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“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into.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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Many property investors scour the country for value-adding opportunities in residential property.  
While most look for houses ripe for renovation, the serious money can be made from situations that allow multiple dwellings on one piece of land.  
When local zonings allow a second dwelling to be built on an allotment, the land for the second house is essentially free (except for subdivision costs), and that provides great potential for profit.  
It provides many options for investors: the existing dwelling provides rental income while the new project is happening; investors can keep one rented out and sell the other; retain both rented out; or sell both.  
For many investors, opportunities like that are gold.
The Blacktown City Council in Sydney is currently re-writing its Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and, assuming the draft LEP becomes law, there’s plenty of potential for small investors to add value.  
Blacktown City is the No.1 growth area in New South Wales, adding more to its population each year than any other municipality in the state. It expects to add 44,000 dwellings to its residential mix by 2036.  
One way the council intends to facilitate that growth is with higher densities in residential areas. Depending on the location and the zoning, property owners will be able to build a second dwelling on land that currently contains only one, in some cases attached and in others detached. The best opportunities will be corner lots that can be subdivided into two.
Brisbane City Council also has a new City Plan in draft form, which is based on the projection that the area, by 2031, will need 40% more homes than it had in 2006.  
“Most will need to go into already-developed areas,” the council says. That means more dwellings squeezed into existing suburbs, with an emphasis on development in and around transport hubs – or close to key infrastructure like universities and hospitals.  
This is likely to make it easier to get approval for medium-density developments on smaller blocks of land.  
In Adelaide, the 30-year plan means big changes for the city. Property investment lecturer and author Peter Koulizos says that, until now, 70% of residential expansion in Adelaide was greenfield development in new areas and only 30% came from in-fill development in established suburbs. The new 30-year plan turns that around, with 70% of growth to be in-fill.  
Local councils are having to change their town plans to accommodate the new situation. The emphasis is new development along main arterial routes and close to major transport nodes.  
In some areas, an 800-square-metre block with a single house on it will be re-developed with three, four or five units. There will be many opportunities to put a second dwelling on a lot that currently has only one.
This likely to be a common theme for major cities across the country, as government seeks to accommodate new population without adding to the city’s overall footprint.    
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/">hotspotting.com.au</a>
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Serious money can be made from multiple dwellings on one block: Terry Ryder

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Owners and managers of strata apartments will be able to set up micro social networks for their apartment blocks to share key documents, run polls and host online discussions following the launch of a new service by real estate social media site Housenet.com.au. 
Housenet ‘strata pages’ allows managers or owners to create micro social networks for their building in minutes. 
“Our research found that communication and information management in strata schemes, especially self-managed, is often diabolical. There is no industry standard; some are using old clunky share software, others group emails – it’s a complete mishmash,” says Darren Moffatt, founder and CEO of Housenet. 
“Strata Pages solves this problem. It provides a central online place for scheme updates, minutes, budgets, documents, events, and discussions. It even has a polling feature, which we think will be especially useful in the lead up to NSW strata reforms.” 
Moffatt says the launch of strata pages taps into an international trend of niche social networks with overseas examples including <a target="_blank" href="https://www.honestbuildings.com">www.honestbuildings.com</a> and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.nextdoor.com">www.nextdoor.com</a>. 
He says industry feedback has been very positive on the new feature, which has the backing of Rosy Sullivan, principal of Australian College of Professionals, the largest trainer of strata managers in Australia. 
Sullivan says she intends to include the platform in her course material for strata managers. 
Moffat says strata pages will aim to address to key issues affecting the strata industry: disputes between lot owners and communication. 
“Our platform is all about cutting conflict and saving time. We think it can transform how people experience strata, and with 50% of the population projected to live in high density by 2035 there’s a real need for something like this.” 
“Strata Pages makes it easier for all stakeholders in a plan to store and share information, manage relationships, and meet their legal obligations. Our simple Facebook-like interface makes it easy to use, and it’s also great for building a sense of community in the building and meeting the neighbours.” 
Housenet.com.au was launched in September 2012. It’s a social networking site where industry and consumers can sell, buy, rent, share and talk property for free. 
Readers can find an example of the new strata pages service here: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.Housenet.com.au/strata">www.Housenet.com.au/strata</a>
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Social media site Housenet launches dedicated micro networks for apartment blocks

