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

Joel Robinson

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

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

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

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

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

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

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

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

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

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

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

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

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

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I often get asked what I do for a living.  My “elevator pitch” or quick answer is “ I help people develop property by managing all the details from finding the right site through to finding the right tenants on completion.  The result is creation of a large amount of equity through the development process.”
Their next question is always why don’t you just develop property for yourself?
The answer to this is a bit longer, but to keep it short and sweet, I love sharing knowledge and find it very satisfying project managing developments.  I do have a stake in all our developments anyway, as I share in the equity we create.  This means I take personal ownership of the developments. Over the past eight years the number of developments Property Bloom has managed stands at 53. This is on average of 6.6 developments per year.  Also, the bottom line is that there is no way I could finance 53 developments on my own.  By doing them for others, I get to do what I love and make a living from it. No brainer, really.
So what are the benefits of using a professional project manager for your development?
Save money: A good project manager will have established discount structures in place with builders, architects, surveyors and other contractors.  On a three-villa project, the builder’s discount alone saves our clients over $12,000. On a six-villa project we’re saving them well over $30,000. These savings help offset the project management fee.
Save time:  To set up your own development team, find the right site, run feasibilities, design the project, manage the planning phase and then the build phase for even a small dual occupancy can be very time-consuming. If you are trying to hold down a full-time job at the same time, you will find it challenging. Using our refined system, we fast-track all stages of the project for clients.
Minimise risk: If it’s your first development then just one error may mean the difference between a profitable development and a non-profitable one. Using an experienced project manager takes some of the risks away. Developing will always have an element of risk, every development is different and we’ve learnt something new from each one we’ve finished.
Learn how to develop: Simply by going through the process working with a project manager you will learn so much. If you engage a project manager who is happy to teach you along the way, then you may be ready to manage your next project on your own.
Access to sites not on open market: Our sources know what we’re looking for and will contact us about sites they may have available or have coming up.  About 50% of our sites have not hit the open market.
Professionally managed and recorded: The paperwork alone can be mountainous and you want to ensure all documents are kept to maximise your tax return and so you can use them as a reference when doing your own project.
Local knowledge and experience: Property Bloom specialises in the Lower Hunter Region of NSW. So we know the markets very well and can quickly analyze a potential site location. Our contact base of agents, contractors, builders and other professionals is broad and we have been able to weed out any suppliers we have not been happy with in the past. We continue to fine-tune and improve our systems and processes.
Keep your day job: Cashflow is important when developing, so all of our clients have day jobs to fund their developments. It enables them to keep moving forward with building their property portfolios.  We often have clients running two projects simultaneously to fast-track their wealth creation.
If you’re thinking of developing but are a little worried, work with a project manager who has local knowledge and good experience in the area you want to develop in. You’ll essentially be buying yourself the time and experience it would have taken you to get up to the same level.
Jo Chivers is director of <a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/" target="_blank" title="Property Bloom">Property Bloom</a>, which manages property development.
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jochivers-wq5Bp59R5a

Developments run more smoothly with a project manager

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Consumer sentiment has picked up but remains weak, Westpac says, tipping fears about unemployment levels and continued problems in Europe to cause more headaches for the local economy.

The Westpac Melbourne Institute Index of Consumer Sentiment has recorded its second monthly jump, lifting by 0.4% this month to 97.2 points, from 96.9 in September. The result means there are more pessimists than optimists, and takes the annual fall to 16.9%.
The survey of 1,200 people conducted last week follows a better-than-expected National Australia Bank business survey yesterday, giving rise to hopes the economy is lifting itself out of a funk.
But Westpac senior economist Matthew Hassan says we're far from out of the woods.
"One of the things that has happened in the past few months is consumers are more concerned about their jobs than they were," Hassan says.
"There's an underlying sense that the labour market is not in as great shape as it was."
Hassan says unemployment has already risen faster than anticipated and will likely continue to rise to 5.7% by the middle of next year.
"And what's important is not just the move but the way it's being perceived by consumers," Hassan says, pointing to a survey showing a sharp spike in unemployment expectations and the changes in behaviour that usually come hand-in-hand with job insecurity.
Hassan is also not tipping an end to the European debt crisis, meaning a continuation of the volatility that has prompted dramatic movements in our equity markets and local currency.
"Given the jump we saw in September, to hang onto that gain is better than expected," Hassan says, saying Slovakia's decision to vote against a plan to help stem the European debt crisis this morning suggests that the situation is "getting worse, not better".
Westpac expects a rate cut in either November or December to have a strong ripple effect across the mortgage belt given the official cash rate is high at 4.75%.
The survey showed that the index measuring family finances was up 2.3% for the year, but the family finance index lifted 3%.
In bad news for some retailers, the percentage of people saying it was a good time to buy a major household item fell 5.6%.
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/economy/20111012-consumer-sentiment-edges-up-but-employment-worries-remain">SmartCompany</a>.
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Consumer sentiment edges up but employment worries remain

