Apartment buyers in New South Wales are set to gain a decade of insurance-backed protection against major building defects, after the NSW Parliament passed the Fair Trading and Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2026.&nbsp;

The Bill establishes decennial defect insurance, known in the market as Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), as an alternative to the existing two-year strata building bond. It cleared the Legislative Council with amendments on Tuesday evening (August 4, 2026), with the Legislative Assembly agreeing to those amendments shortly after.

Under the reform, eligible developers can satisfy their statutory bond obligation by taking out an approved decennial-style policy that gives owners 10 years of cover for major structural defects from completion, claimable directly, without first having to pursue developers or builders through costly legal action.&nbsp;

The change forms the final tranche of amendments arising from the 2021 statutory review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and related legislation.

Resilience Insurance, which originated the cover in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022, welcomed the passage and credited the NSW Government for delivering it.

“This is protection apartment buyers have needed for a long time, and the credit for delivering it belongs to the NSW Government,”&nbsp;said Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into. Reform like this is what good, evidence-based regulation looks like.”

Resilience has delivered LDI in NSW since 2022, protecting thousands of apartments, giving the State, and now the country, real-world evidence of how decade-long, no-fault protection works in practice.

The reform also places NSW within a wider national shift.

NSW is the third jurisdiction to put decennial cover into law. The ACT legislated for it in 2024, with the scheme taking effect in late 2025, and Victoria passed its own framework on 17 June. Between them, the three cover the majority of Australia's apartment market.

The reform commences once the legislation is proclaimed, which is expected in the coming weeks. From that point, developers of Class 2 residential apartment buildings can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial policy in place of the bond.

Buyers who purchased into projects that took out the cover early are among the first in the country to take keys to apartments carrying decade-long structural protection.

“With the legislation passed, the focus now turns to making it work for buyers,”&nbsp;Nugent said.

“There are already thousands of apartments in NSW covered by this insurance, bought by developers who moved early. The question every buyer should be asking in a display suite is a simple one: does this building come with 10-year defect cover, and who stands behind it?&nbsp;

“We look forward to working with the Government and the Building Commission in coming weeks as the framework moves to implementation, and to sharing what we have learned over the past four years so the protection reaches owners as smoothly and quickly as possible.”

Other states are working through their own reform programs. Western Australia has indicated that decennial cover is within consideration a later stage of its reform sequence, and Queensland has been examining the settings as it looks at the development pipeline ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Resilience Insurance acknowledges the NSW Government’s continued focus on strengthening consumer protection while supporting housing delivery across the State.

Fast Facts: What the reform means

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Proven at scale:&nbsp;Decennial cover has operated in NSW since 2022, protecting thousand of apartments.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">10 years of cover:&nbsp;Protection for major structural defects runs for a decade from completion, claimable directly and with no legal action required.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">An alternative to the bond:&nbsp;Eligible developers can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial-style policy in place of the 2% strata building bond.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Part of a national shift:&nbsp;The ACT has had decennial provisions in force since 2025 and Victoria passed its framework in June. NSW now joins them.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">No-fault, first resort:&nbsp;Owners corporations claim directly from the insurer without first having to establish who is liable for the defect.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost-competitive:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the 2% bond while offering broader, longer protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market position:&nbsp;Resilience originated LDI in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022.</li>
</ul>

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI):&nbsp;Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Consumer-first:&nbsp;Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost advantage:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market leader:&nbsp;&nbsp;Resilience Insurance originated LDI in Australia and is the national market leader.</li>
</ul>

Joel Robinson

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

Builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mcnab-developments">McNab</a> has wasted little time reshaping one of South Brisbane's most significant undeveloped apartment sites after acquiring the property earlier this year.&nbsp;

McNab has lodged plans to scrap an existing approval for two 30-storey towers and instead deliver a single 28-storey residential building, preserving part of the site for a future development opportunity.

The proposal, lodged over <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-peel-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">64 Peel Street and 9 Cordelia Street</a>, is for a residential-led mixed-use development comprising 124 apartments above a landscaped podium, alongside a boundary realignment that preserves part of the land for a future residential project.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="743bf564-3f8f-45fc-b8d3-bbf18f5b628f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20Peel%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=EhCxGrVn_VFH3qTbKnI4WppGwaMnOn0t" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>, the development will deliver 119 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom apartments across 23 residential levels. A five-level podium will accommodate 135 car spaces, while the ground floor will include a 66 sqm commercial tenancy, an activated residential lobby with work-from-home spaces, and a publicly accessible landscaped plaza linking Cordelia and Peel streets.&nbsp;

Communal amenities will span Level 6 and the rooftop, including indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, a swimming pool, barbecue facilities, kitchen and dining areas, lawn space, sauna, steam room and yoga facilities.

The application also proposes a boundary realignment to create a standalone 1,290 sqm development lot while retaining an adjacent parcel for future redevelopment, allowing the balance of the site to contribute additional housing over time.

Hayball said the architecture has been shaped by the site's elevated corner position at the intersection of Peel and Cordelia streets and Brisbane's subtropical climate.

