For most new apartment buildings, the Owners Corporation starts life with little more than a bank account and the first quarterly strata levies.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/9-gay-street-castle-hill-9-gay-street-castle-hill-nsw-2154">9 Gay Street</a> in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a>, it starts with around $7 million in reserve.

It's an unusual legacy of what was once one of Sydney's highest-profile apartment remediation projects. When the development, originally known as Skyview and built by disgraced developer Top Place, came under scrutiny by then NSW Building Commissioner David Chandler, an $11 million remediation bond was negotiated to ensure any building defects could be fully rectified.

The building underwent an 18-month remediation program, during which around $4 million of that bond was spent bringing the building up to the standard it should have been in from the outset.

After extensive inspections, all active rectification orders have been lifted. What's more, around $7.2 million remains secured for the Owners Corporation for the next 15 years.

In a twist few would have predicted, what began as a significant concern for purchasers has left the building with something almost unheard of in the apartment market: a multi-million-dollar financial reserve from day one.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359136]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a> Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said the structure offers buyers a level of certainty that is difficult to replicate.

"The $11 million bond established for the Skyview Castle Hill development represents exceptional value, providing genuine financial security for purchasers," Huxley said.

"Unlike a standard insurance policy, this bond consists of real funds held in trust for the Owners Corporation, offering a tangible layer of protection and added peace of mind."

The apartments themselves have been designed with a focus on practical, contemporary living. Interiors feature Smeg appliances, stone benchtops, tiled living areas, carpeted bedrooms, 2.7-metre ceilings, floor-to-ceiling glazing, and ducted heating and cooling throughout.

Residents also have access to a range of shared amenities, including two rooftop barbecue areas, a swimming pool, children's playgrounds, secure building access, storage cages, and visitor parking.

The location continues to be one of the project's strongest drawcards. Castle Hill Metro Station sits virtually on the doorstep, providing direct connections across Sydney's expanding Metro network, while Castle Towers offers extensive retail, dining, entertainment, and service amenities within walking distance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147685 project_image_fid=359127]

The building, now named after its location at 9 Gay Street, comprises a diverse mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments starting from just under $600,000.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said demand in the Hills District continues to be driven by buyers seeking convenience and connectivity.

"Interest from both owner-occupiers and investors in Castle Hill remains exceptionally strong, with buyers consistently prioritising developments in close proximity to the Metro station and Castle Towers Shopping Centre," Hamblett said.

"There is a clear trend in the market, with purchasers seeking convenient access to transport and lifestyle amenities that support a seamless, low-maintenance way of living."

On top of the long-term protection afforded by the remaining $7.2 million bond, Equitifund is offering a limited-time stamp duty rebate on selected apartments.

Eligible purchasers can also secure finance options, including a 3.99 per cent two-year variable rate, loan-to-value ratios of up to 90 per cent, and interest-only lending options through EquitiCredit.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147685]

Joel Robinson

Why this Castle Hill apartment building starts with a $7 million advantage

For much of the past few years, conversations about Australia's property market have centred on the rapid growth seen in Sydney, Brisbane, Gold Coast, and Perth. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3004">Melbourne</a> has followed a different trajectory.

That relative underperformance is now encouraging some buyers to reassess the city, particularly those willing to look beyond short-term market movements and focus on quality property in established locations, along with the long-term growth prospects of a city expected to overtake Sydney as Australia’s most populous.

John Bekiaris, Research &amp; Market Insights at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a>, said Melbourne's current position is attracting increasingly sophisticated purchasers.

"Melbourne continues to present one of Australia's strongest long-term investment stories," Bekiaris says.

"While other capital cities have experienced stronger recent growth, that relative underperformance is exactly what's attracting sophisticated counter-cyclical investors."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363268]

Equitifund isn't just commenting on Melbourne's property market, it's investing in it.