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Melbourne-based Metricon Homes has been ranked Australia’s largest builder in 2010-11, according to the Housing Industry Association.
The list, which ranks the nation’s largest 100 residential builders based on the number of homes started each year, revealed that housing starts fell by 13% from 59,509 in 2009-10 to 51,903 in 2010-11.
The largest 100 builders started 40,183 houses, which was down 21%, along with 11,720 units and townhouses, which were up 30%
With 3,060 starts, all detached houses, Metricon Homes came in as Australia’s largest residential builder for the first time.
The WA-based Alcock/Brown-Neaves Group ranked second largest builder with 2,668 starts, and the Perth-based BGC (Australia) third with 2,435 housing starts.
BGC (Australia) had been at the top of the listing in 2009-10 with 4,392 starts.
<img src="/images/stories/metriconchart.gif">
Despite Metricon’s top spot, it started 5% fewer houses this year than last year, when it ranked third. Its housing starts occurred in Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. For 35 years, the Mount Waverley-based Metricon has been developing homes that now span the eastern seaboard of Australia from Melbourne to far north Queensland, along with South Australia. Its first office opened in Caulfield, Melbourne by its co-founders, George Kline and Mario Biasin. It now has a team of more than 1,000.
Hickory Developments Pty Ltd was the nation’s largest multi-unit builder for the second consecutive year with 2,003 starts, up on the 1,274 starts for the previous year and thereby improving the company’s overall ranking from number 10 to number five.
The 100 builders in the latest HIA-Colorbond Steel Housing 100 Report held a 33% share of Australia-wide housing starts in 2010-11, down from 36% in 2009-10 and 38% in 2008-09.
The share of the market held by the largest 20 builders was steady in New South Wales when compared with 2009-10, eased slightly in Victoria, and fell substantially in Western Australia. The market share held by the largest 20 builders in Queensland increased moderately. The market share held by the largest 15 builders in South Australia fell significantly.
The biggest mover in 2010-11 was Brookfield Multiplex, with an increase of 846 starts.
The revenue earned from home construction by the Housing 100 was estimated to have eased to $13.6 billion in 2010-11, representing a decline of less than 1%.
The decline in national housing starts in 2010-11 primarily reflected weakness in Queensland, Western Australia, South Australia and New South Wales.
“The unwinding of stimulus measures, heightened interest rate uncertainty, stalled progress in attacking supply-side obstacles, and weak consumer and business confidence amidst negative domestic and global economic news all conspired to derail new home building conditions last financial year,” says HIA chief economist Dr Harley Dale.
“Evidence of accelerated weakness in new housing conditions in 2011-12 reinforces the justification for interest rate cuts and short-term fiscal stimulus to boost Australia’s new housing supply,” Dale says.
“It is also vital to reignite the policy reform process to improve land release, ease persistently tight credit conditions, and reduce the excessive and inequitable taxation burden borne by Australia’s new home building sector.”
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Metricon tops 100 home builders list as the big gets smaller: HIA

