Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

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"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

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After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

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Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

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?

For the first time in a long time, Australia's inflation story is starting to look more like a landing than a fight.

The latest Consumer Price Index figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed annual inflation eased to four per cent in May, down from 4.2 per cent in April. On the surface, that might not seem like a major move. Inflation remains above the Reserve Bank's target range and some categories continue to record stubborn price growth.

But the significance of this result lies less in where inflation sits today and more in what it means for where interest rates are likely heading next.

The biggest takeaway is that inflation continues to move in the right direction.

Markets had been bracing for another sticky result after a period where progress appeared to stall. Instead, headline inflation came in softer than expected, helped by falling fuel prices and easing transport costs. Annual transport inflation halved from 6.6 per cent in April to 3.3 per cent in May, while automotive fuel prices fell 11.9 per cent during the month following lower oil prices and the impact of reduced fuel excise measures.

While petrol prices don't solve Australia's affordability challenges, they are one of the most visible and immediate costs for consumers. Falling fuel costs feed through the economy quickly, helping ease pressure on household budgets and business operating expenses.

The ABS data also showed headline inflation is now sitting at its lowest annual level in several months, reinforcing the broader trend that price growth is gradually moderating.

That trend is important because it aligns with what many economists and lenders have been saying for the last month.

Prior to this week's inflation data, ANZ, NAB and Commonwealth Bank had all shifted their forecasts, now believing the Reserve Bank had likely reached the peak of the interest rate cycle. Following the May inflation release, ANZ reaffirmed that view.

In its latest economic update, ANZ said it expects quarterly trimmed mean inflation to come in at 3.7 per cent for the June quarter, slightly below the Reserve Bank's forecast of 3.8 per cent. Importantly, the bank said that outcome, when combined with slowing economic activity, "supports our view that the cash rate has peaked".

The Reserve Bank has spent the better part of three years attempting to bring inflation under control through higher interest rates. If Australia's major banks are correct and rates have now peaked, the conversation shifts from how much higher rates could go to when they might begin coming down.

Westpac's caution comes from underlying inflation. The trimmed mean, the measure most closely watched by the Reserve Bank, increased from 3.4 per cent to 3.6 per cent annually. Housing inflation remains elevated at 6.5 per cent, reflecting ongoing increases in rents, electricity costs and new dwelling construction.

Electricity prices remain particularly problematic, rising 21.1 per cent over the past year following the removal of government rebates.

Housing construction costs are also showing signs of renewed pressure. ANZ noted new dwelling costs rose 0.9 per cent in May and are now running at an annualised pace of 8.6 per cent over the past three months. Builders continue to face higher labour, fuel and material costs, a reminder that inflationary pressures have not completely disappeared.

Housing affordability has deteriorated largely because of higher interest rates rather than higher property prices alone. Even modest reductions in mortgage rates would improve borrowing capacity, increase buyer confidence and reduce repayment pressure on existing homeowners.

While August is far from a certainty, the latest inflation result has strengthened the view that the next move in rates is more likely to be down than up. For borrowers, buyers and the development sector, that alone represents a significant shift from the conversation that dominated much of the past two years.

The inflation result the property market was waiting for

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Auction numbers in Sydney and Melbourne are well down ahead of this weekend with Domain's Andrew Wilson saying the drop is likely to drive intense competition amongst residential property buyers.
"Just over 650 homes are scheduled to go under the hammer this Saturday in Melbourne which will be well down on the 1047 conducted last weekend and also lower than the 909 listed over the same weekend last year," he said.
"Melbourne’s west will again be the most popular region for auctions on Saturday with 133 followed again also by the north east (98), the outer east (79), the north (72), the inner south (77), the north (72), the inner east (61), the inner city (54) the south east with (51) auctions listed this weekend.
"Glen Waverley, Epping and Reservoir will host the most suburban auctions this weekend each with 12 followed by St Albans (11), Thomastown (10), Craigieburn (9), and a number of suburbs with 8 auctions scheduled including Hopper Crossing, Richmond, Rowville and Brunswick West.
"Just over 450 homes are scheduled to go under the hammer this Saturday which will be well down on the 653 conducted last weekend and also lower than the 526 listed over the same weekend last year.
"Sydney’s inner west will be the most popular region for auctions again on Saturday with 70 followed by the south (56), the south west (47), the upper north shore (43), the city and east (41), the lower north (34), the Canterbury Bankstown and the northern beaches each (31), the north west (22), the north west (22), the central coast (17) and the Blue Mountains with 2 auctions listed on Saturday.
"Blacktown will host the most suburban auctions this weekend with 7 followed by Marrickville and Crows Nest each with 6 and a number of suburbs with 5 auctions listed including Ashfield, Beverley Hills, Carlingford, Surry Hills, Bankstown, Pyrmont, Kellyville and Leichhardt."
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Sydney, Melbourne weekend auction numbers well down: Andrew Wilson

