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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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Outwitting hackers with sophisticated software makes for the stuff of spy novels. But in the real world, simple physical security measures also have a huge role to play to keep critical data in the right hands.
That’s not to dismiss the need for some technical wizardry in the digital age. Cyber-attacks have increased in both frequency and intensity in recent years, with the average cost of a data breach up 23 percent since 2013.
Experts say, however, that many of these breaches could be prevented, with good old fashioned physical security. After all, an unauthorized visitor, a contractor or less-than-loyal employee is much better positioned to steal sensitive information than a high-tech hacker a thousand miles away. And a lot simpler to stop.
“With the focus on anti-virus software, access controls and other forms of automated information security protection, it’s tempting to be lax about physical measures,” says Bill Todd, senior facility manager, JLL. “Yet, a few smart moves can go a long way toward fending off harm to an organization. It’s important to fight cybercrime both in the virtual world—and in the actual facilities where the information is stored or accessed.”
Buildings designed to be secure
One strategy is to design the workplace with security in mind. Separating the reception or elevator lobby from workspace, for example, limits access to areas containing sensitive data.
“For multi-floor corporate tenants in large office buildings, keeping a locked door between the elevator lobby and the workplace has become a standard practice,” says Todd. “Where possible, it’s also smart to keep high-visitation areas, such as conference rooms, on a separate floor from access points to highly sensitive data.”
Data centers and telecom closets should also be subject to video security; highly sophisticated cameras are more affordable than in the past, and can serve two valuable functions. First, their very presence will deter would-be wrongdoers who prefer an easier target. Second, cameras allow for a forensic review if incidents do occur and make it easier to catch the culprit.
Controlling access to restricted areas is a must. State-of-the-art security measures such as smart cards, tokens, or biometric scans which record the identity of each person who enters not only keep outsiders outside, but also prevent access by employees who have no business being in areas containing sensitive data. For extra security, encrypted security badges are preferable to simpler electronic badges that can be stolen during an elevator ride or standing in line for coffee.
Managing facilities to maximize security
Even sophisticated safeguards to keep intruders out are not the be-all and end-all of the physical protection of an organization’s sensitive data. That’s mainly because such systems often can’t keep a determined insider from stealing a hard drive or a password written on a sticky note attached to a computer.
“Given the number of passwords we all use each day, it’s no wonder that it is a common practice for employees to keep them visible and near the equipment they use,” says Todd. “Facility managers can help enforce a clean-desk policy that not only keeps passwords secure, but also helps prevent theft of sensitive printed information left out in the open.”
Todd suggests that even the most sophisticated organizations may overlook these simple, low-cost measures—that facility managers are uniquely positioned to make happen:
<ul>
<li>
Don’t leave computers unattended in unsecured areas. An unauthorized intruder can use any computer connected to a network to access information. Vulnerable computers include workstations in the reception area, at unoccupied desks or in empty offices. Equip computers that must remain in the open with technology like smart cards or biometric readers to limit access.</li>
<li>
Disconnect or remove computers that aren’t being used. Even in secured areas, an unused computer can present a risk. When an employee is out on vacation or out sick, their desktop computer should be secured. If the computer is in an office, lock the door.</li>
<li>
Use case locks to prevent hard drive theft. Some of the most highly publicized data breaches have resulted from hard drive theft or theft of an entire computer. A related step: disable USB drives and optical drives to prevent unauthorized downloads.</li>
<li>
Keep printer areas clean. Many offices have a shared printing and copy room, where busy employees may inadvertently expose sensitive information in unneeded print-outs. Again, facility managers can reduce risk by enforcing proper disposal of documents.</li>
</ul>
The sharpest criminals have an eye for physical weaknesses in a workplace. Building in security measures and controlling employee habits around data security can help an organization stay in control of who sees sensitive information.
This article appeared in <a href="https://www.jllrealviews.com" target="_blank">JLL Real Views</a>
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Firewalls to four walls: Keeping company data out of the wrong hands

