<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sunland-group">Sunland Group</a> has officially lodged plans for its first Gold Coast apartment project since the departure of the Abedian family from the company three years ago, unveiling a new high-rise proposal for a prominent Broadbeach corner site on Old Burleigh Road.

The application was submitted by an entity directed by Tom Jamieson, stepson of longtime Sunland leader Soheil Abedian, and Riaz Rezvanipour, brother-in-law of Sahba Abedian, Soheil’s son.

Sunland acquired the 1,283 sqm site on the corner of Old Burleigh Road and Armrick Avenue for $9.5 million late last year and is now seeking approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-101-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">42-storey tower with 81 apartments</a>.

<img alt="First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fea2946d-90ee-4cfc-babe-2a8ad5db2cb6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers.png?VersionId=BV0fihJw31nDIQ8ozY_h3GbS8mxDyhnm" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, the proposed tower at 99-101 Old Burleigh Road would deliver a predominantly larger-format apartment mix aimed at the owner-occupier market. Plans include 17 two-bedroom apartments, 55 three-bedroom apartments, and nine four-bedroom residences across 35 residential levels.

The development also incorporates three basement levels, four podium parking levels, two levels of communal recreation facilities, and rooftop plant and equipment. A total of 189 car spaces are proposed, significantly exceeding the 90 spaces required under the planning scheme.

The architecture adopts a sculpted, curvilinear form, with deep wraparound balconies and integrated landscaping intended to soften the tower’s vertical expression. The planning report states the building’s “slender footprint/form provides a complimentary yet varied built form within the local streetscape” and contributes to “a varied, yet ordered skyline.”

Contreras Earl noted in its Architectural Statement that from the early stages, the project addressed a fundamental challenge: how to accommodate the required residential yield while avoiding the conventional model of a tower sitting on a rigid, fully resolved parking podium.

“The most direct response would have been to consolidate parking into a singular, flat podium and extrude a repetitive tower above,” the statement said. “While efficient, this approach would result in a consolidated built form with limited engagement with the surrounding landscape and public realm.”

Instead, the conventional podium model was “deliberately rejected”. The architects described the base of the building as “a landscaped architectural condition where structure, planting and circulation are integrated”.

“Rather than presenting a continuous built mass, the base of the building is articulated through a series of concrete planter elements that organise the podium into a fragmented system,” the statement said. “This approach reduces the perceived bulk of the lower levels while establishing a more permeable interface with the streetscape and adjacent open space.”

<img alt="Sunland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="923fad8d-c960-4527-8fbe-975cf1ddf88d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%2010.32.03%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=pngwb0hYOIUpq9vDw6F2EsOiVuHF3DiX" />

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The site sits within the High Density Residential Zone and inside the City of Gold Coast’s unrestricted “HX” building height area, where the planning framework anticipates intensified residential development tied to the expanding light rail corridor. The planning report notes the area is undergoing “transition toward more intense development forms” given its proximity to Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and high-frequency public transport infrastructure.

Positioned directly opposite Broadbeach Park and within walking distance of Florida Gardens light rail station, the development would sit among a rapidly evolving stretch of Old Burleigh Road that has become one of the Gold Coast’s most active apartment development corridors.

The application joins a growing pipeline of luxury residential projects reshaping Broadbeach, including nearby developments by 5Point Projects, Polycell, and Graya.

The planning report argues the project contributes toward the Gold Coast’s long-term housing targets under the South East Queensland Regional Plan, which forecasts the need for more than 100,000 additional high-rise dwellings across the city by 2046.

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The Abedian family departed Sunland Group in late 2023, ending a four-decade association with the company, and subsequently established the private development firm Abedian &amp; Co. The group is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/greenmount-residences-cnr-hill-street-and-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Greenmount Residences</a> at Rainbow Bay and recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/18-mary-avenue-14-18-mary-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">18 Mary Avenue</a> in Broadbeach.
</section>

Joel Robinson

First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach new apartment market with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans

The Minns Labor Government has established the new Bays West Delivery Authority to lead the development&nbsp;of the Bays West Precinct and Blackwattle Bay Precinct.&nbsp;

The Authority is charged with creating Sydney’s newest precinct, a thriving, connected, sustainable hub with White Bay Power Station as its cultural heart. Its vision is to build on the area’s natural, cultural and industrial history to shape a vibrant new neighbourhood.

The precinct will deliver up to 8,500 well-located homes, including a minimum of 10 per cent affordable and essential worker homes. Combine new housing with public open space, opening public access to the waterfront for the first time in more than 100 years, while retaining important deep-water facilities to support Sydney’s working harbour.

Located just minutes from the Sydney CBD and connected to a world-class metro, ferry, walking and cycling links, the Bays West precinct will rebalance housing growth towards well-serviced inner-city locations and help tackle the state’s housing crisis.

The Bays West Delivery Authority,&nbsp;an agency of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, will report to the NSW Minister for Lands and Property who already has oversight of major precinct renewal projects including at Blackwattle Bay and Barangaroo.

