Apartment buyers in New South Wales are set to gain a decade of insurance-backed protection against major building defects, after the NSW Parliament passed the Fair Trading and Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2026.&nbsp;

The Bill establishes decennial defect insurance, known in the market as Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), as an alternative to the existing two-year strata building bond. It cleared the Legislative Council with amendments on Tuesday evening (August 4, 2026), with the Legislative Assembly agreeing to those amendments shortly after.

Under the reform, eligible developers can satisfy their statutory bond obligation by taking out an approved decennial-style policy that gives owners 10 years of cover for major structural defects from completion, claimable directly, without first having to pursue developers or builders through costly legal action.&nbsp;

The change forms the final tranche of amendments arising from the 2021 statutory review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and related legislation.

Resilience Insurance, which originated the cover in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022, welcomed the passage and credited the NSW Government for delivering it.

“This is protection apartment buyers have needed for a long time, and the credit for delivering it belongs to the NSW Government,”&nbsp;said Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into. Reform like this is what good, evidence-based regulation looks like.”

Resilience has delivered LDI in NSW since 2022, protecting thousands of apartments, giving the State, and now the country, real-world evidence of how decade-long, no-fault protection works in practice.

The reform also places NSW within a wider national shift.

NSW is the third jurisdiction to put decennial cover into law. The ACT legislated for it in 2024, with the scheme taking effect in late 2025, and Victoria passed its own framework on 17 June. Between them, the three cover the majority of Australia's apartment market.

The reform commences once the legislation is proclaimed, which is expected in the coming weeks. From that point, developers of Class 2 residential apartment buildings can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial policy in place of the bond.

Buyers who purchased into projects that took out the cover early are among the first in the country to take keys to apartments carrying decade-long structural protection.

“With the legislation passed, the focus now turns to making it work for buyers,”&nbsp;Nugent said.

“There are already thousands of apartments in NSW covered by this insurance, bought by developers who moved early. The question every buyer should be asking in a display suite is a simple one: does this building come with 10-year defect cover, and who stands behind it?&nbsp;

“We look forward to working with the Government and the Building Commission in coming weeks as the framework moves to implementation, and to sharing what we have learned over the past four years so the protection reaches owners as smoothly and quickly as possible.”

Other states are working through their own reform programs. Western Australia has indicated that decennial cover is within consideration a later stage of its reform sequence, and Queensland has been examining the settings as it looks at the development pipeline ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Resilience Insurance acknowledges the NSW Government’s continued focus on strengthening consumer protection while supporting housing delivery across the State.

Fast Facts: What the reform means

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Proven at scale:&nbsp;Decennial cover has operated in NSW since 2022, protecting thousand of apartments.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">10 years of cover:&nbsp;Protection for major structural defects runs for a decade from completion, claimable directly and with no legal action required.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">An alternative to the bond:&nbsp;Eligible developers can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial-style policy in place of the 2% strata building bond.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Part of a national shift:&nbsp;The ACT has had decennial provisions in force since 2025 and Victoria passed its framework in June. NSW now joins them.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">No-fault, first resort:&nbsp;Owners corporations claim directly from the insurer without first having to establish who is liable for the defect.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost-competitive:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the 2% bond while offering broader, longer protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market position:&nbsp;Resilience originated LDI in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022.</li>
</ul>

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI):&nbsp;Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Consumer-first:&nbsp;Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost advantage:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market leader:&nbsp;&nbsp;Resilience Insurance originated LDI in Australia and is the national market leader.</li>
</ul>

Joel Robinson

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

Builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mcnab-developments">McNab</a> has wasted little time reshaping one of South Brisbane's most significant undeveloped apartment sites after acquiring the property earlier this year.&nbsp;

McNab has lodged plans to scrap an existing approval for two 30-storey towers and instead deliver a single 28-storey residential building, preserving part of the site for a future development opportunity.

The proposal, lodged over <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-peel-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">64 Peel Street and 9 Cordelia Street</a>, is for a residential-led mixed-use development comprising 124 apartments above a landscaped podium, alongside a boundary realignment that preserves part of the land for a future residential project.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="743bf564-3f8f-45fc-b8d3-bbf18f5b628f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20Peel%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=EhCxGrVn_VFH3qTbKnI4WppGwaMnOn0t" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>, the development will deliver 119 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom apartments across 23 residential levels. A five-level podium will accommodate 135 car spaces, while the ground floor will include a 66 sqm commercial tenancy, an activated residential lobby with work-from-home spaces, and a publicly accessible landscaped plaza linking Cordelia and Peel streets.&nbsp;

Communal amenities will span Level 6 and the rooftop, including indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, a swimming pool, barbecue facilities, kitchen and dining areas, lawn space, sauna, steam room and yoga facilities.