The Sydney-headquartered capital partner has taken over the remaining apartments at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/victoriana-melbourne-20-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Victoriana</a>, the recently completed glass-encased development opposite Albert Park Lake in Melbourne's tightly held St Kilda Road precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hickory">Hickory</a>, Victoriana places residents between one of Melbourne's most recognised parklands and the CBD, offering oversized two and three-bedroom apartments aimed at owner-occupiers seeking a genuine alternative to a traditional family home.

The development comprises 232 completed residences alongside a suite of resident amenities, including a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, gymnasium, landscaped entertaining areas, resident lounges, EV charging, secure basement parking and a concierge-style arrival experience.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363229]

The apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers firmly in mind.&nbsp;Open-plan living and dining areas flow onto generous balconies framing views across Albert Park Lake, Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens and the Melbourne skyline.

Kitchens feature Gaggenau appliances, stone benchtops and generous preparation space. Bedrooms include built-in robes, while bathrooms feature full-height textured tiling. Hardwood flooring and ducted air conditioning complete residences designed for long-term living.

Rothelowman's architecture takes its cues from the landscape opposite the site. Sweeping horizontal glazing references the movement of Albert Park Lake, while generous balconies and expansive glazing strengthen the connection between the apartments and the surrounding parklands. The result is a building designed to deliver the scale and amenity expected of luxury apartment living, while offering the larger floorplans increasingly sought by owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363284]

The location is one of Victoriana's defining characteristics. Positioned on Queens Road, residents are directly opposite Albert Park Lake and within easy reach of Fawkner Park, the Royal Botanic Gardens, South Melbourne, St Kilda Road and the CBD. With few comparable development opportunities remaining in the precinct, buyers are increasingly placing value on outlooks that are unlikely to be interrupted by future construction.

Greg Huxley, Founder of Equitifund, believes those qualities become even more valuable over time.

"Premium real estate has always rewarded buyers who take a long-term view," Huxley said.

"Victoriana represents the kind of asset that's increasingly difficult to recreate today, particularly in an established location like Queens Road."

He said rising construction costs are also changing the way buyers assess completed developments.

"When you combine an irreplaceable location with thoughtful architecture and premium finishes, you create something that becomes increasingly difficult to reproduce as construction costs continue to rise."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1979 project_image_fid=363228]

According to National Sales Director Ben Hamblett, enquiry has been driven largely by Melbourne downsizers and buyers upgrading from smaller apartments.

"Interest in Victoriana continues to build, with strong buyer focus on the larger owner-occupier residences within the development," Hamblett says.

"Enquiry is increasingly driven by local buyers who recognise the rarity of what's on offer: park-facing apartments in an established neighbourhood where new development opportunities are becoming increasingly scarce. At Victoriana, the view is not just a feature; it's an appreciating asset in its own right."

He said interstate enquiry has also strengthened as buyers reassess Melbourne's position within the national property cycle.

"Melbourne currently stands as the most compelling entry point of any major Australian capital, and discerning buyers are beginning to recognise what those who move early always understand: the best opportunities are taken before the price rise confirms them."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1979]

Why now is the time to buy in Melbourne's premium apartment market

Developers and apartment buyers have a narrowing window of opportunity before Brisbane's Olympic infrastructure pipeline begins competing directly with residential construction, pushing up costs, tightening labour supply and making new projects increasingly difficult to deliver.

While Brisbane's apartment market continues to benefit from strong population growth and limited housing supply, industry research suggests the years leading up to 2027 could prove to be the most important period for developers looking to secure builders and buyers hoping to purchase before the next wave of price increases.

A new Colliers report, Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games: Creating Solutions, highlights the scale of the challenge. While thousands of new homes are planned across South East Queensland, the Brisbane Olympic Athletes Village alone will deliver more than 10,500 beds during the Games before being converted into around 1,750 to 2,000 apartments. Equivalent to almost two years of typical inner-city apartment supply, the project will also absorb a significant share of the construction workforce and building materials.

The broader construction pipeline paints an even clearer picture.

Construction Skills Queensland's Horizon 2032 report forecasts Queensland's annual construction pipeline will average $69 billion over the coming years before peaking at $75 billion in 2027-28. Demand for construction workers is expected to increase by 17 per cent to almost 150,000 people, with the industry facing an annual shortfall of around 19,000 workers that could blow out to as many as 35,000 during the peak construction period.

