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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sherpa sells out Flourish Oasis in booming Palm Beach

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

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

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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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Flemington has been recently ranked the Melbourne suburb with the fastest selling houses.
Houses listed by private treaty in Flemington sell in 39 days, according to Investar’s latest market report.
It was followed by Kensington at 40 days and Caulfield South at 42 days.
Houses price growth at Flemington appears to also have some gallop too.
The three bedroom Edwardian home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-flemington-123684630" target="_blank">17 Sturt Street</a> (above) was offered for weekend auction with initial price guidance between $850,000 to $900,000, which was upped to $860,000 to $940,000 during the marketing campaign.
It fetched $1,237,000 at weekend auction having last sold at $585,000 in 2005.
The Malvern home of the late legendary bookmaker Sid Hill and his widow Marcia sold for $3.15 million on Saturday.
It was declared on the market at $2.95 million as four bidders battled for the home. 
Auction clearances rose to their highest level this year across Australia.
The national average rate clearance hit 80.2 percent, up from 76. 2 percent last week, CoreLogic's preliminary numbers showed.
In Sydney, the success rate rose to 85.6 percent from 81.4 percent last week as the number of spring auctions fell to 866 from 913.
Melbourne clearances increased too from 77.7 percent to 81.8 percent, while its auction numbers rose, to 1378 from 1182 last week given the push forward from the pending spring racing carnival distraction.
While listing numbers typically head higher the deeper into the spring selling season, this year they remain stubbornly weak.
Every capital city except Canberra had less weekend auction stock than a year ago.
Every capital city recorded a preliminary clearance higher than a year ago.
CoreLogic's Kevin Brogan noted the 2641 auctions scheduled for the week to Saturday was 16 percent below the 3143 of the same weekend last October. 
Domain had Reservoir and Richmond, in Melbourne, as the busiest suburbs for auctions across the nation with 21 residential homes set to go under the hammer.
They were followed by St Kilda (20) and Brighton (19) also have a relatively high number of auctions.
In Melbourne, Australia’s largest auction market, 81.8 percent of the 1,229 reported auctions sold this week.
"This is the second time this month the clearance rate for Melbourne has been above 80 per cent," Kevin Brogan said.
The 1,378 auctions held across Melbourne was lower than the 1,690 auctions held one year ago, when there was a notably lower clearance rate of 69.7 percent.
Melbourne's top sale was a Hawthorn house. The double fronted <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-hawthorn-123674538" target="_blank">1890s Hawthorn Grove house</a>, (below) Brehon fetched $5.02 million with three bidders. 
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/Screen%20Shot%202016-10-24%20at%209.56.04%20AM.png" alt="">
It was listed by Jellis Craig with $4 million plus price guidance, then selling well above the $4.3 million reserve price set for the deceased estate which is one of the last unrenovated properties on the street. 
There was a $5.5 million top bid at Balwyn but it did not sell.
A <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-west+footscray-123678098" target="_blank">West Footscray apartment</a> (below) scored the nation's cheapest sale when a one bedroom unit sold for $200,000.
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/Screen%20Shot%202016-10-24%20at%209.57.06%20AM.png" alt="">
It was just $10,000 higher than its $190,000 sale in 2012. The one bedroom apartment had most recently been a $250 a week rental.
In Sydney, 866 auctions were held this week, down from 913 over the previous week.
"The preliminary clearance rate of 85.6 per cent is the highest recorded for the year to date," Kevin Brogan said.
Since the beginning of spring Sydney’s clearance rate has remained above 78 per cent.
The 85.6 per cent success rate sits significantly higher than this time last year, when a clearance rate of 61.3 per cent was recorded across 1,024 auctions.
The Blacktown region recorded the strongest clearance rate of 93.8 per cent across 22 auctions.
Sydney's top sale was a riverfront mansion which sold for <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property/72-champion-rd-tennyson-point-nsw-2111" target="_blank">$8.3 million at Tennyson Point</a> (below) smashing its $7 million reserve.
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/Screen%20Shot%202016-10-24%20at%209.58.16%20AM.png" alt="">
The selling agent Matthew Ward said four registered bidders competed to own the home which was built eight years ago.
Brisbane was host to 192 auctions this week and so far 118 results have been reported, with 53.4 per cent of successful sales.
Brisbane's top sale was $2.8 million in East Brisbane when the quintessential Queenslander, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-east+brisbane-123695558" target="_blank">Quambathella</a> (below) was sold through Ray White.
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/Screen%20Shot%202016-10-24%20at%2010.00.24%20AM.png" alt="">
It was listed by the Brisbane hairdresser, Jon LeCourt who founded the hairdressing chain Jon LeCourt Salons in the early 1970s.
He purchased the home in 1987 for $325,000.
Quambathella, built in the early 1900s by real estate agent George Blocksidge, sits on a prime 3644sq m block.
The cheapest Brisbane district sale was $285,000 at Eagleby. 
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/Screen%20Shot%202016-10-24%20at%2010.01.39%20AM.png" alt="">
The f<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-eagleby-123711382" target="_blank">our bedroom late 1970s house</a> (above) had traded last in 1984 at $41,650.
Adelaide saw a preliminary clearance rate of 77.4 percent while Perth’s clearance rate was 46.2 percent across 33 auctions.
Canberra had a total of 64 auctions this week, compared to 72 last week and 58 at the same time last year. 
Canberra’s preliminary clearance rate of 74.4 percent was down on the previous week's 82.8 percent.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Clearance rate gallops to year high, as auction listings stay stubbornly low

