Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bottega-property-group">Bottega House</a> has secured council approval for its first Brisbane project - a $270 million luxury residential development on an absolute riverfront site in leafy St Lucia.&nbsp;

The 15-storey project, known as <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-lucia-by-bottega-house-180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">St Lucia by Bottega House</a> , will occupy a prime north-facing site at 178-180 Macquarie Street, directly fronting the Brisbane River in the established inner-west suburb known for its rowing clubs, golf courses and sprawling University of Queensland campus.&nbsp;

St Lucia by Bottega House will feature a suite of amenities including dedicated wellness spaces, a mineral pool and cold plunge. The project has been positioned to attract affluent owner-occupiers seeking high-quality, house-sized apartments.&nbsp;

Bottega House has been set up by co-directors Nick Malloch, Louis Mennes and Craig Marsh.

Malloch said the project drew inspiration from its Brisbane River setting and leafy inner-west surrounds, while responding to the demands of discerning locals looking to transition from freestanding homes into apartment living.&nbsp;

"With an expansive river frontage and lush green surrounds, we knew we had to create something special that reflects the natural beauty of the location while offering residents masterfully crafted homes," said Malloch.&nbsp;

"Our intent was to complement the project's quiet, private setting by introducing residences that offer a calm retreat and sanctuary from the everyday. The result is a harmonious blend of architecture, interiors and amenity that emphasises wellbeing, comfort and beauty without excess."&nbsp;

Malloch added that project consultants had been carefully selected in alignment with Bottega House's commitment to care, quality and attention to detail. The design team includes architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a>, interiors practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/urbis">Urbis</a>.&nbsp;

Three-bedroom apartments are expected to start around $5 millio. Selling agents Keenan &amp; Byrne said the pricing strategy for the project was anticipated to achieve upwards of $25,500 per square metre.&nbsp;

The project's development approval this week follows the success of Bottega House's inaugural Queensland project - a 22-storey collection of full-floor sky homes at Broadbeach on the Gold Coast which included the sale of a two-storey penthouse at a record price for a beachside residence.&nbsp;

St Lucia by Bottega House is expected to launch to market in November, with construction anticipated to be completed mid 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151826]

Joel Robinson

Bottega House to make Brisbane debut with St Lucia riverfront apartment development

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> is advancing its affordable apartment model into Brisbane with the acquisition of another site at Cordelia Street in South Brisbane for $27 million.

Sherpa, which has a $1.7 billion pipeline across Southeast Queensland, intends to bring a cohort of apartments exclusively for first homebuyers into its proposed 186-apartment project to be built at 2 Cordelia Street.

The Sherpa model has already been incredibly well received from their Gold Coast projects, where Sherpa Group set aside a number of apartments exclusively for first homebuyers.

The new $320 million project marks Sherpa Group's second development in Brisbane, following its $255 million Symphony project, also on Cordelia Street, which is currently under construction.

Symphony will deliver 146 apartments across 28 levels, offering a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments. With 114 already sold, construction by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/lps-group">LPS Group</a> is scheduled for completion in 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7574 project_image_fid=351654]

Sherpa Founder, Christie Leet, said the company was excited to be venturing into Brisbane for its second residential project.

“We’re big believers in the future of Brisbane as we lead into the 2032 Olympics and beyond,” Leet said.

“The success of Symphony has guided us into what will be our second project and we look forward to submitting our plans with council soon so we can deliver yet another quality project to the inner city residential market.

“Our Flourish model has been very well received both in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, and we’re excited to be able to offer some of these apartments again exclusively to first homebuyers to help get them into the property market.

“The model has been extraordinarily well received in our previous projects and it is something we are committed to moving forward.”

2 Cordelia Street will be designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hal-architects">HAL Architects</a> &amp; Finegrain and will include Sherpa’s signature residential amenities including pool, gym, recreation, wellness and work from home spaces.

The project will feature ground-floor commercial space, creating a vibrant amenity for residents and the surrounding community.

A development application will be lodged with Brisbane City Council in August on the code compliant site and will be launched to the market early 2027.