The Olympic venues, athletes village and supporting infrastructure will account for billions of dollars worth of work across South East Queensland through to 2032, creating intense competition for labour at a time when Australia's residential construction sector is already under pressure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=373834]

Colliers Queensland Residential Director Andrew Scriven said the convergence of these projects is creating a clear window of opportunity for both developers and buyers.

"From 2027 onwards, the market will shift dramatically," Scriven said.

"Labour will increasingly be locked into government-led infrastructure and Olympic projects, which means private residential developments will face higher costs and tighter margins. The developers who move now are the ones most likely to get projects off the ground."

Scriven said the same dynamic would also affect buyers, with fewer apartment projects expected to launch once construction capacity tightens.

"If you're looking to change your lifestyle over the next five years, now is your window of opportunity to buy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=373827]

Developers are already positioning themselves ahead of that window.

Following the success of Monarch at Toowong, Consolidated Properties is preparing to launch two new Brisbane apartment projects in the second half of 2026. They include <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> at Yeerongpilly Green, a 25-storey tower within one of Brisbane's key Olympic precincts, and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a recently approved 25-storey riverfront development at 47 Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

Hutchinson Builders will deliver both projects, with early works already underway at Yeerongpilly and Newstead expected to commence later this year.

The timing comes as Brisbane's fundamentals continue to strengthen, with strong interstate migration, population growth and vacancy rates remaining below 1.5 per cent.

Colliers Queensland researcher Pragya Sharma said Greater Brisbane is forecast to require around 40,000 new apartments between 2021 and 2031.

"There's a real mismatch emerging between when housing is needed and when it will be feasible to build," Sharma said.

"As a result, the period leading up to 2027 presents a key window of opportunity for developers to secure approvals, funding and construction capacity, while buyers will have greater choice before supply constraints intensify."

Colliers research outlines a critical pre-2027 window to start residential projects before labour squeeze: now is the time to buy

Developers, buyers on watch in South East Queensland ahead of construction crunch: Colliers

It's taken less than nine months for developer Sherpa Property Group to sell out all 51 apartments in its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, over a year before its anticipated completion.

&nbsp;

Located at 7-9 Sixth Avenue, the $67 million development has resonated strongly with both local owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking high-quality apartments within walking distance of the beach, dining precincts and everyday amenities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357458]

Christie Leet, Founder of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Group</a>, said the sell-out reflected both the strength of the Palm Beach market and the success of Sherpa's community-first approach to development.

"The sell-out of Oasis is a fantastic outcome and reinforces the strong demand we're seeing for thoughtfully designed apartments in lifestyle locations," Leet said.

"From the outset, our vision was to create a development that genuinely enhanced the Palm Beach community while providing residents with exceptional homes and wellness-focused amenities.

"We've been incredibly encouraged by the level of local support throughout the campaign, 72.5 per cent of buyers are locals, with a significant proportion of purchasers choosing Oasis as their future home rather than an investment."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

Construction is now progressing following development approval, with trusted builder LPS Group delivering the project and completion anticipated in Q3 2027.

Oasis forms part of Sherpa Group's successful Flourish collection, which has become recognised for its focus on wellness, community and elevated coastal living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357469]

Residents will have private access to a rooftop amenity space featuring a pool, gym, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, spa and barbecue facilities.

"The success of Oasis demonstrates that buyers continue to prioritise quality, location and lifestyle," Leet said.

"We are proud to have delivered a project that has resonated so strongly with the market and look forward to bringing Oasis to life for our future residents."

Sherpa recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a>, its third instalment of the Flourish brand in Palm Beach following Flourish Oasis and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

Urban Property Group's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-vera-macquarie-park-94-talavera-road-macquarie-park-nsw-2113">La Vera</a> is leading the next phase of Macquarie Park's residential evolution, with the new apartment development set to become the first of several new apartment projects in the precinct to complete.

