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“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into.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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Hi Margaret,
I am currently residing in Wisconsin, USA however I own a two-bedroom townhouse in north-western Sydney. I am interested in potentially selling this property with a view to buying a property in the USA. When, in your opinion, would be the optimum time to sell in Sydney in the next 6-18 months, and why? Thank you for any information and advice you may be able to provide. Kind Regards, Michael
 
Hi Michael,
I’d have to say that the optimum time to sell a property in Sydney is not likely to be in the coming 18 months at all!  Of course this will depend very much upon where your property actually is, but if it is somewhere around the Hills District, which I imagine it is since that is North Western Sydney, then this is an area which is slated to continue with some respectable growth.  
While the area has, over the past 15 years, had a population growth of almost twice that of Western Sydney, there is more to come yet. Industrial and office rents consistently rank well below the Sydney average, which means that business is well and truly attracted to the area. Purchase costs for commercial and industrial property also rank lower than the Sydney average and this should enhance employment growth.  
While question marks still hang over the development of good transport infrastructure, this must come, since the population is showing no signs of slowing down. There are some significant land releases planned which, for a time, may cause growth to hover a little, but an upward climb should still be seen.
In my opinion, I wouldn’t be likely to buy in right now, as to do so would be at the cost of buying into a market which will boom sooner, however I also would not be inclined to sell, unless you bought the property for a song and already have significant gains.  If that’s the case then selling now, or in 18 months’ time, won’t make a lot of difference.  If not, then I’d be hanging around for the gains likely to be seen over the coming 10 years.
Margaret Lomas is a best-selling author and writes and hosts the popularProperty Success With Margaret Lomas and heads up the panel on Your Money, Your Call, both on Sky News. She is the founder of <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://destiny.com.au/dotnetnuke/en-au/home.aspx">Destiny</a>.
Have a property question? <a target="_blank" href="mailto:askmargaret@propertyobserver.com.au">Ask Margaret!</a>
 
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Ask Margaret: is there a good time to sell in Sydney soon?

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Sydney properties priced between $500,000 and $1.5 million could rise as much as 10% over 2013, says Australian Property Monitors senior economist and Dr Andrew Wilson.
Dr Wilson says low interest rates and increasing buyer confidence are the two key factors that could drive this portion of the market to outperform the prestige market and properties priced below $500,000.
The permabull market observer is sticking with his view that there will be an overall 3% to 5% gain in Sydney property prices in 2013 "though closer to 5 than 3".
Earlier this month, he tipped the property market to pick up a little in 2014 with gains of between <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/house-prices-could-rise-up-to-7-in-2014-apms-andrew-wilson/2013050961167">5% and 7% forecast</a>.
“[The $500,000 to $1.5 million price bracket] is going to be the strongest portion of the market," Wilson told Fairfax media.
"There's a lot of activity from investors but very few first home buyers and the prestige market is still relatively flat."
The latest <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/trends/budget-woes-sees-consumer-sentiment-fall-to-lowest-since-august-2012-but-housing-sentiment-lifts-westpac-index-westpac-consumersentiment/2013052261575" target="_blank">Westpac-Melbourne Institute survey of consumer sentiment</a>, carried out after the May 7 rate cut recorded a carried a sharp 7% fall in the consumer confidence index from 104.9 in April to 97.6, pushing it back into a range where pessimists outnumber optimists for the first time since October 2012.
However, sentiment about the property market is much stronger with the ‘time to buy a dwelling’ sub-index lifting 11.2% in May to be up 20.7% over the past 12 months to 142.7.
Two years ago it was at 110.7.
“Households recognise the significance of the rate cut for housing activity along with evidence that a patchy upswing in dwelling prices is under way,” said Westpac chief economist Bill Evans.
Wilson says the revival of the Australia’s housing markets was confirmed 2012 with leading indicators such as rising auction clearance rates pointing to a market heating up.
Last weekend, Sydney’s auctions clearance rates hit new highs with 78.6% of houses sold at auction, the strongest result since early 2010, according to preliminary APM figures which will be updated tomorrow by APM.
Clearance rates have remained high all year, edging steadily higher again since Easter.
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Investor demand could spur 10% gain in mid-market Sydney property prices in 2013: APM’s Dr Andrew Wilson