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Fleming’s Nurseries has joined forces with developer Goldfields on its Winterfield project, to deliver landscaping across the entire development.
The nursery and landscape business will provide a selection of front garden designs that are to be included in the purchase of an allotment at the master-planned development.
There are six designs purchasers can choose from – all designed by Fleming’s at the direction of horticulturalist Wes Fleming.
Fleming has led the landscape plan for Winterfield (pictured) which will see a focus on trees and plants across the new community. He is previously known for his work with nine winning gardens at the Chelsea Flower Show in London.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/04/28/rsz_fleming.png" width="700" height="425">
“We hope to deliver outdoor spaces that enhance the beauty of Ballarat – rich in its flora and fauna and open green space,” Fleming said of the collaboration.
“Not only will purchasers receive a free front garden, they can also relish in the area’s natural surrounds and relaxed environment – something we worked hard to create and that will complement the Winterfield lifestyle.”
The development is also set to landscape 14 hectares of gardens and open green space, including the re-invigoration of the area’s existing creek to create multiple parks, wetlands and playgrounds.
Goldfields’ managing director, Marco Gattino, confirmed that Winterfield’s partnership with Fleming was centred on delivering a healthy lifestyle for all its residents.
“We wanted to make sure residents could enjoy their surroundings – both inside their home and when they are out in the community, which is why the landscaping has been a major focus from the outset,” Gattino explained.
“The five neighbourhoods within Winterfield will each have a distinguishing signature tree, such as the Golden Rain Tree and the Montpellier, adding to the aesthetic,” he said.
“Wes Fleming’s approach to Winterfield delivers something fresh to the market - it’s unlike any other development in Australia – it really does set a new benchmark for master-planned communities.”
Winterfield is currently selling blocks in Stage One with lot sizes ranging from 544sqm to 615sqm, and prices from $125,000.
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Horticulturalist Wes Fleming to landscape Winterfield development  

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Global contractor Multiplex has topped out M&amp;L Hospitality’s new boutique hotel at 65 Sussex Street in Sydney’s CBD.
Designed by architects Fitzpatrick + Partners with interiors by Wood Bagot, the hotel will feature a geometric façade and comprise 182 guest rooms including four generously-sized suites, a three storey high internal garden and courtyard, meeting space, restaurant and bar.
The construction of 65 Sussex Street has seen over 550 people and 85,000 hours worked on-site to date. Almost 3,000 cubic metres of concrete has been used to build the hotel’s structure, while 333 individual panels of glass will be used to form the geometric façade.
“The hotel is an important part of the revitalisation of the surrounding western corridor and is ideally located close to the Barangaroo and King Street Wharf lifestyle precincts,” commented David Ghannoum, regional managing director NSW at Multiplex.
“We are drawing on our expertise in hotel construction and working within the confined and busy CBD environment to deliver this new hotel,” he said.
With the structure complete, Multiplex will now commence the internal fit-out of the guest rooms with completion on track for the end of 2017.
“We are excited to reach this important milestone and look forward to launching our new boutique hotel later in 2017,” added Neil Maxwell, CEO of M&amp;L Hospitality.
In December, 2016 Multiplex completed the redevelopment of M&amp;L Hospitality’s 161 Sussex Street property at Darling Harbour with the hotel opening as Hyatt Regency, representing the hotel brand’s return to the Sydney market.
The 161 Sussex Street redevelopment project saw the refurbishment of the existing hotel, the construction of a new 3,667 square metre convention centre, and a 25-level tower including 13 new hotel levels and 10 levels of A-grade high rise commercial office space.
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Multiplex tops out new boutique hotel at 65 Sussex Street, Sydney