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Melbourne's inner-eastern fringe suburb of Cremorne is seeing brisk tenant activity, with six new leases in the last eight weeks and more in the pipeline, according to real estate agency Teska Carson.
The tiny suburb is suddenly the flavour of the month, said Teska Carson's Fergus Evans.
"Cremorne has for a long time lived in the shadow of its more famous and more popular neighbour Richmond, but the number of businesses who are now making Cremorne home are challenging that dominance," said Evans.
"We have leased six properties recently and have several more tenants looking at what’s available." 
Evans and his colleagues have sold, leased and marketed more than 25 properties in the suburb over the last 18 months, 
New deals include those at:
<ul>
<li>36 Stephenson Street, Cremorne – three year lease to  Scene Change Pty Ltd; </li>
<li>40 Stephenson Street – four year lease to Merlin Migration Pty Ltd;</li>
<li>25 Gwynne Street – two year lease to Care Monkey Pty Ltd;</li>
<li>29 Gwynne Street – three year lease to Suppertime Australia;</li>
<li>14 Gwynne Street -   lease (term undisclosed) to  The Big Group;</li>
<li>44 Gwynne Street -   leased prior to construction (conjunctional with JLL)</li>
</ul>
Some tenants were now looking to avoid the queue by securing space prior to or during construction, including a new lease at 44 Gwynne Street and significant interest at a six-level office building under construction at 13 Cremorne Street, Evans said.
 
The former industrial suburb, famous for its Rosella factory which was established on Balmain Street in 1905, is bordered by Punt Road, Church Street, Swan Street and the Yarra River, and at 0.7 square kilometres, is one of the smallest suburbs on Melbourne’s fringes, but it is now punching above its weight.
"Cremorne is such a great location and that has been the key to this trend we are seeing now. It has access to everything that neighbour Richmond offers, including trains and trams, shops, restaurants, cafes and fashion on Bridge Road, Swan and Chapel streets," he said.
Cremorne was identified in the Victoria government’s Plan Melbourne document as one of a number of new urban renewal precincts to help accommodate a surging Melbourne population which is forecast to exceed Sydney’s population by 2050.
According to the City of Yarra and ABS data, Richmond’s population has grown from 22,789 in 1991 to 31,262 in 2014, a rise of 37 percent, and is expected to rise another 38 percent to 43,105 by 2036. The lion’s share of that growth is expected to occur in Cremorne and Burnley. 
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prateek24-ezbwHMbNAk

Melbourne's Cremorne the new black as tenants move in  

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Aged care not-for-profit group Benetas has sold its redundant East Brighton respite facility to another aged care provider for $19 million, some 75 percent over the reserve price, in a deal brokered by Savills.
The ageing baby boomer population is driving the market for aged care facilities and properties, according to Savills’ Clinton Baxter, who managed the expressions of interest campaign with Julian Heatherich and Jesse Radisich. 
The 68-76 Union Street property is close to the East Brighton retail precinct and the Nepean Highway, and walking distance to parks and recreation facilities. 
It comprises a 5,751 square metre site, zoned Neighbourhood Residential.
Baxter said 10 offers were received and competition between three leading aged care providers pushed the price well beyond the vendor’s expectations and achieved a record land sale rate of $3300 a square metre.
"The most significant driver has been the growing demand from the cashed up Baby Boomer generation and that is only going to continue as more of that generation reach retirement and beyond,’’ Baxter said.
Heatherich said the latest research from Leading Age Services Australia suggested 60,000 more residential care places were needed, along with infrastructure investment of $30 billion by 2025.
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Benetas sells aged care facility in Melbourne for $19 million through Savills