The design incorporates generous landscaped setbacks, a masonry podium wrapped with planting, large north-facing balconies, and a slender tower profile intended to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and long-range views. The rooftop has been conceived as a wellness-focused retreat overlooking Brisbane, with amenities positioned to capture views towards Mount Coot-tha and the CBD.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f99e84-6ad8-4a87-82d1-869685b754d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20tower%20perspective.png?VersionId=Gw0IuJaSAlk.tvGBxInhZOcQAdIB..2b" />

The planning submission positions the proposal as a response to both changing market conditions and Brisbane's Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning reforms.

McNab acquired the site after the previous approval was granted, with the existing scheme no longer reflecting current residential market demands, economic conditions, construction challenges, construction efficiencies or the quality of development outcome now being pursued, the planning report noted.

McNab continues to expand its residential development pipeline across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The developer recently launched The Tannery in West End, securing more than 60 per cent of apartments before the project's public release. It is also delivering Elements Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise and Lucia Highgate Hill, an eight-apartment boutique development overlooking the Brisbane River.

McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower

A steeply sloping Bellevue Hill site is set to accommodate a new mid-rise apartment development, with plans lodged for 20 homes that respond to the site's dramatic topography.

The proposal for the consolidated land at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/138a-140-bellevue-road-bellevue-hill-nsw-2023">138A-140 Bellevue Road</a> has been designed by Sydney architecture practice Common Office, which has used the site’s substantial fall to distribute the building’s scale and unlock 20 apartments without presenting the full height to the street.&nbsp;

“The unique design strategy leverages the site’s substantial topographical fall to facilitate increased density, presenting a seven-storey profile to Bellevue Road while rising to 10 storeys at the rear,” Common Office said in its architectural design report.

The apartment mix spans one, two, three- and four-bedroom residences. Four two-bedroom apartments are designated as affordable housing, while the plans also include two adaptable dwellings. The mix is majority three-beds, with the typical three-bed apartment offering around 144 sqm internally, with balconies of around 15 sqm.

The affordable housing component represents 15 per cent of the residential floor area and allows the project to access additional height and floor space under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing provisions. The site also falls within the inner area of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy because it is within 400 metres walking distance of Double Bay Town Centre.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1230d0f-3bfa-4a11-abaf-0928c66ef345" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da.png?VersionId=dZeMK3P.OutGjN8ycjsxm8uNsj_QFWQv" />

Common Office has arranged the building around a masonry podium and a lighter upper volume, drawing on two recurring elements of Bellevue Hill’s established architecture: sandstone bases and the vertical proportions of local Inter-war Art Deco apartment buildings.

“The proposal is governed by a holistic design language that reconciles the solid horizontal masonry of the neighbourhood’s podiums with the elegant verticality of its Art Deco heritage,” the architect said.

“The building maintains a consistent rhythmic logic utilising deep recesses and a sophisticated material transition to break down the 10-storey scale into a series of articulated, human-scale volumes.”

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0147f503-1af1-4d51-97fb-c2f1cba63a9d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20bldg.png?VersionId=GoW7q3NlK67OpnePXhk7zvklrlKb72Qc" />

Large-format sandstone tiles will define the lower levels, establishing a robust base that negotiates the change in elevation from Bellevue Road. Above, red-tinted precast concrete frames, recessed balconies, anodised aluminium screens and expanded metal details will create a more vertically expressed façade. Integrated planter beds will introduce greenery across balcony edges and recessed sections of the building.

The elongated northern façade has been divided into three recessed vertical masses to reduce its perceived length. Triangular window elements and metal privacy screens reference the geometry of nearby Art Deco buildings while controlling overlooking toward surrounding homes. The southern elevation will incorporate further privacy screening, landscaped edges and deep balconies to maintain light and ventilation.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8679cf1-18bc-4447-8a0f-0052b94ab83c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da%20rooftop.png?VersionId=5SQqQqRFf76rvE2p1TbxJSweMN70AIbc" />

Private and communal landscaping is distributed throughout the development. A landscaped garden apartment is positioned within the lower portion of the site, while a communal terrace on Level 5 will include a central timber deck, barbecue facilities, resident planting plots and areas for outdoor dining and informal gatherings.

Common Office described the terrace as an elevated sanctuary designed to capture district views and sunlight. Its planting strategy incorporates endemic species associated with the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, extending the landscape vertically through the building and providing habitat for local flora and fauna.

A second communal outdoor area is proposed at roof level, with built-in seating, paved gathering areas and perimeter planting.

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction. Positive Investment Enterprise is delivering the 16-apartment Kew Palm House on Birriga Road, while Chanine Developments is also under construction at Florian, a 36-apartment project on Banksia Road.

&nbsp;

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction.

First Look: Apartment development pitched for Bellevue Hill, Double Bay fringe

South Brisbane's apartment pipeline continues to build momentum, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/trk-property-group">TRK Property Group</a> lodging plans for a 161-apartment tower on Montague Road as developers accelerate investment across the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

The proposal for 176–186 Montague Road would replace an existing office building with a 20-storey residential tower designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, adding to a growing pipeline of high-density projects reshaping one of Brisbane's fastest-evolving inner-city precincts.

The project has been conceived as a "living building", featuring a flowing tower form, extensive vertical landscaping, and generous communal spaces that respond to the evolving Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

TRK Property Group Development Director Matt Kan said the project reflected the confidence developers have in South Brisbane's long-term future.