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GUEST OBSERVER
Determining funding for the right housing measures in the upcoming Federal Budget (May 9) would be much easier if the Government had a national housing plan and a Minister for Housing according to the managing director of a leading community housing provider and housing commentator.
Budgets should be developed to meet strategic and operational plans.  It makes no sense that Australia does not have a national plan nor a Minister responsible for something as fundamental as housing.
Housing, including social and affordable housing, needs to be viewed as part of Australia’s social and economic infrastructure and integrated with other infrastructure planning. He agreed with the treasurer, The Hon Scott Morrison, that there is no silver bullet to the housing crisis but says with rising social housing waiting lists, high capital city house prices and an increasing number of working people experiencing housing stress, action is long overdue.  
An effective plan will only be realised if the Commonwealth Government recognises that housing is a fundamental human right and the responsibility of the national Government and a national Minister, not just the states and territories.
The Government’s national co-ordination and responsibility must include direct investment in social and affordable housing.
There are less public housing dwellings now than last decade despite around 200,000 people on public and social housing waiting lists and a general acceptance that Australia has a shortfall of between 200,000 and 400,000 dwellings.
Australia was in a similar situation in 1945s when the national Government took action in conjunction with the States.
Back then there was a need for austerity but there was also acknowledgement that workers needed housing and that constructing housing would stimulate the economy and get people working.
With the current downturn in manufacturing and mining we have many workers for whom constructing housing is a realistic use of their skills; another example of housing’s integration with social infrastructure.
This way, more social and affordable housing becomes possible on the back of economic infrastructure investment and job creation rather than as welfare subsidy.
If we had another “Affordable Housing Commission” type policy response the housing built could eventually sold by Government, as it was previously.
One example of possible integration of housing and other infrastructure planning was high speed rail links. He said such infrastructure is already being proposed and would create new commuter towns between those capital cities, taking pressure of capital city housing demand and boosting regional Australia’s economy.
 A rising tide can lift all ships and makes the provision of affordable housing and housing subsidies more sustainable.
A number of housing and community organisations, economists, academics and other experts have done considerable work to help the Government to create a national plan.
Where are Australia’s long term plans for infrastructure and housing? It is time for such plans rather than one off political cycle centric planning and initiatives.
You can budget for a plan.
Greg Budworth is a managing director of Compass Housing group and co-chair of the United Nations Habitat program’s civil society partner constituent group. he can be <a href="https://www.compasshousing.org" target="_blank">contacted here</a>.
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Infrastructure and housing plan needed before budget initiatives: Greg Budworth