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The Office of State Revenue (NSW) are hosting free information sessions on surcharge purchaser duty and surcharge land tax.
These will focus on surcharge purchaser duty which applies to foreign persons who acquire residential land, and surcharge land tax which applies to foreign persons who acquire or already own residential land.
The definitions of foreign persons and residential land will be explained, as well as exemptions, calculations and more.
Session will be run from various locations around New South Wales;
<ul>
<li>Sydney CBD - 2 November</li>
<li>Bondi Junction - 9 November</li>
<li>North Sydney - 14 November</li>
<li>Wollongong - 15 November</li>
<li>Newcastle - 17 November</li>
<li>Parramatta - 21 November</li>
<li>Queanbeyan - 22 November</li>
<li>Wagga Wagga - 23 November</li>
<li>Dubbo - 29 November</li>
<li>Orange - 30 November</li>
<li>Campbelltown - 1 December</li>
<li> </li>
</ul>
You can register online at:
<a href="https://www.osr.nsw.gov.au/info/seminar/online">www.osr.nsw.gov.au/info/seminar/online</a>
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Property 101: Foreign surcharge information sessions for NSW

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/67455/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUEST OBSERVER
Australia’s immigration system is at risk of losing public confidence, undermining its long running success.
The government needs to make policy changes to put migrant workers and employers back on equal footing.
The successful “Brexit” campaign to leave the European Union illustrates the consequences of failing to properly manage public perception of immigration. Changes to the United Kingdom’s immigration policy were producing economic benefits and helping to plug gaps in the UK labour market. However, opponents successfully blamed the EU’s free movement of labour for increased immigration and various social and economic problems. 
Australia’s situation is different, but there is weak regulation of the employers who hire migrant workers, especially temporary visa holders who are often susceptible to being mistreated. This is serving to marginalise migrants in the labour market and broader society.
Large intakes of economic immigrants have not led to major political upheaval in Australia. Aside from occasional spikes in support for Pauline Hanson’s One Nation, anti-immigration parties have failed to establish ongoing influence. Labor and the Coalition have supported expansive economic immigration policies for much of the post-war era.
The impact of economic immigration on Australia’s population, economy, and labour market is virtually unmatched. Since 1945, immigrants and their immediate descendants have accounted for over half of the nation’s population growth. 
More than one in four workers in Australia were born in another country. The foreign-born population as a share of total population is higher in Australia than in any other OECD country, except for Luxembourg and Switzerland.
Australia’s immigration policies have changed significantly in recent years. They have shifted increasingly towards temporary immigration, focused on skilled, working holiday and international student visas. 
While this marks a departure from Australia’s legacy of encouraging immigrants to settle on a permanent basis, benefits of these changes are evident.
Economic immigrants have offset an ageing population, improved labour productivity, helped businesses to source skills that are difficult to find at short notice and addressed the needs of regional areas and industries. 
Unemployment among skilled immigrants is negligible because they tend to be employed in high-income occupations and contribute more to government revenue through taxation than they take through public services and benefits.
Just as a steady inflow of immigrants has eased Australia’s shift from a manufacturing to a services economy, they will play an important role in helping our businesses to innovate in the face of intensified global competition and technological change.
However reforms are needed to maintain public support for sustained immigration intakes. Most importantly, widespread underpayment and mistreatment of working holidaymakers and international students in the workplace must be addressed urgently. 
Such issues have been exposed internationally. They may negatively impact Australia’s competitive standing in industries such as education and horticulture that rely heavily on temporary migrant workers.
Recent media reports, government inquiries and academic studies show that mistreatment of temporary migrant workers is not limited to 7-Eleven. Policy changes particularly through strong enforcement of regulations are needed to restore level playing fields for business and the workforce.
Some visa arrangements can cause temporary migrant workers to become dependent on their employers. For example, international students are required to work no more than 40 hours per fortnight. 
A small transgression exposes international students to potential visa cancellation and removal. Their resident rights, enrolment in education, and employment are then dependent on employers not sharing any breaches of their visa conditions with the Department of Immigration and Border Protection. Unless these and other arrangements the create dependence on employers are fixed, temporary migrants will remain fearful of seeking redress. 
Weak enforcement of employment laws fails to deter unscrupulous employers from underpaying and mistreating temporary migrants and puts honest employers at a competitive disadvantage. 
The Fair Work Ombudsman has only 250 inspectors for 2.1 million workplaces and 11.6 million workers. It needs more resources to ensure that our employment laws are enforced in industries with large numbers of temporary migrant workers such as food services, hospitality, retail, and horticulture.
Allocation of temporary skilled 457 visas must reflect genuine skills shortages rather than recruitment problems some employers experience, which are often the result of the low wages and poor conditions they offer to prospective employees. 
The policies governing 457 visas must take greater account of objective longer-term labour market needs. This includes providing opportunities for decent employment and attractive career paths for workers, rather than serving subjective short-term employer interests.
Economic immigration in Australia has been managed remarkably successfully. But for the good of the country we must address current challenges that have the potential to undermine public confidence in existing immigration policies.
Chris F. Wright is postdoctoral Research Fellow, University of Sydney and can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/chris-f-wright-9738" target="_blank">here</a>.
Stephen Clibborn is associate lecturer, The University of Sydney Business School, University of Sydney and can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/stephen-clibborn-111815" target="_blank">here</a>.
Both are authors for The Conversation.
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Australia is at risk of losing migrants who are vital to the health of our economy