"South Brisbane is entering an incredibly exciting period, and we see Montague Road sitting right at the heart of that evolution," Kan said.

"With the former Visy site directly opposite us and significant investment planned throughout the broader Kurilpa precinct, there is a real sense of momentum around this part of the city and what it will become over the coming years.

"For TRK, this is an opportunity to be part of that next chapter and deliver a project that responds to where the precinct is heading, while contributing to the continued evolution of Brisbane's river edge."

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="590fe1ad-f892-4446-a679-80e33a16d029" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20tower%20facade.png?VersionId=uOJStrcKpyHFcPE1w6_9SMAFzVMCcZll" />

The scheme includes a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, incorporating multi-purpose rooms in selected residences to provide additional flexibility for home offices or expanded living areas. The proposed mix comprises 15 one-bedroom, 13 one-bedroom plus MPR, 73 two-bedroom, 26 two-bedroom plus MPR, 30 three-bedroom, and four four-bedroom apartments.

Rather than adopting a conventional rectilinear tower, COX Architecture has developed a sculpted form inspired by the movement of the Brisbane River.

"The proposal has been designed by COX Architecture as a 'living building' that responds to the site's riverine setting, floodplain history and evolving urban context within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct," the planning report states.

"The architectural form draws from the fluid nature of the Brisbane River, with a curved and undulating tower form that creates a varied architectural edge and avoids a conventional rectilinear tower expression."

The podium has also been designed as an architectural feature rather than a conventional parking structure, with cascading planting, screening and natural-toned materials softening its appearance. Resident parking is elevated above ground level to address the site's flood constraints, while habitable apartments sit above flood planning levels. Upper-level communal facilities are designed to accommodate shelter-in-place arrangements during major flood events.

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01fa15d0-90df-46c7-9555-7941fc45373c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20podium.png?VersionId=mHyua.w1pHGBt9qEdWzrlsv.leztUCwO" />

Communal amenity is a major focus of the proposal. Around 1,815 sqm of shared resident space is proposed across the ground floor, level 19 and the rooftop, including co-working areas, indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, wellness facilities, dining and gathering areas, lawn spaces, a rooftop pool and spa, and extensive landscaping. At street level, a landscaped forecourt and approximately 345 sqm of publicly accessible open space along Montague Road are intended to improve the pedestrian experience while activating the building's frontage.

The development will provide 163 car spaces, including 152 resident bays and 11 visitor spaces, together with 144 bicycle spaces incorporating resident storage, visitor parking, bicycle maintenance facilities and e-mobility charging infrastructure.

The site sits within one of Brisbane's fastest-changing inner-city precincts, less than two kilometres from the CBD and within easy reach of South Bank, West End, the Queensland Cultural Centre and extensive public transport connections. The Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning framework is encouraging higher-density residential development to help meet Brisbane's housing supply targets while supporting walkable, transit-oriented neighbourhoods.

TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans

Article summary

<ul data-end="785" data-start="311">
	<li data-end="459" data-section-id="5hbcyr" data-start="311">Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at Skye Kangaroo Point, headlined by a two-storey sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm.</li>
	<li data-end="561" data-section-id="1p7lq8n" data-start="460">Early buyer interest suggests the residences could set a new Queensland apartment price record.</li>
	<li data-end="667" data-section-id="1y70z0l" data-start="562">The collection includes four move-in ready penthouses and the highly customised Skye One residence.</li>
	<li data-end="785" data-section-id="yvm0y1" data-start="668">The release caps one of Bri​sbane's most ambitious luxury apartment developments overlooking the Brisbane River.</li>
</ul>

<hr data-end="790" data-start="787" />
Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye by Pikos</a> development in Kangaroo Point, with early buyer interest indicating the flagship residences could eclipse every apartment sale previously recorded in Queensland.

The collection crowns the luxury riverfront development with five residences, including four completed penthouses and Skye One, a two-level sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm that will be tailored to its eventual owner.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374075]

Wanting to offer a fully customisable home, Pikos is offering Skye One as a blank canvas, allowing the buyer to work alongside the developer's design team to customise the home's layout, finishes and internal spaces.

The residence will feature a 247 sqm private rooftop terrace with its own swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor kitchen and multiple entertaining areas overlooking the Brisbane River and CBD skyline.

The remaining four penthouses have been completed and are ready for immediate occupation, each offering four bedrooms, expansive open-plan living areas, soaring ceilings and private lift access.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374059]

One of the defining features throughout the project is its use of Roman Classic Travertine, with more than 20,000 sqm of the natural stone imported from Italy after being personally selected by Pikos Group Founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos, interior designer Julie Williamson and third-generation stone specialist Mario Caucci.

Pikos said the penthouse collection represented the culmination of the company's long-term vision for Skye.

"True legacy isn't measured by what we build today, but by what endures tomorrow," Pikos said.

"Our ambition is to create places that become more valuable with time, enrich the lives of generations, and stand as timeless landmarks long after we've stepped away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374060]

Williamson said the interiors were inspired by the natural character of Kangaroo Point and the Brisbane River rather than international design trends.