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GUEST OBSERVER
For the first time in some years we expect better estimates of the coming year’s deficit, due to higher commodity prices.
Infrastructure investment plans, including a new Sydney airport and a major national rail project, SME tax cuts and education spending are expected to be the budget highlights.
Rates Strategy: After years of disappointment, the budget should be welcomed by bond investors as it is set to confirm 2016/17 as the peak of government debt issuance
Revenue gets a boost from higher commodity prices.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/04/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-04%20at%201.39.17%20PM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
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It has finally arrived. After a run of budgets when the Treasurer of the day has had to announce that the underlying budget deficit was larger than expected, this year we expect a modest improvement. 
Rising commodity prices have been the main source of support, as the bounce is expected to have delivered additional tax revenue. However, this positive effect has been partly offset by weaker-than-expected wages growth, relative to the projections in the May 2016 budget, making the overall improvement only modest. 
The projected budget deficit is expected to be AUD25bn (1.4% of GDP) in 2017/18 (estimated at AUD28.7bn in December 2016 and AUD26.1bn in May 2016). However, much depends on the government’s assumptions about commodity prices, which we expect to be cautious. As a result, we expect the projected return to budget surplus still will not be forecast to arrive until 2020/21, as previously forecast.
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The key policy initiatives in the budget (due to be handed down on 9 May 2017) are expected to be plans for infrastructure investment, including a second airport in Sydney and a new inland rail from Brisbane to Melbourne, a corporate tax cut for small and medium-sized businesses and a boost to education spending. The Treasurer has also announced that, for the first time, the budget will separately report debt that is earmarked for infrastructure from that used for recurrent spending. 
With Standard &amp; Poor’s putting Australia on ‘negative outlook’ for its triple-A sovereign rating in July 2016, a key question is whether Australia will get downgraded. With the budget set to look a bit better, an improving nominal economy and signs of some budget reform, we doubt a downgrade will arrive next week. 
Our new onshore AUD/NZ rates/FX strategist, Tom Nash, expects the budget to be positive for long-dated government bonds (ACGBs). Even allowing for the infrastructure spend, 2016/17 should mark peak ACGB issuance. 
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A rare improvement in the budget outlook 
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Largely thanks to continued strength in commodity prices, we expect the forecast budget deficit for 2017/18 will look slightly better than previously estimated. This would be a marked contrast to Australia’s recent budget history, which since 2009 has featured consistent downward revisions to the budget balance and the predicted return to surplus being pushed ever farther into the future. 
There was some rare good news in the December 2016 mid-year fiscal update, when the forecast 2016/17 deficit was revised a touch lower from AUD37.1bn to AUD36.5bn, in response to the lift in commodity prices seen during late 2016. However, the commodity-related boost was expected to be temporary and the projected deficits beyond 2016/17 were expected to be larger than previously forecast (Chart 1). 
Since the mid-year update, the strength in commodity prices has proven to be more sustained, especially for iron ore. Although iron ore prices have dipped in recent weeks from over USD90/t to around USD66/t, the mid-year fiscal update assumed a decline from USD68/t at the time to USD55/t by Q3 2017. 
Although the assumptions underlying the new budget estimates are expected to once again assume that commodity prices will revert to a lower level, they will probably be a little more optimistic than those used in December. This should deliver a stronger nominal growth outlook and, in turn, better revenue projections (Charts 2, 3 and 4). 
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As a rule of thumb, a 1 percent increase in nominal GDP lifts government revenue by around AUD3bn. The mid-year update assumed nominal growth of 5.75 percent in 2016-17 and 3.75% in 2017-18. While the former is not much different from our own expectation of around 6 percent, we see scope for the 2017-18 forecast to be revised up to 5.25 percent or above thanks to the continued strength in commodity prices and a likely upward revision to the real GDP growth outlook (Table 5). 
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Key expected policy initiatives provide signs of fiscal reform 
For some time now, the clarion call in our research has been for fiscal policymakers to focus on tax reform and infrastructure investment. As we have pointed out previously, Australia’s new growth engine is exporting services to Asia, including education and tourism, and if Australia is to remain competitive in services exports, better urban infrastructure is needed (see Australia’s broadening economic links to China, 8 November 2016). At the same time, we have noted that Australia’s tax system has become more dependent on taxes that distort economic behaviour, such as corporate and personal income taxes, and that reform of the tax system is needed. 
This budget is expected to show some progress on these fronts, although more reform is needed over time. Key initiatives are expected to include:
The government is set to announce that a new government-funded company will be set up to build a second airport in Sydney at Badgery’s Creek at an expected cost of A$5-6 billion. A new inland rail line from Melbourne to Brisbane is also set to be announced, at a cost of A$10-12 billion. These projects are expected to be off the government’s balance sheet, much as the National Broadband Network was funded in earlier years.
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The Treasurer, Scott Morrison, has announced that the budget will also, for the first time, split its accounting of new government debt into that used for capital spending, such as infrastructure, and current spending, such as public sector wages. This is a positive development that should allow a clearer assessment of government spending that is investing in future growth prospects and that which is being used for current consumption.
The government is expected to announce a significant boost to spending on primary and secondary education, of around A$19 billion over the next decade (figures as report by the Australian Financial Review on 3 May 2017), adopting an adjusted version of the opposition Labor Party’s previous proposal for a ‘needs-based’ funding model.
Tax cuts for small and medium-sized businesses have already been passed by both houses of parliament, but will be part of the budget. Businesses with less than A$50 million in turnover will see the company tax rate cut from 30% to 25% by 2026/27, with the reductions phased in at different rates for businesses of different sizes. The budget is expected to contain a proposal to broaden this to every company by 2026/27.
A range of previously proposed budget measures that have not passed through parliament will also be scrapped. These include cuts to Medicare proposed in the lead-up to the 2016 election as well as cuts to education and welfare spending. These are set to reduce budget savings by around A$8 billion. 
Structural budget deficit remains a challenge
Although the stronger commodity price story, along with some fiscal consolidation measures, are expected to make the budget bottom line look a little better, Australia still faces many years of sizable budget deficits. This is because the deficit is structural, not cyclical. That is, the deficit is not the result of temporarily weak conditions in the economy – and so an improvement in economic conditions cannot be relied upon to return the budget to balance (Chart 6).
Interestingly, the Australian Treasury estimates that the structural deficit has been consistently larger than the actual underlying cash balance over the past decade, despite below-trend economic growth. This is mainly driven by the large, budget-positive impact of high commodity prices outweighing the smaller, budget-negative impact of weak GDP growth.
The precise estimates of the structural balance are highly uncertain, as they rely on assumptions about the size of the output gap and the long-run level of the terms of trade. For instance, the IMF’s estimates suggest that Australia’s structural deficit has not been as large as the actual deficit. Nonetheless, regardless of its size, it seems clear that Australia does have a significant structural deficit and that an improvement in cyclical factors alone will not be enough to restore a balanced budget over the long term. Changes to fiscal settings will be needed.
A rating downgrade is unlikely at this stage
Despite ongoing budget deficits (both actual and structural), we do not expect Australia to lose its AAA credit rating. In an international context, Australia’s fiscal position is still strong; in particular, net debt remains low, although it has risen significantly since 2008 (Charts 7 and 8).
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With the budget deficit currently around 2 percent of GDP, and expected to narrow further in 2017/18, the government’s debt-to-GDP ratio is also close to stabilising.
The key factors that have been of concern to the major rating agencies have been: a lack of fiscal reform, due to political constraints; Australia’s persistent current account deficit; and high household debt levels, making balance sheets more vulnerable.
The key catalyst for Standard &amp; Poor’s putting Australia on ‘negative outlook’ for its triple-A rating in July 2016, was the close Federal election result and the rating agency’s expectation that this reduced the likelihood of ‘forceful’ fiscal action need to get the budget back to surplus. Since then, commodity prices have lifted, supporting tax revenues, and there are some signs that fiscal reform may be moving the right direction, albeit slowly.
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The current account deficit has also narrowed significantly, due to the recent lift in commodity prices, the ongoing rise in commodity exports as new capacity comes on line and continued growth in services exports (Chart 9).
Household debt has continued to rise and is at high levels, which is expected to be a continued point of focus for the rating agencies. At the same time, the prudential regulator, in a coordinated approach with the central bank, has been tightening its prudential settings to reduce the risk entering the financial system.
Rates Strategy: A bullish budget for bonds
After years of disappointment, the 2017/18 Budget is set to be positive for Australian Commonwealth Government Bonds (ACGBs) as it will likely confirm that bond issuance has peaked and fiscal consolidation is back on track. We have previously highlighted fiscal policy as one of the structural factors underpinning our bullish stance on the long-end of the curve (see ‘AUD Rates: Cheap enough’, 30 March 2017).
The Treasury is likely to confirm FY16/17 as the peak for ACGB issuance, despite uncertainty over the funding of infrastructure projects. Mid-year Treasury projections imply a sizeable 24% decline in gross issuance in FY17/18 (to AUD78bn), and a larger 43% decline in net issuance (to AUD44bn) compared to the current fiscal year. We present an alternative scenario in Table 10 that assumes that all of the announced infrastructure spending is funded by debt as well as incorporating our economics team’s estimate of improved revenues. Total bond supply is c.AUD10bn higher over the projection period under this scenario but 2016/17 remains the peak. 
While the duration of new ACGB supply is likely to stay high (the weighted average maturity has been 10.6yrs this fiscal year compared to 7.6yrs five years prior) we expect it to be well absorbed. The recent uptick in bid-cover ratios (Chart 11) as well as a continued gradual rise in offshore bond holdings implies a steady demand for duration.
With fiscal consolidation on track, HSBC’s base case is that this budget will not prompt any of the major credit rating agencies to downgrade Australia’s AAA credit rating. Importantly, an improved revenue outlook should give rating agencies more confidence that the public debt-to- GDP ratio stabilises in the near term and declines over the medium term as net bond issuance drops below 2% of GDP (Chart 12).
Australia’s Triple-A rating is positive for bonds primarily because politicians’ commitment to maintaining it encourages strict fiscal discipline. Reflecting this, Australia has the largest underlying fiscal consolidation embedded over the medium term among developed economies, based on the IMF’s standardized methodology (Chart 13). The pricing of credit risk premium is a secondary consideration for ACGBs given there is no real mechanical flow impact associated with a rating downgrade from AAA to AA and arguably yields already reflect a lower rating/ higher degree of sovereign credit risk (e.g. Australian sovereign CDS spreads already trade above the AAA average). 
<a href="https://www.about.hsbc.com.au/hsbc-in-australia/management-team">PAUL BLOXHAM</a> IS CHIEF ECONOMIST (AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND) FOR HSBC. 
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Better budget should protect rating: HSBC's Paul Bloxham