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<img src="/images/stories/doublebay2.jpg">
The eight apartments in the Montre, Double Bay complex have been listed for sale – in a second shot at securing sales in the boutique complex.
Set on the Bay Street boulevard, it envisages bettering the earlier but recent crop of luxury apartment developments in the upmarket Sydney village, such as The Chancellor and The Gallery.
Its Colliers International marketing team expect the apartments to appeal to buyers who are making their first move from a large house and garden.
<img src="/images/stories/doublebay3.jpg">
Prices of the two-bedroom apartments with study – ranging in size from 173 square metres to 179 square metres internally plus courtyards/terraces of 44 square metres – start from $3.25 million. There are just the three.
Its three-bedroom apartments with study (from 209 square metres to 219 square metres internally plus terraces start at $3.95 million. There are also just the three.
Its two penthouses with study (240 square metres internally plus terraces/courtyards of 173 square metres) are priced from $5.65 million.
“Montre is our benchmark development,” says Nico Wijarto Tjen, a director of Oceania Property. The group which is known for Bell Aire at Bellevue Hill, Arc at Waterloo, Alura at Cremorne, Huntley Park at Hunters Hill and several prestige individual homes.
“What we are offering is grand, easy-care apartments for those who appreciate the finer things in life.”
He says the architecture, by Kann Finch, combines classic stonework and Juliet balconies with geometric facades of burnished steel and glass, topped with a mansard roof.
“Overall, the look is reminiscent of a European building, blending fashionable shops at street level with discreet apartments above,” Wijarto Tjen says.
“In Europe, apartment living isn't a temporary phase in life.
“People are born and die in apartments, so they're spacious, elegant and comfortable – real homes, not like some of the box-like units built in Sydney.
“The apartments at Montre have at least as much space as a three-bedroom house, but are in a one-off location and come with the highest-quality fixtures, fittings and features.”
The marketing is the second attempt for the development site, as in 2009 registrations of interest were being sought through Colliers by the developer, Thaung Investments.
Oceania has moved promptly to marketing, having paid $20.5 million in January 2011, with the site having previously traded at $15 million in 2007.
“The apartments are more like the graceful residences of old,” says Murray Wood, Colliers director of project marketing.
“They have style, substance, an abundance of storage, and interiors that flow onto large practical terraces.”
“We expect most buyers will be empty-nesters from the eastern suburbs and possibly the upper north shore, but we also anticipate some interest from expats and international jet-setters.
“We know there is pent-up demand because the last apartments of such quality in Double Bay were completed 18 months ago at The Stamford Cosmopolitan,” Wood says.
The Double Bay village is hosting an inaugural European Festival on Sunday, November 6, with visitors able to indulge in European cuisine at local restaurants and cafes, wander through the shops and explore unique European treasures at pop-up stalls.
For advice on buying off the plan download our free e-book.
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Boutique Double Bay block takes a second shot at raising the luxury stakes

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A five-bedroom Brisbane house, marketed as being sold under instructions from the Family Court, sold at its no-reserve weekend auction.
While its Rexmax estate agent Rod Westerhuis predicted pre-auction that the consequences "could be dire" it fetched a respectable $525,000.
“It’s hard to argue we didn’t achieve market value,” Westerhuis told Property Observer.
He says there were five bidders at the auction.
It last sold at $166,000 in 1999.
There were 48 parties keen to bid at the onsite auction who were within three bids at the offer at $400,000.
The median house price in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Gaythorne </a>is $507,500, according to RP Data, with prices down by 9% over the past year.
Westerhuis had given the vendors written advice about the possible consequences of having no reserve after the Family Court judge had suggested the owners use a no-reserve auction as a way to finally sell their property and settle a court matter
The owners were instructed they must sell by a certain date, no matter the price, Westerhuis notes.
"This is so rare," he says. "Incredibly rare. I've consulted a solicitor about this and we've found only one other case in Australia where this has happened."
The dual-lot property, in Gaythorne, seven kilometres north-west of Brisbane's city centre, is a three-bedroom Queenslander set on 809 square metres of land.
It sold to someone who will subdivided subject to council approvals.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-gaythorne-107574663" target="_blank">The property</a> was auctioned in August but failed to attract a single bid – passed in on a vendor bid of $500,000.
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Court-ordered no-reserve Brisbane auction a success

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Brisbane’s historic Albion Flour Mill is set to become the centrepiece of a $330 million urban village lifestyle precinct, developed by property and investment group FKP.
The heritage site is set to become an inner-city village.
The Albion Mill development site spans 7,336 square metres across two sites – the flour mill site and the car yard site – set 4.5 kilometres from Brisbane’s city centre atop Albion Hill in the inner north.
Kowalski Architects designed the $87 million first stage of the Albion Mill masterplan, The Hudson, to be built on the car yard site.
It will feature 134 spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments.
The starting price for The Hudson is $390,000, including a car park.
For two-bedroom units, the prices start at $573,000 and from $1,175,000 for three-bedroom units. Three-bedroom apartments come with two car parks.
There are 16 apartment design options for buyers.
The complex will come with pool, barbecue terrace, sundeck and gymnasium.
Its interiors have been undertaken by Victoria Tabur of Brisbane-based Embody Design.
FKP opened The Hudson display suite last week with construction set to commence early 2012, aiming for early 2014 completion.
Gary Kordic, head of Queensland developments at FKP, says the Albion Mill masterplan would be rolled out over the next five years. Kordic says Albion was an average annual median price growth rate of 7.86%, as per a March 2011 report on the suburb,
The historic flour mill was constructed by Scottish migrants the Gillespie Brothers during the economic depression of the 1930s.
It remained Brisbane’s sole working mill until operations ceased in 2004.
There is currently over $20 billion in development underway in the Albion area, including construction on the new Airport Link tunnel; the rebuild of The Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital clinical services; and completion of the $93 million Inner Northern Busway.
FKP bought the site six years ago, and it has since unveiled several redevelopment proposals that did not proceed.
Reed Construction Data figures show that Brisbane is scheduled to have 7,600 newly built apartments by the end of 2012, according to the Australian Financial Review.
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Urban village to rise on defunct Brisbane flour mill site