As part of the broader Bays West transformation, the Minns Government recently announced that a proposal from Lendlease to redevelop part of the Bays West Precinct has progressed to Stage 2 of the NSW Government’s unsolicited proposals process.

<img alt="Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ed71eb9-d8e8-4fa7-b9d1-de4531dcf2f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%209.42.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=IDryFIbped9SNDg72LEN_EecvhUsOPvp" />

The Minns Labor Government has also confirmed the Bays West precinct will have a new suburb name. This will be the first major suburb built in close proximity to Sydney’s CBD in decades and will encompass the area currently being referred to as Bays West, including Glebe Island and the White Bay Power Station. Served by a new Metro station just five minutes from the CBD, it will become one of the most populous suburbs in the Inner West and one of Sydney’s premier cultural destinations.

An early works program is taking shape, which&nbsp;includes the first stages of an international design competition.&nbsp;

The aim of the Bays West&nbsp;International&nbsp;Design Competition is to&nbsp;ensure design excellence is embedded in the project from the start. The competition will deliver an&nbsp;urban framework that defines the character, ambition and long-term identity of&nbsp;this&nbsp;former industrial precinct as it transitions to a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable residential&nbsp;neighbourhood.

The competition will be led by the Bays West Delivery Authority in partnership with Government Architect NSW.&nbsp;

It will launch with an invitation for a global Expressions of Interest, before moving to an invitation-only stage that will be assessed by a panel that&nbsp;will provide advice to Cabinet who will select a winner.

Premier of NSW, Chris Minns said the establishment of the new Authority is the first step in transforming the Bays West precinct into a vibrant, livable suburb minutes from the Sydney CBD and two stops from Hunter St Station on the Metro West line.

“The Authority will deliver well-located homes close to the heart of the city and integrate the new precinct with Blackwattle Bay and the new Sydney Fish Market.

“This is a generational opportunity to build a new suburb on the city’s edge and open the harbour foreshore to the public for the first time in a century.”&nbsp;

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the new Bays West Delivery Authority established by the Minns Government will turbocharge the development of Sydney’s newest suburb.

“The Authority is working at a record pace to deliver an international design competition, planning pathways and a financial model so that this development benefits Sydney with well-designed homes in a central location, close to public transport, jobs, entertainment and essential services.

“If we want Sydney to stay liveable and affordable, we need to be bold about using underutilised government-owned land to deliver homes for the future while making sure essential working harbour functions can be accommodated.”

Bays West Delivery Authority established to "turbocharge" Sydney’s newest suburb

Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

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Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

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>

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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?

National Australia Bank (NAB) has brought forward the timing of the first RBA cash rate cut by three months.

NAB is now expecting a cut in February, in line with ANZ and Westpac, having initially thought a cut wouldn't come until May.

Commonwealth Bank, the nation's largest lender, still thinks the first cut will come in December.

NAB changed its call following the August monthly inflation figures that were released at the end of September, showing it had dropped to 2.7 per cent.

"The risk has been skewed to a first cut earlier in 2025, and today’s change acknowledges the balance of risks has likely shifted sufficiently for the RBA to feel comfortable cutting a little sooner than we earlier expected," NAB noted in its latest update.

They added that the cadence of the cuts may be faster than its central profile.

"Domestic inflation pressures are cooling, but only gradually, and we continue to expect the conditions for a cut will not be in place this year.

NAB believes the easing cycle will end at 3.1 per cent by early 2026, which is five cuts from the current 4.35 per cent cash rate.&nbsp;

CBA also thinks 3.1 per cent will mark the end of the cutting cycle, while Westpac is forecasting 3.35 per cent, and ANZ is the most pessimistic at 3.6 per cent, which would be just three interest rate cuts.

<h2>What would a rate cut in February look like for borrowers?</h2>

According to&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3Du001.IVvjJ-2BPT0A8C3VxtqKc6e3bj5hBuw27WFEYqovsYs7kPsgFulYrdOzeP8gI7CybJOya3_RgrM7qq-2BfK-2FtAHeRBLv5Qrb-2Bii5fzjLeKcP4w-2FkNgJPXygpiRhVUan3WV3QEggcf617UC8Z60RjQJZAqx7PiO7FtVJQSn0D46Zc3iTVP0kAhTTzG51cPpa5hrqz1OkSA-2BiXAxUajQ686MTtiseWBIdMdknd83aB7cOVgXlVTeHCGf3-2BcMHwfvI8TYlkUovqEhn4dj0KXf2eJGpb9-2BBv20hPXdLlPP9yD7DvFFDBM5yrTqxvcCiMfAsW1onD-2FcriL628eYdhNQE7bwzYrxcOYnmaYfRhGl-2FEHQ6eK2uQcLxs6Cbu6Dx0bYvpi5A6enmxMWU5TkcRYrP6Z8GbXZYtc5qSoKu6eWFBQR9K7fsjXwHMmby3D3X6Yx-2BxcDcdRruTG&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1727774368149000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2vK2ujS77CHs9VRvSSXzLC" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.IVvjJ-2BPT0A8C3VxtqKc6e3bj5hBuw27WFEYqovsYs7kPsgFulYrdOzeP8gI7CybJOya3_RgrM7qq-2BfK-2FtAHeRBLv5Qrb-2Bii5fzjLeKcP4w-2FkNgJPXygpiRhVUan3WV3QEggcf617UC8Z60RjQJZAqx7PiO7FtVJQSn0D46Zc3iTVP0kAhTTzG51cPpa5hrqz1OkSA-2BiXAxUajQ686MTtiseWBIdMdknd83aB7cOVgXlVTeHCGf3-2BcMHwfvI8TYlkUovqEhn4dj0KXf2eJGpb9-2BBv20hPXdLlPP9yD7DvFFDBM5yrTqxvcCiMfAsW1onD-2FcriL628eYdhNQE7bwzYrxcOYnmaYfRhGl-2FEHQ6eK2uQcLxs6Cbu6Dx0bYvpi5A6enmxMWU5TkcRYrP6Z8GbXZYtc5qSoKu6eWFBQR9K7fsjXwHMmby3D3X6Yx-2BxcDcdRruTG" target="_blank">Canstar</a>, if there is a cut in February, a borrower with a $600,000 loan today and 25 years remaining would see their monthly repayments drop by $92.&nbsp;