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Property valuation firm Herron Todd White's latest report says despite the residential property market in the Illawarra performing at strong levels of sustained growth, it is difficult to pin down exactly where the hottest market is.
“We know that there is currently strong demand throughout the Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven LGAs," HTW noted.
Auction clearance rates remain high and properties selling by private treaty are typically selling within a month.
"Sale periods of less than two weeks are common,” the report stated.
A three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-wollongong-125239158" target="_blank">10/78 Campbell Street</a>, Wollongong (above) has been listed with a price guide of between $820,000 to $860,000.
Similarly a three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-wollongong-125035462" target="_blank">12/2 Edward Street</a>, Wollongong (below) has been listed for between $850,000 to $880,000.
<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/2017/04/20/12_2%20Edward%20Street.jpg" alt="">
The strong demand is being driven by a number of factors including low interest rates, the media and the flow on effect from Sydney, down to Wollongong, down to the Shoalhaven.
"As buyers miss out on purchasing properties they become more and more desperate and get to the point where they’ll pay whatever it takes to get a listing off the market to secure a property.
This occurs mostly amongst first and second home buyers, especially where they are competing with cashed up investors.
"A property type that appears to be getting a premium is a house in an established area that has nothing to spend on it, for example a relatively new build or a recent full renovation," the report stated.
The property presents really well and the buyer will not have to spend any extra money on it and is aimed at second home buyers.
First home buyers are usually happier to buy at a lower price point and are willing to complete renovations on older dwellings.
“It is hard to imagine that the strong price growth can be sustainable.
"History tells us that the property market is cyclical and strong growth is followed by flatter periods or prices going backwards.
"Unfortunately we do not have an accurate crystal ball so all we can do is speculate.
"Our opinion is that growth may slow towards the end of the year if interest rates rise.
"We don’t imagine that prices would go backwards unless there is a dramatic financial crisis,” the report stated.
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Strong demand throughout Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama and Shoalhaven LGAs: HTW

