National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

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The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

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Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

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Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

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Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

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Joel Robinson

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 52-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

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Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 52-storey tower, which has just shy of 250 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

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One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

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There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

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The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

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The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

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."

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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."

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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]

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

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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A fully-functioning, owner-operated hotel in the western sector of Melbourne’s CBD has been listed for sale, a welcome move in a market desperate for hotel properties as the city’s hotel occupancy rates hits all-time highs, according to Savills.
Flagstaff City Inn Hotel at 45 Dudley Street is on the market with expectations of more than $18 million. 
The property is being sold on a ‘walk-in, walk-out’ basis with expressions of interest closing April 11.
The hotel makes an income of nearly $1.3 million per annum, and presents the new owner as either a running lucrative hotel business or one with redevelopment play, according to Savills agents Clinton Baxter, Benson Zhou and Jesse Radisich, who are marketing the property.
The two-level hotel contains 42 hotel suites, a restaurant and conference facilities. It occupies 1,304 sqm and is a mixed-use zone.
Located a short walk from Flagstaff Gardens, the property has strong redevelopment potential, judging from the success of a 38-level tower development next door.
"This property has extraordinary potential as an already strongly trading going concern in a hotel market which is in the midst of a severe shortage of stock and a consequent spike in occupancy and room rates,” said Baxter.
"The property‘s potential for redevelopment is perhaps even more exciting given the zoning and the resounding success of other development ventures in this precinct.’’
The record tourism driven hotel sector has seen occupancy rates of near 90 per cent in Melbourne and, with forecasts of further growth in tourism, any investment opportunities which come to the market are much sought after, according to Savills.
<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/2017/03/21/44-55%20Dudley%20St%20aerial.jpg" alt="">
Zhou said the hotel’s close proximity to Melbourne University and Australia’s largest medical precinct, RMIT and the new Halleybury College Campus, would continue to provide a strong catchment for the hotel and likely underpin the viability of any future use, particularly residential use, of the property.
Future development for the site could include high density residential and retail, commercial, student accommodation and hotel uses, added Radisich.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Melbourne's Flagstaff City Inn expected to fetch upwards of $18 million: Savills

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Melbourne weekend auctions are up year on year with March weekend clearance rates around 79.4 percent compared to 73.4 percent in March last year.
Andrew Wilson from Domain said next weekend numbers will be well down by comparison with just over 900 auctions listed.
"A higher clearance rate was recorded at the weekend despite a surge in pre-school holiday listings with 1351 auctions scheduled compared to 1212 the previous weekend," he said.
"Although the Melbourne housing market is in top shape for sellers, the local rental market remains tough for tenants, with February asking rents for houses surging 5.3 percent over the past year. Unit rents were also higher, increasing by 1.3 per cent since February last year.
"Melbourne’s northern suburbs are booming and recorded another strong weekend clearance rate at 90 percent.
"Behind but still strong was the south-east at 83.1 per cent followed by the north-east at 82.9 percent, the inner east at 80.8 percent and the outer east at 79.6 percent.
"The inner south recorded a clearance rate of 78.9 percent followed by the west at 78.8 percent and the highest sales at 152, and the inner city at 78.4 percent."
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Melbourne's northern suburbs leads weekend clearance rate

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A student-only apartment at Prahran - listed with a disclosed $65,000 reserve - sold at weekend auction for $113,000.
But the vendor had paid $219,500 in 2009 when it was bought from Urban Studio Axiom.  
Located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-prahran-124859358" target="_blank">G01/8 Porter Street</a>, the tiny property has its own garden and courtyard.
It is leased for another 12 months for $245 per week - its sale price reflecting an 11 rental yield.
The apartment was marketed as suitable for a couple or individual.
Prahran station is in close proximity as well as tram lines and eateries and bars.
The property was offered through Purplebricks agent Andrew Leung who took a $65,000 opening bid.
There were six bidders.
It is not the first resale at huge discount to prior sale price in the block.
There was a $100,000 sale last March having previously sold at $179,500 in 2009, with banks having a clear aversion to student housing lending.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Double the reserve, but half its prior selling price in Prahran

