination of scale, design quality and walkable amenity. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
Fabrizio Perilli, Managing Director of Perifa and Versatile Group, said the sale marks a defining moment for the project. 
&nbsp; 
“The penthouse sale is a strong endorsement of the quality we have delivered, alongside our partners, and the clear demand from local downsizers for premium, boutique residences in this location,” Perilli said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
“Most importantly, we’re proud to see the Alex &amp; Willow community beginning to take shape. As we move closer to completion, we’re looking forward to welcoming residents and seeing the project come to life.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6680 project_image_fid=338516] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/nettletontribe">Nettleton Tribe</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/richards-stanisich">Richards Stanisich</a>, Alex &amp; Willow is a boutique collection of generously sized two- and three-bedroom residences in the heart of Crows Nest village.&nbsp;

Completion is slated for early 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6680]

Alex & Willow, Crows Nest penthouse sells off the plan for $6.5 million

Fresh from launching the first stage of its Wollongong precinct, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, builder-developer Urban Property Group has unveiled plans for the next phase of the masterplanned community.

Now on public exhibition through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway is a State Significant Development Application for a further 657 homes on the prominent gateway site opposite Beaton Park.

The proposal comprises three buildings, including two build-to-sell towers rising 25 and 30 storeys, delivering 391 apartments, alongside a 12-storey co-living building with 266 residences, making it one of the largest co-living proposals currently planned in regional New South Wales.

Of the apartments proposed in the build-to-sell towers, the majority, 310, are two-bedroom dwellings. The balance comprises 44 one-bedroom apartments and 37 three-bedroom residences. Apartment sizes range from around 50 sqm for one-bedroom homes to approximately 90 sqm for three-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Smith St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19347059-1612-41a0-9c74-b86a657237f8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-10%20at%2010.02.18%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sWXnaCcA.cIC6N8YT1dg5pJ2e1V3Z6z7" />

The submission says the proposal has evolved significantly from its original Housing Delivery Authority application following extensive consultation with the State Design Review Panel and Wollongong City Council.

The final scheme has been designed to align with the emerging vision for the Flinders Street Precinct, an area identified by Council as a future high-density mixed-use neighbourhood capable of accommodating substantial housing growth close to transport, employment and community infrastructure.

According to the design report prepared by COX Architecture, the development aims to "deliver a built outcome consistent with the future character of the Wollongong CBD while responding to the site's unique constraints and opportunities."

"Our vision for the next phase of the site evolution in Wollongong is grounded in three design pillars that guide the design response: place, natural environment and celebration," COX said.

"Inspired by its surroundings and grounded in the stories of place on Wodi Wodi Country, the design proposal acknowledges the established character of its setting while creating a unique and timeless identity that sits harmoniously within it.

"The design proposal responds to its specific site conditions, acknowledging the vegetation, climate, wind conditions and solar access of the site."

The architecture responds directly to the site's position between Wollongong's urban core and its natural landscape setting.

COX identified views towards Mount Keira and the Illawarra Escarpment as defining features of the site, while the upper levels of the towers will also capture expansive views across the city and out to the Pacific Ocean.

The design team has positioned the tallest buildings closer to the rail corridor, where overshadowing impacts can be better managed while establishing a landmark built form on the northern approach into the city.

<img alt="Smith St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="79580d5b-500c-4ebf-9629-797146a4a694" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-10%20at%209.51.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=WbTB1EKSG.KDfsfz0F3wp1QVa2oCMGR5" />

Urban Property Group secured the 11,000 sqm Smith Street site in 2022 and has since progressed plans for the broader Keira Place precinct.

Construction recently commenced on the first stage of Keira Place, which will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, alongside activated ground-floor retail and commercial space.

Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the commencement of construction marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/groundbreaking-marks-start-of-construction-at-keira-place-in-wollongong-cbd">Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD</a>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place

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?