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More than 30 percent of potential first home buyers have said they may have to put their property plans on the back-burner if interest rates rise, new research has revealed.  
According to Mortgage Choice and Core Data’s Evolving Great Australian Dream whitepaper, 33.7 percent of prospective buyers said they would be “increasingly unlikely to buy a home” if rates started to climb.
For 33.4 percent of respondents, rate rises would not affect their property purchasing intentions, while the remaining 32.9 percent said they were unsure how rate adjustments may impact their property plans.
“The fact that a rate increase would encourage more than one in three first home buyers to put their property plans on the backburner concerns me,” Mortgage Choice chief executive officer John Flavell said.
“The fact is, rate rises are inevitable. In fact, over the past few weeks, the majority of lenders have increased the interest rates across their suite of home loan products.
"These rate increases have come outside of any rate adjustments by the Reserve Bank of Australia.
"According to our lenders, increased funding pressures have forced them to lift their rates.
"The reality is, even with the latest rate increases, mortgage interest rates are still sitting at historically low levels, which ensures the cost of borrowing is still incredibly affordable.”
Mr Flavell said it was important for first home buyers to do their research when applying for a home loan.
“When you are applying for a home loan, you should always dot your ‘i’s’ and cross your ‘t’s’ so you understand what you’re signing up for,” he said.
“It is important to check that you are not only able to service a mortgage at current interest rates, but at increased rates, which will be inevitable.
You should also consider your current and future personal circumstances, as this will impact your ability to repay the mortgage.
A qualified mortgage professional can walk you through your options and recommend the best product to suit your current and future needs.” 
Mr Flavell said brokers were highly regulated and worked hard to ensure customers were placed in a home loan that suited their unique goals and financial circumstances.
“At Mortgage Choice, we always factor in a financial buffer, as do our lender partners.
This financial buffer is usually several percentage points higher than a customers’ interest rate.
By doing this, we make sure all customers can not only comfortably afford their mortgage repayments now, but they can also afford their repayments if and when interest rates rise,” he said.
“Having a customer in a home loan they cannot afford doesn’t benefit anyone.
It’s for this reason why, at Mortgage Choice, we ensure every customer is put in the right financial product for their circumstances.”
Table 1: How will you be impacted when rates rise? 
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<td valign="top" width="213">
With mortgage interest rates at record lows and property prices at record highs, how are you likely to be impacted when rates eventually and inevitably start climbing?
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<td width="78">
National
</td>
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<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="213">
I will be increasingly unlikely to buy a home
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="78">
33.70%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="213">
It will not affect my intentions
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="78">
33.40%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" width="213">
Unsure
</td>
<td valign="bottom" width="78">
32.90%
</td>
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One in three FHBs unlikely to buy home if rates rise