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A former State Savings Bank which has been used as a set for the 2003 film Ned Kelly and featured in the Australian classic Mad Max was auctioned last weekend in the regional Victorian town of Clunes.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-clunes-113572131" target="_blank">The property</a>, which had been marketed by Jo Millar from AAG Property Consultants, was passed in at a bid of $550,000.
Constructed of rendered triple brick and built circa 1871, the building sits on a 794-square-metre block and has four bedrooms with a study, retail space with original cedar bank counter, cellar and bank vault.
Retaining its period style characteristics, the residence is a throwback to the past with its pressed metal ceilings, marble fireplaces, living area and maid’s room complete with bell and a cloak room. Downstairs the property has a kitchen, bank chambers, manager’s sitting room, the original steel plated walk in vault and a private backyard complemented by a 100-year-old pear tree.
Potential residents can also expect the stalwart security typical of banks with a monitored alarm system and CCTV cameras on the property.
Located 36 kilometres north of Ballarat, Clunes was home to Victoria’s first registered gold discovery by James Esmond which later paved the way for the establishment of the township and the first gold rush in Victoria.
Clunes is recognised as one of the most architecturally intact gold towns in the state, with the area producing up to 1.2 million ounces of gold from the 1850s through to 1893.
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Former bank used as a set for the film Ned Kelly, with a door signed by Heath Ledger, auctioned in Clunes

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Consumer confidence, raising financing and a lack of suitable development sites remains the biggest challenge facing the commercial property sector, according to the NAB March commercial property survey.
Respondents to the survey also have modest interest rate cut expectations over the next 12 months with just 10 basis points expected to be shaved from commercial lending rates.
While consumer confidence remains the biggest challenge facing the sector, just 14% of the 300 survey respondents – mainly commercial property owners, developers, managers and estate agents – identified it as such compared with 22% in the December 2012 quarterly survey and 20%, six months ago.
This could rise in the June quarter survey with <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/trends/budget-woes-sees-consumer-sentiment-fall-to-lowest-since-august-2012-but-housing-sentiment-lifts-westpac-index-westpac-consumersentiment/2013052261575?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=news" target="_blank">yesterday’s Westpac Melbourne Institute Index of Consumer Sentiment</a> falling by 7% from 104.9 in April to 97.6, pushing it back into a range where pessimists outnumber optimists for the first time since October 2012.
Tellingly for commercial property businesses, the biggest drop – 13.2% - was in the sub-index measuring sentiment about the economy over the next 12 months, which has fallen to 90.8 points, well below the 100 points neutral setting.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/consumer_sentiment_chart.jpg" width="470" height="290" alt="consumer_sentiment_chart">
Concerns about consumer confidence are greatest in Queensland (22% of respondents from that state) with Queensland also the state where industry sentiment is weakest.
In contrast, just 6% of respondents in South Australia/Northern Territory listed consumer confidence as a challenge.
The two other major challenges emerging from the survey are the ability for commercial property businesses to access funding or financing as well as the availability of property development sites for new projects or a lack of suitable sites.
Financing and funding challenges are greatest in South Australia/Northern Territory (19%) while the challenge of finding suitable development sites is greatest in WA (22%) and Victoria (16%).
The survey also asked respondents about the upcoming federal election with uncertainty about the September 14 poll a key concern, especially in Queensland (15%) and NSW (13%).
Concerns about government regulation and red tape increased slightly from the December quarter survey, but are down from a year ago.
The survey also found that around 19% of the survey panel anticipate higher interest rates in the next 12 months, 38% expect them to fall and 43% see no change.
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Consumer confidence, funding and lack of development sites the biggest challenges for commercial property businesses: NAB index