The application also proposes a boundary realignment to create a standalone 1,290 sqm development lot while retaining an adjacent parcel for future redevelopment, allowing the balance of the site to contribute additional housing over time.

Hayball said the architecture has been shaped by the site's elevated corner position at the intersection of Peel and Cordelia streets and Brisbane's subtropical climate.

The design incorporates generous landscaped setbacks, a masonry podium wrapped with planting, large north-facing balconies, and a slender tower profile intended to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and long-range views. The rooftop has been conceived as a wellness-focused retreat overlooking Brisbane, with amenities positioned to capture views towards Mount Coot-tha and the CBD.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f99e84-6ad8-4a87-82d1-869685b754d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20tower%20perspective.png?VersionId=Gw0IuJaSAlk.tvGBxInhZOcQAdIB..2b" />

The planning submission positions the proposal as a response to both changing market conditions and Brisbane's Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning reforms.

McNab acquired the site after the previous approval was granted, with the existing scheme no longer reflecting current residential market demands, economic conditions, construction challenges, construction efficiencies or the quality of development outcome now being pursued, the planning report noted.

McNab continues to expand its residential development pipeline across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The developer recently launched The Tannery in West End, securing more than 60 per cent of apartments before the project's public release. It is also delivering Elements Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise and Lucia Highgate Hill, an eight-apartment boutique development overlooking the Brisbane River.

McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower

A steeply sloping Bellevue Hill site is set to accommodate a new mid-rise apartment development, with plans lodged for 20 homes that respond to the site's dramatic topography.

The proposal for the consolidated land at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/138a-140-bellevue-road-bellevue-hill-nsw-2023">138A-140 Bellevue Road</a> has been designed by Sydney architecture practice Common Office, which has used the site’s substantial fall to distribute the building’s scale and unlock 20 apartments without presenting the full height to the street.&nbsp;

“The unique design strategy leverages the site’s substantial topographical fall to facilitate increased density, presenting a seven-storey profile to Bellevue Road while rising to 10 storeys at the rear,” Common Office said in its architectural design report.

The apartment mix spans one, two, three- and four-bedroom residences. Four two-bedroom apartments are designated as affordable housing, while the plans also include two adaptable dwellings. The mix is majority three-beds, with the typical three-bed apartment offering around 144 sqm internally, with balconies of around 15 sqm.

The affordable housing component represents 15 per cent of the residential floor area and allows the project to access additional height and floor space under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing provisions. The site also falls within the inner area of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy because it is within 400 metres walking distance of Double Bay Town Centre.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1230d0f-3bfa-4a11-abaf-0928c66ef345" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da.png?VersionId=dZeMK3P.OutGjN8ycjsxm8uNsj_QFWQv" />

Common Office has arranged the building around a masonry podium and a lighter upper volume, drawing on two recurring elements of Bellevue Hill’s established architecture: sandstone bases and the vertical proportions of local Inter-war Art Deco apartment buildings.

“The proposal is governed by a holistic design language that reconciles the solid horizontal masonry of the neighbourhood’s podiums with the elegant verticality of its Art Deco heritage,” the architect said.

“The building maintains a consistent rhythmic logic utilising deep recesses and a sophisticated material transition to break down the 10-storey scale into a series of articulated, human-scale volumes.”

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0147f503-1af1-4d51-97fb-c2f1cba63a9d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20bldg.png?VersionId=GoW7q3NlK67OpnePXhk7zvklrlKb72Qc" />

Large-format sandstone tiles will define the lower levels, establishing a robust base that negotiates the change in elevation from Bellevue Road. Above, red-tinted precast concrete frames, recessed balconies, anodised aluminium screens and expanded metal details will create a more vertically expressed façade. Integrated planter beds will introduce greenery across balcony edges and recessed sections of the building.