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Melbourne model Megan Gale has found a buyer for her designer mansion in Aberfeldie.
It took just 26 days for the contemporary five bedder to sell.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-27%20at%2011.23.21%20AM.png" alt="">
It sold through Charlie Bongiovannica at alexcarbon, who sold her the home when she paid $2,375,000 in 2013.
Bongiovannica was seeking offers above $2.5 million.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-27%20at%2011.23.16%20AM.png" alt="">
It's widely anticipated she is likely to upgrade her home in the southern capital, with the news her partner, Richmond ruckman Shaun Hampson, has signed with the club for another two years.
Set near the Maribyrnong River, the modern home with a fully imported Italian kitchen comes with a dedicated theatre room and a large sunken lounge with fireplace.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-27%20at%2011.23.11%20AM.png" alt="">
The lounge transitions to a large undercover alfresco area overlooking a salt-chlorinated, self-cleaning, solar-heated infinity pool.
Late last year the Australia's Next Top Model judge scored $3 million for her former Sydney weekender at Palm Beach.
She had paid $3.2 million in 2006, fresh from a seven-year modelling stint in Italy.
Now the last of the Gale's Perth property portfolio is for sale too.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-27%20at%2011.23.06%20AM.png" alt="">
The Attadale home, south of Perth, is being sold with a guide of $1.3 million through Moncrieff Realty agent Anita Moncrieff. 
Gale also recently signed off on the $515,000 sale of one of the family's properties in her hometown Perth.
The three bedroom home just outside of Fremantle had been in the co-ownership of Megan, mother May and late father Alan since 2005 when they paid $332,000.
This article first appeared in The Weekend Australian's Mansion Australia section. 
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Megan Gale finds buyer for designer Aberfeldie mansion

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One of the Northern Territory's richest oil and gas magnates Jerry Ren, has listed his huge Warrawee mansion, Pantagruel.
Ren paid a suburb record $11.5 million in 2010 for the massive nine bedroom, 11 bathroom home that spans over 2000 sqm.
Architect Espie Dodds designed the home in the 1980s for oil magnate Pat Burke, drawing inspiration from the colonial era's Elizabeth Bay House.
It first sold incomplete in 1999 for $3 million to entrepreneur Simon and Brenda Tripp.
The home with stately formal lounge and banquet style dining room has a theatre, full sized billiard room, home bar, 3,000 bottle wine cellar and home office.
There's a pool and championship tennis court on the large 6,405 sqm private estate which Luschwitz Real Estate Pymble agent Stephen Sales listed this week.
There are $15 million expectations.
Locals have long referred to it as the Chilton Hilton given its nine bedrooms and 11 bathrooms.
This article first appeared in the Daily Telegraph.
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Magnate Jerry Ren lists Warrawee mansion Pantagruel