<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td colspan="3">
			Impact of 0.25% pt cut in February 2025
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Current loan size
			</td>
			<td>
			Drop in monthly repayment
			</td>
			<td>
			New monthly repayment
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			$600,000
			</td>
			<td>
			-$92
			</td>
			<td>
			$3,907
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			$750,000
			</td>
			<td>
			-$114
			</td>
			<td>
			$4,884
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			$1M
			</td>
			<td>
			-$153
			</td>
			<td>
			$6,512
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td colspan="3">
			Source:&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3Du001.xWMOP9hChsvn-2BC9O-2FebBihXIZ4cEzbiuENdxm-2Bx3-2FYEEgYMhZlKWNj5Zzy1YZ56RuASD_RgrM7qq-2BfK-2FtAHeRBLv5Qrb-2Bii5fzjLeKcP4w-2FkNgJPXygpiRhVUan3WV3QEggcf617UC8Z60RjQJZAqx7PiO7FtVJQSn0D46Zc3iTVP0kAhTTzG51cPpa5hrqz1OkSA-2BiXAxUajQ686MTtiseWBIdMdknd83aB7cOVgXlVTeHCGf3-2BcMHwfvI8TYlkUovqEhn4dj0KXf2eJGpb9-2BBv20v2akwr6-2BqLyRrlEgkJ4J-2BCCyY0x189xEHZA4Ylf8c7ChBqNIkhmftZzoFuZKFn43pw3oJVg2o1gumrpdA-2B7MB-2FBtmL2rFCI-2FXORATQHySCLVOMg7Vywv-2BqnnQUAtDz6XkvpwxdHFXh70VwKazzhJsICilEYOvP4ju0sIfi5g6TL&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1727774368149000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2qVnp6oqATgqDUi2Frm22q" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.xWMOP9hChsvn-2BC9O-2FebBihXIZ4cEzbiuENdxm-2Bx3-2FYEEgYMhZlKWNj5Zzy1YZ56RuASD_RgrM7qq-2BfK-2FtAHeRBLv5Qrb-2Bii5fzjLeKcP4w-2FkNgJPXygpiRhVUan3WV3QEggcf617UC8Z60RjQJZAqx7PiO7FtVJQSn0D46Zc3iTVP0kAhTTzG51cPpa5hrqz1OkSA-2BiXAxUajQ686MTtiseWBIdMdknd83aB7cOVgXlVTeHCGf3-2BcMHwfvI8TYlkUovqEhn4dj0KXf2eJGpb9-2BBv20v2akwr6-2BqLyRrlEgkJ4J-2BCCyY0x189xEHZA4Ylf8c7ChBqNIkhmftZzoFuZKFn43pw3oJVg2o1gumrpdA-2B7MB-2FBtmL2rFCI-2FXORATQHySCLVOMg7Vywv-2BqnnQUAtDz6XkvpwxdHFXh70VwKazzhJsICilEYOvP4ju0sIfi5g6TL" target="_blank">www.canstar.com.au</a>. Starting rate is the RBA existing average owner-occupier variable rate of 6.36%. Assumes banks pass the cash rate cut on in full the month after the meeting.
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Canstar Data Insights Director, Sally Tindall, says if core inflation continues to track in the right direction, or unemployment starts to accelerate significantly, we could well see a cash rate cut as early as February of next year.

“All four big banks now believe the RBA will be ready to cut the cash rate in just over four months’ time, if not before, in the case of CBA.

“However, the outlook for both inflation and unemployment is still highly uncertain. A couple of wobbly sets of inflation data could see the RBA holding for longer, particularly if unemployment remains relatively steady."

&nbsp;

Commonwealth Bank, the nation's largest lender, still thinks the first cut will come in December.