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Fresh data has found that more than one in four first home buyers are prepared to compromise on space, in order to get a foothold into the Australian property market.
Mortgage Choice and Core Data’s Evolving Great Australian Dream whitepaper discovered 27.6 percent of first home buyers would be happy to buy a small dwelling in order to get into the market.
According to Mortgage Choice chief executive officer, John Flavell (pictured), the Great Australian Dream of homeownership is becoming increasingly difficult, with property prices climbing across many different markets, specifically Sydney and Melbourne.
“First home buyers understand that buying property is difficult and they may not be able to buy the exact home they want, or exactly where they want,” Flavell said.
“That said, first home buyers are, on the whole, very financially savvy and they see the benefit of getting their foot on the property ladder sooner rather than later. As such, they are prepared to use different home buying strategies to make their property purchase goals a reality.”
Another popular purchasing strategy amongst first home buyers was buying in the outer suburbs or further away, with 25% of respondents saying they would employ this tactic.
“Our data shows that one in four first home buyers are willing to buy in the outer suburbs or further away from where they would prefer to live. These properties are likely to be cheaper and more affordable, and while this may appear to be a trade-off, it will be worth it in the long run,” he said.
“Once you have built up adequate equity in your property, you can then upgrade and renovate or buy a bigger and better property.”
A third strategy that first home buyers were likely to use was seeking financial support from family, which could take the form of a monetary gift or having a parent go guarantor on a home loan.
“The challenge for first home buyers these days is saving a sufficient deposit. As such, it is no surprise to see a significant number of first home buyers stating that they would look for financial assistance from family in order to make their property goals a reality.”
Flavell added that it was important for first home buyers to remember that property was a long-term investment.
“It is undeniably tough for first home buyers to get onto the property market, but it is not impossible. At the end of the day, property is a long-term investment that will require buyers to take various steps before they can own their ideal home,” he said.
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First home buyers willing to compromise on space to buy 

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Sydney developer Crown Group has entered Melbourne residential market, partnering with with Melbourne developer G3 for a 170-apartment project in Southbank.
The 175 Sturt Street site spans 2,070 sqm.
It is close to Crown Melbourne casino and hotel complex.
It will accommodate a mixed-use luxury resort-style development with ground floor retail, the Australian Financial Review reported.
"We've been strategic in our expansion interstate and this is the right time to expand to Melbourne. I would not be surprised if this is the first of a number of successful developments outside Sydney," said Crown Group chairman and chief executive Iwan Sunito.
"We hope we can set a new benchmark in apartment living in Melbourne and in other states, like we have in Sydney."
He set aside concerns about off-the-plan sales in Melbourne slowing, saying the right location would always sell.
"Depending on the location, Melbourne is still a very promising market, particularly the arts precinct, there is strong demand but not enough supply in that area," he said.
"While we continue to see enormous potential in Sydney, Melbourne is carving its own place among the top international cities in the world. Melbourne is highly regarded internationally for its liveability and we foresee a strong local demand for high-quality apartments with resort-style amenities in Melbourne."
The developer unveiled its $400 million development Waterfall in Sydney late in 2016, and said it had received strong expressions of interest ahead of its launch.
The development is scheduled for completion in 2019. 
"I would not be surprised if stage one of Waterfall sold out as there is a strong demand from local buyers wanting to live closer to amenities," he added.
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Sydney's Crown Group steps into Southbank, Melbourne residential market 