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In 1999, when the Australian pay-TV industry was less than four years old, Foxtel CEO Tom Mockridge made a prediction: a big, bold and?—?as it turned out?—?wildly incorrect prediction. Within 10 years, he said, pay-TV would be installed in three-quarters of Australian homes.
Yet by 2009 only 29% of Australian homes had pay-TV.
Today, according to stockbroking firm CCZ Statton Equities, it’s currently at 28%?—?one of the lowest rates in the developed world.
Mockbridge’s over-optimism hasn’t stopped Richard Freudenstein, who replaced Kim Williams as CEO last year, from publicising his own lofty goals for the industry. In March, he announced an ambition to lift the take-up of pay-TV to 50% (though he didn’t apply a deadline to the target).
None of the media analysts contacted by Crikey for this story believe this will happen?—?ever. They say despite News Limited’s bid to lift its stake in Foxtel from 25 to 50%, the take-up of traditional pay-TV has already peaked?—?and will soon start to decline.
“There is no indication whatsoever that pay-TV in its current form will grow to 50%,” said veteran telecommunications consultant Paul Budde. “No way.”
Even securing AFL broadcasting rights last year, at a cost of $530 million, hasn’t boosted customer numbers significantly, Foxtel sources told The Australian Financial Review last month. There’s also no sign the Olympics?—?to air on Foxtel over eight channels later this month?—?has led to a spike either.
“They want to paint a picture of a beautiful blue sky: we’re thundering along, people are joining us, we’re growing,” said media analyst Steve Allen. “But that’s marketing and spin. At the pricing model they have now they’re not likely to get much growth.”
Cost, Allen says, is the major reason why the Australian pay-TV penetration rate dwindles behind the US (90%) or UK (60%). Signing up to pay-TV here costs far more than the US or most of Europe.
Other factors have applied a handbrake on growth, according to Citi analyst Justin Diddams. Pay-TV, he says, has had the best take-up in countries where providers bundle it together with other telephony services such as broadband or mobile phone deals. In the UK, for example, BSkyB has given away free broadband to lift subscriber numbers. In Australia this hasn’t been possible because Telstra?—?which owns 50% of Foxtel?—?won’t allow the pay-TV provider to sell broadband connections.
Our tough anti-siphoning laws also haven’t helped either. Nor has the arrival of Freeview, which allows people to watch for free the type of content they used to have to pay for.
None of this bad news, it’s important to point out, has stopped Foxtel from making serious dough. Although relatively few Aussies are prepared to fork out for pay-TV, those who do are willing to pay a lot. Last year, the company increased full-year earnings by 15.5%, despite subscriber numbers only rising by around 18,000.
This business model, however, is on its last legs thanks to the arrival of Internet Protocol Television (IPTV)?—?a technology that streams TV and video services via the internet direct to computer, television set or game console. The industry is still in a nascent stage, but is expected to grow rapidly in the next decade with the proliferation of high-speed broadband.
“The traditional model of pay-TV is on the way out,” said Paul Budde. “People will always be interested in good content?—?movies and sport?—?but the format in which it’s currently delivered is a dying concept.”
Roger Colman, head of media at CCZ Statton Equities, agrees. According to his firm’s projections, next year will be the last year of subscriber growth for traditional subscription television. By 2017, he expects around a fifth of households to have satellite or cable pay-TV while IPTV will be approaching 50% penetration.
Chris Coughlan, research director at technology analyst firm Telsyte, says the growth of IPTV represents both an ”opportunity and a threat” for Foxtel.
The opportunity: many more customers. The threat: many more competitors?—?including Fetch TV, Apple TV, Netflix and, ironically, Telstra, which is taking on Foxtel with T-Box, which offers movies on demand and live sport.
“It’ll be a fine balancing act to package up the IPTV channels so they don’t cannibalise the existing plantium users?—?those who get all the services, not just bits and pieces,” said Coughlan. “They’ll have to be very clever.”
Steve Allen reckons Foxtel will have much lower profit margins in five years time. It will also have to spend big on original programming to maintain viewers (an outcome that would be a boon for the Australian entertainment industry).
Roger Colman is far more optimistic than his counterparts. Foxtel, he asserts confidently, will make more money in the IPTV era than it does now. ”It’s a simple equation,” he said. “There are no real competitors of any import.”
Foxtel, Colman says, is expanding into IPTV far more aggressively than it’s making out and is already stiching up deals with major Hollywood studios for Australian IPTV rights.
Despite the widespread assumption that the internet leads to fragmentation, Colman says real-world experience shows that it also leads to monopolies. In the US, Amazon has around 80% of the online book market, Netflix owns 90% of the online DVD market, while iTunes has around 90% of digital music sales.
He expects Foxtel will achieve the same market dominance in Australia for IPTV and is telling his clients to bank on it.
Crikey approached Foxtel CEO Richard Freudenstein for comment but he was unavailable.
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.crikey.com.au/">Crikey</a>.
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Why less than a third of Australians have pay-TV in their homes