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All but one of the units at a 2+ plus business park at Kirkham Road in Melbourne’s Keysborough have sold ahead of completion of the 8,350 square metre development later this month.
The project was a joint venture between commercial developer Elite Property Group and Bayport Group.
Thirty-four units were on offer at the 2+ business park and sold for on average $1,800 per square metre to local businesses and investors, said a media release.
This follows Elite Group’s recent construction of the $25 million Port Melbourne Industry Park – a joint venture with the Spigelman family. The development has attracted occupiers such as Lorbek luxury cars and Reece, with selling rates topping $3,000 per square metre.
Elite’s managing director Leo Iazzolino said the group looks for locations with access to arterial roads and freeways.
“There’s no doubt the proximity to good transport links is an important factor for would-be purchasers,” says Iazzolino. “Extra kilometres means extra dollars for businesses.”
The 2+ business park is adjacent to EastLink and Port Melbourne Industry Park next to West Gate Freeway.
The leading agent for the 2+ Business Park is Renato Daniele from Collins Commercial &amp; Industrial.
Established in 1994, Elite has designed and built a number of commercial buildings in Melbourne’s south-east where the construction of EastLink has helped drive investment.
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Most units sold as Melbourne's $15 million Keysborough business park nears completion

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Construction company Hindmarsh recently completed the Dutton Lane retail development in Sydney’s Cabramatta, funded by Fairfield City Council.
The three-storey complex comprises ground floor retail shops and commercial offices. In total, the project delivers nearly 4,300 sqm of retail space and features a mix of around 30 retailers and 275 car spaces. 
Hindmarsh was appointed construction contractor for the circa $16 million project and finished it on schedule, said a media release. 
“This has been a rewarding project for everyone at Hindmarsh and we’re proud to have partnered with Fairfield City Council to revitalise a prominent site in Cabramatta,” said Hindmarsh CEO Rowan Hindmarsh. 
Over the course of the project, Hindmarsh inducted over 900 workers on site. 
In addition to the retail spaces, the development also has community rooms, community kiosks, improved footpaths and landscaping. 
 
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Sydney’s Cabramatta gets its new Dutton Lane retail complex 

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Visionary Investment Group has announced the arrival of Silkari – an exceptional hotel and residential brand that will deliver a new level of luxury in Australia. 
Silkari will launch in Australia with three properties billed as bringing together "the finest of East and West with an extraordinary level of service."
Silkari Suites at Chatswood are set to open 1 December with registrations of interest and sales for Silkari on Castelreagh and S Pagewood available through The Property Gallery from 1 July.
S by Pagewood (above) will feature 219 apartments and 37 townhouses.
VIG chief executive officer Michael Guo said Silkari will offer a new level of luxury, weaving together the finest elements from cultures and destinations across the world to create transcendent experiences that define a new standard in the Australian market.   “At VIG we sought some of the best designers, architects and partners from around Australia and the globe and brought them together to create a brand that will represent a new level of style for all to enjoy.  
"I am extremely proud today to be revealing Silkari to the market and excited about the delivery of our first three projects, as well as many more that we have in the pipeline."
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Visionary bring Silkari to Australian hotel market

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The former property developer Warren Anderson is suing the mortgage fund, Angas Securities and his receivers KordaMentha.
He is seeking $174 million, claiming they acted inappropriately in selling up his assets and forcing him into bankruptcy.
The lodgement of the statement of claim by Warren Anderson and his children, revealed today in The Australian, comes as shares in Angas on second-tier bourse the National Stock Exchange of Australia were suspended from trading yesterday given its wider concerns.
The Australian on Tuesday revealed Angas, which owes investors $220 million, had missed another deadline to repay investors.
Facing major financial problems, Angas has failed to meet any of the first three instalments in time and in full and trustee The Trust Company has said it is now “deeply concerned” Angas will not be able to make the payments.
The Anderson issue arose after Anderson’s family trust Owston Nominees No 2 borrowed money from Angas.
In March 2009 Angas appointed receivers KordaMentha to the trust following a breakdown of Mr Anderson’s marriage.
KordaMentha and Angas took control of Owston’s biggest asset, the Fernhill mansion at Mulgoa in western Sydney.
A spokeswoman for KordaMentha told the Australia the firm was not handling the case because the two former partners who had overseen the Owston receivership, Chris Powell and Stephan Duncan, were no longer with the company.
Their Adelaide-based firm DuncanPowell would be responding to Mr Anderson’s claims, she said, although they had not yet been served so were unable to comment.
Fernhill is currently for sale. Set on 383 hectares at the foot of the Blue Mountains, its stunning seven bedroom sandstone residence was completed in the 1840s for the Cox pioneering family.
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Warren Anderson sues Angas in Fernhill, Mulgoa saga