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Templestowe has the highest house quarterly median price growth in Victoria, according to the REIV.
In the March quarter Templestowe's housing price has grown by 17 percent.
This is followed by Mount Eliza with 15.5 percent and Cranbourne North with 14.90 percent.
<table dir="ltr" border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0">
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<col width="100">
<col width="100">
<col width="100">
<col width="100">
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<tbody>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Suburb"}'>Suburb</td>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Mar-17 Median"}'>Mar-17 Median</td>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Dec-16 Median"}'>Dec-16 Median</td>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"Quarterly Change"}'>Quarterly Change</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"TEMPLESTOWE"}'>TEMPLESTOWE</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1552000}'>$1,552,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1320000}'>$1,320,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.176}'>17.60%</td>
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<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"MOUNT ELIZA"}'>MOUNT ELIZA</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1270444}'>$1,270,444</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1100000}'>$1,100,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.155}'>15.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"CRANBOURNE NORTH"}'>CRANBOURNE NORTH</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":518000}'>$518,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":451000}'>$451,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.149}'>14.90%</td>
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<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"KILSYTH"}'>KILSYTH</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":699950}'>$699,950</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":610000}'>$610,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.147}'>14.70%</td>
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<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"MORNINGTON"}'>MORNINGTON</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":870000}'>$870,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":760000}'>$760,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.145}'>14.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"BRUNSWICK"}'>BRUNSWICK</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1271000}'>$1,271,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1125000}'>$1,125,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.13}'>13.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"BUNDOORA"}'>BUNDOORA</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":746625}'>$746,625</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":663000}'>$663,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.126}'>12.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"NORTHCOTE"}'>NORTHCOTE</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1462000}'>$1,462,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1300000}'>$1,300,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.125}'>12.50%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"CRANBOURNE"}'>CRANBOURNE</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":487000}'>$487,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":434990}'>$434,990</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.12}'>12.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"CAMBERWELL"}'>CAMBERWELL</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":2295000}'>$2,295,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":2055000}'>$2,055,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.117}'>11.70%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"BALWYN NORTH"}'>BALWYN NORTH</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1925000}'>$1,925,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1731000}'>$1,731,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.112}'>11.20%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"PRESTON"}'>PRESTON</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1000000}'>$1,000,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":900000}'>$900,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.111}'>11.10%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"KEW"}'>KEW</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":2165000}'>$2,165,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1950000}'>$1,950,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.11}'>11.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"HAMPTON PARK"}'>HAMPTON PARK</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":476500}'>$476,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":430000}'>$430,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.108}'>10.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"RICHMOND"}'>RICHMOND</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1482500}'>$1,482,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1340000}'>$1,340,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.106}'>10.60%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"SUNBURY"}'>SUNBURY</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":455500}'>$455,500</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":412625}'>$412,625</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.104}'>10.40%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"PAKENHAM"}'>PAKENHAM</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":450000}'>$450,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":410000}'>$410,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.098}'>9.80%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"BENTLEIGH EAST"}'>BENTLEIGH EAST</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1270000}'>$1,270,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":1165000}'>$1,165,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.09}'>9.00%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"MOOROOLBARK"}'>MOOROOLBARK</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":697000}'>$697,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":640000}'>$640,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.089}'>8.90%</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='{"1":2,"2":"ROSEBUD"}'>ROSEBUD</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":550000}'>$550,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":4,"2":"\"$\"#,##0","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":506000}'>$506,000</td>
<td data-sheets-numberformat='{"1":3,"2":"0.00%","3":1}' data-sheets-value='{"1":3,"3":0.087}'>8.70%</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-templestowe-125341554" target="_blank">12 Clays Court</a>, Templestowe (above) has been listed for between $1.6 million to $1.75 million.
Similarly a four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-templestowe-125087666" target="_blank">44 Unwin Street</a>, Templestowe (below) has been listed for between $1.68 million to $1.75 million.
<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/2017/05/03/44%20Unwin%20Street.jpg" alt="">
A four bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-templestowe-124950934" target="_blank">254 Serpelis Road</a>, Templestowe (below) was sold recently in April for $1.505 million.
<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/2017/05/03/254%20Serpelis%20Road.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a five bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-templestowe-124913290" target="_blank">26 Bali Hi Boulevard</a>, Templestowe (below) was sold recently in April for $1.51 million.
<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/2017/05/03/26%20Bali%20Hi%20Boulevard.jpg" alt="">
In January this year Property Observer reported <a href="/news/ringwood-caulfield-and-toorak-price-growth-lead-melbournes-median-house-to-750-000-plus-reiv">Melbourne</a>'s housing median rose to $750,000.
*Only suburbs with at least 30 sales in the relevant quarter are included
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