Sherpa acquires new site for second Brisbane apartment tower

One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

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fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

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FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292863]

It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]

The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
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First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

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>

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First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

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

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

<html><body>
The transformation of one of Australia’s most iconic former prisons into a new age urban village will commence this month, with construction work to begin on the 167-year-old Pentridge Prison.
Pentridge Coburg developer Shayher Group will start work on the construction of the 6,000 square metre site’s large retail hub first, which will deliver cinemas and a new supermarket for Coburg when competed in late 2019.
The retail precinct will feature a shopping centre as well as a 15-screen Palace Cinemas.
The shopping centre is the centrepiece of Shayher Group’s vision to transform the former Pentridge Prison into a vibrant mixed-use urban village comprising cafes, restaurants, a hotel, shopping facilities as well as apartments and public open space.
<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/2018/2/22/pent2.jpg" alt="">
Spanning approximately 6.7 hectares, Pentridge Coburg will create more than 8000 jobs, including more than 1200 permanent jobs across retail, hospitality and hotel industries.
Shayher Group spokesperson Anthony Goh said construction commencement aimed to give future tenants and the local community confidence that the project is on track.
“This is an important milestone for the revitalisation of Pentridge Prison and its transformation into a vibrant community asset, driving economic and employment growth locally,” he said.
“The construction process will be sensitive to the existing heritage of the prison and undertaken in a manner that will ensure the heritage elements live on for many decades to come.
“For our future retail tenants, Palace Cinemas, Zero95 Wood Fire Pizza Bar and Adina, the construction commencement marks the beginning of our journey in making Pentridge Coburg a place for the local community to experience and enjoy.”
Pentridge Coburg’s retail precinct has generated strong interest from Melbourne’s hospitality and retail industry, which sees the potential a project of this size has to reinvigorate the local Coburg economy and turn the area into the next inner-city hotspot.
In addition to Palace’s support for the project, Adina has signed on to operate a 120-room hotel on site.
Pentridge is on the Victorian Heritage Register, which is overseen by Heritage Victoria. 
Shayher Group has invested more than $2 million through various restoration works, including restoring the iconic guard towers.
</body></html>

jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Construction to commence on former Pentridge Prison transformation