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The Swiss-Belhotel International Group will open its first Australian hotel in Brisbane on the 1st October 2016.
Swiss-Belhotel is a rapidly growing, Hong Kong based international brand that currently spans twenty countries with over seven thousand staff.
Swiss-Belhotel Brisbane is situated at 218 Vulture St, South Brisbane.
The site was selected because of its proximity to River Quay, South Bank, the Gabba and nearby Royal Children's Hospital, Mater Hospital and Ronald McDonald House.
The 134 room hotel is made up of 108 Superior Rooms, 14 Deluxe Studios (45 sq metres) and 12 Executive Studios (54 sq metres).  
Swiss-Belhotel International Chairman and President Gavin Faull said he was presented with this exciting opportunity in Brisbane two years ago.
"We were so impressed that we have taken a long term lease on the hotel and invested in the property''.
 Cafe 63 at Swiss-Belhotel will be an expanded version of the very popular Cafe 63 in Brisbane.
Gavin Faull has built the portfolio of hotels under his management from just three to well over 135 that stretch across the globe incorporating the Middle East, Europe, China, Southeast Asia, Australia and New Zealand. 
The brand now spans twenty countries and employs over seven thousand people.
There is no sign of a slowdown with plans to have at least 40 hotels managed by Swiss-Belhotel International in Australia within ten years.
Gavin Faull, a New Zealand born dairy and tourism entrepreneur is in Australia this week.
Faull aims to have 10 hotels managed by Swiss-Belhotel International in Australia within five years.
"We were introduced to the Horan Group by Mr Ian Pert of GPM Consulting and Project Managers and were very impressed with the hotel project, with the location and with the developers. 
"We have been working together for almost two years. 
"We were so impressed that we have taken a long term lease on the hotel and invested in the property.
''Swiss-Belhotel Brisbane is on a long term lease by Swiss-Belhotel International where the developer has been able to secure their return by leasing to an international management company yet has been able to work very closely with Swiss-Belhotel International to develop a truly international hotel product. 
"There are also strata title apartments in the complex and Swiss-Belhotel International will be managing those apartments as well as handling the letting services for those apartments.
"A unique fusion of property development; individual investment opportunities managed and incorporated into an international hotel operation''.
''This is Swiss-Belhotel International offering the investor community an alternative management and property product to the other many products in this investment space in Australia. We are an exciting alternative'', he concluded.
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New property brand, Swiss-Belhotel International launching in Brisbane

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Canstar have looked at the current highest, lowest and average home loan rates on the canstar.com.au database. 
"The message for consumers is that no matter what the official cash rate is, most borrowers could definitely be saving money on their mortgage, if they know what’s on offer and are prepared to drive a hard negotiation with their bank," a spokesperson advised.
Here are the current highest, lowest and average home loan rates, for both owner-occupied and investor loans.  
<a href="/images/2016/07/07/Screen%20Shot%202016-07-07%20at%209.08.05%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/07/07/Screen%20Shot%202016-07-07%20at%209.08.05%20AM.png" alt="">
<a href="/images/2016/07/07/Screen%20Shot%202016-07-07%20at%209.08.39%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/07/07/Screen%20Shot%202016-07-07%20at%209.08.39%20AM.png" alt="">
Here’s what borrowers could save 
For owner-occupiers, based on the current average standard variable rate and a 25 year loan term, negotiating a 0.5 percent lower rate could potentially save the following: 
<a href="/images/2016/07/07/Screen%20Shot%202016-07-07%20at%209.10.57%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/07/07/Screen%20Shot%202016-07-07%20at%209.10.57%20AM.png" alt="">
<a href="/images/2016/07/07/Screen%20Shot%202016-07-07%20at%209.11.06%20AM.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/07/07/Screen%20Shot%202016-07-07%20at%209.11.06%20AM.png" alt="">
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The lowest home loan and investor interest rates in July 2016