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12/30 Mater Street, Collingwood, VIC, 3066
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial;" src="/images/stories/materst.jpg">
This two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment comes with a car space and storage cage and is tenanted until the end of March at $502 per week. Belinda Lindsay of <a href="https://www.collinssimms.com.au/?pagecall=property&amp;propertyID=1854668" title="Collins Simms" target="_blank">Collins Simms</a> sold it at auction on Saturday, October 8 for $570,000. It had pre-auction price hopes of $490,000 plus. Lindsay says bidding was intense, with five potential bidders and three active bidders on the day. The sale price reflects a gross rental yield of 4.6%, higher than the indicative gross rental yield of 4.3% for Collingwood units, according to RP Data. The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees. 
For more on gross rental yields and prices in Collingwood, see the <a href="/news">RP Data suburb page.</a>
For more investment prospects that went to auction this past weekend, see pages 2 and 3.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
3/16 Morven Street, Yarraville, VIC, 3013
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial;" src="/images/stories/morvenst.jpg">
This three-bedroom townhouse opposite parklands is currently tenanted at $474 per week to tenants whose lease expires in February, though <a href="https://www.sweeneyestateagents.com.au/profile.php?clientid=sweencp&amp;cat=sales&amp;propertyid=3714044" target="_blank">Sweeney Estate Agents'</a> Dean Johnson says the tenants would be willing to leave earlier if needed. Johnson is marketing the property with price hopes of $549,000 plus. The property was passed in at auction on Saturday, October 8 on a single bid of $520,000. The property's reserve is $549,000. If it sells for $549,000 it would reflect a gross rental yield of 4.5%, far higher than the indicative gross rental yield for Yarraville of 3.3%, according to RP Data. The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees. 
For more infomation about yields and prices in Yarraville, see the <a href="/news">RP Data suburb page.</a>
 
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4/ 30 Elm Street, Hawthorn, VIC, 3122
<img src="/images/stories/elmst.jpg"> 
This two-bedroom Hawthorn unit has been leased to the same tenant for more than six years. The tenant is on a month-to month lease at $320 per week and is keen to stay in the property. <a href="https://www.structuredco.com.au/sales" target="_blank">Structured Property</a> agent John Rombotis says that rent is under market value, and it could be rented for between $370 and $380 per week. Rombotis is marketing the property with price hopes of $420,000 plus. At its current rent, that would reflect a yield of 4%, about the same as the indicative gross rental yield for Hawthorn units of 4.1%, according to RP Data. The gross rental yield does not consider the costs of maintaining the property, including council rates and other fees such as water bills and managing agent fees. The property went to auction on Saturday, October 8 at 11.30am. 
For more on yields and prices in Hawthorn, see the <a href="/news">RP Data suburb page</a>.
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Weekend yield watch: Collingwood sale secures yield of 4.6%

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Developer Stockland is one step closer to commencing its mammoth Caloundra South community development on the Sunshine Coast following a decision by the Sunshine Coast Regional Council to discontinue legal action against the declaration of the site as an Urban Development Area. 
The proposed Caloundra South community will be the largest project Stockland has ever undertaken, spanning 2,310 hectares, with plans to build 20,000 homes for about 50,000 residents over the next 20 years. 
The development will also include a large town centre, retirement living villages and opportunities for government and business investment. 
Stockland managing director Matthew Quinn says it welcomes the decision by the council. 
“Caloundra South will deliver 13,500 jobs in the first 10 years of development, provide affordable housing, promote sustainable living and ensure the future prosperity of the Sunshine Coast region,” he says. 
“We look forward to continuing to work with the state government and council as we undertake community consultation and meet our commitments to protecting the environmental value of the site and the nearby Pumicestone Passage.” 
Stockland anticipates the Queensland government will make a determination on the approval for the Caloundra South Development Scheme by the end of the year. 
Following this approval the next step in the process is to lodge and obtain state government approval for the Caloundra South Master Plan, which the developer aims to complete during 2012. 
Should the master plan be approved, Stockland will also need to complete a federal environmental assessment process before construction can commence. 
Preliminary works have already commenced on the Bellvista II residential community, which is an advance land release within the Caloundra South Urban Development Area. The Urban Land Development Authority last month granted approval, with first settlements expected towards the end of 2012.
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Challenge to Stockland Caloundra South development dropped