<html><body>
Homes located within the catchment for some of Melbourne’s best public schools are achieving six-figure premiums, compared to neighbouring properties which fall just outside the zone.
The latest REIV data shows the median house price in highly sought after public school catchments is up to $400,000 more expensive than homes within a one kilometer radius of the zone.   
In the year to December 31, homes zoned for some of the city’s best primary schools recorded the largest price difference, with South Yarra Primary School leading the way. Homes within the South Yarra Primary School zone had a median price of $1,930,000 while properties bordering the zone had a median of $1,520,000 – a difference of $410,000.
Vendors of homes within the catchment area for Altona Primary School could also expect higher sale prices than those located just outside the zone. The median house price for those within the zone was $1,225,000 while neighbouring homes bordering the zone fetched $325,000 less.
In Bentleigh East, homes zoned for Valkstone Primary School were almost $250,000 more expensive than those within one kilometer of the school zone.
REIV President Richard Simpson said access to quality public schools remains a key factor for many buyers, which is delivering significant capital gains for homes located in these catchments.
“Parents of school-aged children are investing in the family home by buying into areas zoned for some of the city’s best public schools, rather than paying the equivalent in private school fees.”  
Camberwell High School experienced the largest price difference for secondary schools, with a difference of $289,000 recorded between those in the zone and those bordering the zone.
Homes located within the catchment of McKinnon Secondary College also achieved  significantly higher prices than those just outside the zone. The median house price for homes within the zone was $1,690,000 while those bordering the zone had a median price $235,000 less.
PRIMARY SCHOOLS
<table>
<colgroup>
<col width="228">
<col width="106">
<col width="140">
<col width="150">
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
12 months to Dec17
</td>
<td>
In School Zone
</td>
<td>
Bordering School Zone (1km)
</td>
<td>
Difference
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
South Yarra Primary School
</td>
<td>
$1,930,000
</td>
<td>
$1,520,000
</td>
<td>
$410,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Altona Primary School
</td>
<td>
$1,225,000
</td>
<td>
$900,000
</td>
<td>
$325,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Valkstone Primary School
</td>
<td>
$1,630,000
</td>
<td>
$1,385,000
</td>
<td>
$245,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Fitzroy Primary School
</td>
<td>
$1,635,000
</td>
<td>
$1,400,000
</td>
<td>
$235,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Hampton Primary School
</td>
<td>
$2,050,000
</td>
<td>
$1,860,000
</td>
<td>
$190,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Llyod Street Primary School
</td>
<td>
$2,000,000
</td>
<td>
$1,870,000
</td>
<td>
$130,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Preston West Primary School
</td>
<td>
$1,045,000
</td>
<td>
$952,000
</td>
<td>
$93,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Hartwell Primary School
</td>
<td>
$2,001,000
</td>
<td>
$1,950,000
</td>
<td>
$51,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Templeton Primary School
</td>
<td>
$997,500
</td>
<td>
$965,500
</td>
<td>
$32,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Regency Park Primary School
</td>
<td>
$920,000
</td>
<td>
$903,000
</td>
<td>
$17,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
SECONDARY SCHOOLS
<table>
<colgroup>
<col width="237">
<col width="96">
<col width="150">
<col width="141">
</colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
12 months to Dec17
</td>
<td>
In School Zone
</td>
<td>
Bordering School Zone (1km)
</td>
<td>
Difference
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Camberwell High School
</td>
<td>
$2,399,000
</td>
<td>
$2,110,000
</td>
<td>
$289,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
McKinnon Secondary College
</td>
<td>
$1,690,000
</td>
<td>
$1,455,000
</td>
<td>
$235,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Frankston High School
</td>
<td>
$778,400
</td>
<td>
$650,000
</td>
<td>
$128,400
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Box Hill High School
</td>
<td>
$1,425,000
</td>
<td>
$1,335,000
</td>
<td>
$90,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Mount Waverley High School
</td>
<td>
$1,407,000
</td>
<td>
$1,328,500
</td>
<td>
$78,500
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
A three bedroom house in South Yarra Primary School Zone has been sold for $3.5 million earlier this month (pictured below).
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-south+yarra-127443318?cid=pdp:recent-sales" target="_blank">Located at 48 Fawkner Street</a>, the Victorian home is only 0.28 kilometres from the South Yarra Primary School.
It comes with three bedrooms, open plan kitchen and dining, and a sizable balcony.
Additional features include a sitting room, study, under stair storage lush courtyards and rear right of way parking access for two cars.
<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/2018/2/27/south%20yarra%20primary.jpg" alt="">
A Stodart Street five-bedroom house, which is 0.66 kilometres from Camberwell High School, was sold for $5.5 million last year (pictured below).
Built in 1928, the 12 Stodar Street home comes with five bedrooms, a well-appointed Miele kitchen, informal living and dining rooms and private garden with heated pool and spa.
Willison station, parks, trams and schools, including Camberwell Primary School, Camberwell High School and Canterbury Girls Secondary College are within short distance.
<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/2018/2/27/12%20stodart%20st.jpg" alt="">
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Camberwell tops school zones value benefit: REIV

<html><body>
The Melbourne food and beverage operator Beacon 88 has secured a five-year lease for its Albert Park premises.
It is a 160 sqm retail space on the ground floor of the residential complex at 88 Beaconsfield Parade.
Beacon 88 will open a high-end eatery leased at a net annual rent of $593 a square metre.
Knight Frank agent Paul Pellegrino brokered the deal for landlord, Pentas Property Investments.
<a href="http://88beaconsfield.com/vision" target="_blank">The building </a>was designed by Omiros One Architecture with a 4th floor lap pool and sun deck, overlooking the Melbourne CBD skyline, and provide a space accessible to all residents to enjoy the Port Phillip Bay view.
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Beacon 88 lease deal on Albert Park promenade