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/66923/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUEST OBSERVER
Why is it that despite how much and how often we use toponyms (place names) linguists, geographers, cartographers, and historians know so little about how they actually work? 
Why is it that place names are less prone to change than other aspects of language like accents and pronunciations? And how is it that regardless of how well furnished a map or smartphone may be with place names and directions, we still bloody well get lost? And why are so many Australian places named after knobs?
Eamon Evans’s 280-page Mount Buggery to Nowhere Else: the stories behind Australia’s weird and wonderful place names lists hundreds of place names — colonial, Aboriginal, German, and other — that adorn our country. It is an entertaining, non-academic read with a playful manner, which charts place names from the serious – the many names for Australia, for example – to the jocular, like Australia’s many rude and dirty topographic monikers.
Many of Evans’s humorous stories go a way to responding to some of the scientific inadequacies and toponymic foibles so common in place naming studies. And after I’ve spent almost a decade inundated with often sterile and uninspirational place name theory and how it may fit within more general research in onomastics, the study of proper names, Evans’s tongue-in-cheek take is more than welcome.
The book begins with a reasonable and justified dis of Lucky Starr and his 1962 claim “I’ve been everywhere.” Evans doubts this claim—fair enough, Lucky lists at least 94 places – and estimates this large country of ours has around four million place names. Visiting all of these sites would take yonks, around half a lifetime tells Evans, and would involve using lots of petrol, shoes, and time travelling beyond the Black Stump and back o’ Bourke. He claims the observations and offbeat remarks in this companion save us from doing all this legwork and allows us to sit back and enjoy the often-bumpy yet comical toponymic ride.
I grew up in Adelaide, surrounded by road and place names honouring rich and powerful, dead white men (plus a minuscule number of women). I mean, how many William Streets, Edward Streets, Victoria Everythings, and Queen Elizabeth Otherthings does Australia need? 
Naming is power, which Evans obviously understands. Furthermore, he takes the piss. And he bloody well should. Our eponymous (of a person) place name landscape is largely boring as bat turd and as stodgy and starchy as badly cooked porridge.
In telling us about the histories and etymologies (origins) of places, the colonial makeup of our pre-European toponymically terra-annuled joint is made real. Take Lake Alexandrina in South Australia:
"named after Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandrina of Kent, the then heir to the British throne. A nice gesture, but perhaps a wasted one, as the princess much preferred her middle name. We now call her Queen Victoria."
We get quirky introductions to each of the nine chapters – one for Australia and one each for every state and territory – plus more toponymic toilet humour than one could poke a dirty toilet brush at in an outback dunny. The knob gets quite a mention, which we are told is a prominent rounded hill, mountain, or elevation on a ridge, with Chinamans Knob, Governors Knob, Iron Knob, Nimbin’s Blue Knob, Spanker Knob, and Yorkeys Knob. I think you get the picture. 
