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“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into.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

<html><body>
Mortgage lender RAMS will pass on the full 25 basis points to variable mortgage rate holders.
The lender's standard variable rate will reduce from 6.35% p.a. to 6.10% p.a. (comparison rate 6.17% p.a.) from May 13.
RAMS points out that this rate is lower than the big four banks - 16 points lower than Westpac's 6.26%, owner of RAMS.
“This latest interest rate reduction will bring further financial relief for many Australian mortgage holders who are concerned about uncertainty in the economy and fears of unemployment,” says RAMS chief executive, Melos Sulicich.
</body></html>

lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

RAMS passes on full rate cut to borrowers

<html><body>
GPT Group has reached a $75 million settlement with a group of 2,300 investors in relation to a  Slater &amp; Gordon class action.
The conditional settlement was achieved under terms which include GPT denying liability.
The class action was filed in December 2011 with a four-week trial taking place in the <a target="_blank" href="/news">Victorian Federal Court in March</a> with former GPT boss Nic Lyons among those giving evidence.
It was one of a number of<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/legal/rod-lambert-s-%24175-million-gold-coast-claim-and-other-courtroom-conflicts-to-consider-in-2013/2013012458976" target="_blank"> high-profile property disputes</a> highlighted by Property Observer in January.
Class action lawyer Ben Phi said the settlement was great news for participating shareholders who were awaiting judgment from Federal Court Justice Michelle Gordon following the trial’s conclusion last month.
The dispute relates to a July 7 2008 statement from GPT to the ASX in which GPT downgraded its forecast earnings for the 2008 calendar year by 27%, and its distributions per security (DPS) by 30%.
Six months prior GPT had released its results for the 2007 calendar year and stated that its earnings would be “flat” (about $600m) for 2008.
Investors claimed that GPT "engaged in misleading or deceptive conduct and breaches of continuous disclosure obligations in relation to and following the release of its 2007 Full Year Statutory Accounts".
"The GPT Group is pleased to announce that a settlement has been reached in relation to the class action with Slater &amp; Gordon. The settlement is subject to Court approval, as is usual in class actions," said GPT today in a statement.


"GPT has maintained its position that it complied with disclosure requirements in 2008 – the settlement will mean that the litigation is now resolved, including any possible appeals.

"As stated previously, claims of this nature were insured. GPT’s share of total costs associated with the case and the settlement is not material, and has been fully provided for in previous years," says GPT.
</body></html>

GPT settles Slater & Gordon class action dispute with $75m pay out to investors

<html><body>
Only 10-year government bonds will deliver poorer returns than residential investment property, suggests AMP Capital chief economist Shane Oliver in his latest commentary piece following yesterday’s decision by the RBA to cut the cash rate to 2.75%.
Yesterday, Michael O'Neill chief executive of National Seniors, the consumer lobby group for older Australians complained that the cut in the cash rate would “come as a blow for seniors living off simple investments such as term deposits”.
But it could be property investors relying on income from their investment properties that could be worse off.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/05/shaneolivermay8one.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2013/05/shaneolivermay8onethumb.gif"></a>
 In the current low interest rate environment, Oliver says that housing rental yields are “relatively low at around 4%, less once allowing for costs".
And while he says house prices are likely to rise over the next year or two, returns on residential property are likely to be “constrained by still high price to income ratios”.
Oliver expects average rental yields on investment property to fall to around 3%.
“This means the desire for better performing investments and specifically higher yielding investments will remain,” he says.
Rather than buy a residential property, investors could consider commercial property held in unlisted property trusts, where average returns are around 7%.
“Commercial property (office, retail and industrial) continues to offer relatively attractive income yields, particularly for unlisted property,” says Oliver. 
Recent unlisted property trust offerings have been higher than the average 7% yield.
The latest offer from fund manager Centuria has a forecast distribution of 8% on its 10 Spring Street Fund, which will be acquiring the 10 Spring Street office tower in the Sydney CBD.
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Centuria’s 175 Castlereagh Fund</a>, which closed oversubscribed, offered a return 9%.
If not commercial property then Australian shares, listed property trusts (REITS), Australian corporate bonds and even 12 month term deposits may be a better options than residential property.
“Australian shares have rallied strongly over the last year which has seen average dividend yields decline.
“But once allowing for franking credits, the dividend yield on shares at around 5.5% remains well above the yield available on term deposits.
“Lower interest rates will also help boost the outlook for profits and may help by lowering the value of the Australian dollar taking pressure off trade exposed companies. The broad rising trend in the share market is likely to continue
“Corporate bond yields have already fallen a long way, but their yields remain above term deposit rates and are a good alternative,” says Oliver.
He says sovereign bond yields are likely to remain low making them a “relatively unattractive investment in terms of return potential”.
</body></html>