The 169-apartment building has now topped out ahead of its scheduled completion in the third quarter of 2026, as new residential investment continues to reshape one of Sydney's largest employment hubs into a true mixed-use precinct.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=368645]

Cox Architecture has designed La Vera to capture the best of its unique positioning on Talavera Road, orienting the building towards Lane Cove National Park.&nbsp;The building features a sculpted northern façade with flowing curves inspired by the surrounding landscape, while its city-facing elevation adopts a more structured architectural expression to maximise skyline views.

"The vision for the project was to conceive a building that adopted an organic and curvilinear form to the northern portion that faces the Lane Cove National Park," <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> Director Felipe Miranda said.

"The residents that reside in the northern portion of the building benefit by having beautifully crafted curved balconies that speak to the natural context and heighten the relationship of their internal living spaces to the external balconies."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=358802]

La Vera offers a diverse mix of one, two, three, and four-bedroom configurations, with prices currently starting from $740,000. Buyers so far have been a mix of Sydney-based investors,&nbsp;metro commuters, owner-occupiers and downsizers from surrounding North Shore suburbs.

Both investors and owner-occupiers have been drawn to La Vera's proximity to Macquarie University, Macquarie University Hospital, Macquarie Centre and the Sydney Metro, infrastructure that supports both strong rental demand and a convenient lifestyle for residents.

The apartments feature full-height glazing, timber flooring throughout living areas, stone kitchen benchtops, SMEG appliances, floor-to-ceiling bathroom tiling and ducted air conditioning.

Residents will have access to a rooftop recreation level featuring a swimming pool, sauna, barbecue facilities and landscaped relaxation areas, complemented by additional communal space at ground level. Many apartments enjoy uninterrupted views across Lane Cove National Park, reinforcing the project's connection to its natural setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134951 project_image_fid=364551]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a>, a family-owned developer and builder with nearly four decades of experience, holds a 4.5-star iCIRT rating and was Australia's first developer to introduce 10-Year Latent Defects Insurance (LDI). La Vera is the first apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> approved to offer the additional insurance protection, alongside a five-year warranty on SMEG appliances.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said the additional protection reflects changing buyer expectations in the off the plan market.

"Consumers are a lot more weary and a lot more concerned in buying off the plan than they ever have been. Having LDI is a tool to portray the confidence that we have in our product, and a confidence we want buyers to share," Elias said.

Following completion of the building later this year, buyers will move into their apartments well before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134951]

La Vera closes in on completion as Macquarie Park continues residential transformation

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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Macquarie Park is set to get its first CBD-quality office building with the launch of John Holland’s Macquarie Square development.
The development precinct will launch a new standard for Macquarie Park, creating 117,071 sqm of office space across five buildings, with a new 7,000 sqm public park at its heart. 
Designed to blend work, lifestyle and recreational activities, the development will also feature retail, premium dining, bars, event spaces, a gym and activated public spaces.
John Holland CEO Joe Barr said the launch of Macquarie Square marked a milestone in the company’s history as an integrated property and infrastructure leader.
“We are the owner, developer and builder of this iconic new precinct, and we are excited to show off this modern marketplace for Sydney,” Mr Barr.
“Thanks to the delivery of another John Holland project, Sydney Metro Northwest, Macquarie Park is more accessible than ever before.”
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Executive General Manager Development &amp; Investments Tom Roche said Macquarie Square presented a huge opportunity for Sydney’s second-largest CBD.
“Macquarie Square is a two-minute walk to Sydney Metro, and will integrate public space, co-working areas, a curated CBD style retail offering, active transport and premium end-of-trip facilities,” Mr Roche said.
“Arriving to market hot on the heels of the record sale of 275 George St, Macquarie Square is an exciting addition to John Holland’s integrated market offering.”
Stage one of the development includes 25,000sqm NLA pre-commitment from the NSW Government.
 The initial building, the Glasshouse, will be complete in March 2020.
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John Holland’s Macquarie Square development launched