NAB bring forward first RBA cut to February 2025

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Bankmecu has cut its variable rate goGreen home loan by 19 basis points, taking the rate down from 5.98% to 5.79%.
The bank’s basic home loan rate is 6.08%
The green home loan is available to finance homes rating seven stars or more according to the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS), which is managed by the Department of Climate Change.
The goGreen home loans are designed to encourage people to purchase, construct or renovate energy-efficient homes to achieve a minimum seven-star energy rating.  “We think that encouraging people to build more environmentally responsible houses is so important that we have reduced this rate outside the normal cycle of Reserve Bank announcements,” says the bank's managing director, Damien Walsh.
“Interest rates are an important cost consideration for consumers. If we lower the interest rates for green homes, we hope to make it easier for people to build and live in green homes."
Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) uses computer simulations to assess the potential thermal comfort of Australian homes on a scale of zero to 10 stars. The more stars, the less likely the occupants need cooling or heating to stay comfortable.
A dwelling can be rated before or after it is built. The rating depends on the layout of the home, the construction of its roof, walls, windows and floor, the orientation of windows and shading to the sun's path and local breezes and how well these suit the local climate.
Bankmecu is a customer-owned bank that was previously the credit union mecu.
It became operating as an APRA-regulated bank in September last year.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Bankmecu cuts variable green home loan rate to 5.79%

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Small business specialist accountant Sue Prestney believes that many small business owners who had delayed their sales through the GFC and its aftermath will now put their businesses on the market. And she expects the bubble of baby boomers entering retirement to significantly increase the volume of businesses changing hands.
Prestney, a principal with accountants MGI in Melbourne, emphasises the tax and superannuation advantages that eligible small business owners have regarding the potential tax and superannuation for certain proceeds from the sale of their businesses.
First, the sellers can significantly reduce or eliminate tax on the sale of active business assets if eligible for small business CGT concessions. (See Strategy 1.)
Second, super contributions from the proceeds of small business assets that qualify for the CGT small business 15-year exemption or retirement exemption are excluded from the non-concessional contributions cap up to a lifetime limit of $1.255 million (for 2012-13). (See Strategy 2.)
Some vendors of small businesses go a step further and sell or contribute their business premises to their self-managed super fund to provide concessionally-taxed or tax-free retirement savings, depending upon their circumstances. (See Strategy 3.)
Prestney says the ability to make extra-large super contributions “really gives small business owners an advantage” over other super fund members. And she believes the latest halving of the cap on annual concessional contributions for members over 50 further accentuates this advantage. (From July this year, the annual concessional cap for all members is $25,000 – no matter their age.)
Superannuation auditor Chris Malkin points out that a small business vendor who is eligible for the special $1.255 million lifetime limit using proceeds from the sale could contribute a total of $1.43 million into super in 2012-13. (His calculations take into account the standard concessional and non-concessional contribution caps). This is compared to annual contribution limits totalling $175,000 for other members.
Malkin, consulting auditor of specialist superannuation auditor Baumgartner Superannuation in Melbourne, emphasises that eligible small business owners potentially benefit from the “double-whammy” of the CGT concessions and the extra-large limit on their contributions.
Here are five strategies or tips for sellers of small businesses to consider regarding their tax and superannuation advantages:
1. Check eligibility for small business CGT concessions
These CGT concessions – together with the 50% general CGT discount (applying to individuals and trusts) – often remove CGT on the sale of small business assets.
Only proceeds from the sale of so-called “active” business assets are eligible for small business CGT relief. (As Sydney tax lawyer Robert Richards, principal of Robert Richards &amp; Associates, explains in his column <a href="https://revcorplaw.com.au/active-assets/" rel="nofollow">Fiscal Thoughts</a>, “active” assets are basically those used or ready to use in the carrying out of the business. They include tangible and intangible assets such as goodwill.)
And a small business is only eligible for the small business CGT concessions if its turnover in the preceding financial year was under $2 million or the total value of the owner’s assets and those of “affiliates” do not exceed $6 million.
The net market value of the owners’ business assets, personal bank accounts, personal investment portfolios and personal investment properties – together with those of their business partners, spouses, children under 18 or any entitles or people under their control – are included in the $6 million asset threshold.
The four small business CGT concessions are:
<ul>
<li>The 15-year ownership exemption. If your business has owned the asset for 15 years and you are over 55 and retiring, no CGT is payable on any assessable capital gain. Prestney says small business owners do not have to apply for any of the other small business concessions if qualifying for this one because it wipes out the entire capital gain.</li>
<li>The 50% “active asset reduction”. This is a crucial and fundamental tax break – including for those continuing in another business. It halves the capital gain.</li>
<li>The small business retirement CGT exemption. A capital gain from the sale of a business asset is exempt from CGT up to a lifetime limit of $500,000 for each individual owner. For a couple, this would mean a $1 million exemption. If you are under 55, the exempt amount must be paid into super.</li>
<li>The small business CGT rollover relief. As Paul Banister, director of taxation services for accountants, Grant Thornton in Brisbane, writes in the Australian Financial Planning Handbook, published by Thomson Reuters, that this is a “last resort” following the sale of “active” small business assets that are being replaced by other active assets. CGT is postponed until the replacement assets are eventually sold.</li>
</ul>
2. Understand the opportunity for some small business owners to make extra-large super contributions
As discussed, super contributions from the proceeds of small business assets that qualify for the CGT small business 15-year exemption or the retirement exemption – see Strategy 1 – do not count towards the standard non-concessional contributions cap up to a lifetime limit of $1.255 million (for 2012-13). This cap is indexed.