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More than 90% of property vendors across Australia will engage a real estate agent to represent them in the sale of their property. On the contrary, less than 10% of buyers will engage a buyers' agent to represent them in purchasing a property. Personally, that equation has never stacked up to me or made sense. If the large majority of vendors require help in the sale of their property, you would naturally think that buyers would require the same expert representation when looking to purchase.
As it has never been common practice to engage a buyers' agent in Australia, buyers have been led to believe they are now experts and completely competent when buying property. Much like the financial markets, it is common practice to engage a broker for their expertise to buy in and sell out – this principle is now beginning to develop at a more rapid rate in the property game.
With any professional service where you are not experienced, you engage a specialist expert for their advice and representation. I have always been intrigued why inexperienced property buyers do not believe they require an agent to represent them when looking to buy property. It's fascinating how people who have never bought property before or who have bought only a few times are confident in their ability to execute in searching/buying property. It's absolutely amazing. In my experience, even property buyers who are qualified solicitors who do not specialise in conveyancing, will engage a conveyancing lawyer to review their contract of sale. In most cases buying a property is a person(s) biggest financial investment and ongoing mortgage commitment of their life. So what makes inexperienced property buyers experts when looking to buy?
Unfortunately buyers forget that real estate agents work for the vendor and they are committed to getting their vendor the highest price so they will do whatever it takes to play the buyer. Welcome to the art of sales.
Buyers also underestimate the real estate agents ability to negotiate and seem to value their own negotiation skill with more credit – the reality is that real estate agents negotiate on property daily so the probability to get the buyer to pay more then required is very high. Also, buyers don't seem to have any idea with the amount of transactions that take place off market (property not advertised) that  to rely on property that is advertised in the paper and online, especially in this market, is completely limiting your ability to source property.
Understanding property values is another interesting part of the process that buyers believe they can grasp all of a sudden – if the property next door sold for X or the apartment downstairs in the building sold for Y, buyers then believe they are expert valuers. If only it were that easy.
Similarly, like any profession, it takes hours and hours to master your craft with continuous improvement, which is why you engage an expert in an area out of your depth for specialist assistance. Malcolm Gladwell, the author of Outliers, repeatedly mentions the "10,000-Hour Rule", claiming that the key to success in any field is, to a large extent, a matter of practicing a specific task for a total of around 10,000 hours.
If you are not purchasing properties consistently, negotiating price with agents daily, inspecting on/off properties daily, then possibly you should consider seeking professional advice when buying property.
Ben Handler is a Sydney-based entrepreneur. Ben is the co-founder and director of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.chbuyersagents.com.au/">CohenHandler</a> - an exclusive buyers agency in Double Bay, Sydney. CohenHandler is one of Sydney's leading buyers' agencies since inception only two years ago. Ben is a buyer specialist in the eastern suburbs, being involved in residential transactions up to $15 million.
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bhandler-wfgpK78Thy

Buying a home does not make you a property buying expert

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With some 75% of all mooted new stock sold, Sydney’s CBD and surrounding apartment market could exhaust its supply of new apartments in less than a year, according to research by Colliers International.
Owner-occupiers and investors seeking a newly built apartment have the choice of 14 residential projects within the Sydney CBD and surrounding suburbs.
With only one new building being released to the market over the past six months, the 14 buildings are set to provide an additional 2,186 apartments.
Colliers International recently reported that during the past six months about 400 new apartments were sold.
The sales included solid demand for the apartments in The Quay on Quay Street in Haymarket, with 200 of the 270 units sold in quick time.
Despite supply levels expanding considerably in the southern precinct of Sydney’s CBD, Colliers noted 69% of the first two stages of Central Park projects One Central Park and Park Lane project have been sold.
Colliers sees the conversion of strategically located office blocks into apartments as crucial for the CBD advancement.
Ariel Pollard, Colliers International director of research, has studied 22 projects in Sydney and surrounding suburbs, equating to around 4,776 apartments in various stages of the planning system or under development.
Her report shows in past six months since late 2011 about 400 new apartments were sold.
And based on that sales rate the remaining 540 apartments on the market would be sold by mid- 2013, Pollard concluded.
The Hyde by Stockland in the southern precinct is one project that recently completely sold out.
Pollard says the strength of the Sydney CBD and surrounding apartment market is set to continue due to limited supply options and falling interest rates.
Lower interest rates are seen as assisting purchasers – whether they are first-home buyers, upgraders or investors – with achieving entry into the market.
“The time lag associated with site acquisition, approval and construction is considerable, particularly within Sydney due to the numerous impediments associated with the current planning system,” she says.
“This in turn restricts supply levels and leaves the potential purchaser with limited choice.
“An increased population base, smaller household formation rates and limited supply options will ensure long-term capital gain for the astute buyer,” Pollard says.
Buyer demand for apartments priced below $1.5 million across inner Sydney has been described by Colliers International as robust.
Over 2011 a total of 908 apartments – new and established – were sold in inner Sydney, which represented a minor 3% decline on 2010 volumes.
Some 90% of all apartments in the inner-Sydney precinct sold during the 2011 December quarter were under $1.5 million.
Median apartment sales within the inner city ranged from $433,250 in the mid-precinct to $1.1 million in the northern end of the CBD.
Eastern CBD apartments recorded a $710,000 median and $617,500 in the southern precinct. The $500,000 to $600,000 and $1 million-plus price ranges were the most popular, with each recording 21% of the transactions, according to Colliers analysis.
Three of the inner-city regions had higher medians than the total Sydney median unit price, which is around $480,000, according to RP Data.
Sydney’s median fell by 1.8% in the year to April 2012, according to RP Data, with the decline in Sydney unit prices having been modest compared with the likes of Melbourne and Brisbane.
The national downturn was put at 3.1%.
For more on Sydney's present and future, download our free eBook <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-sydney-embracing-the-world-of-tomorrow" target="_blank">Sydney – Embracing the World of Tomorrow.</a>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Sydney CBD’s apartment market could run out of stock in less than a year: Colliers