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The property outlook for 2013 is looking very positive for seasoned investors to further their success, with some areas offering great opportunities to piggyback the demand for housing brought about by the resources boom.
Liquidity is now present and interest rates are at their lowest level in years, and may fall even further.  
These conditions present a huge opportunity for people with the financial insulation and capability required to capitalise and take advantage of areas which have a booming mining industry nearby.  
Undoubtedly, it is vitally important to do your research, and do it properly. There are obviously different types of <a target="_blank" href="tags/mining">mining</a> areas you need to consider: large, well-established regions, or smaller, isolated communities.
The questions to ask yourself before investing in booming mining regions include:
·         How many mines or companies are investing in the area?
·         What stage of development is the mine?
·         What is the mine's expected lifespan?
·         What is the location’s current and expected population?
·         Is there likely to be more growth?
·         Are there more jobs being created?  
All investments have an element of risk. Firstly, let’s have a top line look at different types of areas and their level of risk. From this information you can categorise the area suited to your risk profile.  
The higher risk options are the mining towns, where the economy relies solely on mining projects. There will often only be one mining company in the area. These areas are seeing extremely good returns with high rents and good occupancy due to the requirement for staff, on-site personnel, and fly-in-fly-out workers. If you can source a property and are willing to take the risk this could pay off substantially.  
If you think you’ll lose too much sleep and be worried about the lifespan of these areas, you may be more suited to areas which are a lot larger and often have multiple companies and types of resources. As examples coal, iron ore, natural gas and the buzzword at the moment, coal-seam gas.
Lastly, this is what you would call the low risk category for these types of investment areas which don’t have a sole dependency on the mining industry. Although there is still a strong mining presence in the region, which are being built for the longer term but they also have a strong local economy. There are some great areas that fit this bill.  
Gather all the information you can and investigate what stage of the project's lifespan the mining investment is at.
You really need to understand what is in front of you if you make this investment choice. Will the benefits for your property not only be in the short-term but mid- to long-term also? Remember, past performance is not necessarily an indicator of future growth and ensure that you understand the data being used and that is not skewed as a result of distortions in that market.  
The key to success in this instance is to do as much well-thought-out research as you can and it is also a good idea to calculate some ‘what if’ scenarios on the local economy from your investigations.
Robert Projeski is a leading property finance expert and the founder and managing director of <a href="https://%20www.amo.com.au/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Australian Mortgage Options</a>. He has appeared on radio and TV and written extensively on property and finance matters.
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The resources boom is a huge opportunity for property investors: Robert Projeski

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The United States burger chain Carl’s Jr plans to open 300 franchise stores in Australia over the next decade.
Hoping to position itself between Hungry Jack’s and <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/fast-food-landlords-could-feel-the-squeeze-as-councils-challenge-take-away-food-retailers-on-health-grounds/2012090556403" target="_blank">McDonald’s</a>, its chief executive Andy Puzder was recently in <a href="/news">Sydney</a> to interview potential franchisees.
The <a href="https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=1&amp;cad=rja&amp;ved=0CDMQFjAA&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.carlsjr.com%2F&amp;ei=dwVaUd_2KM2mkwWN9YAg&amp;usg=AFQjCNFQlL1AejGUOEO2slDSb-rmvgzsWw&amp;bvm=bv.44442042,d.dGI" target="_blank">chain</a>, famous for its raunchy advertising featuring starlets and bikini-clad models, has already done well in New Zealand, where it has eight shops and plans for another 50.
“Our success in New Zealand has energised the interest in Australia and we want to take advantage of that,” Mr Puzder told The Australian Financial Review.
Carl’s Jr will be seeking multi-unit franchise owners and ­second-generation business owners with at least $US3 million in capital. They must commit to opening at least five stores to lower distribution and labour costs.
<div id="story_info" style="color: #333333; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 10px; text-align: left;"> </div>
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US burger chain Carl's Jr plans to open 300 stores in Australia over next decade