"Materiality tells the story of a place," Williamson said.

"We looked to the movement of the Brisbane River, the texture of the cliff face and the warmth of the surrounding landscape to create interiors that feel understated, enduring and unmistakably Brisbane."

Positioned above the Kangaroo Point cliffs, Skye places residents within walking distance of Howard Smith Wharves, South Bank and James Street while offering uninterrupted river and city views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=90059]

Brisbane's next apartment price record? Pikos unveils Skye's exclusive penthouse collection

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?

Prominent New Zealand apartment and hotel operator, <a href="/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>, is offering up a prime investment opportunity for Australians to purchase off the plan in one of the world’s most popular ski destinations.

They recently took to market Mountain Oak Queenstown Apartments, in the growing precinct of Remarkables Park in Frankton, near the airport and at the foot of The Remarkables - the mountain range the locals like to call “The Remarks”.&nbsp;

Sydney investors have shown interest in the one, two and three-bedroom apartments that secure high-season occupancy six months over the year, primarily over summer and winter months.

They average 90 per cent occupancy across their portfolio over January, February, March, August, November and December, while shoulder season months of April, July, September and October are still occupied 70 per cent of the time, with the growing appeal of Queenstown becoming not just a hotspot for the snow, but a lifestyle destination.

Even in the low seasons of May and June, occupancy levels reach around 40 per cent.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Safari’s Safari Hotels arm can also manage the holiday letting for an investor, from the listing on holiday accommodation websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com to the cleaning and maintenance of the investment. They’ve been in the short stay management business for 15 years and offer 24/7 support for investors, an important convenience benefit for any overseas investor

Another major drawcard for Australians is that New Zealand doesn’t have a stamp duty policy - so the entry price of NZ$639,000 (AU$586,000), is all that is payable on completion.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Livingv2_WEB.jpg?VersionId=nV229fM0ZeYpoxOrX372HyGjfwY_LR8c" />

Safari is starting construction of the 141 apartments in Q2 this year, with a two-year build estimated to complete in mid-to-late 2027.<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="15" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXczFpFAb7WuA6f4f9TtKWcqXyNwR8qqtakWv352ERkpqNlP3KwIo8YKxw67jZNHfpjEGIZGv5MQTbnvLZwNt8iu9IVdOrswOjCvBZ4zhSoOOLrpt6etVEZTN1gkBho0r_R72zdHNA?key=yq3daOanqHSb88QFd8jGYKdb" title="Click and drag to move" width="15" />​

The apartments will feature modern amenities and contemporary designs with expansive windows capturing sweeping views of The Remarkables mountain range.&nbsp;

Interiors are equipped with modern finishes, premium appliances, and secure electronic key-locked doors, ensuring a comfortable living experience for residents and guests alike.

With its strategic location near Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, as well as key retail and dining precincts such as Market Street, Five Mile Shopping Centre, and Remarkables Market, Mountain Oak offers a strong proposition for investors seeking high rental yields and capital appreciation in one of New Zealand’s most sought-after locations.&nbsp;

Queenstown’s sustained demand for visitor accommodation and rental properties is underpinned by a shortage of housing options, attracting both local and international buyers.

Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

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A converted West Melbourne warehouse, currently comprising four separate residences, has been listed with $2.5 million expectations.

The four three-story residences have previously been leased for a combined $128,960 per annum total.
The building has two street frontages, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.marshallwhite.com.au/5550201/">on Franklin Place and McDougall Lane</a>, and concept plans prepared by Hamilton Design allow for six floors within the existing roofline, as well as ten car parks.
Its Melbourne City Council zoning is mixed-use.
The neighbourhood has a mix of residential, retail and commercial properties, making the property suitable for a variety of uses within walking distance of the CBD, Flagstaff Gardens and Docklands stadium.
It has been advertised as an "outstanding opportunity for investors and developers, subject to council approval."

Expressions of interest close June 26 with Leonard Teplin, the Marshall White Real Estate Melbourne agent saying he has received “solid interest” so far for the offering by Jim Manolios.
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West Melbourne warehouse listing with residential renewal potential

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Perth's home values tweaked up in the week ending June 9, according to RP Data.
But the combined capital city value remained unchanged.
<img height="267" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/rpdatacapitalcityvaluesjune12one.jpg" alt="rpdatacapitalcityvaluesjune12one">
<img height="189" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/rpdatacapitalcityvaluesjune12two.jpg" alt="rpdatacapitalcityvaluesjune12two">
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Combined capital city home weekly value unchanged: RP Data