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The latest census data confirmed the shift to medium-density living in Sydney’s inner city. While the debate about under- or oversupply of residential dwellings remains, it is clear that demand for inner-city units is high, as evident by the number of transactions in the 12 months to April 2012, with the unit-to-house sales ratio closing the year at 2.5 to 1 (8,099 units vs. 3,163 houses).
Would you invest in off-the-plan apartments in this market? Yes, but with reservations.
As a first-home buyer I would certainly consider buying after October 1, when the NSW state government’s generous incentives kick in. The chance to move into a newly built property and being able to select the location, aspect and inclusions is a strong drawing card to buyers of a first home. However, given the hurdles often put by financiers for purchases of off-the-plan units, it is prudent to start the journey into the housing market with a healthy deposit that will shield against the risk of a lower valuation upon completion.
As a downsizer I would do the sums. As many downsizers are in the stage in life when retirement is contemplated, it is imperative to take into consideration not only the cost to finance the property, but also ongoing costs such as water and council rates and strata fees. A recent research we conducted found that strata fees in city buildings represented a larger percentage of the price of a unit than in buildings located further away from the city.
The reason was often the type of common facilities included in the building. It is imperative to consider the suitability of each facility to the purchaser’s lifestyle. While an elevator is commonplace in most developments, swimming pools, gyms and function rooms are used in marketing campaigns to attract buyers. They have a significant impact on strata fees and are often underutilised by residents. In recent times, developers have shied away from “resort”-style developments of the last decade, understanding that buyers today are conscious of the costs involved, and often outsource their recreational needs to one of the many sporting facilities located around town.
Units will continue to be the dwelling of choice into the future, as both younger and older generations see value in the lifestyle options offered by this type of dwelling. However, it will be the style of the building and the bottom line, not only the location, that will determine the attraction of each unit into the future.
Oded Reuveni Etzioni is a research analyst at <a href="https://www.prdnationwide.com.au/site/page.cfm" target="_blank">PRDnationwide</a>.
For more on Sydney's current market and where it is headed, download our free eBook <a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-sydney-embracing-the-world-of-tomorrow">Sydney: Embracing the world of tomorrow. </a>
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Buying an off-the-plan apartment comes with reservations