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The hamburger restaurant Milky Lane has agreed terms on a two-year lease with options at Parramatta in Sydney's west.
It is for the ground floor 385sq m retail space at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-parramatta-500849035" target="_blank">20 Macquarie Street</a>.
The agreed gross annual rent is $380 a square metre, with a 4.5 per cent annual rental review.
Khoury Partners' Jon Race handled the leasing negotiations.
With a complete update of both the lobby and common areas, 20-22 Macquarie Street occupies a central position, only metres to Parramatta Train Station Station and Bus Services. 
The tower provides six levels of B-Grade office accommodation. Retail opportunities included ground floor retail featuring full commercial kitchen and seating for 213 diners. 
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Milky Lane lease in Parramatta

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The architecture firm The Buchan Group, has designed a retail hub located in the heart of a new Northern Territory master-planned suburb, Zuccoli at Palmerston.
Zuccoli plaza, which is now completed, comprises 3400 sqm of retail space with additional covered areas.
The shopping centre features 14 shops including a supermarket, gym, medical centre, chemist, local MP office, liquor store, newsagent, land sales office and cafe. It is located on the corner of Zuccoli Parade and Crosby Street.
The Buchan Group was appointed by The RR Morriss Group to provide master-planning, architectural, interior, graphics branding and signage design services to the project.
Buchan Group architect Rhys Maxwell said Zuccoli Plaza was "a village plaza which connected, integrated, and extended the adjoining park into the site."
“It seemed logical to integrate the surrounding parkland into the site to complement the Zuccoli masterplan concept of providing a natural edge to village life.
“A flowing and open park transition with flanking arbour structures connects the adjoining WKJ Memorial Park to the plaza to provide shade and cover to the pedestrian walkways."
 <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/2018/2/28/Buchan%20Group%20Zuccoli%20Plaza%20Darwin%202.jpg" alt="">
The centre was opened by the family of the late Guido Zuccoli, after whom the suburb was named. A design competition was held for local artists to paint a mural in Mr Zuccoli’s honour, on the park-facing side of Zuccoli Plaza.
 
 
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Buchan Group's design of Zuccoli Plaza, Darwin

<html><body><div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="section">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
A Little Collins Street space in Melbourne’s CBD has attracted strong demand from a range of operators. 
Fitzroys agent Terence Yeh leased the 38 sqm Shop 3, 188 Little Collins Street to Little Temperance café on a 5+5-year deal at $90,000 per annum net, with 4% annual increases. 
Yeh said the typical rate for a similar space would be around $1,800 per sqm, but a rate of $2,368 per sqm was achieved. 
“More than 60 enquiries were received from hospitality, fashion and service retail operators, looking to capitalise on the CBD worker population and the rapidly growing residential catchment in central Melbourne,” he said. 
Yeh negotiated the deal on behalf of a private investor. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/2/26/P1160019.JPG" alt="">
</div>
</div>
</div>
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 Little Temperance cafe leases Little Collins Street space 

<html><body>
Mirvac Group's A-grade office development 664 Collins Street in Melbourne is 100 per cent pre-leased following the signing of leading energy provider, AGL. 
AGL has committed to over 6,000 square metres across two floors.
It joining tenants, Pitcher Partners and Fujitsu in the 26,000 square metre office tower. 
Mirvac’s Campbell Hanan said, “664 Collins Street is now 100 per cent leased ahead of practical completion this year."
“The changing forces of work and employee experience are demanding more from the built form than ever before. 
"Mirvac is working with tenants to create workplaces and assets, like 664 Collins Street.
He said <a href="https://maps.google.com/?q=644+Collins&amp;entry=gmail&amp;source=g">644 Collins</a> was designed to incorporate leading smart technology and real-time data collection to improve workforce utilisation and efficiencies, "while creating an intuitive working environment.” 
The executive general manager group Operations at AGL, Doug Jackson said AGL was utilising this space to accommodate our digital transformation projects and Melbourne-based operations. 
At 664 Collins Street, Pitcher Partners will occupy over 9,000 square metres across 3.5 levels, with a 12-year lease commencing in June 2018. 
Fujitsu and AGL will take up occupancy in September 2018. 
Upon practical completion, which is expected mid this year, 664 Collins Street will be the final stage of the Southern Cross Station complex. It will target a 5 Star Green Star Design and 5 Star NABERS Energy rating.
In June last year, Mirvac successfully sold down 50 per cent of the building to an investment vehicle sponsored by Morgan Stanley Real Estate Investing (MSREI).
</body></html>