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/57114/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUEST OBSERVER
Housing affordability issues in Australia have resulted in people looking for alternative ways to build accommodation more cheaply. A recent worldwide trend has been to convert shipping containers to liveable accommodation. However, some real challenges lie behind the rosy picture of turning shipping containers into homes.
From the perspective of recycling and environmental sustainability, it is a very good initiative. Many containers are on a one-way journey, mostly originating from China (the world’s manufacturing house), to the developed nations. These containers are used just once for shipping and then end up being used – if at all – as storage or portable office spaces.
Many companies are now offering to build container homes. One can find a great variety of interesting floor plans to turn containers into housing. But the reality isn’t always as straightforward as these plans suggest. What are the main challenges to consider?
<h2>Container quality and engineering sign-off</h2>
Online videos and photos emphasise the benefits of recycling containers to build accommodation. However, a number of conditions must be met to ensure the house is structurally sound.
First, if the design requires cutting through the walls to put in windows or doors, it affects the structural integrity of the container. A structural engineer will be needed to develop an engineering drawing to ensure the house will be structurally sound. There is a cost associated with this activity, as with any other type of construction such as steel-frame housing, timber-frame housing or brick-and-tile housing.
Further, many engineers are wary of signing off on used shipping containers, because it is more difficult to assess the structural state of these. They most often recommend using a brand-new container. This is another added cost, as the price of 12-metre cube containers starts from A$5,000, whereas a used container may cost $1,800.
<h2>Health and safety</h2>
Health and safety concerns arise when it cannot be ascertained what was shipped using a second-hand container.
If human carcinogenic elements or harsh chemicals (which may have left invisible traces) were shipped in a container, one would not want to use that container to live in.
Ensuring this is not the case adds to the challenges of using a second-hand container. This is because tracing the cargos and journeys end-to-end across the full container lifecycle can be very difficult.
<h2>Usable space</h2>
Housing built from shipping containers is limited by their dimensions. They are roughly 2.35m wide internally and commonly come in two lengths: 6m or 12m.
One also needs to take into account internal stud work to put in drywalls, which can further reduce the width. A 2.35m width is already quite small for any room other than a shower or a bathroom.
To give an idea of how small, a king-sized bed is 1.83m wide. So there will very limited room to put bed side tables or dressing table.
If two containers are cut to create a 4.7m wide room, the space becomes too big for many purposes. If you need a smaller (or more common) width, you need to build a stud wall. That is another added cost.
Hence, the options for customising the container home are very limited if it is to remain affordable.
<h2>Insulation and comfort</h2>
Insulation is a very critical element of a comfortable lifestyle. The Building Code of Australia as well as the local shire or council are very conscious of insulation standards.
The shipping container is a basically a large steel box. Physics says steel will get hot in summer and cold in winter. To counter these natural effects, the container has to be very well insulated.
Now, the question is where to insulate: on the exterior, or the interior, or both?
Exterior insulation will be better because this will prevent the heat or cold reaching the metal and keep the internal environment comfortable. But putting external insulation on a container means having a stud wall frame or similar arrangement to hold the insulation in place, so that’s an additional building cost.
Ceramic paint insulation is another option and it does offer some degree of insulation. Note, though, that most “before and after” studies have taken a dark-coloured container (such as red, green or blue) and shown the benefit when painting it with a white ceramic paint. The reduction in temperature is partly due to using white paint.
Container housing may be a viable alternative accommodation option. But it can be hard to know whether it will be significantly cheaper than any other ways of building a home without doing considerable research into what the housing requirements and design will involve.
Vidyasagar Potdar is senior research fellow, School of Information Systems, Curtin University and author from The Conversation. He can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/vidyasagar-potdar-229256" target="_blank">here</a>.
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