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The new financial year brings with it plenty of opportunities for Australian entrepreneurs, along with severe challenges for certain sectors.
So which industry will fly and which will fall in 2012-13?
Business information research firm IBISWorld has compiled a list of those set for growth and those set for hard times in the coming 12 months:
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="290">
Industries to fly
</td>
<td valign="top" width="138">
Growth 2012-13
(%)
</td>
<td valign="top" width="142">
Revenue 2012-13
($million)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="290">
Diamond and Gemstone Mining
</td>
<td width="138">
35.6
</td>
<td width="142">
509.3
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="290">
Electricity Generation
</td>
<td width="138">
28.7
</td>
<td width="142">
19,100.0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="290">
Preschool Education
</td>
<td width="138">
26.0
</td>
<td width="142">
1,100.0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="290">
Superannuation Funds
</td>
<td width="138">
21.2
</td>
<td width="142">
232,800.0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="290">
Organic Farming
</td>
<td width="138">
14.9
</td>
<td width="142">
578.9
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
<table style="width: 470px;" border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="292">
Industries to fall
</td>
<td width="135">
Change 2012-13
(%)
</td>
<td width="141">
Revenue 2012-13
($million)
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="292">
Iron and Steel Manufacturing
</td>
<td width="135">
-15.6
</td>
<td width="141">
8,300.0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="292">
Cotton Growing
</td>
<td width="135">
-8.3
</td>
<td width="141">
2,500.0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="292">
Recorded Media Manufacturing and Publishing
</td>
<td width="135">
-6.1
</td>
<td width="141">
861.1
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="292">
Pulp, Paper and Paperboard Manufacturing
</td>
<td width="135">
-5.2
</td>
<td width="141">
3,200.0
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="292">
Gaming and Vending Machine Manufacturing
</td>
<td width="135">
-5.0
</td>
<td width="141">
417.0
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 Industries expected to fly:
1. Diamond and gemstone mining
The global financial crisis resulted in far lower demand for resources – including diamonds and gemstones.
Demand has started to recover globally and the rebound will be driven by higher production levels (up 39.5%), while prices are also expected to stabilise in 2012.
Significantly, 93% of Australian production is exported, and IBISWorld expects this to continue in the face of a very strong Australian dollar – resulting in forecast revenue growth of 35.6% over 2012-13 to reach $509.3 million.
IBISWorld identifies India as the key export market for Australia’s diamonds and gemstones. India uses the diamonds for industrial tools and jewellery.
2. Electricity generation
The electricity generation industry is forecast to grow strongly over the coming year, largely driven by the flow-on effects of the carbon tax – as the industry is the largest contributor of carbon dioxide in Australia at 32% of total emissions.
Victorian electricity generators that burn brown coal will be hardest hit by carbon pricing, followed by generators that burn black coal (mainly in New South Wales and Queensland).
Trends in electricity demand, production and prices are expected to be broadly reflected in industry performance. Low-cost producers will be able to take advantage of short-term increases in demand and are anticipated to perform well in the coming year.
Overall, IBISWorld expects industry profitability will be compressed by the introduction of carbon pricing, meaning profit will rise, but at a much slower rate than revenue. Electricity generation industry revenue is forecast to increase 28.7% over the coming year to reach $19.1 billion.
3. Preschool education
Over the coming financial year, IBISWorld expects the preschool education industry to grow by 26% and to be worth $1.1 billion.
Growth is expected to be driven primarily by additional funding, equating to $297 million over 2012-13, from the Australian Government to support reforms aimed at standardising preschool education.
The Australian government’s universal access policy is expected to increase demand for preschool services and increase total childcare hours.
All state governments have agreed that by the end of 2013, all four-year-old children will have access to 15 hours of preschool per week, 40 weeks of the year. These services are to be delivered by an early childhood teacher with four years of university training.
4. Superannuation funds
After four consecutive poor years, IBISWorld expects a return in confidence and favourable investment conditions in 2012-13. This is expected to result in growth of 21.2% for the superannuation funds industry to reach $232.8 billion.
This growth will be off a low base, following the revenue decimation experienced during the global financial crisis.
5. Organic farming
Over the past five years, Australia’s organic farming industry has grown at a robust pace of 11.6% per annum, and IBISWorld expects the industry will continue to soar, increasing its revenue by 14.9% over 2012-13 to be worth $578.9 million.
Demand for organic produce has been mainly driven by growing consumer interest in sustainable food production and rising disposable incomes.
Supermarkets have responded quickly to increasing demand for organic products by increasing organic product ranges to improve accessibility. This has resulted in supermarkets accounting for around 60% of all organic sales.
However, IBISWorld expects supply constraints – particularly in the meat segment due to the lack of an organised supply chain in regards to organic feed, abattoirs and processors – will continue to limit industry growth.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
Industries expected to fall:
1. Iron and steel manufacturing
Australia’s iron and steel manufacturing industry has been in long-term decline due to a reduced global demand for Australia’s high priced manufactured steel.
Australia’s steel market has been further disadvantaged globally due to the high Australian dollar, which is expected to remain high, resulting in a forecast export decline of about 45% over the coming year.
BlueScope’s decision to exit the export market and reduce production capacity is indicative of this decline.
IBISWorld forecasts Australia’s iron and steel manufacturing industry will decline by 15.6% in 2012-13 to be worth $8.3 billion.
2. Cotton growing
Globally, cotton supply is expected to continue to exceed demand over the coming year, resulting in a fall in global cotton prices. IBISWorld forecasts that decreased demand for cotton from China, coupled with steady, healthy cotton production levels, will result in a fall of 8.3% in industry revenue over the coming year to reach $2.5 billion.
3. Recorded media manufacturing and publishing
Physical media manufacturing is inextricably tied to retail sales. Over the five years to 2012-13, the amount of CDs sold will drop by an estimated 11% annually to about 30 million – as consumers opt to digitally download everything from music, to movies and video games.
To combat this, the industry is looking to reinvent itself by developing music and video players that play digital media files. However, online file downloading and sharing still poses a huge threat for the industry.
In 2012-13, IBISWorld forecasts revenue for Australia’s recorded media manufacturing and publishing industry will decline 6.1% to be worth $861.1 million.
4. Pulp, paper and paperboard manufacturing
The increasing digitisation of media has had an adverse affect on a number of downstream industries, including Australia’s pulp, paper and paperboard manufacturing industry.
The increasing digitisation of media lowers the need for paper printing and publishing.
Confounding this is the continuing high price of woodchips, which further encourages the trend away from paper products.
Delays in the development of several key production sites – due to uncertain economic times and strong lobbying efforts by protest groups – has further affected industry productivity and profitability. In the coming year, industry revenue is forecast to decline by 5.2% to reach $3.2 billion.
5. Gaming and vending machines manufacturing
Over the past five years, the number of poker machines in Australia has contracted as state government caps have come into play – limiting the potential purchases of gaming machines.
Like many of Australia’s manufacturing industries, production activity has gradually relocated from Australia to countries with lower production costs.
This trend is increasing import competition, which is supported by the strong Australian dollar, making imported goods less expensive for local buyers.
This trend is expected to continue over 2012-13, contributing to a forecast industry revenue decline of 5% to reach $417 million.
Karen Dobie is the general manager of IBISWorld Australia. For more information on these, or any of Australia’s 500 industries, <a href="https://www.ibisworld.com.au/" rel="nofollow">click here</a>. This article first appeared on <a href="https://www.startupsmart.com.au/" rel="nofollow">StartupSmart</a>.
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Organic farming set to fly in 2012-13 as manufacturing set to flounder: IBISWorld