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Institutional investors are chasing logistic and warehouse opportunities in Brisbane with the sector recording an estimate of $230 million in sales in Q1 this year (for properties above $5 million). Portfolio sales that were an equity buyout made up an estimated $106 million of this total.  
Rise of e-commerce, logistics and warehousing activity are influencing investors to increase their exposure in the industrial markets across Australia. 
“Investment into the industrial sector has started off strongly this year, with indicative figures showing an increase of 135 per cent on Q1 last year, when sales totalled $98 million, and $27 million was attributed to portfolio sales,” said Simon Beirne, Queensland Chief Executive at Colliers International.  
“Institutional investors are dominating, making up about 74 per cent of the sales, with most of the activity occurring in the greater Brisbane south and south west regions.  
“Strong investor demand and limited available assets have led to further increase in prices and tightening yields across the board, with average prime grade yields sharpening for eight consecutive years and average secondary grade yields tightening for a sixth consecutive year,” said Mr Beirne. 
The highest settled industrial sale in Queensland so far this year was a portfolio of two significant industrial assets in Acacia Ridge which were sold to a Sydney based private investor for $42.08m. 
The subject properties are 134-160 Ingram Road and 220-240 Bradman Street and span a total of 10.3ha of general industry land.
They are occupied by Austube Mills Pty Ltd and Onesteel Reinforcing Pty Ltd on long term leases. Both companies were acquired by GFG Alliance, an international group of businesses, founded and owned by the British Gupta Family. 
The offering was sold via an Expression of Interest campaign marketed by Simon Beirne and Matthew Frazer-Ryan from Colliers International and Tony Iuliano and Gary Hyland from JLL, on behalf of KordaMentha. 
As per the latest research from the Industrial Research and Forecast Report, prime grade yields have tightened in the range of 25bp to 50bp for the past 12 months, to an average of 6.07 per cent as at March 2019.
Lower yields have driven an annual average increase in capital values of 9 per cent to $1,799 per sqm as at March 2019. 
In the secondary market, average yields have compressed 47bp for the YoY to March 2019, to 7.65 per cent. Consequently, annual average capital values for secondary assets have increased by 2.7 per cent, to $1,073 per sqm.
The extent of the capital value increase for secondary assets was limited by a modest fall in rents recorded in the North and South West precincts.
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Institutional investors dominate Brisbane’s industrial market

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Global Industrial will relocate its Sydney manufacturing/distribution facility to Prestons, an industrial hub in the city’s south-west. 
Located at 40 Lyn Parade, the property comprises a quality freestanding industrial warehouse spanning 3,112sqm with large canopy.
The property features modern office space and amenities with internal clearances of up to 10.5 metres. 
CBRE’s Adam Tresidder, Fabio Screpis, John Tsoutsa and Elijah Shakir negotiated the five-year lease deal for an initial rental of $128 per square metre (net). 
Mr Tresidder said the property’s quality offering and location were key to the deal. 
“With great linkages to the M7 and M5 motorways, this property represented an outstanding opportunity to secure a footprint in a key industrial market,” Mr Tresidder explained.
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Global Industrial sets up shop in Sydney’s Prestons