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Knight Frank has created a special sales team specifically targeting wealthy Chinese investors following the introduction of the significant investment visa (SIV)
The head of the team, Dominic Ong, says the 888 visa - colloquially called the "Golden Ticket" visa -favours Chinese investors.
“Although the rules of the SIV specifically exclude direct investment in real estate, SIV applicants are allowed to invest in an unlisted managed fund that holds Australian direct property assets and/or a trading business/ company,” Ong says.
Investors can invest $5 million in approved investments for four years and be eligible for permanent residency.
No SIVs have been issued by the Department of Immigration since the program was launched at the end of November last year.
A spokesperson for the department told Property Observer last month that, 287 expressions of interest had been processed, with 131 invitations to apply issued by late February.
Interest has been concentrated on investments in NSW, Queensland and Victoria.
There are no English speaking requirements, but applicants must stay in Australia for at least 160 days within those four years and the applicant, spouse and dependent family members can live in Australia immediately after approval.
The Knight Frank team includes Chinese born agents and people with experience dealing with Asian investment.
Ong says the creation of division is imperative for Knight Frank with the massive spending power of the Chinese and the increasing presence of China’s wealthy individuals and funds in the Australia commercial market.
“With the recent Sydney purchases of the Sydney Water Board site ($100 million), 231 Elizabeth Street ($201 million), 1 York Street ($117 million), 10 Barrack Street ($62.5 million), 333 Kent Street ($48 million), 80 Alfred Street ($49 million) and the Palazzo Versace Hotel in Queensland ($68.5 million), Chinese investors are becoming even more prominent on our local shores,” Ong says.
He predicts Chinese spending overseas is increasing and won’t peak for another five years.
“During my recent visit to Shanghai and Beijing, we are seeing Chinese investors increasingly looking to diversify their portfolios and they view Australia as a safe haven and a long term investment destination,” Ong says.
“We are currently working with some 20 groups of Chinese investors sourcing office towers and shopping centres to hotel investment and land development projects.”
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Knight Frank launches significant investor visa team ahead of Chinese investment influx

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Asian investors are particularly active purchasers of Australian residential property. They are probably our most active buyers, consistently, when it comes to apartment living.
There are a couple of reasons Asian investors like Australian <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/western-australia/pilbara-apartment-project-helps-drive-earnings-and-profits-for-wa-developer-finbar/2013031259597">apartment projects</a>. Firstly, as a demographic, this buyer group likes apartment-style living.
They are very educated on the benefits of being located close to amenities, recreation, education, transport and employment.
They don’t like long commutes, with their playground being local parks, restaurants and the like.
In Australia, we design our apartments in many shapes and sizes to suit many demographics.
In terms of the type of buyers who target Australian projects, apartments are generally more suited to <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/private-investors-return-to-retail-property-market-as-trusts-sell-out-chart-of-the-week/2013032560066">investors</a> than owner-occupiers.
There are low vacancy rates in all our capital cities, and this type of unit is easy to maintain. Where you get apartment buildings that contain more than 100 apartments, generally owner-occupiers tend to shy away, they go for more boutique-style developments.
This kind of project is generally always located in a capital city transport hub – they primarily serve to take up rental market demand.
Asian investors who target Australian property predominantly come from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Singapore. The next tier of investors come Indonesia or Malaysia, but we also get quite high demand from India.
These buyers generally already reside in Australia, they are first or second generation and are looking to get into the property market.
Overwhelming, however, the majority of our buyers are from China. Overall, the Chinese are generally well travelled and knowledgeable about world activities.
They are bullish on Australia because they have the benefit of being able to compare regions, they can appreciate how good our market is.
Things are only going to get more expensive over time, and this buyer group understands that – they understand that property investment is about long-term growth, and they can see the future potential in Australia.
We greatly admire their bullishness.
For more on the allure of Australian property to Asian buyers, <a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-allure-for-asian-residential-property-investment">download our free eBook. </a>The eBook is also available for<a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/australias-allure-for-asian-residential-property-investment-free-ebook"> free download in Chinese.</a>
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Asian investors keen on Australian inner-city units: Peter Chittenden