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Those battler's from NSW, Steve and Michelle have the most to gain from their questionable renovation and decor skills in the Channel 7 home renovation stress series, House Rules.
Their mortgage - and therefore potential prize - stands at  $629,000.
The next biggest was $545,000 for the WA couple, Jemma and Ben.
Steve and Michelle paid $650,000 last year for their termite infested shack in the final renovation.
It's the worst house in the street, they said of the property bought through Ray White Bayview agent Mark Clarke in May 2012. The four bedrrom house sits on an 860 square metre block.
It was not unexpectedly the priciest of the six homes featured in the series being in Sydney's northern beaches.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/renovating/smallest-mortgage-rests-with-the-nundah-renovation-rookies-in-houserules-queensland/2013061162147">The smallest mortgage - and potential prize - was $300,000 in Brisbane.</a>
State by state House Rules prize guide
NSW Steve and Michelle - $650,000 purchase; $629,000 mortgage.
QLD Amy and Sean $365,000 purchase; $300,000 mortgage.
SA Carly and Leighton $450,000 purchase; $450,000 mortgage.
TAS Jane and Plinio $355,000 purchase; $315,000 mortgage.
VIC Nick and Chris $555,000 purchase; $524,000 mortgage.
WA Jemma and Ben $550,000 purchase; $545,000 mortgage.
House Rules premiered in May, sometimes competing against the Channel 9 perennial, The Block.
The new state-versus-state renovation series, from the makers of My Kitchen Rules, aimed to deliver true home renovations.
The six contestant couples have put their entire home on the line promising an emotional return to their new homes after the seven-day renovation.
The teams have to work independently on their own zone within each house but they also have to work as a team to ensure each room complements the other when it's completed.
The six teams competing are: <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802165/michelle-steve-nsw/"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802165/michelle-steve-nsw/">Michelle &amp; Steve</a> (Collaroy Plateau, New South Wales) <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802279/nick-chris-vic/"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802347/amy-sean-qld/">Amy &amp; Sean</a> (Nundah, Queensland)
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802523/carly-leighton-sa/">Carly &amp; Leighton</a> (Warradale, South Australia) <a href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802965/jemma-ben-wa/"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802965/jemma-ben-wa/">Jemma &amp; Ben</a> (Melville, Western Australia)
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16803037/jane-plinio-tas/">Jane &amp; Plinio</a> (New Town, Tasmania)
<a target="_blank" href="https://au.tv.yahoo.com/house-rules/teams/article/-/16802279/nick-chris-vic/">Nick and Chris</a> (Preston, Victoria)
Each of the six House Rules teams hand over the keys to their homes and allow their competitors free reign to transform their house, so the host Johanna Griggs expected plenty of passion and pride in the way teams tackled the renovations.
"It's a bunch of likeable Australians with amazing back stories," Griggs said.
The twist in the series sees the contestants turn their attention to the gardens.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Steve and Michelle's House Rules Collaroy Plateau mortgage - the series biggest prize payoff possibility

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Mirvac has given Sydney CBD workers the first glimpse of the grand six-storey entrance that will sit underneath its new 8 Chifley Street office tower.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june12chifley]}
The office tower is the first Australian office building designed by renowned UK architect Richard Rogers.
Rogers most distinctive buildings include the Pompidou Centre in Paris, the Lloyd’s of London building and the Millennium Dome in London.
The curved shapes rising up the corner of the building on Phillip Street are strikingly similar to the famed shiny industrial facade in the Lloyd's of London building, considered a modern architectural masterpiece.
The reveal of the grand entrance at 8 Chifley follows the completion of the foyer paving of what will be a new public space in the Chifley Square precinct in the northeastern corner of the Sydney CBD.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/06/june12chifleytwo]}
The new office tower is under construction directly next to another iconic Sydney office tower – the Deutsche Bank tower with its distinctive triangle-shaped steel frame top.
The 34-storey building is due to be completed in August – ahead of schedule.
The building will rise above the public space and six-storey void supported by enormous blue girders with red girders zig-zagging up the side.
The ground floor open space will be repeated midway up the building and again at the top, “integrating Australia’s outdoor lifestyle into the city environment”.
QBE Insurance Group announced in April it had signed a 10-year agreement to lease approximately 2,800sqm of the building, which is jointly owned by Mirvac and Keppel REIT.
Law firm Corrs Chambers Westgarth has also leased over 8,000 square metres of space, representing approximately 42% of the building’s net lettable area, for a 12-year term.
A further three vertical villages remain available to lease.
The building’s design is a collaboration between the internationally renowned Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners and Australia’s Lippmann Partnership.
It stands on a north-facing site, bounded by Elizabeth, Hunter and Phillip Streets and will feature seven vertical villages providing connectivity and vertical integration between the floors and adding to the feeling of extensive space throughout the premises.
“We are excited to announce that 8 Chifley will complete ahead of schedule in August, offering a progressive and world class head office space for organisations and enhancing Chifley Square as a dynamic pedestrian hub,” said Mirvac’s CEO for development and group strategy, Brett Draffen.
“From the unique suspended glass foyer enclosure to the elevated ‘village square’ on the 18th floor to the eye-catching red exterior braces, the final construction remains true to the original vision and delivers a vibrant new landmark in Sydney’s CBD precinct.”
Ivan Harbour of Rogers Stirk Harbour + Partners says the design, “whilst internationally significant, is very specific to the climate and culture of Sydney”.
“Perhaps the defining feature of the project is the six-storey open space at street level that not only forms a grand entrance to the building but creates a new, significant area of public space which addresses and completes Chifley Square.
8 Chifley will be one of the greenest buildings in Sydney when completed.
It has achieved a 6 Star Green Star Office Design and is committed to achieving a 5 Star NABERS Energy Rating.
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Mirvac gives glimpse of six-storey foyer beneath Richard Rogers-designed Sydney office tower