<hr class="system-pagebreak">
3. Consider holding your business premises in your self-managed fund
Some small business owners sell the trading side of their business to an external buyer and then contribute or sell their business premises at market value to their self-managed super fund.
Under superannuation law, business real estate – such as an office, shop or factory – is one of the few types of assets that super funds are allowed to acquire from members.
Once the assets of the fund begin to back the payment of a superannuation pension (including a transition-to-retirement pension), fund income and capital gains are tax-free. And after members turn 60, superannuation pension payments are no longer taxable.
If you are contributing the property to your self-managed fund as a non-cash contribution – perhaps it is jointly owned with your spouse who is also a member of your super fund – you should not overlook the annual superannuation contribution caps.
Significantly, Sue Prestney of MGI says business owners who sell or contribute their business premises to their self-managed super funds as a separate transaction should:
<ul>
<li>Check their eligibility for any of the small business CGT concessions on the transaction. She says the contribution of business premises to a self-managed super fund would qualify as a disposal for the purposes of the CGT concessions.</li>
<li>Check their eligibility for the small business super contribution lifetime limit of $1.255 million (for 2012-13), as discussed in Strategy 2.</li>
</ul>
Prestney urges business owners who are considering contributing or selling their business premises following the sale of the trading businesses to first get professional advice regarding the timing of the transaction. And she emphasises that stamp duty would be payable on the transfer.
As Prestney explains, some small business owners choose to sell their business premises to their self-managed super fund and then contribute the proceeds to the fund. And, where eligible, they make use of the small business CGT concessions and the special lifetime limit on contributions from the sale of certain small business assets.
4. Beware of the possible negatives of relying on rent from business premises to provide retirement income
Financial planners and superannuation specialists typically urge fund trustees to recognise the possible negative consequences if their retirement savings are heavily reliant on the profitability of a single, high-value asset. A broadly diversified investment portfolio spreads the risks and opportunities.
Prestney says a consideration for sellers of small businesses who are thinking about contributing the proceeds and/or business premises to a super is increasing concern that the government may reduce some of superannuation’s tax concessions. This has been widely discussed in the press during recent weeks.
“I have a theory that taxpayers should work with the best concession they can get at the time,” Prestney comments. But she urges business owners not to overlook the reality that governments sometimes cannot resist changing tax concessions – particularly in regard to super.
5. Decide well in advance how you will eventually sell your business to maximise the tax and retirement advantages
Prestney warns taxpayers not to assume they are entitled to the small business CGT concessions because they have a small business. She says that business owners should take professional advice at least a couple of years before a sale to see if any changes should be made to become eligible.
For instance, company shares in a small business may be regarded as “active” assets for the CGT concessions if the market value of all of the company’s active assets is at least 80% of its total value. Prestney says some restructuring of a company’s balance sheet may be necessary to become eligible for the concessions in such circumstances.
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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mlaurence-vhAHaLZT8y

Five tax strategies for small business owners selling up

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Mozo says it has received an overwhelming response to its big four bank mortgage discount “mystery” but still won’t reveal what the lender is behind the offer.
The mortgage comparison website is offering a discount of up to 1% off the advertised variable rate of a big four bank. It issued a September 6  press release regarding the offer.
Property Observer and other industry participants signed up to be part of the offer last week but have not received phone calls from Mozo to discuss the details.
The Mozo promotion promised a phone call within 24 hours of registering to “reveal the big four bank behind the deal and answer all your questions”.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/mozo1.jpg">
A spokesperson for Mozo told Property Observer the reason for not being contacted “is more likely due to the fact that we have been screening out calls from the industry so that we can focus on helping real customers”.
People in the property industry appear to be able to get Mozo's subsequent wine offer email, but don’t qualify for home loan discounts.
“The popularity of the new service has exceeded our expectations,” added the Mozo spokesperson.
“We've already handled refinancing and new loan enquiries for over $80 million worth of borrowings. Half of this has already progressed through the approval process”
The spokesperson did confirm to Property Observer that the offer was from a “big bank”.
“As this is a 'mystery bank' deal I can't divulge who the lender behind the deal is.”
<a href="/news">Property Observer has previously pointed out</a> that all the major banks offer generous variable rate mortgage discounts of up to 0.9 percentage points for borrowers who take up one of their package home loan offerings.
Mozo claims the campaign can save borrowers more than $100,000, with the savings calculated on the current Mozo mystery bank variable rate of 5.93% for a $500,000 loan, versus the current average big four bank standard variable rate of 6.82% and assumes a loan term of 25 years.
Have you received an offer from Mozo? Sent us an <a target="_blank" href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">email with your thoughts.</a>
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Mozo ‘mystery’ big four home loan discount deal remains a mystery for some