The elongated northern façade has been divided into three recessed vertical masses to reduce its perceived length. Triangular window elements and metal privacy screens reference the geometry of nearby Art Deco buildings while controlling overlooking toward surrounding homes. The southern elevation will incorporate further privacy screening, landscaped edges and deep balconies to maintain light and ventilation.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8679cf1-18bc-4447-8a0f-0052b94ab83c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da%20rooftop.png?VersionId=5SQqQqRFf76rvE2p1TbxJSweMN70AIbc" />

Private and communal landscaping is distributed throughout the development. A landscaped garden apartment is positioned within the lower portion of the site, while a communal terrace on Level 5 will include a central timber deck, barbecue facilities, resident planting plots and areas for outdoor dining and informal gatherings.

Common Office described the terrace as an elevated sanctuary designed to capture district views and sunlight. Its planting strategy incorporates endemic species associated with the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, extending the landscape vertically through the building and providing habitat for local flora and fauna.

A second communal outdoor area is proposed at roof level, with built-in seating, paved gathering areas and perimeter planting.

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction. Positive Investment Enterprise is delivering the 16-apartment Kew Palm House on Birriga Road, while Chanine Developments is also under construction at Florian, a 36-apartment project on Banksia Road.

&nbsp;

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction.

First Look: Apartment development pitched for Bellevue Hill, Double Bay fringe

South Brisbane's apartment pipeline continues to build momentum, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/trk-property-group">TRK Property Group</a> lodging plans for a 161-apartment tower on Montague Road as developers accelerate investment across the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

The proposal for 176–186 Montague Road would replace an existing office building with a 20-storey residential tower designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, adding to a growing pipeline of high-density projects reshaping one of Brisbane's fastest-evolving inner-city precincts.

The project has been conceived as a "living building", featuring a flowing tower form, extensive vertical landscaping, and generous communal spaces that respond to the evolving Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

TRK Property Group Development Director Matt Kan said the project reflected the confidence developers have in South Brisbane's long-term future.

"South Brisbane is entering an incredibly exciting period, and we see Montague Road sitting right at the heart of that evolution," Kan said.

"With the former Visy site directly opposite us and significant investment planned throughout the broader Kurilpa precinct, there is a real sense of momentum around this part of the city and what it will become over the coming years.

"For TRK, this is an opportunity to be part of that next chapter and deliver a project that responds to where the precinct is heading, while contributing to the continued evolution of Brisbane's river edge."

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="590fe1ad-f892-4446-a679-80e33a16d029" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20tower%20facade.png?VersionId=uOJStrcKpyHFcPE1w6_9SMAFzVMCcZll" />

The scheme includes a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, incorporating multi-purpose rooms in selected residences to provide additional flexibility for home offices or expanded living areas. The proposed mix comprises 15 one-bedroom, 13 one-bedroom plus MPR, 73 two-bedroom, 26 two-bedroom plus MPR, 30 three-bedroom, and four four-bedroom apartments.

Rather than adopting a conventional rectilinear tower, COX Architecture has developed a sculpted form inspired by the movement of the Brisbane River.

"The proposal has been designed by COX Architecture as a 'living building' that responds to the site's riverine setting, floodplain history and evolving urban context within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct," the planning report states.

"The architectural form draws from the fluid nature of the Brisbane River, with a curved and undulating tower form that creates a varied architectural edge and avoids a conventional rectilinear tower expression."

The podium has also been designed as an architectural feature rather than a conventional parking structure, with cascading planting, screening and natural-toned materials softening its appearance. Resident parking is elevated above ground level to address the site's flood constraints, while habitable apartments sit above flood planning levels. Upper-level communal facilities are designed to accommodate shelter-in-place arrangements during major flood events.

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01fa15d0-90df-46c7-9555-7941fc45373c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20podium.png?VersionId=mHyua.w1pHGBt9qEdWzrlsv.leztUCwO" />

Communal amenity is a major focus of the proposal. Around 1,815 sqm of shared resident space is proposed across the ground floor, level 19 and the rooftop, including co-working areas, indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, wellness facilities, dining and gathering areas, lawn spaces, a rooftop pool and spa, and extensive landscaping. At street level, a landscaped forecourt and approximately 345 sqm of publicly accessible open space along Montague Road are intended to improve the pedestrian experience while activating the building's frontage.

The development will provide 163 car spaces, including 152 resident bays and 11 visitor spaces, together with 144 bicycle spaces incorporating resident storage, visitor parking, bicycle maintenance facilities and e-mobility charging infrastructure.