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New data confirms two things we’ve been tipping: the decline of Gladstone and the rise of Rockhampton.  
The downturn in Gladstone, after a couple of stellar years, is likely to be a short-term phenomenon. This city has a strong future as the nation’s No.1 industrial city, so investors who bought there in the past couple of years should avoid any feelings of panic.  
But there’s some short-term pain to be felt before the long-term gain. Developers have done what developers always do: they dive into growth markets and create too much new product.  
The extent of new housing supply is seen in the latest figures from the Real Estate Institute of Queensland, which records a vacancy rate close to 6% at the end of the March Quarter.  
That has taken the heat out of the Gladstone market and the REIQ’s price data for the March Quarter provides further evidence. After strong double-digit growth last year, there was no movement in the city’s median house price in the first three months of the year.  
There has been a similar transformation in another central Queensland regional city, Mackay. In the space of 12 months, Mackay’s vacancy rate has moved from 1.7% to 6.5%. The reasons are the same: developers became over-excited about the growth potential and built too much new product.  
My feelings about Mackay are similar to those about Gladstone: long-term, Mackay will deliver for anyone who owns property there. It has done so in the past and will do so again. The growth factors are strong, including expansion of port facilities to the south of the city. But in the near-term there will be a shake-out.  
It puts into focus the importance of always buying good real estate – property close to desirable things, like schools, shops and public transport – even when markets are pumping and it feels as if anything you buy will give you growth.  
Meanwhile, the third major regional city in central Queensland, Rockhampton, is having a different experience. It has lagged its two sexier neighbours in the past two years but now it’s coming into its period in the limelight. The REIQ data for the March Quarter shows a 7.8% rise in Rockhampton’s median house price.  
Rocky is often overlooked because so much attention is focused on Gladstone and, to a lesser extent, Mackay. But it has lots of offer.  
It has diversity in its economy, more so than Gladstone, based on its status as the administrative capital for the region and its links to the grazing and farming communities. If you believe the marketing, it’s the beef capital of Australia.  
It benefits from tourism, manufacturing, mining, construction and other economic sectors. It has a major power station, a couple of abattoirs and a large Queensland Rail workforce  
It’s also a lot more affordable than Gladstone or Mackay – and it’s not too difficult to find houses with rental returns above 6%.  
But investors need to cautious here, as much as anywhere else. There’s lots of new housing development in and around Rockhampton, notably out at nearby Gracemere, and investors need to research the amount of planned new supply before taking the big leap.  
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/">hotspotting.com.au</a>
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Rocky on the rise as Gladstone stumbles: Terry Ryder