Commercial property and shares offer better returns than residential property yields: AMP’s Shane Oliver

<html><body>
You’re sitting around a table with friends one night, downing a couple of glasses of red.
The conversation turns to property investment, and how hard it is to get into the market. Emboldened by the wine, someone suggests beating the affordability barrier by pooling your resources and buying a property together.
In principle, it’s a great idea. By clubbing together, you’ll be able to afford a better quality investment property than you could as individuals.
What’s more, your individual share of the mortgage is likely to be smaller than if you’d purchased on your own, which gives you more room to breathe financially.
Buying with friends can work well — provided that everyone has clear and consistent expectations before entering into the arrangement.
It’s wise to draft a written agreement covering the key aspects and likely eventualities of the arrangement. You can do this yourselves, however it can be a complex undertaking so it may be best to see a solicitor with a specialist knowledge of contracts.
One of the most important considerations the agreement should cover is how long you intend to hold the property. Is this a short-term proposition, e.g. three to five years, or a long-term commitment?
Ideally, you should hold residential investment property for at least seven to 10 years to ride out market fluctuations and make the most of compound capital growth. However, even with the best of intentions, unforeseen changes in the lives of the owners means there may come a time when it’s no longer appropriate or viable for one of them to continue the arrangement.
For this reason, the written agreement should address a range of possible life changes. For example, what will happen when one owner wants to sell their share of the property and free up funds to buy a home of their own to live in, start a family, or return to full-time study?
What if one owner wants to buy the others out? How will the price be determined? What will happen if one owner loses their job, can’t work due to illness or injury, or dies?
The agreement should cover the dollar amount each person will commit to the investment, and the ownership split in percentage terms. It’s also worth including a reference to the terms of the contract you and your friends have with the lender. If you are borrowing money for the purchase, the lender will consider each of you ‘jointly and severally liable’ for the debt.  
In other words, if one of you is unable to meet your repayments, the lender can hold the other borrowers liable for your share of the debt, and can take action to recover it from them.  
To minimise this risk, each borrower should take out the relevant insurances such as life insurance and income protection insurance which will help cover their financial commitments in the event of illness, injury or death.
Your agreement should also detail nuts-and-bolts issues such as who will have responsibility for day-to-day management of the property.  
Who will deal with the lender or broker, liaise with the property manager and (if relevant) body corporate? Who will ensure that council rates bills, insurance premiums and maintenance fees are paid on time and in full?
If you have to make an insurance claim and you find out your policy has lapsed, no-one wants to hear the fateful words: “I thought you were handling that.”  
The written agreement should also detail the procedure to be followed if there is a dispute amongst the owners. Whilst this may sound a little rigid or over-the-top (after all, you wouldn’t be buying with them if you didn’t think you could resolve problems) it’s important to look at the agreement in the cold light of day.
Remember: you are entering a business deal, not a social arrangement. The shared values and common interests that bind you together as friends won’t necessarily translate to a business environment.
When you buy with friends, you may benefit initially by spending less than you would on your own, but you also carry a greater risk of the venture failing due to conflicting expectations about managing change.
There’s little point risking a friendship over money—so for everyone’s sake, agree on the terms of the deal, put it in writing and then get on with business. This way, you’ll not only stand to gain financially, but maintain your friendship as well.
Mark Armstrong is a director of <a href="https://www.ipropertyplan.com.au/">iProperty Plan</a>, which provides independent analysis and tailored advice to investors and home buyers.
</body></html>