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Prime Brisbane retail property on Queen Street Mall offers signficantly stronger returns to investors than the more glamourous shopping strips of Singapore and Hong Kong, research by DTZ reveals.
The graph below shows the gap between Brisbane and its Asian rivals, which looks set to remain in place until at least 2017, although it is forecast to narrow.
<img alt="retail_yields_brisbane" height="360" width="470" src="/images/stories/april11rosebery/retail_yields_brisbane.jpg">
The graph is included in the latest DTZ Foresight Asia Pacific Fair Value report for the first quarter of 2013.
"Despite anticipated rate hikes, borrowing costs currently remain low across the region due to lingering global uncertainties, weak regional recovery and volatile international capital flows," reported DTZ.
"At the same time, investors’ perception of risk has reduced again this quarter; the combination of low borrowing costs and lower risk premiums is making property attractive relative to fixed-income returns."
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Brisbane retail returns stronger than Hong Kong and Singapore: Chart of the week

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Consumer sentiment rebounded in June following sharp falls in April and May, with house-buying intentions still very strong.
The Westpac Melbourne Institute Index of Consumer Sentiment rose 4.7% in June from 97.6 in May to 102.2 taking the index back over the 100 level indicating that optimists now just outnumber pessimists.
The results were based on a survey of 1,200 Australians aged over 18 conducted in the week from 3 June to 9 June 2013 - when the RBA left the cash rate unchanged at 2.75%.
Despite the rebound in June, consumer confidence still remains 8.2% lower than its peak early in the year.
There was only a small 0.4% rise in the ‘time to buy a dwelling’ sub-index in June but it remains at an elevated level of 143.3, up 12% over the past year and well above the long-term average of 123.1.
It also has the highest reading of the five sub-indexes.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2013/06/westpacjune12one.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/06/westpacjune12onethumb.gif"></a>
“Clearly consumers see this as an opportune time to make major purchases or enter the housing market, likely reflecting the low cost of finance and comparatively good affordability,” says Westpac senior economist Matthew Hassan.
“However concerns about the economic outlook are likely discouraging many buyers from going ahead with actual purchase decisions,” he added.
Hassan notes that all components of the index recorded some improvement between May and June with the strongest gains around family finances.
The sub-index tracking  assessments of ‘family finances vs a year ago’ rose 8.5%, more than reversing the 8% drop in May while the sub-index tracking expectations for ‘family finances over the next 12 months’ rose 5.3%’.
“It appears that some of the factors behind the sharp drop in sentiment in May were temporary,” says Hassan.
“In particular, concerns stemming from the Federal Budget may have eased somewhat in June.
“However, a deterioration in consumer sentiment around prospects for the Australian economy, which has been a key underlying theme over the last three months, remains apparent,” he added.
The sub-index tracking expectations for ‘economic conditions over the next 12 months’ was up 3.8% after a heavy 13.8% fall in May; and the sub-index tracking expectations for ‘economic conditions over the next five years’ up just 3.2%.
"However, both remain sub-100 indicating a pessimist forward view on the economy," says Hassan.
“These fears [about the economy] would have been underscored by the weak first quarter national accounts data, a sharp sell-off in the sharemarket (down 7% between the May and June surveys) and a slide in the Australian dollar (down 4¢ vs the US dollar between the two surveys), " he says.
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Consumer sentiment lifts 4.7% in June with house buying sentiment still elevated: Westpac index

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I often get asked can the property market continue to grow from its current levels and reach new heights.
While I do not believe every property in the market will show the same level of growth, there is a tidal wave of money on the horizon that will have an enormous impact on property value in years to come.  
For many years the primary reason to buy property was to provide a roof over your head. As time went by, however, another driver entered the market. Investors started to look at the property as a money-making venture to help fund their retirement.
This really gathered momentum in the 1980s to the point now where over 1 million Australians own investment property.  
We are now at the very early stages of a new and very powerful player entering the property market – superannuation investors.  
Compulsory superannuation has only been around for 20 years and is in its infancy. Today there is over $1.4 trillion sloshing around in superannuation locked up until retirement and this is growing.  
In the early years of superannuation all funds were managed by professional fund managers to maximize returns and the vast majority was tied up in the sharemarket.  
Unfortunately sharemarket performance has not lived up to investor expectations in recent years. This year the share market has taken two steps forward and two steps back. On December 31 last year the All Ordinaries was at 4664 and peaked at 5200.
However, it has now lost all its gains and yesterday closed at yesterday it closed at 4748.
<img alt="armstrongjune12one" height="323" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/06/armstrongjune12one.gif">
Even if we project back a few more years we find the market is sitting below 2010 levels.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/06/armstrongjune12two.jpg" width="470" height="324" alt="armstrongjune12two">
The share market has been a great place for investors who trade regularly to make a lot of money. However for the investor that just wants a ‘set and forget’ strategy it has proved disappointing.
While I do not think that investors will turn their back on the sharemarket completely they will certainly look around for other options to diversify their investments. It is cycles like this that will make more people look towards the property market.  
The desire for people to take control over their superannuation has seen an explosion in self-managed superannuation funds (SMSF’s). According to the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority, which oversees our superannuation system, thousands of self-managed super funds are set up each year. Traditionally, SMSFs have been the province of the self-employed an increasing number of salaried employees are now setting them up too. There is now $439 billion held in SMSFs and that figure is growing.
However, to date only a small fraction of people have elected to add direct property to their super fund. This is mainly due to a lack of funds in their super and uncertainty and complexity around the structure.    
These investors have the opportunity to include residential property as part of the asset mix in their self-managed funds, thanks to regulatory changes in 2010 that enable gearing into super funds. Residential property is primarily a capital growth-based asset, and because of its stability relative to shares, it can provide a solid long-term way to boost the value of SMSFs.
Provided they choose high quality assets, investors with residential property in their SMSFs will be able to enjoy the best of both worlds when they retire. Residential property will give them geared growth assets, whilst shares will produce income in the form of dividends. They can draw down on the dividend income tax-free and use it for living expenses, whilst taking advantage of gearing to increase the capital value of their super fund.  
This mix of residential property and shares is an ideal strategy for SMSF investors - it reduces the possibility of running out of retirement savings, by maximising capital growth as well as income.  
Generally speaking, most people who borrow to purchase residential property for their super fund tend to adopt a conservative investment approach, and may gear at around 50% of the property’s value. This is a significant contrast from buying residential property outside super, where the gearing level is usually 80% or higher.  
Even so, a 50% gearing level means the amount of money flowing into residential property from superannuation will explode in years to come.  
Buying property needs to be viewed as a long-term play. The flow of superannuation money entering the market will be slow wheel to turn but it will gather momentum in coming years and push the property market to new highs.
Mark Armstrong is a director of <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.ipropertyplan.com.au/">iProperty Plan</a>, which provides independent analysis and tailored advice to investors and home buyers.
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SMSFs set to fuel surge in residential property prices: Mark Armstrong