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Melbourne’s weekend auction clearance rate eased to 55%, as winter school holidays accentuated the buyer disinterest.
It was down on the 58% of the previous weekend and 53% the same weekend last year.
The total number of auctions was down considerably compared with the same week last year, from 465?to 331.
The Real Estate Institute of Vicotria notes with the exception of January, the month of July historically has the lowest volume of residential auctions.
“This year the winter trend is exacerbated, with around 10% fewer auctions than this time last year,” REIV chief executive Enzo Raimondo says.
Dr Andrew Wilson of Australian Property Monitors says Melbourne’s auction culture, which is the strongest in Australia’s capital cities, is softening, with clearance rates “drifting downwards”.
“The steam is out of the Melbourne market,” Wilson told the Australian Financial Review.
He forecasts buyer wariness to continue and the auction clearance rate to remain low.
Melbourne’s top seller was a five-bedroom Mt Waverley house at $1,532,000.
“It was a relatively quiet weekend for auctions in Melbourne – the end of the financial year expected to have played a part,” WPB buyers’ agent Greville Pabst notes.
“However, consumer sentiment is considered the primary reason for the continued lull in activity among buyers and sellers.
“A softening in market activity means there are fewer properties available for purchase, but the lower competition is good news for astute buyers who are willing to go that extra mile in their search,” he says.
Wilson says the Sydney market was a “different story”.
Sydney secured a 56.2% auction clearance rate. It was 54.7% in the previous weekend, and 52.9% in the same weekend last July.
Wilson suggests Sydney is “holding its own and not suffering in health.
“It’s an encouraging result.”
Sydney’s highest recorded office was $3.02 million for a five-bedroom Burwood house.
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Melbourne weekend auction clearance eases in winter school holidays, but Sydney holding its own 

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Construction of two commercial towers at Barangaroo will now commence after Lend Lease received commitments totalling $2 billion from cornerstone investors on the Sydney Harbour project.
The funding forms part of a new commercial wholesale open-ended property trust, which Lend Lease will manage.
Each tower will take about three years to build, and Lend Lease anticipates net facing rents of about $1,000 per square metre on average with a 20% incentive.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/barangaroo.jpg">
Actual rents will vary dependent on factors such as location in the building and lease term, and there will be no rental guarantees.
Construction of the perimeter wall has now been completed.
The developer has raised $1 billion from Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPPIB) and a combined $500 million from the Lend Lease-managed Australian Prime Property Fund Commercial (APPF Commercial) and two existing APPF Commercial investors, First State Super and Telstra Super.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/barangaroo2.jpg">
Alongside these investments, Lend Lease will invest up to 25% or $500 million in the first two towers to be progressively drawn down over the development period.
The announcement of the funding follows soon <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/office/westpac-and-kpmg-to-take-up-more-than-70-in-two-of-lend-leases-barangaroo-south-towers/2012062255233">after Lend Lease announced on June 22 that it had secured tenants for the first two commercial towers</a>, with Westpac agreeing to lease around 70% of the commercial floor space in the first tower to be commenced and KPMG and Lend Lease to occupy 75% of the second tower.
Discussions with other tenants on the third proposed tower will progress over next 12 months, and depending on the outcome of these discussions, it could be launched over this time frame.
Speaking to investors today Lend Lease CEO Steve McCann described the funding as a “very significant milestone”.
“The original assessment was for one tower in first phase. We are very pleased to have funding and leasing agreements for two towers.
“Now all we have to do is build it,” says McCann.
“Investors should have complete confidence in us, since we have built 30% of the Sydney skyline,” he says. 
McCann says investors have also expressed interest in investing in the third commercial tower proposed for the site. 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/barangaroo1.jpg">
McCann says that having raised the funding and secured tenants, the developer can now turn to the residential component of Barangaroo South.
“We anticipate there will be probably be residential pre-sales in the next two years,” he says.
Hotel discussions with the NSW government are expected to be finalised in the next quarter.
“We are not in a hurry on the hotel development. We first have finalise where it will be located,” McCann says. 
“We are in discussion with a number of commercial operators about the hotel.”
Lend Lease has about $20 billion in urban regeneration projects on its books including Barangaroo , the RNA showgrounds in Brisbane, the Waterbank project in Perth and projects in London.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Barangaroo South construction set to begin as Lend Lease raises $2 billion 