marmstrong-sd3emVLPPb

Buying property with friends can work but proceed with caution: Mark Armstrong

<html><body>
After an extended period of little acquisition, listed property trusts in Australia have commenced buying real estate on terms which will enhance earnings yields.  
In the year to April 2013, REITs have achieved a return of 34%.  This strong performance has reduced the cost of equity capital.  Prospective listed property earning yields have fallen from 8.4% to 6.9% in the past year.  Over the same time interest rates have been reduced.  Official interest rates have fallen from 4.25% to 3.0%.  Interest rates on corporate debt have been reduced by 1.6% from 5.6% to 4.0%.  
Capitalisation rates or yields on property assets in contrast have barely moved.  Weighted average cap rates have been stable at 7.4% for all property over the past year.  Earnings yields, RBA cash rates, corporate bond yields and cap rates over the past five years are shown in the following table.
<img alt="atchisonmay8one" height="122" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/05/atchisonmay8one.gif">
In 2009 earnings yields were well above cap rates.  Now they are lower than cap rates so that acquisition of property at current yields provide higher earnings for REITs. This will occur whether funded by cash, new equity capital or new debt capital.  
Initial acquisitions which have been made include:  
<ul>
<li>
<city>Westfield redevelopment at Mt Gravatt in </city><city>Brisbane</city>
</li>
<li>
Dexus acquiring an office building in Brisbane
</li>
<li>
Commonwealth property increasing holding in a Sydney office building
</li>
<li>
Charter Hall in due diligence on a Perth office property purchase
</li>
<li>
Mirvac considering an office portfolio purchase
</li>
</ul>
The difficulty faced by the listed property trusts is competition from international investors.  
<country-region>Australia </country-region>accounted for 45% of international direct capital into real estate in the Asia Pacific region in 2011 and 2012.
Ken Atchison is managing director of <a rel="nofollow" href="https://www.atchison.com.au/" target="_blank">Atchison Consultants</a>.
</body></html>

katchison-p6oi8fSFSF

Listed property trusts in acquisition mode: Ken Atchison

<html><body>
Architect firm Hassell has relocated its Sydney studios from The Rocks to a new studio at the historic Walsh Bay Pier 8/9, near Barangaroo, where it will work on the redesign of the $2.5 billion Darling Harbour exhibition centre among other Sydney projects.
The new studio is in historic Pier 8/9 on the harbour’s edge off Hickson Road - adjacent to Barangaroo Headland Park, is in the heart of the emerging Walsh Bay creative industries community.
Businesses renting premises nearby include search engine Yahoo, global architect firm Grimshaw, advertising agent Leo Burnett and visual effects studio Method Studios.
Pier 8/9 was built in 1914 to store and load wool onto ships bound for Europe.
The rent has not been disclosed.
A 329-square-metre space on <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-millers+point-500508471" target="_blank">Hickson Road in Walsh Bay</a> is currently being advertised at $575 per square metre plus GST.
The new Hassell studio has a large double height creative hub that "reveals the historic fabric and function of the building while accommodating interaction, model making, meeting and forum spaces".
This space will facilitate everything from incidental get togethers,to formal presentations and even performances for larger groups.
The main studio space on the mezzanine level overlooks the hub, placing Hassell’s design process on display, visible from both the entry below and throughout the large column free workspaces.
Hassell's current projects include Darling Harbour Live - the redesign of the convention, exhibition and entertainment precinct, a new glasshouse and tropical centre at Sydney’s Botanic Garden, the new light rail project in Sydney’s CBD and south eastern suburbs, and several mixed use projects within the city and cityfringe.
</body></html>