We’re told about Mount Little Dick in Victoria, which Evans hopes is named after a small man named Richard who used to live there and nothing else, Lake Fanny near Mossy Nipple Bend in Tasmania, and a few perky hills also in Tasmania called The Nipples.
This feminal place name reminds me of a topographical name on Kangaroo Island I documented back in 2009. The Tits is a place with undulating landscape similar to a woman’s corporeal scenery on the left side of Hog Bay Road near Pelican Lagoon. Between the Tits is a fishing ground off Kangaroo Head, which uses the space between The Tits in lining up the ground. 
Apart from the colonial propensity for double entendres, some of these places are simply the victim of time: Cockburn (pronounced “ko-burn”) was named after the prominent sailor Sir George Cockburn. Intercourse Island, 1,500 kilometres north of Perth, was the site of a productive conversation between Captain Philip Parker King and some local Indigenous people. 
The listing of the town Verdun in South Australia gives excellent information about the cleansing-cum-sanitisation of German place names in South Australia during the Great War. Friedrichstadt became Tangari, Neudorf became Mamburdi, and Hahndorf became Ambleside to become Hahndorf again in 1935. “About the only German place name that wasn’t changed,” Evans tells us, “was Adelaide – a city named after a German princess”.
Let’s not forget those place names which are mistakes. For example, Bundle Bundle was bungled to become Bungle Bungle; Mount Kokeby, named after Baron Rokeby, was misspelled as “Kokeby” after a spelling error in one of the town’s first train timetables. Place names are filled with specimens of our laziness and folly.
One can always quibble about what was not given. Regarding the contemporary issue of dual naming, something which could be taken from both a humorous and serious perspective, it was a shame not to have seen a little more beyond the Uluru-Ayers Rock example. For example, Nobbys Head in Newcastle is officially known as Whibayganba. What was formerly known as Grampians National Park in Victoria is now officially called Grampians / Gariwerd. The area contains the dual name Halls Gap / Budja Budja.
Dual place naming is a weighty and contentious affair in modern Australian politics and the social cartography of this once unnamed land is dependent on best representing all levels of place naming: Indigenous, British, German, and others. Perhaps this is something for the second edition of Evans’s book, if he’s not too buggered.
The story of Adaminaby, a mining town in New South Wales Evans says was supposedly named in honour of the line, “Ada’s mine it be,” makes one wonder about the credibility of some bush toponymic lore. But Evans happily acknowledges the hazier areas of his research, and ultimately, who cares?
Place names are fun and their study should be the same. What Evans offers is an amusing take on a potentially very dry topic. It’s not a weighty book and is minus a conclusion to pull it all together, but it would make a grouse Chrissie present. 
If wit and quips can be used to good effect to get people thinking about important matters like place naming from a humorous and lively perspective, then Evans’s account is a noble achievement.
Joshua Nash is postdoctoral research fellow, School of Behavioural, Cognitive and Social Sciences, University of New England and author for The Conversation. He can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/joshua-nash-307771" target="_blank">here</a>.
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Buggered if I know where I am: the stories behind Australia’s weird and wonderful place names