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Westfield co-founder and chairman Frank Lowy has risen above mining boss Ivan Glasenburg to be Australia’s second richest with a $6.87 billion fortune, according to the 2013 BRW Rich List.
Top of the list is Gina Rinehart, worth $22 billion, but her fortune has slid $7.15 billion.
Last year Frank Lowy had a fortune of $6.47 billion, according to BRW magazine.
Barangaroo Casino developer James Packer is up from sixth to third with a $6 billion fortune.
Meriton boss Harry Triguboff, who turned 80 this year, has risen up one place from seventh to sixth with a fortune estimated at $4.95 billion up from $4.85 billion a year ago.
Shopping centre king John Gandel, is ranked eighth with a $3.7 billion fortune up from $3.35 billion while further down the list retailer Solomon Lew’s wealth has risen from $1.15 billion to $1.7 billion.
Glencore Xstrata chief executive Ivan Glasenberg's wealth declined from $7.4 billion in 2012 to $5.61 billion this year, ranking him fifth.
WA shopping centre magnate Stan Perron, whose Perron Investments Group paid a post-GFC record of $690.4 million to acquire a 50% share in a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/perron-group-to-acquire-half-stake-in-three-centro-centres-for-%24690-million-setting-post-gfc-commercial-retail-record/2012051754740">portfolio of three Centro flagship regional shopping centres</a> last May, has risen from 15th to 14th richest Australian with his personal fortune rising from $2.05 billion to $2.33 billion.
Propety developer Lang Walker, whose Walker Corporation is building the $1.3 billion Collins Square in Docklands as well as projects in Malaysia, Canada and the US, has slid from 13th to 18th richest Australian with his wealth declining marginally from $2.1 billion to $2.09 billion.
Melbourne-based shopping centre developer Maurice Alter, who developed the Rundle Place shopping mall in the Adelaide CBD, ranks 20th with a $1.78 billion fortune. Last year he also ranked 20th, but with a smaller $1.5 billion fortune.
Further down the list, Queensland property developer Kevin Seymour has ranked 82nd, worth $580 million. Last year he was worth $550 million and ranked 73rd.
Aussie Home Loans founder John Symond has fallen from 83rd richest Australian to 91st richest Australian, though his wealth has remained unchanged at $490 million. The mortgage broking business is now owned by the Commonwealth Bank.
Sydney-based hotel magnate Robert Magid, also the publisher of the Australian Jewish News, is worth $360 million, ranking him 130th richest Australian, down two places from 128th last year, when he was worth $330 million.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/nathan-tinkler-lists-indulgent-brisbane-acreage-mansion-tinkler-twowaterslides/2013052161547" target="_blank">Embattled coal baron Nathan Tinkler,</a> who has put his acreage mansion up for sale dropped out of the BRW Rich 200, which has an entry price of $235 million.
Last year the entry price was $210 million, just enough for Therese Rein to squeeze in.
Bottom place this year goes to Sydney fund manager David Paradice.
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Westfield’s Frank Lowy rises above Ivan Glasenberg as second richest Australian with Meriton’s Harry Triguboff up to sixth richest on 2013 BRW Rich list

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Cromwell Property Group has acquired a $405 million portfolio of New South Wales government offices.
New South Wales finance minister Greg Pearce says the seven office buildings sold for $100 million above expectations.
The portfolio includes two Sydney office towers – Bligh House and McKell Building – and office properties located in Wollongong, Newcastle and Queanbeyan.
The offices are 60% leased to long-term government tenants.
Only four bidders made the shortlist, including Charter Hall Group and Arena Investment.
The sale is the first stage of a multi-billion-dollar auction of New South Wales real estate assets.
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Cromwell secures $405 million government portfolio

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Shopping centre giant Westfield Group is reportedly in talks with US private investment firm Starwood Capital over a possible deal to sell seven of its US malls for in excess of US$1 billion.

A report on Reuters says the discussions are at an early stage.
In 2012, Westfield sold seven of its US malls to Starwood Capital, founded by US commercial property market king Barry Sternlicht for around $1 billion.
Westfield have not confirmed the talks.
Details of the discussions may be revealed at the Westfield AGM on May 29.
Westfield is looking to sell its non-core US assets to fund further mall developments in core markets.
Last month Westfield Group exited its troubled Brazilian joint venture, selling to their joint venture partner the Almeida Junior Family.
Earlier this year, Westfield entered into an agreement with O'Connor Capital Partners to form a US$1.28bn joint venture comprising a portfolio of six Westfield regional malls in Florida while disposing of its joint venture interest in Brazil.
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Westfield in negotiations to sell seven US malls to Barry Sternlicht’s Starwood Capital: Reuters