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Fiji’s newest five-star luxury resort, situated on the beachfront of Wailoaloa Beach near Nadi, is being offered to the market for the first time. 
Colliers International in conjunction with the local agents My Fiji Home has been appointed to sell the Pullman Nadi Bay Resort and Spa Fiji by way of an international expressions of interest campaign. 
The marquee resort boasts 236 guest rooms, five restaurants and bars, multiple conference facilities, three swimming pools and a world-class health spa. 
Pullman Nadi Bay opened in May 2019, in time for the busy Fijian winter period, and is managed by global hotel operator Accor Hospitality – the largest operator in Asia Pacific.  
Nestled on 5.7ha of prime beachfront land, on the foreshore of Wailoaloa Beach, it is the closest five-star hotel to the recently upgraded Nadi International Airport.  
Dean Humphries, Colliers’ National Director of Hotels for New Zealand and the South Pacific, acknowledges it is rare for a brand-new resort be offered to the market so soon after opening. 
“The owners of the resort, who are a large and established Fiji-based family, have spent the last four years developing the hotel. However, they have decided to sell this marquee asset now to capitalise on Fiji’s strong tourism sector and a global investment market hungry for high-quality, high-yielding hospitality assets.” 
“Fiji has seen stable governance now for 15 years, with the last democratic elections taking place in November 2018. Economic growth over the period has been strong with a significant amount of infrastructure completed including a FJ$100m plus upgrade of the Nadi International Airport.” 
“We have seen an increasing amount of global capital flow through to the tourism sector in recent years given its attractive returns and strong growth profile.”  
Richard Kirke, International Sales Director of Colliers International’s Capitals Markets team, is confident a large number of international investors will be attracted to investing in Fiji due to the strong growth profile and attractive underlying returns this country offers.  
“In the recent past we have seen a range of institutions, sovereign wealth and private equity funds investing heavily into tourism hotspots such as Maldives, Thailand, Vietnam, Tahiti and the eastern seaboard of Australia.” 
“Fiji as a prime tourism destination ticks all the boxes and is a country we believe will interest many of these parties.” 
Gus Moors, Head of Hotels for Colliers International Australia, says Fiji also has a highly attractive exchange rate at just 0.46 against the USD and 0.66 AUD.  
“Fiji has always been the star performer in the South Pacific basin, accounting for 41% of all international visitors in the region.”  
“Inbound arrivals for the year ending 2018 reached 870,000, representing an annual growth rate of 5.6% since 2014. The key markets segments are Australians (43 per cent), New Zealanders (22 per cent) and the United States (10 per cent). It is forecast Fiji will reach 1 million international tourists by 2023. The Fijian Government has estimated the tourism industry to be a FJ$2 billion industry by the end of 2020.” 
The hotel is being sold through Colliers International and local agents My Island Home Fiji by way of international expressions of interest closing at 4pm (NZST) on Wednesday 31 July.
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Five-star Pullman Nadi Bay resort in Fiji listed for sale

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EG, one of Australia’s leading commercial real estate fund managers, draws the Core Plus Fund (CPF1) to a close with the successful sale of North West Plaza, Everton Park QLD.
EG’s CPF1 was initiated in 2014 with a total gross acquisition asset value of $231 million across 7 assets over a 3-year acquisition horizon. 
The Fund consisted of Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane office, industrial and retail real estate assets which had the potential for uplift via strategic capital works and active asset management initiatives.
“We are incredibly happy with the performance of CPF1. The Fund has vindicated the investment strategy of identifying and acquiring assets which disproportionally benefit from repositioning while also ensuring strong underlying cash-flows on limited downside risk” Divisional Director, Daniel Farley said.
Assets within this portfolio also included office properties 92 Pitt Street Sydney, 277 William Street Melbourne and 223 Liverpool St, Darlinghurst.
 The Fund will deliver net returns to investors of well over 20% EIRR.
The final disposal for the Fund was Brisbane neighbourhood shopping centre, North West Plaza, (pictured above) which has transacted at $42.5 million in June 2019. 
The successor fund, EG’s Australian Core Enhanced Fund (EG ACE) has completed its first close of $500 million and is open for further investment for the next 12 months.
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EG successfully close Core Plus Fund No.1 after Everton Park sale

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Centuria Property Funds Limited (Centuria) has sold 19 Corporate Drive in Cannon Hill, an A-grade office building in Brisbane’s inner city, for $36.95 million following a campaign that generated strong buyer interest.
Sydney-based syndicator Aviator Capital was the successful buyer. It was Aviator’s third acquisition within the Brisbane market.
Completed in 2008, the two-level commercial building comprises 6,028 sqm of A-grade office accommodation strategically positioned six kilometres from the Brisbane CBD in the tightly-held Southgate Corporate Park.
“The property was originally purchased in December 2012 for $23.30 million and the Fund’s investment rationale since commencement was to provide investors with stable, high yielding and diversified income returns from a quality commercial office property situated in one of Brisbane’s most prominent growth corridors," Head of Real Estate and Funds Management, Jason Huljich said.
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“The gross sale price achieved was approximately $5.1 million or 17% in excess of the December 2018 valuation, which is an outstanding result for the Fund.
“In addition, the Fund has yielded an average income return to investors of approximately 10.3% p.a. over the six and a half years.
“This is an excellent result for all investors in the fund,” Huljich said.
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The sale was negotiated by Matt Barker, Justin Bond and Christian Sandstrom of Knight Frank, along with Anthony Ott and Peter Chapple of Savills.
 