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The RBA should not cut the cash rate as some economists are urging it to do, former Property Observer columnist Christopher Joye has tweeted, following the release of today’s September monetary policy meeting minutes.
The minutes have been interpreted as suggesting the RBA has an easing bias, with a rate cut possibly as early as October.
But Joye, who now files for the Australian Financial Review, tweeted that it should not act on this bias:
 
<a href="https://twitter.com/cjoye" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/joyetweet2.jpg"></a>
He later tweeted what he believed would guide the RBA’s cash rate decision-making process over the next two months:
<a href="https://twitter.com/cjoye" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/joyetweet1.jpg"></a>
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The RBA should not cut rates, says Christopher Joye: Tweet of the day

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The minutes of the September 4 monetary policy meeting indicate the RBA is moving closer to cutting the cash rate, but both Westpac chief economist Bill Evans and HSBC’s Paul Bloxham still favour a November rate cut.
Earlier today ANZ changed its forecast from a November rate cut to an October easing and even countenanced a 50-basis-point rate cut in one hit.
Examining the September RBA board minutes, Evans says Westpac believes the RBA is “close to moving on rates but, in a close call does not assess that there is sufficient evidence from these minutes to revise our view that the cuts are likely in November and December”
Evans focused on the term "scope to adjust policy" deeming it to be “quite important”.
“The condition required for policy to adjust is described as ‘any significant deterioration in the outlook for growth’.
“That definition can be used quite flexibly to justify a rate cut,” he says.
“For example, the ‘high level of the exchange rate’ might be assessed as significantly  affecting the outlook for growth, or a bigger than expected fall in the terms of trade might also fall into that category.
“In short, because the condition refers to the outlook rather than the actual level of growth, there is a high degree of subjectivity involved.
“The commentary links this view to further falls in iron ore prices. For the moment these appear to have stabilised, but the outlook remains volatile.”
HSBC Australia and New Zealand chief economist Paul Bloxham says the bank still expect one more cut before year-end, probably in November, though October can't be ruled out.
He says the “tone” of the minutes suggest the RBA remains “seemingly fairly comfortable, having gotten rates down in May and June to below average”.
“However, the minutes do give a stronger suggestion that the RBA does have a conditional easing bias and that this is largely dependent on global conditions, particularly conditions in China,” says Bloxham.
“Locally, growth was close to trend and they reiterated that they are still yet to see the full effects of the previous cuts working their way through the economy. However, there are some hints in the minutes about some concern that the labour market could have eased a bit in the past couple of months.”
But he says global conditions present the main downside risk.
“There was further acknowledgement that the RBA has scope to lower rates if the global economy weakens further” says Bloxham with a fair bit more time spent “articulating the Chinese slowdown story”.
Unless there are signs of an upturn in China, Bloxham says the RBA has scope to ease policy further.
But as observed by Bill Evans, Bloxham says an easing bias is conditional on RBA assessing there to have been a 'significant deterioration' in the outlook for growth.
<a href="/news">AMP Capital chief economist Shane Oliver, along with Market Economics’ Stephen Koukoulas and BNP Paribas’s senior Asia economist Dominic Bryant</a> were the only three economists to back a rate cut in October when surveyed by Bloomberg last Friday.
Today, Oliver remained adamant that an October rate cut is on the cards saying the September minutes revealed a "somewhat more dovish tone than indicated by the post meeting statement released straight after the meeting, with significant discussion regarding the risks to global growth and China in particular, the risks to the mining boom and even the observation that the benign inflation outlook provides scope to ease policy if needed”. “We remain of the view that the RBA will cut the cash rate to 2.75% over the next six months, starting with a 0.25% rate cut next month," says Oliver.
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Westpac’s Bill Evans and HSBC’s Paul Bloxham favour November rate cut – AMP’s Shane Oliver sticks with October

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St George Bank, a subsidiary of Westpac, has cut its one- and two-year fixed-rate home loans to 5.49%  per annum effective today.
The rates are available under its Advantage Package.
The bank joins a veritable procession of lenders that have cut some of their fixed-rate mortgage products in the last two weeks, including the Commonwealth Bank, ME Bank, Greater Building Society and Citibank.
Until October 7, St George is also offering $700 towards switching costs for customers who refinance into a home loan unders its Advantage Package, provided the loan amount is $250,000 or more.
St George has not cut its three-year fixed-rate home loan – considered the benchmark fixed-rate product – which is offered at a rate of 5.59% and also applies to its four-year and five-year fixed-rate offerings.
The NSW-based bank says it now offering one-, two-, three-, four- and five-year fixed rates lower than all the major banks.
Westpac's three-year fixed rate is 5.84%.
St George general manager for retail banking Andy Fell says fixed loans can provide "peace of mind and help customers more effectively manage their household budget".
<a href="/news">To find the current cheapest fixed and variable rate offerings click here.</a>
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St George Bank cuts one- and two-year fixed rates to 5.49%