Architects Hassell relocate from The Rocks to historic Walsh Bay pier

<html><body>
New South Wales leads Australian states for the most number of bankruptcies in the March 2013 quarter, according to information released by the Insolvency and Trustee Service Australia.
Provisional personal insolvency activity March quarter 2013
<table style="width: 470px;" class="listing" border="0">
<colgroup>
<col width="64">
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col width="99">
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col span="3" width="120">
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
<col>
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<th width="64">State/territory</th>
<th width="99">Bankrtupcies (Parts IV and XI)</th>
<th width="120">Debt agreements (Part IX)</th>
<th width="120">Personal insolvency agreements (Part X)</th>
<th width="120">Total personal insolvency activity</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NSW</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">1,553</div>
</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">852</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">20</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">2,425</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>ACT</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">59</div>
</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">35</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">0</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">94</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>VIC</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">934</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">423</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">17</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">1,374</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>QLD</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">1,411</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">672</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">10</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">2,093</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>SA</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">332</div>
</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">119</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">3</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">454</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>NT</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">23</div>
</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">26</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">0</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">49</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>WA</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">322</div>
</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">189</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">13</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">524</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>TAS</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">140</div>
</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">60</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">1</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">201</div>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Total</td>
<td align="right">
<div align="right">4,774</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">2,376</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">64</div>
</td>
<td>
<div align="right">7,214</div>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
Note 1: All the above figures refer to personal administrations under the Bankruptcy Act only (and not corporate insolvency).
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" href="/images/stories/2013/05/bankruptciesmay1one.gif" rel="shadowbox"><img src="/images/stories/2013/05/bankruptciesmay1onethumb.gif"></a>
Source: <a href="https://www.itsa.gov.au" target="_blank">Insolvency and Trustee Service Australia</a>
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

NSW tops bankruptcies across Australia in the 2013 March quarter: Chart of the week

<html><body>
An unnamed “national financial institution” has hired Colliers International to find 22 prominent retail locations to lease on high streets stretching from Kempsey on the Mid North Coast region of NSW all the way to Geelong in Victoria.
Seemingly bucking the trend of struggling suburban high streets and an overall subdued retail environment the unnamed financial institution is seeking half of the retail spaces around Sydney with 11 shopfronts sought in suburbs including Belmore, Five Dock, Potts Point, Rozelle  and Surry Hills.
The campaign is being handled by Colliers International agent Mable Lee who said her client was seeking retail spaces in "heavy traffic areas" to offer financial services.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/05/colliersmay9one.jpg" width="470" height="255" alt="colliersmay9one">
Lee says she cannot disclose the name of her client but tells Property Observer a few submissions have been received since the campaign launched a few weeks ago.
The advertisement says the institution is seeking “strong retail locations” with “good exposure and street frontages” measuring in size from 120 square metres to 250 square metres.
A number of locations in the advertisement include specific street requests including for a shop on Elizabeth Street in Surry Hills.
Current real estate listings show just a handful of retail space available to lease on Elizabeth Street including these 220 square metre premises at <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/8268201/for-lease/nsw/surry-hills/retail" target="_blank">491 to 493 Elizabeth Street</a>.
In Victoria, the institution is seeking shopfronts on Flinders Street in the Melbourne CBD and on St Kilda Road on the fringe of the city as well as in Hawthorn and Clifton Hill along with locations in Mornington and Whittlesea.
The full list of 22 locations is:
Regional NSW
Kempsey (Mid North Coast)
Blaxland (Blue Mountains)
Umina Beach (Central Coast)
Nowra (South Coast)
Sydney
Belmore
Forestville
Five Dock
Gladesville
Gymea
Kingsford
Oatley
Padstow
Potts Point
Rozelle
Surrey Hills (Elizabeth Street)
Regional Victoria
Whittlesea
Geelong West
Mornington
Melbourne
Melbourne CBD (Flinders Street)
Melbourne (St Kilda Road)
Clifton Hill
Hawthorn
Do you know who the mystery national financial institution is? If so, send an email to <a href="mailto:news@propertyobserver.com.au">news@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
</body></html>