After AGL Mirvac¹s 664 Collins Street 100 percent pre-leased

<html><body>
A housing affordability report has found WA is the most affordable state in the country for tenants and home-buyers. Only the two Territories - the ACT and Northern Territory - are more affordable.
It’s one piece of a multi-faceted equation which equals recovery in the Perth property market.
While media continues to obsess over Sydney and has extrapolated the wind-down in its market into a national downturn, other scenarios are playing out in different parts of this complex nation.
Perth has been running counter-cyclical to Sydney for the past five or six years and this continues. In 2012, when Perth prices were rising strongly, Sydney was doing very little; as Sydney got on its growth path from 2013 onwards, Perth was heading into reverse; and now, as Sydney runs out of steam, Perth is recovering and moving forward.
Improved affordability after four years of price decline is one of the factors giving Perth momentum.
The Real Estate Institute of Australia and Adelaide Bank, in their latest Housing Affordability Report, have found that affordability in WA’s housing and rental markets has improved markedly.
According to the report, the proportion of income required for tenants to pay their rent had decreased from 19.2% in late 2016 to 17.4% in late 2017.
For those looking to buy their first home, the proportion of income required to meet home loan repayments decreased from 23.8% in 2016 to 22.4% in 2017.
The result reflects the decline in property values and rentals in Perth and other parts of WA in recent years, exacerbated by the end of the resources investment boom, which pushed up residential vacancies.
But the Perth property market generally ended 2017 on a positive note, with December Quarter data from the REIWA showing improvements in median prices, sales activity, listing levels and average selling days.
Supporting that is Domain figures for the December Quarter, which show small quarterly rises in the median prices for both houses and apartments, although the annual figures are still a little negative.
In addition, the latest SQM Research figures show small monthly rises although, again, the annual data is still in the negative.
All this is making Perth “the land of opportunity” and it’s the main reason I’m heading to Perth to do a seminar presentation on 15 March.
REIWA president Hayden Groves says it bodes well for Perth that all key indicators improved over the latest quarter.
“The Perth market found its floor and stabilised in the back half of 2017,” he says. “We now appear to be entering a recovery phase, though REIWA remains cautious about expectations of rapid growth in the next 12 months.”
Perth’s preliminary median house price increased 1.2% to $516,000 in the December Quarter - but once all sales have settled, REIWA expects the final December Quarter median to lift to $520,000, which would be a notable rise on the September Quarter median of $510,000.
Perth’s median unit price is $405,000 for the December Quarter which is a 1.3% increase on the September Quarter.
There were 4,946 dwelling sales in Perth in the December quarter. Groves says this figure is expected to lift to 6,700 once all sales have settled, putting it significantly above the September Quarter sales figure.
“Traditionally, the September Quarter outperforms the December Quarter, but that wasn’t the case in 2017. The December Quarter is on track to record 14% more sales than September,” Groves says.
The primary reason for the revival in the Perth property market is the recent improvement in the state economy.
Further confirmation of WA’s revival comes from Reserve Bank governor Philip Lowe, who says the state economy has “turned the corner”.
Lowe says while the national economy is gaining strength, WA is not being left behind, with signs of a lift in mining investment through the State.
“We’re starting to see more self-sustaining investment growth in WA in the mining sector and that’s picking up conditions in Perth,” Lowe says. “It’s not a boom again but there’s more sustainable investment going on and that’s helping the WA economy.”
Outside the mining sector, Lowe cites the lift in public infrastructure projects as one of the reasons the economy is improving.
 