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Even before you start looking for your development site, you’ll need to clarify one thing.  Are you developing to sell or to hold?
To answer this question, you may need to answer another:  Is your strategy short or long term?  If it is short term, then selling may meet your needs to make a quick return on your investment. If you have a long-term strategy to build up a property portfolio, then holding will be the way to go.
There are several factors that will influence your decision:
Location
Your development is in an awesome location but in a poor rental market.  An example of this may be a coastal area where there may be higher demand from owner-occupiers wanting to purchase low-maintenance property to retire to. In this case you may sell to realise your profits, as holding would not be viable due to low rental returns.
Timing
If you complete your development and the market is in an upswing with high demand, then you may get a higher-than-anticipated sales price. So this may influence you to sell. But if the market is down and there is an oversupply of property but a tight rental market, then holding may make sense.
Interest rates
An important factor in calculating holding costs is interest. If interest rates are around 6.5% as they are now yet the rental yield is around 8% in the area you’re developing in, then holding the properties makes good sense. You may look at fixing rates for a few years, to take the risk of rates rising out of the scenario.
Taxation 
You need to discuss your personal and/or company tax situation with your accountant before starting to develop property. There is capital gains tax to consider when selling as well as GST implications when selling new dwellings. These alone may sway you to hold. You also need to check on land tax to see if this will affect you if you decide to hold.
Most of Property Bloom clients develop to hold.  This is because they choose to access the equity – which is created through the development process – through refinancing on completion.  This means they don’t have selling costs like agents selling commission, capital gains tax and GST.   Once refinanced, they can pull some equity out of the development if they choose.
Another deciding factor in holding is in the areas of the Hunter Region we develop in is that we are getting very strong rental returns. We find that we can maximise the rent because the villas are new. Tenants do pay a premium to live in a new dwelling. Also the vacancy rates are less than 1%.  The gross yield on completion can be as high as 9%. The yield does also depend on the size of the development.  A three-villa project will have a higher yield than a dual occupancy.
Another reason our clients hold is take advantage of the high depreciation benefits they receive on the new dwellings.  On a typical dual occupancy, our clients are receiving around $17,000 in year one (based on diminishing value method). If you are paying lots of tax, this is definitely one of the rewards of holding.
The final reason Property Bloom clients hold is because they want to build up a retirement fund and take advantage of future capital gains. In the suburbs we develop in, there is high potential for capital growth because of many factors including increased population, projected housing demand in the council’s regional strategy, spend on infrastructure and the benefits that the coal mining industry bring to these towns.  The long-term growth figures are over 12%.  So if a client can create say $80,000 to $120,000 in equity through the development process and then holds for 10 years, he or she stands to receive 12% growth on average, each year.  The future value of the development will be considerable.
Whatever your strategy, make sure you put down a solid plan that you feel comfortable with and set up a professional team to help you achieve your goals.
Jo Chivers is director of <a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/" target="_blank" title="Property Bloom">Property Bloom</a>, which manages property development.
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How to know when to sell and when to hold a new development

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Property developers are offering greater incentives to financial planners who refer self-managed super fund clients to their projects as the appetite for real estate among the $430 billion DIY super fund sector continues to grow.
The closer ties and increased financial incentives come on the back of recent changes to self-managed super fund rules and the growing investment appeal of property over shares, which have spurred more financial planners to add property advice to their service proposition.
According to ATO figures, during the past year the amount of money SMSFs are allocating to property has jumped 25%.
In May this year property developer Stockland signed an agreement with financial planning group Professional Investment Services whereby it would pay its planners 3% for referring leads that result in a sale.
According to the Australian Financial Review, developers have now upped the ante by reportedly offering commissions of up to 7% for successful referrals.
From July next year financial planners will be banned from receiving commissions from fund managers and other investment providers, but this ban does not extend to receive commissions from real estate developers.
Financial planning group Money Tree provides property advice as well as mortgage lending and investment property sourcing to its client. It promises “exclusive access to some of best investment properties in Australia”.
Besides the volatile share market encouraging a reweighting towards real estate, property has become more attractive following the release of draft ATO rules that allow DIY funds to renovate and improve their properties (provided they don’t have to borrow within the fund to do so) as well as greater clarity about the type of real estate assets that a fund can acquire.
Ray White and Raine &amp; Horne are among the real estate franchises who have already set up referral arrangement with financial planners while McGrath Real Estate is also believed to be considering a partnership with advisers.
However, the move by developers to circumvent real estate agents has drawn concern from industry bodies, with the Real Estate Institute of Australia defending the role of its members in the buying and selling of property and providing property advice.
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