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The Melbourne and Sydney properties features in auction tipping competition Property Tycoon sold under the hammer this weekend, but only just.
For those who want to have a harmless punt, there's now a tipping website, <a style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.propertytycoon.com.au/" target="_blank">www.propertytycoon.com.au</a>, where punters can guess auction five results in Melbourne and Sydney, with no outlay. It's mostly about testing your market knowledge with a small cash prize as a sweetener.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/youngman.jpg">
The auction at 4 Youngman Street, Preston (pictured above), was attended by around 50 people but only three declared their intention to call the property home.
With the exception of the successful bidder, who was very quick to respond to any challenger bids, it was tough for the auctioneer to drag out bids from the other punters.
The auction stalled at $630,000 when he referred the bid to the owner but was instructed to go out and get more money. Bidding commenced again before stopping at $653,000 and more instructions were sought. On this occasion the owner gave him the all clear to announce the property on the market. Unfortunately for the owner this did not entice any more bidding, and the property was knocked down.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/07/gilpin.jpg">
In Sydney the two-storey Victorian terrace at 9 Gilpin Street, Camperdown (pictured above), also just fell across the line, selling for $2,000 above the vendor’s reserve.
Three buyers registered their intention to put their hand up at the auction but when the action started only two were prepared to do so. But it only takes two to make an auction, and happily for the vendor the two buyers passed the $1.05 million reserve before bidding stopped at $1,052,000.
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Auction tipping competition properties manage to just get over the line

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 203 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of July 7. The clearance rate was 56.2%. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf"> Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

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APM's 203 Sydney auction results show 56.2% clearance rate

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PRDnationwide has selected five townships in order to investigate property investment in Australia’s mining towns - with each town defined by diverse regional environments, population sizes, mining activities, level of infrastructure and services, proximity to regional service centres and community establishment.
Perhaps the only commonality shared between these mining towns is the shortfall of housing and the inadequate provision of infrastructure and planning mechanisms to accommodate an ever increasing workforce. The table below provides the list of townships that have been selected for the purpose of this investigation together with a snapshot of the individual housing markets performance during the six months to April 2011 and 2012.
<table width="372" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" rowspan="2" width="19%">
 
 
Township
</td>
<td valign="top" rowspan="2" width="12%">
 
 
State
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="34%">
Apr-11 HY
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="34%">
Apr-12 HY
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="21%">
Median Price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="12%">
Total Sales
</td>
<td valign="top" width="21%">
Median Price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="12%">
Total Sales
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="19%">
Moranbah
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
$459,500
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
84
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
$730,000
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
129
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="19%">
Dysart
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
$450,000
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
42
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
$545,000
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
38
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="19%">
Port Hedland
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
$1,100,000
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
31
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
$1,235,000
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
23
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="19%">
Singleton
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
$345,000
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
82
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
$377,000
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
111
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="19%">
Karratha
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
$767,000
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
45
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
$802,500
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="12%">
54
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 <table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1" style="width: 470px;"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="21%">
 
 
Township
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="39%">
Annual Change
</td>
<td valign="top" colspan="2" width="39%">
Avg. Annual Growth Rate
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="21%">
 