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Centuria sells 19 Corporate Drive, Brisbane for $37 million

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Land values across all Brisbane industrial precincts have trended upwards for the past three years, with the average land value increasing 5.3% to $310 per sqm, for the YoY to March 2019. 
As per the latest Colliers International Industrial Research and Forecast Report, Australia Tradecoast (ATC) experienced the strongest growth in land values for the YoY to March 2019, increasing by 9.9% to an average price of $390 per sqm, from $355 per sqm in March 2018. 
“We anticipate that the limited new development supply will continue putting upward pressure on rents in ATC over the next few years,” said Matthew Frazer-Ryan, National Director, Industrial at Colliers International. 
“As at March 2019, average prime grade net face rents are $118 per sqm, the highest out of any other precinct. 
“Average incentives fell by 1.5% to 12.5% for the YoY to March 2019, which usually is a sign of future rental growth for prime grade assets.” 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/5/21/brisbane%20industrial%20.jpg" target="_blank">Click here</a> to enlarge:
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Karina Salas, Research Manager at Colliers International said they anticipate Brisbane’s industrial land values will continue to rise over the medium term. 
“This is due to the current and forecast value proposition of the investment achieving solid yield spreads compared to Sydney and Melbourne, of up to 170bp in some instances, and the significant infrastructure investment program under construction in South East Queensland. 
“According to the Brisbane City Council Industrial Strategy 2019, industrial land in the outer Brisbane regions remain under pressure from encroaching residential and other non-industrial uses and has been reduced by 10 per cent in the last five years (2 million sqm of industrial gross floor area). 
“The rezoning of industrial areas is becoming an issue worldwide as population growth continues putting pressure on land availability to meet housing demand and encroaching into industrial-use land. 
“Demand in the Brisbane industrial market continues to transition from traditional manufacturing industrial use to transport and logistics, retail warehousing and mixed industry business precincts. Ecommerce and online retail activity is changing the way the industrial market operates in Australia and Brisbane is not isolated to this trend,” said Mrs Salas.
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Brisbane industrial land values heading north

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Billionaire Lindsay Fox has bought another commercial holding in Sorrento on Victoria's Mornington Peninsula.
The Fox family have paid $3 million for a 1,660 sqm fringe land holding at 856 Melbourne Road (above).
Currently on the land are two 1920s built homes.
It it's likely given its location one street back from the main shopping strip on Ocean Beach Road, that it will be developed into commercial premises.
One of the homes was known as Mayfair. They were sold as a tenanted investment, according to the Commercial Real Estate website.
The site sits along the road from where Fox owns a 4000 square metre site on the corner of Melbourne Road and Ossett Street, the busy roundabout at the far end of the retail strip.
Running from 839-843 Melbourne Road and on Ossett Street, Fox acquired it for $4.1 million in December 2015, settling October 2016.
CBRE secured the recent sale which was bought by a family run company Fox Shelf No 1 Pty Ltd.
The Fox family have their weekender compound at Portsea, a 16,000 sqm compound on the cliffs.
The most recent retail sale within the Sorrento township was $4.07 million for 54-56 Ocean Beach Road, the Sportsgirl premises - $1 million above reserve.
Investment company, developer and retirement living specialist Knowles Group bought the premises, paying more than $22,000 a square metre — a record for the popular coastal shopping strip. It is headed by Melbourne socialite Coral Knowles, the wife of John Knowles.
The Country Road concept store fetched $7.125 million in 2018 when the former Post and Telegraph office and postmaster’s quarters was sold. 
The 10-16 Ocean Beach Rd property on 750sq m had been expected to sell for over $6 million.
The vendor, former Rothschild Australia chairman Peter Griffin, paid $2.53 million in 2013 for the property.
It is currently leased until 2022 with two further five-year options available.
It sold to Anna Maria and Giuseppe Pollio.
In 2016, the Mitre 10 hardware store at 80-98 Ocean Beach sold for $11.47 million to Melbourne property developer Colin DeLutis on a yield of 0.4 percent.
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Billionaire Lindsay Fox buys another commercial holding in Sorrento