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Insolvency firm TPH Insolvency has leased the lower ground floor in heritage-listed History House, the Sydney headquarters of the Royal Australian Historical Society (RAHS) on Macquarie Street, designed by renowned 19th century architect George Allen Mansfield. 
The firm, set up this year by former SV Partners executive director Tim Heesh, will pay net rent of around $50,000 per annum at the 133 Macquarie Street address. 
This equates to around $350 per square metre per annum over the 140 square metre office space directly across the road from the Sydney Botanical Gardens. 
Ground floor space in the building is currently advertised for rent at $70,000 per square metre through Jeremy Piggin, office leasing director at Ray White Commercial who also negotiated the lease of the lower ground floor space. 
TPH Insolvency has taken up a one year lease with a one year renewal option. 
The office space has direct street entry and parking at the rear of the building. 
“The opportunity to occupy space with such historic, old world charm created a strong level of interest for this property from a wide variety of businesses,” says Piggins. 
“History House is one of CBD’s finest heritage buildings. The building offers additional well-proportioned Victorian rooms for functions and board meetings for members and tenants.” 
History House is believed to have been built around 1872 after being designed by George Allen Mansfield, who designed a number of Sydney institutions such as Royal Prince Alfred Hospital. 
“Originally a gentlemen’s residence, the house was used as a boarding house for many years before being purchased during the 1920s by distinguished surgeon Dr George Bell,” says Piggins. 
“The RAHS, which was founded in 1901, did not acquire History House until 1970. The house is now protected by a permanent conservation order and classified by the National Trust.”
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Insolvency firm leases ground floor in Sydney’s History House on Macquarie Street

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The Melbourne and Perth office markets are forecast to deliver the strongest returns to commercial property landlords over the next two years with both capital values and rents rising, according to the March quarter NAB Commercial Property survey.
An overall improvement in commercial property sentiment is noted in the report with gains in the office, retail and industrial sub-indexes.
The overall NAB Commercial Property Index rose 9 points in in the March 2013 quarter from -17 to -8 and is forecast to return to positive territory (optimists outnumbering pessimists) in the third quarter of 2013 with strong gains forecast in 2014 and 2015.
Apart from Queensland, where a softer resources market is likely having a negative impact on sentiment in the state, sentiment improved in all states, with the biggest movement in Victoria which is now expected to surpass WA in the next one to two years as the most optimistic state.
Whilst retail property recorded the biggest improvement in sentiment, it remains in negative territory (-27) with CBD hotels the only commercial property sector currently with a positive reading, though sharply down from +58 points in the December 2012 quarter to +6 in the March quarter.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/nab_comm_prop_index_2.jpg" width="470" height="279" alt="nab_comm_prop_index_2">
The outlook is brightest for office property with capital values expected to rise by 2.1% by March 2014 and 3.9% by March 2014.
Capital offices values in Victoria – predominantly the Melbourne CBD - are forecast to rise by 2.7% over the next 12 months and then by 4.2% over the following 12 months to March 2015.
Over this two-year time frame, Melbourne office rents are forecast to rise by a cumulative 5%.
In WA, office values – predominantly the Perth CBD – are forecast to rise by 3.5% over the next 12 months and then by 5.6% over the following 12 months to March 2015.
Perth rents are expected to rise by a cumulative 9% over the next two years.
There will also be strong gains in Sydney office values – 2.5% to March 2014 and 4.1% to March 2015 – but rents are expected to fall by 1.4% over the two-year period.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/NAB_comm_prop_index.png" width="470" height="281" alt="NAB_comm_prop_index">
These forecasts are based on the expectations of 300 commercial property agents, developers, fund managers, owners and investors with the report compiled by NAB chief economist Alan Oster together with NAB colleagues Robert De Iure and Dean Pearson.
As the outlook improves, more property developers surveyed reported plans to start new projects or developments in the near-term as fewer property professionals identified debt/equity funding as a problem.
Consumer confidence continues to be noted as the main challenge facing property firms in the next year but concerns about stock availability and the upcoming federal election are also growing.
Other key findings of the report:
<ul>
<li>Modest growth in retail capital values to resume in the next two years.</li>
<li>Gross rents fell in all markets over the quarter but at a slower rate.</li>
<li>Rents fell most for retail (-1.6%), with the best returns reported for industrial (-0.4%).</li>
<li>Expectations have strengthened, with industrial rents to grow 0.9% in the next year and 1.9% in the next two years.</li>
<li>Office rents are tipped to rise 0.4% and 1.5%, while retail rents are predicted to fall -1% and -0.1% in this period.</li>
</ul>
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