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Global commercial real estate group Jones Lang LaSalle has reported a big increase in productivity one year after moving to an activity-based working (ABW) environment in its Sydney CBD office at 420 George Street.
Nearly three-quarters (71%) of employees agreed that the new work model increased overall productivity, a <a target="_blank" href="companies/jones-lang-lasalle">Jones Lang LaSalle</a> survey of employees found. By comparison, only 24% of surveyed employees found the previous work environment increased their productivity.
ABW does away with a personal workspace for each employee, while providing different spaces for various work functions, including collaboration, learning, focusing, and socialising.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/jllmarch20five.jpg" width="470" height="370" alt="jllmarch20five">
It has become an increasingly popular option, with the GPT Group, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/trends/cbre-embraces-flexible-working-space-in-sydney-office/2013031259832?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=trends">CBRE</a> and KPMG adopting the new model in their offices.
A Colliers International 2012 Office Tenant Survey also revealed that one in three organisations have implemented or are planning to implement ABW.
Jones Lang LaSalle uses an in-house designed ‘WorkSmart’ workplace model, which uses non-assigned desks to create multiple work settings. These include focus desks, ‘hush’ or quiet rooms, discussion pods and ‘touch and go’ areas for employees who go into the office for short periods.
<img alt="jllmarch20two2" height="351" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/jllmarch20two2.jpg">
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Australian head of corporate consulting and tenant representation, Tony Wyllie said the low productivity scores before the move to ABW and the high scores following the move demonstrate the value of ABW environments to business operations. 
<img alt="jllmarch20three" height="316" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/jllmarch20three.jpg"> 
“We have seen a number of organisations go down the path of ABW. The organisational benefits of productivity improvements, talent attraction and retention and brand differentiation, as well as the real estate benefits of increased flexibility, improved utilisation and cost efficiency over the long-term are some of the main drivers of this trend,” Wyllie said. 
A 2011 Colliers International White Paper on Activity Based Workplaces found that the trend towards adopting ABWs comes at the same time as companies re-evaluate the utilisation of their real estate assets.
It also found that ABW may be able to reduce the total floor space occupied by an organisation. As a result, companies have found savings of up to 30% from rent and outgoing costs.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/jllmarch20four.jpg" width="470" height="306" alt="jllmarch20four">
The white paper did raise some concerns with employees reporting the the ABW work model focused on the financials of the business, and may lead to a “perceived decrease of humanisation in the organisation.”
Rajiv Nagrath, director of corporate solutions at Jones Lang LaSalle, said its employee survey was a massive endorsement of its new range of workspace areas.
“One of the comments we received from the survey talked about the increased flexibility for the working week and how people are utilising different settings day-by-day depending on the work they need to complete,” he said.
Nagrath said the next evolution for Jones Lang LaSalle was to incorporate some of the feedback from the survey into new features for the WorkSmart concept.
These include the possibility of new technologies to complement their workspace, going beyond the current laptop and wireless environment.
“Facilities for Skype and virtual phones were seen as the next evolution,” Nagrath said.
 