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The Reserve Bank has “ample scope" to use cash rate reductions to change mortgage lending rates despite regulatory changes impacting marginally on bank funding costs, says assistant RBA governor Guy Debelle.
His comments, delivered in a speech in Adelaide today, follow the release of the September 4 monetary policy meeting minutes, which said there was "scope to adjust policy in response to any significant deterioration in the outlook for growth".
Since the start of the current rate cutting cycle in November, banks have claimed that their funding cost pressures mean they are no longer as closely tied to the monetary policy settings of the RBA with ANZ going it alone on interest rate decisions since December (though the bank has not moved outside of RBA announcements since April).
Debelle said the impact of Basel III banking reforms,  which come into effect on January 1 next year, were likely to be “small and the effect on overall funding costs would be smaller still”.
He added that any costs of this magnitude were “well worth paying for a more stable financial system”.
Under Basel III reforms, Australia's largest deposit-taking intermediaries in Australia will be required to hold "high-quality liquid assets in quantities sufficient to withstand a 30-day period of stress".
“As regards the broader macroeconomic impact of the increase in Australian deposit-taking institutions’ (ADIs) funding costs, it is important to remember that in the setting of monetary policy, the Reserve Bank Board is conscious of the various rates at which credit is being priced.
“Consequently, where there has been an overall rise in the funding cost structure for intermediaries, the Board is able to set its cash rate target to appropriately take into account the effect on lending rates.
“In the current environment, there has been ample scope to lower the cash rate sufficiently so as to bring these other rates to where they need to be to achieve the desired stance of monetary policy, be they mortgage rates or business lending rates,” says Debelle.
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RBA has 'ample scope' to cut the cash rate further and with impact on mortgage lending rates: Guy Debelle

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The Reserve Bank has left the door open to a rate cut, minutes of the September 4 monetary policy meeting show.
The minutes also noted subdued conditions in the housing sector and said recent sharp falls in commodity prices would be reflected "relatively quickly in export prices" as well as "slightly softer" global economic conditions".
However the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.rba.gov.au/monetary-policy/rba-board-minutes/2012/04092012">RBA board </a>appeared less concerned about a drop in mining investment than other economic commentators, saying that if the fall in the iron ore and coking coal prices were to be sustained, it could lead to somewhat lower mining investment, "but given the large LNG and other mining investment projects already under way, the staff still expected there to be a substantial increase in resource investment over the next year or so".
The board concluded that the "current assessment of the inflation outlook continued to provide scope to adjust policy in response to any significant deterioration in the outlook for growth".
Looking at the housing market, the RBA notes:
"Conditions in the housing sector were subdued, but there were tentative signs of an improvement.
“Building approvals had increased strongly in the June quarter, and fell back in July, but remained a little higher than earlier in the year.
“Loan approvals for new dwellings and first-home owner grants had also risen in recent months. Dwelling prices had increased slightly over the previous three months in Sydney and Melbourne and were broadly unchanged in other cities, with turnover remaining low.”
In the September 5 post-cash rate decision statement, RBA governor Glenn Stevens noted that the impact of earlier cash rate cuts  were still working their way through the economy, “but dwelling prices have firmed a little”.
Today's September minutes reveal that the RBA board remains concerned about the global economy noting that new information over August “pointed to slightly softer conditions in many parts of the global economy”.
Locally, it noted a slight downturn in the mining and business environment reporting that “after a surge in mining investment in the March quarter, growth in business investment was estimated to have moderated in the June quarter”. 
The minutes also acknowledge challenges faced by non-mining sector such as "some parts of the retail sector".
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Room for rate cut as housing sector conditions remain 'subdued': RBA September minutes

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ANZ has changed its monetary policy call and now expects the RBA to lower the official cash rate by 25 basis points on October 2 to 3.25% and by a further 25 basis points on November 6 to 3% and to maintain an easing bias thereafter.
The bank’s economists Ivan Colhoun and Justin Fabo say there is also some “tactical argument that rather than enact back-to-back cuts as has occurred over the past year, one larger 50-basis-points cut could have a better effect on confidence and possibly in reducing upward pressure on the Australian dollar.
Colhoun and Fabo made the call ahead of RBA governor’s Glenn Stevens' monetary policy statement, which is expected to give further clues as to future rate decisions and direction.
<a href="/news">Last week ANZ said the fall in commodity prices and the persistently high Australian dollar had raised the likelihood of an October rate cut</a>, but said a November rate cut was still more likely, with another rate cut in the first quarter of next year and unchanged rates thereafter – though with a bias towards lower interest rates.
Colhoun and Fabo say the RBA is unlikely to wait until the release of September quarterly inflation data (due out on October 24) because underlying inflation is already around the bottom of the 2% to 3% RBA target band.
Among their reasons for forecasting an October rate cut is the smaller impact rate cuts have been having on encouraging households’ appetite for taking on more debt, including mortgage debt.
“While the RBA rate cuts since November last year have lowered actual borrowing rates for households and businesses by around 90 to 100 basis points, arguably the interest rate-sensitive parts of the economy have not and will not react in the same way as over the past decade or two.
“The key reason for this expectation is that the community’s appetite for debt has waned significantly as debt levels have risen, housing prices are no longer seen as a one-way bet, perceived job security has lessened and significant uncertainty remains over the global economy.
“The Westpac consumer confidence survey for September showed that the proportion of households viewing bank deposits as the ‘wisest place for savings’ was the highest since 1974.
“Supported by the relatively muted response of housing market activity and prices to the rate cuts to date, notwithstanding that it’s still early days, we see very little danger in terms of renewed asset price inflation from shifting rates lower.”
They also re-affirmed earlier concerns about the impact of falling commodity prices and the high Australian dollar on the wider economy and further fiscal tightening at both federal and state level.
“The main reason for the change of view is that lower commodity prices coupled with the persistently high Australian dollar will have a significant contractionary effect on the economy.
“With inflation comfortably at the low end of the Bank’s target band, global growth continuing to moderate and leading indicators of unemployment deteriorating, there is no reason for the RBA to wait another month to ease policy and overall financial conditions,” they say.
 