The site sits within one of Brisbane's fastest-changing inner-city precincts, less than two kilometres from the CBD and within easy reach of South Bank, West End, the Queensland Cultural Centre and extensive public transport connections. The Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning framework is encouraging higher-density residential development to help meet Brisbane's housing supply targets while supporting walkable, transit-oriented neighbourhoods.

TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans

Article summary

<ul data-end="785" data-start="311">
	<li data-end="459" data-section-id="5hbcyr" data-start="311">Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at Skye Kangaroo Point, headlined by a two-storey sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm.</li>
	<li data-end="561" data-section-id="1p7lq8n" data-start="460">Early buyer interest suggests the residences could set a new Queensland apartment price record.</li>
	<li data-end="667" data-section-id="1y70z0l" data-start="562">The collection includes four move-in ready penthouses and the highly customised Skye One residence.</li>
	<li data-end="785" data-section-id="yvm0y1" data-start="668">The release caps one of Bri​sbane's most ambitious luxury apartment developments overlooking the Brisbane River.</li>
</ul>

<hr data-end="790" data-start="787" />
Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye by Pikos</a> development in Kangaroo Point, with early buyer interest indicating the flagship residences could eclipse every apartment sale previously recorded in Queensland.

The collection crowns the luxury riverfront development with five residences, including four completed penthouses and Skye One, a two-level sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm that will be tailored to its eventual owner.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374075]

Wanting to offer a fully customisable home, Pikos is offering Skye One as a blank canvas, allowing the buyer to work alongside the developer's design team to customise the home's layout, finishes and internal spaces.

The residence will feature a 247 sqm private rooftop terrace with its own swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor kitchen and multiple entertaining areas overlooking the Brisbane River and CBD skyline.

The remaining four penthouses have been completed and are ready for immediate occupation, each offering four bedrooms, expansive open-plan living areas, soaring ceilings and private lift access.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374059]

One of the defining features throughout the project is its use of Roman Classic Travertine, with more than 20,000 sqm of the natural stone imported from Italy after being personally selected by Pikos Group Founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos, interior designer Julie Williamson and third-generation stone specialist Mario Caucci.

Pikos said the penthouse collection represented the culmination of the company's long-term vision for Skye.

"True legacy isn't measured by what we build today, but by what endures tomorrow," Pikos said.

"Our ambition is to create places that become more valuable with time, enrich the lives of generations, and stand as timeless landmarks long after we've stepped away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374060]

Williamson said the interiors were inspired by the natural character of Kangaroo Point and the Brisbane River rather than international design trends.

"Materiality tells the story of a place," Williamson said.

"We looked to the movement of the Brisbane River, the texture of the cliff face and the warmth of the surrounding landscape to create interiors that feel understated, enduring and unmistakably Brisbane."

Positioned above the Kangaroo Point cliffs, Skye places residents within walking distance of Howard Smith Wharves, South Bank and James Street while offering uninterrupted river and city views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=90059]

Brisbane's next apartment price record? Pikos unveils Skye's exclusive penthouse collection

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.

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<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?

When buying an apartment, most people compare the big-ticket items first. Floorplans. Kitchens. Balcony size. Natural light. The view.

But there's one everyday consideration that often doesn't come up until after moving in: how parcels are delivered.

As online shopping has become part of everyday life, parcel deliveries have shifted from an occasional event to a regular occurrence. Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally.

For apartment residents, that can present a challenge.

If nobody is home to accept a delivery, parcels may be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in a building lobby or common area, or require building management to step in. In higher-density buildings, where dozens or even hundreds of residents may receive deliveries each day, parcel management has become an increasingly important part of everyday living.

That can create a range of frustrations. A missed delivery often means making time to collect a parcel elsewhere, while packages left unattended in foyers or mail areas can create clutter and increase the risk of theft. What seems like a minor inconvenience can quickly become a recurring issue for residents who shop online regularly.

It's one of those details that rarely features in a display suite but can have a noticeable impact once residents move in.

As a result, buyers are beginning to look beyond traditional apartment features and consider how a building supports day-to-day convenience, including whether there are secure options for receiving deliveries.

Australia Post's Parcel Lockers provide one solution.

<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/CkF2oKmlACg?si=C50sDaoUUn2nuLmq" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than having a parcel delivered directly to an apartment, eligible deliveries can be sent to a nominated Parcel Locker. Once the parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can collect it using a QR code or one-time PIN at a time that suits them.

The Parcel Locker network now includes more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with installations at Post Offices, shopping centres, transport hubs and an increasing number of residential developments. By providing a secure collection point, Parcel Lockers help reduce missed deliveries and avoid parcels being left unattended in common areas.