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<div>A bit of early disclosure: I'll admit here straight away that I had a few gripes with the Grattan Institute during the recent election campaign when I felt they were twisting 'facts' to suit their arguments. For example:</div>
<a href="/images/2016/10/24/Grattan.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/Grattan.jpg" alt="">
 
<div>Over years of experience in housing markets, I've literally never heard of anyone paying a huge lump of stamp duty only to sell their investment property because the rents had become too high (before buying another loss-making investment property, and incurring yet more stamp duty). Would never happen in a month of Sundays.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Anyway, I generally don't bear grudges, so we can let bygones be just that! Let's move on from that to today's op-ed from Grattan, which recommended that other states follow the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) lead in phasing out stamp duties for a broad based property tax. 
</div>
<div>Land tax in the ACT</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In theory, phasing out stamp duty - a pro-cyclical levy which discourages labour force mobility (if, for some unknown reason, not landlord churn!) - in favour of higher recurrent property taxes is a sound economic principle.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Of course, one always fears that new and additional taxes raised will be frittered away on infrastructure white elephants, while those of us that have already paid their stamp duties are naturally inclined to be grouchy (in the same way that I'm bound to think that Chartered Accountants shouldn't have open book exams, because we didn't 'back in my day'). </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Overall, I tend to agree with most of Grattan's points, with stamp duties being an inefficient if extraordinarily lucrative levy. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>In fact, I wrote a piece myself for Property Observer back in 2013 which discussed precisely the potential benefits of introducing a progressive and recurrent property tax (i.e. not necessarily a straight land tax). </div>
<div> </div>
<div><a href="/images/2016/10/24/ACT4.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/10/24/ACT4.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div>
 Canberra housing
</div>
<div> </div>
<div>That said, five years in to the experiment, there was no analysis provided by Grattan of the impact of the tax reforms to date on the housing market in the nation's capital itself. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>As always, of course, it's impossible to isolate the impact of shifts in property taxes. We can't after all run a parallel universe wherein another version of Canberra sticks with the old regime as a control experiment (Lord knows, just the one Canberra existing in our own Universe is plenty!).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In any event, here's a quick look at what's been going down.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The ABS Residential Property Price Indexes to 30 June 2016 showed established house prices rising by +8.0 per cent, and a +6.0 per cent increase for all dwellings - rates of price growth which in a healthy market should be resulting in a strong supply response. Anecdotal evidence suggests that house prices have been going a bit silly in parts of Canberra, though I do worry about the outlook for the new apartment market in the city.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Investor loans have understandably declined due to the inevitable uncertainty of change. This may in part be due to tighter lending restrictions introduced by APRA in 2015, and in any case many would argue that lower investor loan activity is on balance a good thing.  </div>
<a href="/images/2016/10/24/ACT1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/ACT1.jpg" alt="">
 Less thrillingly, detached house approvals have tanked.
<a href="/images/2016/10/24/ACT1-1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/ACT1-1.jpg" alt="">
<div>The trend in monthly new house commencements has basically crashed in the ACT, down by more than 50 per cent since the beginning of 2011. Attached dwelling commencements, on the other hand, have held up much better, perhaps reflective of record low interest rates, a structural shift towards attached dwellings, as well as strong pre-sales to offshore investors. Long lead times Whatever the causes, with the long lead times for apartments there are presently more than 5,000 dwellings under construction in the ACT, of which only 600 or so are detached houses. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>As a result of the above dynamics, vacancy rates in the capital have nosedived from 2.5 per cent in 2014 to just 1.1 per cent, even though population growth in the entire territory is tracking at just 5,000 per annum.</div>
<a href="/images/2016/10/24/VR.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/24/VR.jpg" alt="">
 
<div>According to SQM Research, after a lag asking rents have soared lately, up by +12.3 per cent over the past year for houses, while even apartment asking rents have ripped +9.3 per cent higher. And this through a period when nationally rental growth is tracking at two decade lows.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Granted this vast increase in asking rents is yet to be reflected in the ABS consumer price indexes, which lag significantly. The figures for Q3 2016 will be released next week. But in any case, when the 5,000 dwellings under construction eventually hit the market, rents for apartments at least should eventually return to flat or falling in real terms. <div class="separator"><a href="/images/2016/10/24/Z1.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a></div>
<div class="separator"><img src="/images/2016/10/24/Z1.jpg" alt=""></div>
</div>
The wrap
<div>No strong conclusion either way here. As noted, we can't readily know the counter-factual, while some of the prevailing housing market dynamics in Canberra may be related to restricted land release, in particular the lack of responsive detached housing supply. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>On taxes, my view is that homeowners shouldn't have to pay twice, and that will no doubt be the view of most other homeowners too. Therefore in the real world the most populous states would find it extremely difficult to phase in such a tax with the required long exemption period for existing homeowners, due to the initial revenue shortfall (look at the unprecedented stamp duty windfalls being delivered in New South Wales, for example).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>I'd also be very wary of declaring the ACT experiment an unqualified success while even in a low density market such as Canberra with moderate population growth asking rents for houses are rising at more than twelve times the rate of inflation!</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Nevertheless, it looks to me as though the rental market will probably correct itself in time with a flood of new apartment stock in the supply pipeline.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>. 
His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.
</div>
</body></html>

pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Asking rents soaring in Canberra, but why? Pete Wargent

Housing finance above decade averages in six states and territories: CommSec's Craig James