Mystery financial institution embarks on east coast streetfront retail expansion

<html><body>
Forget the silly Sydney Morning Herald speculation of Ricky Martin being its mystery buyer.
The Forbes Rich Lister, the Chinese millionaire Qiu Yafu, who headed the Cubbie Station cotton acquistion, has been pinpointed as the buyer of the Sydney waterfront property, known as the Bang &amp; Olufsen house which sold for around $34 million last month.
Qiu Yafu - who Property Observer gathers is known by the name, Jerry - is the chairman of global textiles group Shandong Ruyi. He ranked 356 on The Forbes 400 Richest Chinese in 2007, but no mentions subsequent. He is an engineer from Shandong and a senior Communist Party member. Qiu Yafu is a self-made man who frst joined the textile company when it was previously a government managed woollen mill at the age of 17. He rose through the ranks to the head of the company at 39. He was a deputy of Tenth National People's Congress which held plenary sessions between 2003 and 2007.
The Australian Financial Review rural reporter says he bought the Point Piper house after spotting it during an Australia Day cruise with friends.
Yafu headed the syndicate that purchased the Queensland Cubbie Station cotton property for $232 million last year.
The CS Agriculture consortium backed by Shandong Ruyi, has the Japanese trading giant Itochu and wool trader the Lempriere group, as partners on the 93,000 hectare property acquistion.
Meanwhile the first significant-investor visa has been granted to a Chinese toy manufacturer and his family.
It follows a four-month assessment of the application.
He made a $5 million investment in Victoria state bonds.
Australia's significant investor visa has attracted applications that could translate into inbound investment of $850 million.
"Clearly, the whole thing has been targeted at China so far," Bill Fuggle, Sydney-based head of financial services Baker &amp; McKenzie told the Wall Street Journal Asia edition.
The Immigration minister Brendan O'Connor announced the first applicants success last week some six months after the scheme to encourage migrants with a successful business backgrounds was unveiled.
Applicants can invest the $5 million in commonwealth, state or territory bonds, managed funds or Australian companies.
"Significant investors bring with them their skills in business, their links to international markets and additional capital for investment," Mr O'Connor said in a statement.
</body></html>

Cubbie Station's Chinese millionaire Qiu Yafu secures Point Piper's Bang & Olufsen house as Victoria nabs the first significant-investor visa from China

<html><body>
<img src="/images/stories/2012/10/kflogo.jpg">
Knight Frank's Mathew Cassidy says he would invest a spare $750,000 in a couple of two-bedroom apartments in Brisbane’s CBD.
<img style="margin: 5px; float: left;" src="/images/stories/2013/03/mathewcassidy.png" width="228" height="225" alt="mathewcassidy">Agent: Mathew Cassidy

Position: Project marketing manager

Company: Knight Frank

Office location: Queensland

How long have you been in the industry?

I’ve been in the real estate industry for about 15 years, and I’ve specialized in development project marketing for the vast majority of the time. What’s happening in the area you specialise in?

Right now’s an exciting time, most developers have a really good handle on the realities of delivering projects effectively post GFC. It’s great to finally have a stable market. Personally, I love how creative we need to be in order to ensure developments sell fast and target every possible purchaser. In particular, Asia is doing very well at selling international projects within our network. Describe the most interesting property you have sold

For me that’d have to be The Oracle at Broadbeach on the Gold Coast. It’s an icon. The developer had incredible vision, fortitude and nous. I recommend anyone who visits the Gold Coast should stay and dine there, it’s sure to impress. What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?

The best advice I ever got was this, “If every single decision you make is designed to maximise the developer’s return on investment then you can always hold you head high.” Another important ingredient is to success is being aware of what you don’t know and have no qualms about admitting so. However, it’s important to know exactly who to contact to broaden your knowledge base. To simplify, always learn. Nobody knows it all, but it’s worth it to try. What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?

I love the fact that every day poses its own individual challenges. I also very much enjoy the boardroom discussions in various locations around Australia. There’s some truly remarkable visionaries out there who show no fear and have adapted to the new world order in development very well. It’s humbling to sit in the same room as these people and hold deep, frank and honest discussions. Australia is in some good hands going forward in the development industry. Where would you invest a spare $750,000?

Simple, I’d buy two two-bedroom apartments in Brisbane’s CBD. I would make sure they both had two car spaces and were unique in some way such as large balconies, river views, storage. I think Brisbane is amazing for buying right now with rent remaining solid and space in the CBD at a premium. Which football team do you support?

Depends on the code. Hawthorn for AFL and the Titans for NRL What’s your favourite app or techno gadget?

My favourite app is Coastalwatch Lite. I relax by chasing any swell event and surfing it. This app gives me 5 day forecasts, current photos of most places in Australia, live wind and swell information.
How do you use social media?

In my professional life, I use social media for every area and constantly looking for ways to use it to maximise sales, reporting and mapping of market trends. </body></html>

Latest Investing Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Investing Insights

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

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News