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Property investment intentions remain strong among Australians mortgage holders, a Mortgage Choice survey of 1,000 mortgage holders has found. 
Just over a quarter (26%) said they were considering using the equity in their homes to buy an investment property with more than half of these (56%) intending to do so within in the next two years. 
More than four out of five (83%) said they intended to buy an investment property in the next four years with intention of most being to “buy an average property in an up and coming area and hold onto the property”. 
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1" style="width: 470px;"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="491" valign="top">
What is your preferred investment strategy?
</td>
<td width="113" valign="top">
National
Results
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="491" valign="bottom">
To buy an average property in an up and coming area and hold onto the property
</td>
<td width="113" valign="bottom">
58.5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="491" valign="bottom">
To buy the worst property in the best street and hold onto the property
</td>
<td width="113" valign="bottom">
8.5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="491" valign="bottom">
To buy a rundown property, renovate and sell for profit
</td>
<td width="113" valign="bottom">
7.7%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="491" valign="bottom">
To buy a big block of land with a small/rundown property, with aim to knock down and develop and sell for profit
</td>
<td width="113" valign="bottom">
7.4%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="491" valign="bottom">
To buy a property in an up and coming holiday rental area and hold onto the property to rent out in peak seasons
</td>
<td width="113" valign="bottom">
5.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="491" valign="bottom">
Other
</td>
<td width="113" valign="bottom">
12.1%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Two-thirds of respondents said tenant demand and buying in the right suburb and street were key factor when choosing an investment property. 
Other important considerations were locality to amenities and entertainment such as cafes and restaurants, population growth and new infrastructure being put in place. 
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1" style="width: 470px;"><tbody>
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<td width="491" valign="top">
What are the top five factors you look for in an investment property?
</td>
<td width="113" valign="top">
National
Results
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="491" valign="bottom">
Tenant demand in that area
</td>
<td width="113" valign="bottom">
65.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="491" valign="bottom">
In the right suburb and street
</td>
<td width="113" valign="bottom">
64.7%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="491" valign="bottom">
Locality to amenities and entertainment (cafes, restaurants, etc)
</td>
<td width="113" valign="bottom">
52.6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="491" valign="bottom">
Population growth in that area
</td>
<td width="113" valign="bottom">
46.3%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="491" valign="bottom">
Infrastructure going into that area
</td>
<td width="113" valign="bottom">
44.1%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
The 1,000 mortgage holders were surveyed by Mortgage Choice as part of its inaugural Homeowner Intentions Survey. 
A quarter of those surveyed already own an investment property with 68% owning one property, 19% own two, and 13% own three or more properties. 
“It is really positive news for the property market to see a considerable chunk of homeowners weighing up the decision to purchase an investment property in the near future,” said Mortgage Choice spokesperson Belinda Williamson.
“With lenders’ interest rates on both home and investment property loans at their lowest point in recent years, it isn’t altogether surprising.”
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One in four borrowers intend to buy an investment property in up and coming areas in next four years: Mortgage Choice survey