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The Block Sky High alumni Bec and George Douros secured the $910,000 weekend sale of the first house they bought together in Melbourne.
Transformed with a recent year-long DIY $100,000 renovation, the 1950s Spotwood weatherboard was bought almost eight years ago for $490,000.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-spotswood-124844478" target="_blank">2 Robert Street</a> (above) offering came with a price guide of $850,000 to $900,000 through Jas Stephens, Williamstown, selling agent Mark Hutcheson.
Bec and George, who pocketed $242,000 from their stint on The Block Sky High in 2013, previously subdivided the block to build a townhouse on the site.
The national auction clearance rate nudged higher over the week, at the same time the number of auctions surged to the second highest level this year.
Auction activity across the capital cities increased this week from 2,916 last week to 3,147 this weekend.
It was the largest number of auctions since the last week of February 2017 when 3,301 auctions were held.
This time last year was the Easter long weekend.
The clearance rate across the combined capitals was 77 percent, increasing from 74 percent over the previous week and up from 70.9 percent one year ago.
"Australia’s largest auction markets are continuing to run hot," CoreLogic’s auction commentator Kevin Brogan said.
Sydney saw the highest preliminary clearance rate across the cities at 81.1 percent.
Brisbane and Perth where clearance rates fell.
A total of 1,082 homes were auctioned in Sydney this week, with preliminary results returning a clearance rate of 81.1 percent, the strongest clearance rate for Sydney so far this year.
Last week, across the 1,001 auctions in the city, 76.8 percent of results were successful.
The busiest regions for auctions across Sydney this week were North Sydney and Hornsby (151 auctions) and Inner South West (124 auctions), while clearance rates ranged from as high as 91.3 per cent in Northern Beaches to as low as 63.8 per cent in Parramatta.
Sydney's top sale was at Vaucluse where a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-vaucluse-124825934" target="_blank">six bedroom contemporary home</a> (below) was sold through McGrath Estate Agents.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-27%20at%209.56.31%20AM.png" alt="">
There were 1,601 Melbourne auctions this week, making it the busiest capital city. Across the 1,391 reported results, 79.9 per cent were successful this week, up from 77 percent last week.
Prices topped out with a five bedroom $5.53 million Brighton house, which was offered for the first time in five decades.
The 1930s Gordon Murphy-designed home with extension designed by architect Geoffrey Woodfall sits on a 1279 square metre <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-brighton-124876698" target="_blank">Kinane Street block</a> (below).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-27%20at%209.57.38%20AM.png" alt="">
It sold at $530,000 above reserve.
Sales included a<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-chelsea-124875466" target="_blank"> </a>Chelsea beach box (below), number 1322, which sold to a local for $175,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-27%20at%209.59.33%20AM.png" alt="">
"Shed No. 1322 has been held by the same family for three generations," Barry Plant Mordialloc selling agent Michael Care said.
The strongest performing Melbourne sub-region was the North West with 91.7 percent of auctions clearing, followed by the Mornington Peninsula region (88.1 percent) based on preliminary results.
Across Brisbane, auction volumes rose from 179 last week to 196 this week, with a preliminary clearance rate of 44 percent, compared to 50 percent last week. 
Brisbane's top sale was a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-hawthorne-124505082" target="_blank">442 sqm riverfront block </a>(below) offering city views from its Hawthorne vantage point, that fetched $2,225,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-27%20at%2010.00.46%20AM.png" alt="">
The Ray White offering of the Gordon Street had last sold at $2.3 million in 2007.
Preliminary results show that 68.2 percent of the 124 Adelaide auctions were successful this week, up from last week (57.4 percent).
The top sale was a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-magill-124847266" target="_blank">five-bedroom character home at Magill</a> (below) - the former orphanage known as Lentara - with sold through Belle Property for $1.412 million.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-27%20at%2010.01.52%20AM.png" alt="">
With soaring 3.6m ceilings, stained glass, cove cornices, and Baltic timber floors, the house sits on 1490 sq m at 6 Penfold Road.
It last sold at $1.28 million in 2012.
Perth’s preliminary auction clearance rate was 30.8 per cent this week across 13 results. Last week, 42 results were captured across the city, with 61.9 per cent having sold. 
Some 78.4 percent of Canberra auctions were successful this week, up from 72.9 percent last week and higher than one year ago (58.3 percent). There were 104 auctions held in Canberra this week and 114 last week. 
A lakeside reserve 1950s home was the ACT's top sale at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/8-brown-st-yarralumla-act-2600" target="_blank">$2.59 million at Yarralumba</a>.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/03/27/Screen%20Shot%202017-03-27%20at%2010.03.22%20AM.png" alt="">
The 8 Brown Street three-bedroom monocrete cottage on 867 sq m was the only property on the street of nine houses yet to be redeveloped.
Domain reported there were nine registered bidders.
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Spotswood weatherboard sells for Block alumni