</td>
<td valign="top" width="21%">
Median Price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="17%">
Total Sales
</td>
<td valign="top" width="15%">
5yr Growth
</td>
<td valign="top" width="23%">
10yr
Growth
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="21%">
Moranbah, QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
58.9%
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="17%">
53.6%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="15%">
15.2%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="23%">
38.1%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="21%">
Dysart, QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
21.1%
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="17%">
-9.5%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="15%">
11.4%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="23%">
32.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="21%">
Port Hedland, WA
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
12.3%
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="17%">
-25.8%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="15%">
17.1%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="23%">
20.1%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="21%">
Singleton, NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
9.3%
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="17%">
35.4%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="15%">
5.3%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="23%">
10.3%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="21%">
Karratha, WA
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="21%">
4.6%
</td>
<td valign="top" nowrap width="17%">
20.0%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="15%">
7.4%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="23%">
15.6%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
Prepared by PRDnationwide Research: Source: PDS Live
Of the five mining towns, Moranbah achieved the highest median price growth during the April 2012 half-year period, recording an unprecedented 58.8% increase compared with the corresponding period in 2011. The town also led the way is sales activity, registering a total of 129 transactions during the April 2012 half-year period, representing an exceptional 53.6% uplift from the corresponding period in 2011.
Dysart failed to achieve this level of exponential growth, despite having a proximate median price to Moranbah in the April 2011 half-year period. Somewhat overshadowed, Dysart in fact performed extremely well, recording a median price of $545,000 to achieve 21.1% growth during the April 2012 half-year period. Sales volumes however, diluted 9.5% during the six months to April 2012, registering a total 38 transactions.
Port Hedland recorded a median house price of $1,235,000 in the six months to April 2012, undoubtedly the highest median price of all regional mining towns across Australia. With a median price of $1.1 million in the April 2011 half-year period, it is hard to believe that there was any scope in the market to inflate prices further, making the 12.3% increase all the more remarkable.
Singleton recorded a median house price of $345,000 in the April half-year period, making it the most affordable of the five mining towns. As a result the town is gaining momentum, with a 9.3% increase in median price and uplift of 35.4% in sales recorded during the six months to April 2012.
Karratha (including adjoining Nickol and Bulgarra) recorded a median price of $802,500 in the April 2012 half-year period, representing a 4.6% increase from the corresponding period in 2011. Again, while this rate is well below that achieved from the Queensland towns, Karratha is a more established township, and in relative terms, this level of growth from a median price of $767,000 in the April 2011 half-year period is nonetheless very impressive.
There is no doubt that regional mining towns across Australia are producing extraordinary investment opportunities for investors, particularly those with the financial capacity and risk appetite to enter the market. As with any property purchase or investment vehicle, lucrative returns from investing in these mining towns are directly proportionate to the overwhelming level of inherent risk.
The most prominent risk is the sensitivity of rental prices to change drastically over extremely short periods of time. Moranbah provides a perfect case in point, with anecdotal evidence suggesting weekly rental prices as at April 2012 have revised down as much as $800 since the late 2011/ early 2012 and possibly much more since then. Rental evidence provided by the Residential Tenancy Authority (RTA) states the median weekly rent for a three-bedroom house in the March 2012 quarter to be $2,000, compared with $550 recorded over the same period in 2010. This scenario has and continues to occur within the other mining towns, with the constant disequilibrium between housing supply and demand transpiring to excessive volatility in the rental market.
There are many factors that contribute to demand for housing, with the most obvious and most detrimental being the performance of the mine/mines that the town services. This is very much the case for Moranbah, with BHP Billiton-Mitsubishi Alliance (BMA) issuing statements to overseas dependants that it will will fail to meet requirements as the mines experience limited production during what has been a bad wet season (November to April). This has been further exacerbated by rolling weekly strikes by miners as BMA goes hard on its enterprise agreement with the unions. BMA has taken advantage of the situation and has refused to sign any lease agreements since earlier in the year. Vacancies have thus increased and rents corrected accordingly, with only the fortunate investors with unexpired lease agreements unaffected at this point in time.
Another example, possibly more severe, was the closure of an underperforming mine (BMA’s Norwich Park) in April 2012 near Dysart, which sent shock waves throughout the local community, with 1,400 jobs threatened and the flow-on effects to the property market yet to be fully realised. Approximately 400 of these workers are residents of the Dysart community, and some will be redeployed to the Saraji mine, while others will likely relocate to other towns or centres in the region.
As an immediate result, it is anticipated that vacancy levels will increase, therefore correcting rental prices and subsequent capital values. Some investors will wear their losses and maintain their prospects for further growth while others will consolidate their earnings and opt to exit the market. Once again, as prices soften, opportunities will arise for investors to take advantage of high rental yields and enter a market they perhaps couldn’t afford previously. However, as has been the case for Moranbah, the influx of investors looking capitalise on such an opportunity will flood the market with more rental properties, putting further pressure on rental prices and ultimately diluting these supercharged yields.
Despite the sensationalist predictions of some media proponents, the size of pipeline expansions for existing mines in the Dysart area is likely to navigate the property market from an imminent bust. In fact, the number and size of mines planned to open or expand in the Isaac Region of Queensland in the future will surely prevent towns like Moranbah and Dysart experiencing a collapse in the market any time soon.
Perhaps the most significant problem facing mining towns in the future is the expansion of campsites to accommodate a growing fly-in fly-out (FIFO) workforce in order for mining companies to reduce their cost base. Basically, the benefit of this strategy to the resident community of the town is that it will effectively drive rents and subsequent capital values in the housing market down to more affordable levels, preventing non-mining workers who perhaps are renting from being priced out of the market and forced to relocate. However, on the other hand, the added strain on essential services caused by the lack of direct investment from mining companies and local governments into adequate community infrastructure and businesses, demonstrates a more cynical consequence.
The lure of higher pay packages offered by the mines is aggravating the problem as many business struggle to maintain enough staff to operate efficiently, if not at all. The implications of a growing FIFO workforce have been debated among industry, politicians, lobbyists and community for quite some time now. There are advocates both for and against increasing the proportion of FIFO workers in and around town, with the decision likely to be resolved with government intervention. Either way, this is yet another factor which must be closely monitored by would-be and existing investors of mining towns.
For investors with short-term investment horizons and an appetite for risk beyond the norm, then this may be the ideal time and asset class to invest. However, for a majority of would-be investors, perhaps the next best thing would be to consider the major regional centres that service these remote mining towns. Gains may not be as lucrative or as quick to come by, but the long-term sustainable growth prospects afforded by these multi-industry centres (most of which are independent of the mining boom though indirectly benefit from its growth and success) are perhaps the better weighted investment. Many spectators will be paying special attention to the towns of Moranbah and Dysart during 2012; using the benefit of hindsight to measure and validate the repercussions and extent certain events have on their property markets.
Aaron Maskrey is research director at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.prdnationwide.com.au/">PRDnationwide</a>.
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