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All signs in the latest housing finance data point to a more active property investment market.
The April ABS data shows that the value of home loans taken out by investors rose by 1.1% to five-year highs to $81.4 billion on a seasonally-adjusted basis, while the value of owner-occupier housing loans fell 0.9% to $14.6 billion.
The value of investment home loans to purchase established homes for rent or resale has been rising for nine straight months (since August 2012) and totalled just over $7 billion in April up from $6.82 billion in March.
A year ago the value of investment home loans to purchase established homes for rent or resale was $5.76 billion – an annual increase since then of 21.5%.
In contrast, the value of investment home loans to construct new dwellings for rent or resale has fallen for three straight months from $534 million in January to $381 million in April.
These figures suggest property investors may be buying up established homes that may have been marketed at first-home buyers, but who may have pulled back from the market due to no longer receiving the $7,000 first-home owner grant for established homes.
NSW ended its $7,000 first-home owner grant on October 1 and Queensland its first-home owner grant on September 12 – both states preferring to incentivise the purchase of new homes with $15,000 grants.
The most recent REIA housing affordability found that NSW first-home buyer in the March quarter totalled 2,647 - 57% lower than a year ago and a 40.6% fall in the March quarter alone.
In Queensland, home loans to first-home buyer decreased by 43.7% over the March quarter to 2,557 - the largest quarterly decline across the nation.
In original terms, the number of first home buyer commitments as a percentage of total owner occupied housing finance commitments rose to 14.3% in April 2013 from 14.2% in March 2013.
Westpac’s economics team commented that first-home buyers remained the stand out weak spot in the approvals data.
“We estimate loans to this segment were up 0.7% (seasonally adjusted) in April but are still down 10.8% annually and at very low levels by historical standards, particularly in NSW and Queensland," says Westpac.
CommSec chief economist Craig James attributed the rise in investment loans to "tight rental markets, state government grants for home builders, a relative lack of new homes being built and low interest rates are attracting investors,” said
Referring to the last NAB business confidence index, which improved modestly from minus 1.4 points to minus 0.7 points in May, James said Aussie businesses “could certainly take a leaf out of the book of housing investors”
“Investors see opportunities and are embracing them whereas businesses still complain about risks and hurdles,” he says.
James says first-home buyers are still reluctant to buy homes and prefer to rent instead.
“Fortunately second and subsequent home buyers are active in buying and building homes together with investors.
“The Reserve Bank will be happy that investors are diverting funds from cash-based investments to the housing market.
“On balance the Reserve Bank won’t be in a rush to cut rates again. The housing market is recovering while the lower Aussie dollar is assisting businesses,” he says.
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Opportunistic and optimistic property investors pick-up slack from dwindling first-home buyer market

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Like a B-movie horror flick villain that refuses to die, the first-home owner grant will limp into the new financial year to haunt us all despite the Victorian Treasurer’s valiant efforts in his May budget to curtail this beast.
Yes, the $7,000 grant for established property will be phased out on 1 July. But it will be increased from $7,000 to $10,000 for newly constructed homes.
I’m no fan of grants or concessions that distort the property market. I’ve been railing against the FHOG since it was introduced back in July 2000 ostensibly to offset the effect of the GST on home ownership. In its original guise, the FHOG was a national scheme funded by the states and territories and administered under their own legislation, with a one-off grant of up to $7,000 payable to first home owners that satisfied all the eligibility criteria.
Since then, this scheme has been tinkered with remorselessly to become the Frankenstein’s monster I alluded to earlier.
The scheme is meant to make property more affordable for first home buyers. Unfortunately, experience shows that the grants don’t achieve this end.  Instead, the nominal increase in purchasing power it delivers to first home buyers transmits directly into higher prices for the properties they hope to buy.
The real beneficiaries are the vendors of properties that first timers buy. It would have been simpler if the State Revenue Office of Victoria, who administers the grant, posted the grant cheque direct to the vendor!
The fact that the grant was economic lunacy – and costly to governments’ coffers to boot – didn’t seem to bother politicians in the noughties when state governments were basking in pre-GFC budget surpluses. But now that state treasurers across the country are struggling with fiscal deficits, one by one, they’ve been winding back the FHOG.
Victoria is just the latest.  More focus is now going to providing grants for new property. At first blush this seems like a good idea. The grant has been amended so that it boosts supply – by encouraging the construction of new apartments and houses – as well as demand.
However, I am concerned that there will be serious unintended consequences. The grant will continue to distort market conditions and performance. It will artificially skew property data, especially median values, possibly enough to make them virtually meaningless if the stock level is very high.
And, most worryingly, it will encourage many first-home buyers who otherwise would have opted for existing stock to purchase new and off-the-plan properties.
Why is that problem? Well, I’m afraid that many of these first home buyers will come to regret their decision.
Let me be blunt: much of the off-the-plan property under development is usually in windy Docklands or in fringe suburbs poorly serviced by transport; many properties are poorly built and deteriorate quickly; and, ultimately, many first home buyers and investors will lose money when they come to sell these properties in a few years because of developers’ need to cover their extensive marketing costs and to extract a profit.
In short, these properties are invariably over-priced in the first place relative to what they would sell for in an open market. Further, when the first time owner goes to sell the property, they will be competing against a glut of similar properties. We all know what happens when you’re faced with a buyer’s market!
I’m hoping that this is the penultimate chapter in the grant saga, and that sanity will finally prevail and we can get politically bipartisanship to kill it off. But I’m not holding my breath.
Monique Sasson Wakelin is director at <a href="https://wakelin.com.au/" target="_blank">Wakelin Property Advisory</a>.
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