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/65552/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-advanced" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUEST OBSERVER
Have you ever found yourself facing your recycling bin, completely befuddled about whether or not you can put a particular item in it?
You’re not alone. According to Planet Ark, nearly half of Australians find recycling confusing. 
Australia’s recycling rules can seem horrendously complicated, but fortunately they are becoming more simple.
In the meantime, here’s a brief guide to some of the golden rules of kerbside recycling, plus what to do with materials that can’t go in your recycling bin. 
<a href="https://cdn.theconversation.com/files/162140/width754/image-20170323-13486-5j3j3r.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://cdn.theconversation.com/files/162140/width754/image-20170323-13486-5j3j3r.png" alt="">The Conversation, <a class="license" href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/">CC BY-ND</a>
As the first rule above says, most papers, plastics, metals and glasses can be recycled, but there are a few exceptions and rules for special handling. To find out more, click on each material below. This will also tell you how else you can recycle the items that can’t go in your kerbside recycling bin.
<div id="responsive-iframe-0">Other helpful sources for recycling rules include: </div>
<ul>
<li>
Planet Ark’s mobile app, online guide and National Recycling Week website.
</li>
<li>
The Victorian government’s Get it right on bin night and the South Australian government’s Recycle right campaigns.
</li>
<li>
Sydney’s Garbage Guru, which lets you look up any item and see the best thing to do with it – it’s likely to be applicable to many other cities across the country.
</li>
</ul>
<h2>Why do some things need special treatment?</h2>
Some items need special handling before they can go in kerbside recycling. These are generally either very small items, or complex/composite items.
Small items, like scraps of paper or foil, steel bottle caps or plastic bottle lids and coffee pods, can cause problems if simply placed in a recycling bin. Because they are small, they can literally fall through the cracks in sorting machines, causing damage to the machines or ending up in landfill. 
Combined or composite items are complex items that contain multiple materials, such as newspapers or magazines in plastic wrap, or composite items like Pringles tubes. Automated recycling machines can cope with very small amounts of different materials, such as staples in paper, plastic windows on envelopes, paper labels on glass jars, or slight residues of food on containers. But items with multiple materials can confuse the machines and end up in the wrong category, introducing contamination. 
<h2>Why is contamination an issue?</h2>
Contamination is when things that can’t be recycled through kerbside recycling systems end up in the recycling system.
Contamination can create many problems: recyclable materials may need to be dumped in landfill; the output of recycled materials is less pure; workers at recycling facilities can be put at risk; and in some cases machinery can be damaged. All of these lead to increased costs of recycling that may be passed on to residents.
For example, glass recycling programs are designed only to process glass bottles and jars, which are crushed and then melted down and re-used. Drinking glasses, ceramics, plate glass (window panes) and oven-proof glass melt at higher temperatures than normal glass bottles and jars. When these are incorrectly placed in recycling, this tougher glass can remain solid among the melted glass, leading to impure glass products and damaged machinery.
Better technology is helping to remove contaminants during sorting. But it’s always best to get it right at the source. Planet Ark says that a good recycler’s motto is: “If in doubt, leave it out.”
<h2>What about things that can’t be recycled at home?</h2>
Just because something can’t be recycled through kerbside collections, that doesn’t mean it can’t be recycled at all. 
New channels for recycling more complex items have been pioneered by organisations such as Planet Ark and TerraCycle, as well as by local councils, industry and government under schemes such as the Australian Packaging Covenant and the National Television and Computer Recycling Scheme.
Most councils have drop-off locations for larger items that can’t go in kerbside bins, such as electronics, batteries, light bulbs, chemicals and hazardous waste, as well as pickups for white goods and mattresses.
Many supermarkets in metro areas have REDcycle bins that accept soft plastics like plastic bags, soft plastic packaging, biscuit packets and trays, dry cleaning bags, and other “scrunchable” plastics.
Industry take-back programs include Fridge Buy Back, TechCollect for electronics, and ReturnMed for unwanted or expired medicines.
Some big companies now have collection points, such as Ikea which take used batteries, light bulbs, mattresses and allen keys, and <a href="https://corporate.aldi.com.au/en/corporate-responsibility/operations/battery-recycling/">Aldi</a> which also takes used batteries.
<a href="https://cdn.theconversation.com/files/138174/area14mp/image-20160919-16988-6b0ew4.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<a href="https://cdn.theconversation.com/files/138174/area14mp/image-20160919-16988-6b0ew4.png"><img src="https://cdn.theconversation.com/files/138174/width754/image-20160919-16988-6b0ew4.png" alt=""></a>
<div class="enlarge_hint"> </div>
Free Terracycle recycling programs. Adapted from TerraCycle (https://www.terracycle.com.au)
Recycling is vital to reducing resource use and waste to landfill, and so getting it right is crucial.
Jenni Downes is research consultant, Institute of Sustainable Futures, University of Technology Sydney and author for The Conversation. She can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jenni-downes-12549" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Five golden rules to help solve your recycling dilemma