Terry Ryder is the founder of hotspotting.com.au
<a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au">ryder@hotspotting.com.au</a>
twitter.com/hotspotting
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Perth's counter cyclical property market is now moving forward: Terry Ryder

<html><body>
CommSec has analysed all results from ASX 200 companies. Traditionally brokers or analysts focus on smaller subsets of results. And some merely focus on just whether companies have met or fallen short of “market expectations”.
So far 125 of the ASX200 have reported half-year earnings. The earnings season effectively ends on February 28.
Some of the key results:
<ul>
<li>In aggregate, revenues are up 7.0% on a year ago; expenses are up 8.2%; profits are down by 1.5%; dividends are up 9.5% and cash is up 5.3%.</li>
<li>Excluding BHP, CBA and Telstra, profits are up 3.2% on a year ago.</li>
</ul>
The following points relate to those companies that have reported half-year results (HY reporting companies).
<ul>
<li>On revenues, 81% reported increases and 19% reported declines.</li>
<li>On expenses, 78% reported increases and 22% reported declines.</li>
<li>On profits, 94% reported a profit.</li>
<li>57% reported a lift in profit and 43% a decline (long-term average 61.4%).</li>
<li>Of those reporting a profit, 57% lifted profits and 43% reported a decline.</li>
<li>Of all HY reporting companies, 86% have issued a dividend and 14% haven’t.</li>
<li>Of those reporting a dividend, 75% lifted the dividend, 8% cut and 17% left dividends unchanged.</li>
<li>Of all companies reporting half-year earnings, 57% lifted cash holdings over the year and 43% cut cash levels.</li>
<li>Cash holdings of both full-year and half-year reporting companies stood at $112 billion at December 31, up 4.4%.
</li>
</ul>
The trends
<ul>
<li>Surveys conducted of the business sector over the past six months have generally been positive. The NAB business conditions index hit record (21-year) highs in October 2017. Using rolling averages, business conditions are at decade highs.  
</li>
<li>So it makes sense that companies are making money. In fact all but seven of the 125 ASX200 companies reporting for the six months to December, reported a profit. The 94.4% of companies recording a profit matches the record high proportion in the 2017 interim reporting season a year ago. 
</li>
<li>But aggregate profits aren’t soaring. In fact aggregate profits are down 1.5% on a year ago. Stripping out heavyweight companies, a small lift in aggregate profit was achieved. 
</li>
<li>In addition, if you look at the proportion of companies able to lift profits, it was only 57% – the smallest share in five years. 
</li>
<li>So where have the funds gone? Aggregate revenues lifted 7% over the year but expenses posted a stronger 8.2% increase. Some companies have chosen to invest more into their business. Others may have lifted marketing expenses to stay competitive. Still others may have faced higher costs – certainly energy bills have continued to lift along with other commodity prices. 
</li>
<li>Cash levels are still healthy, up 5.3% on a year ago for half-year reporting companies. But in the year to June 2017 cash levels were up by 23.5%. 
</li>
<li>As a result of decisions or circumstances that have led to a lift in expenses, thus restraining profits, a smaller proportion of companies have issued dividends. 
</li>
<li>For some time this had been expected – companies had to reach a point where they needed to spend more on the business. So the 86% of companies issuing a dividend was the smallest proportion for three years.  
</li>
<li>The important point is that for those companies paying a dividend, the desire has been to lift or maintain the dividend. In fact almost 92% of the dividend payers, elected to lift or maintain dividends – the highest share in the 16 reporting seasons we have tracked. 
</li>
<li>In aggregate, dividends per share were up 9.5% on a year ago. 
</li>
</ul>
What are the implications for interest rates and investors?
<ul>
<li>Corporate Australia remains in strong shape. All but seven of the half-year reporting companies recorded a profit for the period despite stronger growth in expenses. 
</li>
<li>Corporate Australia is solidly in the black. But the bottom-line profits aren’t rising like they were in the recent past. And that is understandable. The base level of corporate profits is higher; global competition continues to lift; companies are investing more; and there was a solid lift in energy costs in the second half of 2017. 
</li>
<li>Looking ahead, the Australian economy is expected to grow at a faster pace over the coming year. A near record number of homes are being built although fewer new projects are likely to be started over the coming year, especially in Sydney and Melbourne and the Brisbane apartment market. 
</li>
<li>A growing number of infrastructure projects will support prospects of construction, industrial and transport sectors. 
</li>
<li>Resource companies and other companies with substantial operations overseas will benefit from stronger global economies. The challenge will be to restrain costs, particularly energy costs. 
</li>
<li>US sharemarkets have been volatile over February as investors weigh up high valuations and the prospects for higher interest rates. The Australian sharemarket will be affected like other sharemarkets should the volatility continue. But the Australian sharemarket is attractively valued with the lagged price-earnings at 15.79, only slightly above the long-term average. 
</li>
<li>CommSec expects the All Ordinaries to be trading in a 6,250-6,650 point range by the end of calendar year 2018 with the ASX200 around 100 points lower than the stated range.</li>
</ul>
 <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/2018/2/26/CI%205.jpg" alt="">
<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/2018/2/26/CI%206.jpg" alt="">
Craig James is chief economist at CommSec.
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cjames-5S2v74qSNK