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Vaughan Constructions has won the contract to build Australia’s largest distribution centre for key German supermarket player Kaufland.
The Melbourne facility will have more than 117,000 sqm of building area and will be built over two stages.
Stage one will comprise 98,700 sqm of building area and 107,210 sqm of concrete hardstand, along with 168 recessed loading docks and substantial temperature control areas.
The facility has a total projected investment of $255 million and will create 600 new jobs in Mickleham, around 30 kilometres north of the Melbourne CBD.
"Kaufland were very mindful that the European climate, construction and building materials can be very different than those in Australia and were thus keen to partner with a builder with a sound track record in delivering quality facilities along with the requisite experience building state-of-the-art temperature control areas,’’ Vaughan’s senior development manager Chris Telley said.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/26/Kaufland%20Victoria%20.jpg" alt=""> Source: www.kaufland.com.au
He said a detailed Early Contractor Involvement (ECI) process had assisted in delivering substantial savings and design improvements for Kaufland.
"Our team worked very closely with the Kaufland team to overcome key supply chain issues and meet strict budget expectations.
"Through the ECI we were able to jointly explore a number of design options and put in place a detailed value management process,’’ Telley said.
The buildings will sit next to the Vaughan Constructions-built award-winning Dulux paint manufacturing facility next door.
Vaughan have previously built complexes for Aldi, Coca Cola, Coles, PFD, Kraft, Made Group, Ferguson Plarre, and Murray Goulburn.
In March Kaufland Australia announced the approval of it’s first three stores in Victoria in Dandenong, Epping and Chirnside Park.
Kaufland Australia has also received planning approval for two sites in South Australia.
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Vaughan Constructions to build Australia’s largest distribution centre for German supermarket giant Kaufland

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Multiplex, a global construction company, has completed restoration and refurbishment works on Trades Hall &amp; Literary Institute’s Trades Hall Living Heritage Project, funded by the State Government of Victoria.
The historic three level Trades Hall building in Victoria Street, Carlton. Victoria’s Trades Hall is Australia’s oldest and largest trades hall.
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It was constructed in 10 stages with the most significant occurring between 1876 to 1925 and is a prominent Carlton landmark that serves as a hub for union organisation.
The Trades Hall Living Heritage Project was led by architect and heritage consultant Lovell Chen, and focused on conservation works and refurbishment for the main public spaces in the 3,800 sqm heritage-listed building.
Works included the refurbishment to the New Council Chamber and building services upgrades. 
The also refurbishment included the specialist restoration of several of the main interiors, including the Old Council Chamber and the New and Old Ballrooms.
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The Old Council Chamber officially opened in 1884 and the original 1880's decorative scheme, including significant portraits and elaborate wall treatments, is the work of prominent decorators of the period, C.S. Paterson Brothers.
Works to the New Council Chamber included the recreation of the original footprint resulting in 300 seat auditorium with restored honor boards and murals that had been covered during previous renovations.
The project also saw the construction of modern amenities facilities and a new lift to improve access throughout the building and deliver access to all new areas.
Work commenced in April, 2018 and according to Multiplex 550 people worked on site during construction.
This was one of the first major building projects to benefit from the Government’s Living Heritage Grants Program.
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The grant funding financed the refurbishment project plus essential conservation and activation works such as roofing works and repairs to the Lygon Street portico.
Multiplex recently delivered the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation’s (ANMF) multi-million mixed-use commercial development, located at 535 Elizabeth Street in Melbourne’s CBD.
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