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GUEST OBSERVER
With an RBA rate rise looming and big banks already hiking rates across fixed rate home loans, it seems the rock bottom rates of 2016 are now a thing of the past for property buyers.
All four big banks have now slammed home borrowers with rate rises in the past couple of weeks, joining another 14 lenders who have pushed up variable rates out of cycle this month alone. 
The big banks have a history of higher than average interest rates - so far, since 2009, all the big banks have increased rates by more than the RBA did two times each (except NAB, who did it once.) They also all held back a full RBA rate cut 7 times a piece (although ANZ only did it 6 times.)
There are a couple of reasons for these recent rate hikes - the excuse the banks have given is that cost of funding is getting higher, so loan rates need to increase as well. 
The likelihood of an RBA rate increase sometime next year is also a consideration, particularly for fixed rate offers, as banks factor that into current rates that they won’t be able to adjust for the next two years or more. So for the rest of this year at least, it seems rates will only be pushed higher.
Investors will have it particularly tough, with APRA breathing down the necks of lenders after investment loans spiked toward the end of 2016. CommBank, which grew its investment loan portfolio by 8.02 percent over the last 12 months, has already started tightening criteria for lending to investors by dropping LVRs and limiting refinancing loans.
In fact, <a href="https://mozo.com.au/" target="_blank">Mozo</a> data shows that the average big banks interest rate premium on variable rate investor loans has doubled in the last year.
So things are looking gloomy for borrowers hoping to get a foot on the property ladder with a low rate loan, especially since big bank loans now account for 85% of the investor loan market, and 81 percent of owner-occupier loans.
That means now, when record low rates seem to be squarely behind us, is the time for new borrowers to really do their research into what offer is going to work best for their budget, and for those already paying off a mortgage to re-evaluate their situation and decide if it’s worth refinancing to lock in a good deal while they’re still around.
STEVE JOVCEVSKI is a property investment and home loan negotiator at <a href="https://mozo.com.au/" target="_blank">Mozo.com.au</a>.
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The low rate mortgage party is over for property buyers: Mozo

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Entry level properties in Sydney’s eastern suburbs are generally limited to units with former industrial areas and unused sites with development, according to HTW’s Month in Review: March 2017. 
The valuation firm says Sydney’s eastern suburbs market is a more difficult market for first home buyers to enter due to its desired proximity to the CBD and beaches, therefore attracting higher prices.
“Modern one bedroom units in the $650,000 to $1 million price range can be purchased throughout suburbs such as Little Bay, Botany/ Mascot, Rosebery/Zetland and Waterloo,” the firm says.
“Older style units can also be purchased in this price bracket however the first home buyers grant and stamp duty saving does not apply.”
The report says the inner west market attracts significant interest since the construction and completion of the light rail project contributing to price rises.
Entry level units may be easier to come by compared to some parts of the eastern suburbs, it suggests.
“Older style one and two bedroom units in Dulwich Hill, Marrickville and Petersham can be purchased for $600,000 to $750,000,” HTW says.
“Unit development in the Bankstown, Punchbowl and Lakemba corridor has increased significantly and this has seen units available at relatively affordable prices between $500,000 to $700,000 for new one, two and three bedroom units.
“Bankstown is positioned 20 kilometres from Sydney CBD and the train service will get a commuter into the city in less than 40 minutes.”
A one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-mascot-124658518" target="_blank">256/3-9 Church Avenue</a>, Mascot (above) is listed with a price guide of $770,000.
Similarly a one bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-zetland-124880978" target="_blank">61/5B Victoria Park Parade</a>, Zetland is listed for between $700,000 to $770,000.
<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/2017/03/09/61_5B%20Victoria%20Park%20Parade.jpg" alt="">
A two bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-marrickville-124888542" target="_blank">2/169 Livingstone Road</a>, Marrickville (below) has been listed with a buyers guide of $710,000.
<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/2017/03/21/2_169%20Livingstone%20Road.jpg" alt="">
Similarly a two bedroom unit at<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-dulwich+hill-124997126" target="_blank"> 3/6 Pigott Street</a>, Dulwich Hill (below) has been listed for $699,000.
<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/2017/03/21/3_6%20Pigott%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Sydney first time buyers should ignore the east and head to inner west: HTW

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The Done family's Cadmium Property launched their residential development, The Surry in Surry Hills with great success.  
Selling 50 percent of apartments on the morning of launch - out of the 24 residences - around 80 percent of purchasers were owner occupiers and locals.  A one bedroom apartment sold for $1.1 million.
A three bedroom apartment sold for more than $3 million at the Elizabeth Street location.
Apartment prices range from:
1 beds from $895,000+
2 beds from $1,500,000+
3 beds from $2,100,000+
The north facing development features a landscaped garden designed with seasonal charm in mind and city views. 
Cadmium Property is part of The Done Group – a family owned business run by Oscar and Camilla, the children of artist Ken Done.
For The Surry they have partnered with renowned architectural firm Candalepas to create a development with only 24 apartments.
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