Bottom-line profits of corporate Australia are rising like the recent past: CommSec's Craig James

<html><body>
<div>Like many getting-a-bit-long-in-the-tooth Sydneysiders, I've increasingly been having recurring daydreams about selling a place at Bondi or in the inner west and trading it for a mansion at Maroochydore (or sometime it's a mooring at Mooloolaba). </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Probably about once a fortnight I have these fantasises, on average, I reckon. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>And then reality bites.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>I wake up and find that Infrastructure Australia (IA) has released another report, which always brings me back to earth and reminds me why I invested in inner-Sydney property in the first place. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>As ever, IA's Future Cities report presents a range of scenarios.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>There's a decentralised scenario which incorporates acres of building and hundreds of thousands of new homes in the south-west.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>And then there's a centralised scenario where everyone crams like crazy into zones close to the Central Business District (CBD), and to a lesser extent Parramatta.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>And then there's the medium-density scenario, which is a realistic mixture of the two, incorporating population growth across the city and on balance the most likely outcome. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The scenarios have one thing in common: none of them envisages a Sydney in 2046 with a population of under 7.34 million. </div>
 
<div><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PdMnCv6NaPM/WpCTHx3DIuI/AAAAAAAAoic/PKX5PyrObPwoXRjOHlN760TUpD5B47wUwCLcBGAs/s640/A3.jpg" width="640" height="240" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="1324"></div>
 
<div>Although people are expected to live all over Sydney, the share of employment will remain heavily skewed to the CBD and city fringe, and to a secondary extent Parramatta. </div>
 
<div><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aHGJZcD-GmI/WpDsUCuGnlI/AAAAAAAAois/t4fM1LPGEfcej_ytStllHGeERXSVygGMgCLcBGAs/s640/A1.jpg" width="640" height="450" data-original-height="712" data-original-width="1010"></div>
 
<div>And there's a great deal of consideration of how people will get around with millions of extra people in essentially the same amount of space (as an investor, I've always gone for train links to the City or walking distance from the Sydney CBD). </div>
 
<div><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nYjMyB370L0/WpDsgFvkAAI/AAAAAAAAoiw/tW2NMZ_pFIYAhZF5E69vfdV5TCOc_-q-ACLcBGAs/s640/A2.jpg" width="640" height="456" data-original-height="469" data-original-width="658"></div>
 
<div>Nobody can predict the future, but one thing I will hang my hat on is a massive ongoing demand for rentals close to the middle of Sydney. </div>
From the horse's mouth...
Between 2017 and 2046, Australia’s population is projected to increase by 11.8 million people. 
<div>That’s equivalent to adding a new city, roughly the size of Canberra, each year for the next 30 years. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>About 75% of this growth will occur in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Population growth is a central driver of this change. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>In the next 30 years, Sydney’s population is projected to increase by 2.4 million people, growing to be a city of 7.4 million. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Over the same period, Melbourne is projected to grow by 2.7 million people, to be a city of 7.3 million. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Between now and 2046, Brisbane is projected to grow by 1.6 million people and Perth by 2.2 million people, delivering cities of just under 4 million and 4.3 million, respectively.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>This means the Brisbane and Perth of tomorrow will become cities the size of Melbourne and Sydney today. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>While Melbourne and Sydney will become cities comparable to the current size of some of the world’s most significant urban economies, operating more like the Hong Kong, New York and London of today.'</div>
<div> </div>
<div>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of AllenWargent property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>.</div>
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