 
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Jones Lang LaSalle reports big jump in productivity following move to activity-based working model

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Fund manager AMP Capital has increased its stake in the Australia Pacific Airports Corporation (APAC), owner of Melbourne and Launceston Airports, to 45.3% following a $157 million investment on behalf of funds and clients. 
The investment increases AMP's investment in APAC by  3.5%
AMP the largest shareholder in APAC.
AMP has managed an investment in Melbourne Airport since 1997 when the airport was privatised, and Launceston Airport since 1998. 
In 2012 AMP Capital took a 49% interest in Newcastle International Airport in the UK. 
“Melbourne Airport is one of the best performing airports in the world and it serves around 29 million domestic and international passengers per annum,” said Paul Foster, AMP Capital’s head of infrastructure, Australia and New Zealand. 
“The additional investment has been funded by a broad range of our Australian superannuation fund clients who had strong appetite to increase their exposure to a high quality core infrastructure asset which has delivered strong returns since inception.”
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AMP Capital ups investment stake in Melbourne and Launceston Airports to 45.3%

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Coles has been accused of using an elaborate Bristish Virgin Islands tax haven structure to conceal its purchase of  Woolworths' Neutral Bay supermarket premises.

The $40 million acquisition reportedly blindsided Woolworths, which has the option to renew for 10 years next year.
Under the lease the landlord has the right to inspect Woolworths' store turnover records.
Fairfax Media reported the property fight had been sparked after Woolworths removed Coles from its its Katoomba, Blue Mountains premises after more than three decade's tenancy having bought the site in 2000.
The Neutral Bay buyer, Sino Ace Investment is ultimately owned by a similarly named entity in the British Virgin Islands.
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Coles buys Woolies' Neutral Bay premises

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The Ray White Surfers Paradise office maintained a 70% auction clearance rate in March, matching the recent auctions success of Sydney and Melbourne.
It was the third straight month that the office had managed a 70% clearance rate.
In addition, bidders-at-auction numbers are rising as buyers appear more willing to meet vendor expectations, says Ray White <a target="_blank" href="/news">Surfers Paradise</a> chief executive Andrew Bell.
Out of 20 properties up for auction at March auctions held last weekend, nine sold under the hammer and five sold prior to auction.
The highest price paid was $1.93 million for a four-bedroom, four-bathroom house at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/QLD/Ashmore/?adid=2010294478" target="_blank">9 Kootingal Street</a> (pictured below) in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Ashmore</a> with five bidders competing.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/03/march28ashmore]}
The house has a swimming pool and tennis court on its 4,507 square metre block on the banks of the Nerang River. The 1980s property last sold in June 2006 for $2 million.
Another four-bedroom house in the same suburb on Riverbank Court on a block about a quarter of the size sold for $950,000 in July last year.
“The clearance rate shows that there is increasing competition among buyers, producing very good outcomes for vendors because many of the properties sold above reserve.”
“When you couple this with a lack of stock on the market we are seeing a very good environment for sellers through the auction process, which is proving the best of any form of sales program at present,” he says.
Bell estimates solid gains in property prices over the first three months of the year with owner occupiers, investors and lifestyle buyers all active.
“From our read of the market, prices are up between 5% and 7% through the first quarter of the year.”
This follows a <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/auctions/gold-coast-has-lion-s-share-of-auctions-this-week-as-ray-white-and-others-hold-mega-auction/2013012358937" target="_blank">70% success rate at Ray White’s annual The Event</a> which saw around 120 residential, prestige, industrial and commercial properties as well as land sites and even boats auctioned.
 
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Bell also notes increasing numbers of bidders at auction.
“We’re averaging around four bidders by property, a rising percentage with most of the properties selling in excess of the reserve price,” he says.
Bell says the recovery in the market is not confined to the upper end.
“There is a good mixture from the very top right through all spheres,” he says.
Bell says there are two reasons for the recovery: low interest rates and that buyers have identified that properties are offering good value.
“The buyers have stepped up a notch to meet sellers who have had realistic expectations for some time.”
Buyers have been hard on the market in the past, he says.
The recovery in prices follows five years of what Bell calls “significant price correction”.
“When the market comes back it does tend to spike. I expect it will level off and there will be more consistent growth - interrupted by federal election.”
He also anticipates that firming interest rates could take some momentum out of the market.
Additional reporting by Charmaine Wong.
 
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