<html><body>
Springvale in Victoria is the suburb with the fastest house price growth, according to Investar’s latest market report.
The website states that Springvale’s growth has increased by 29% compared to last year.
This is followed by Keysborough in Victoria which had a growth of 27% with Harrington Park and Rosemeadow taking equal third place with 25%.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
State
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Dwelling type
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
Median listing price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
1 year change
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Springvale
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
VIC
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
$600,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
29%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Keysborough
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
VIC
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
$791,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
27%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Harrington Park
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
4
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
$910,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
25%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Rosemeadow
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
$500,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
25%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="76">
Berkeley Vale
</td>
<td valign="top" width="69">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
House
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
$472,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="70">
24%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
An example of a house priced around the $600,000 median in Springvale is one that has four bedrooms at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-springvale-123623822" target="_blank">29 Lee Avenue</a> (above) that was recently sold for $602,000.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Springvale takes top spot as fastest house price growth: Investar

<html><body>
Nangwarry in South Australia is one of the suburbs where you can purchase a house for around $100,000, according to Investar’s latest market report.
The property investment firm says that the average median house in Nangwarry is $99,000.
This is followed by Greenvale in QLD and Jerramungup in WA both at $100,000.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
State
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Median listing price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Nangwarry
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
SA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$99,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Greenvale
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$100,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Jerramungup
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
WA
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$100,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Collinsville
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$100,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Dysart
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$100,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="106">
Logan Central
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">
$102,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
There's a three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-nangwarry-120711345" target="_blank">10 O'Loughlin Street</a> (above) that is for sale for $99,500.
Similarly a three bedroom home at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-nangwarry-118163855" target="_blank">11 Vaughan Terrace</a> (below) is also for sale for $98,000.
<img src="/images/2016/10/22/11%20Vaughan%20Terrace.jpg" alt="">
</body></html>

Nangwarry in South Australia has house prices around $100,000: Investar

<html><body><div class="field field-name-body field-type-text-with-summary field-label-hidden">
<div class="field-items">
<div class="field-item even">
NSW Fair Trading has recently prosecuted a former real estate agent for misappropriation of trust funds in relation to a property development in Narwee.
Alan Temelkov was convicted of 7 offences under the Property Stock and Business Agents Act and sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, to be served in the community. He was also ordered to pay over $235,000 in reparation for his offences.
In September 2012, Mr Temelkov, director of Tyron Holdings Pty Ltd, trading as AMJ Properties, was contracted to manage the sale of a number of units in a Narwee development.
Tyron Holdings Pty Ltd received a number of house deposits which should have been deposited into a trust account and held on behalf of the sellers until completion of the sale.
During Fair Trading’s investigation, Mr Temelkov admitted to his failure to deposit the funds in the trust account, instead spending the money on business expenses and his personal gambling habit.
As a result, the sellers were left significantly out of pocket and were required to make application to the Property Services Compensation fund for restitution.
Fair Trading Commissioner, Rod Stowe, advises that trust account fraud is a serious offence and warns that Fair Trading will actively pursue any persons that fail to comply with their trust account obligations. 
“Property is a significant purchase. Real estate agents should be trusted to deposit payments received for sales into the correct account,” Mr Stowe said.
Mr Temelkov was sentenced on Thursday 8 September 2016 and has 28 days to appeal. 
 
</div>
</div>
</div></body></html>

jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Alan Temelkov convicted after Narwee trust fund misappropriation

<html><body>
Redcliffe in Qld is the fastest growing suburb for a unit, according to Investar’s latest market report.
The property investment firm states that Redcliffe’s growth has increased by 31% compared to last year.
This is followed by Box Hill in Victoria which had a growth of 26% with both Labrador and Varsity Lakes taking equal third place with 25%.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Suburb
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
State
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Dwelling type
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Bedrooms
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Median listing price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
1 year change
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Redcliffe
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$599,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     31%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Box Hill
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
VIC
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$347,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     26%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Labrador
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Studio and 1
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$320,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     25%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Varsity Lakes
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
QLD
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
3
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$549,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     25%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Penrith
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$389,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     21%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Wollongong
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$475,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     20%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Burwood
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$838,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     19%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Port Macquarie
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$328,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     19%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Lane Cove
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$750,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     19%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Gladesville
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
NSW
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
Unit       
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
2
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
$750,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="71">
     19%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
An example of a unit around the $599,000 median in Redcliffe is a three bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-redcliffe-119198987" target="_blank">402/99 Marine Parade</a> (above) that is for sale for $599,000.
</body></html>

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