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ANZ changes rate cut call to forecast October and November RBA cash rate cuts with possibility of single 50-basis-point cut

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Citibank has become the latest mortgage lender to cut its fixed-rate home loans following recent reductions announced by the Commonwealth Bank, ME Bank and the Greater Building Society.
The pace of lenders cutting fixed-rates has picked up as the appetite for the product grows among cautious borrowers.
Citibank has repriced its one, two and three year fixed-rate home loans to 5.55% per annum, a reduction of 44 basis points over the past month.
Citibank also reduced its five year fixed-rate by 35 basis points to 5.89% and says it’s the first lender to offer a five year fixed-rate below 5.9%.
The Commonwealth Bank’s five-year fixed-rate is 5.99%, Westpac and NAB offer a five year fixed-rate of 6.19% and ANZ at 6.24%
The cheapest advertised five year fixed rate on RateCity.com.au is 5.95% offered by Greater Building Society.
Citibank offers a standard variable rate of 7.09% and a basic variable of 6.87%.
Property Observer has scoured the most well-known mortgage comparison websites to determine the lowest variable rate home loan and one- and three-year fixed home loans currently available.
The following results are based on advertised mortgage rates listed by <a target="_blank" href="https://www.ratecity.com.au/">ratecity.com.au</a>, <a target="_blank" href="https://mozo.com.au/">Mozo.com.au</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.infochoice.com.au/">infochoice.com.au</a> as of September 18:
Lowest variable rate offerings:
<table width="470" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="158" valign="top">
Provider
</td>
<td width="151" valign="top">
Loan name
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Rate
</td>
<td width="132" valign="top">
Comparison rate*
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="158" valign="top">
UBank (NAB)
</td>
<td width="151" valign="top">
UHomeloan Refinance
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
5.62%
</td>
<td width="132" valign="top">
5.62%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="158" valign="top">
Mortgage View
</td>
<td width="151" valign="top">
Mortgage View Pro Pack
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
5.65%
</td>
<td width="132" valign="top">
5.67%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="158" valign="top">
Loans.com.au
</td>
<td width="151" valign="top">
Dream Catcher
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
5.65%
</td>
<td width="132" valign="top">
6.02%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="158" valign="top">
Nationwide Mortgage
</td>
<td width="151" valign="top">
True Saver Home Loan
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
5.65%
</td>
<td width="132" valign="top">
5.65%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="158" valign="top">
State Custodian
</td>
<td width="151" valign="top">
State Custodians Standard Variable Offset Loan (LVR&lt;75%)
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
5.72%
</td>
<td width="132" valign="top">
5.94%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Lowest one-year fixed-rate offerings
<table width="470" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Provider
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Loan name
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
Rate
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
Comparison rate*
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
ME Bank
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Super member fixed
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
5.39%
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
6.05%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Newcastle Permanent
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Fixed rate home loan
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
5.49%
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
6.39%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Greater Building Society
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Fixed rate ultimate home loan
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
5.49%
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
6.29%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
CUA
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Fixed rate home loan
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
5.50%
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
6.23%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="137" valign="top">
Citibank
</td>
<td width="123" valign="top">
Fixed rate home loan
</td>
<td width="95" valign="top">
5.54%
</td>
<td width="114" valign="top">
7.06%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Lowest three-year fixed-rate offerings
<table width="470" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Provider
</td>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Loan name
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
Rate
</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">
Comparison rate*
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="133" valign="top">
ME Bank
</td>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Super member fixed
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
5.39%
</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">
6.46%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="133" valign="top">
UBank (NAB)
</td>
<td width="133" valign="top">
UHomeLoan for Refinance – Fixed Rate Loan
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
5.54%
</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">
5.69%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Bank of Queensland
</td>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Fixed Loan
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
5.55%
</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">
6.54%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Newcastle Permanent
</td>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Residential Fixed
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
5.59%
</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">
6.24%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="133" valign="top">
HSBC
</td>
<td width="133" valign="top">
Fixed rate loan
</td>
<td width="97" valign="top">
5.59%
</td>
<td width="108" valign="top">
6.37%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
*A comparison rate includes both the interest rate and the fees and charges relating to a loan, combined into a single percentage figure.
For information on refinancing, watch our free webinar <a target="_blank" href="/news">Refinancing and the Interest Rates Riddle</a>
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