For developers, parcel infrastructure is becoming another way to improve the resident experience. Rather than relying on concierge staff or leaving parcels in communal spaces, secure collection points help streamline deliveries while preserving the presentation and functionality of shared areas.

For buyers, it's a reminder that the best apartment features aren't always the most obvious.

A generous floorplan or quality finishes might help narrow the shortlist, but the conveniences that simplify everyday life, whether that's EV charging, secure bike storage or reliable parcel delivery, often become the features residents appreciate most once they're living there.

The apartment feature many buyers don't think about, until their first missed delivery

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With the first details of Asset1's four-tower residential development appearing in recent weeks and demolition of the former Convention Centre underway, it seems the perfect time to consider some opportunities the site presents. I primarily have stronger pedestrian connections to the Yarra in mind.

The recently submitted planning application for 7-23 Spencer Street sees 1,321 square metres of retail space across two podiums, yet the development is limited in terms of scope and ambition by the well-worn 13-storey Crowne Plaza hotel to the south abutting the Yarra. This is a relic of time gone by where tall built form could meet the edge of the Yarra and no one would bat an eyelid.

While not included in the development plan for the Elenberg Fraser-designed scheme, Crowne Plaza could - through a staged development - be relocated to one of the four towers, allowing for future demolition of the existing structure. This scenario is depicted in the image below, dramatically opening up the river vista with views through to the Yarra's Edge towers beyond.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/3-23_spencer_street_edit.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Mock-up of relocated Crowne Plaza and demolition of existing structure."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/3-23_spencer_street_edit.jpg?itok=dsJJTnku" title="Mock-up of relocated Crowne Plaza and demolition of existing structure." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Mock-up of relocated Crowne Plaza and demolition of existing structure.</figcaption></figure>The removal would also allow for the provision of yet another public open space or park, bringing together the various elements along the Yarra's Northbank. Together with Seafarer's Rest and Batman Park, this would provide a green buffer between the glass and steel of the CBD's high-rises and the tranquility of the Yarra.

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/7-23_spencer_street_aerial.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Indicative aerial showing riverfront park in-lieu."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="325" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/7-23_spencer_street_aerial.jpg?itok=wQ8uSuBU" title="Indicative aerial showing riverfront park in-lieu." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Indicative aerial showing riverfront park in-lieu.</figcaption></figure>Such a proposal however, is not without its drawbacks and would pose some issues such as the amount of solar access provided to any form of open space, and would no doubt inform the type of space that could potentially be built there.

Secondly most developers wouldn't really entertain the idea of losing a built asset that provides a steady income for an open space whose control would be transferred to the City of Melbourne, particularly when any development of similar scale and proximity, with the odd exception at Docklands would likely never be supported.

Removing Crowne Plaza is ultimately just a pipe dream, but I think it provides some food for thought. Apartments.com.au will provide an in-depth look at the site's development plan in due course.
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Laurence Dragomir

An unconventional opportunity for 7-23 Spencer Street

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The first Prahran apartment to be marketed in The Block Glasshouse has appeared on the realestateview website.
<a href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/3-121-127-high-street-prahran/Property-Details-buy-residential-7578426" target="_blank">The 3/121-127 High Street offering</a> is set for 2pm, 11 October auction. The inspections began this week with a private clients' evening.
It is the apartment of Maxine and Karstan, with a design inspired by prominent local artist Thierry B.
<img src="https://images.realestateview.com.au/pics/426/3-121-127-High-Street-Prahran-VIC-3181-Real-Estate-photo-1-large-7578426.jpg" alt="3/121-127 High Street Prahran VIC 3181 Real Estate Photo 1" title="3/121-127 High Street Prahran VIC 3181 Apartment - Photo 1">
It has been listed by Buxton's agent Karl Gillon.
The four bedroom, two bathroom apartment with two cars spaces comes with no price guidance.
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The perennial Block buyers' agent Frank Valentic recently tweeted he saw the prospect of prices below $2 million, although the hype has been at $2 million plus.
The production company, Watercress spent $8.25 million on the 1980s office building near trendy Chapel Street and opposite Swinburne University's Prahran campus last August, with a subsequent $2.5 million Brenchley Architects infill works schedule.
There will be five auctions on 11 October. It is not known if the retail portion will be offered to the market.
 <img src="/images/2014/08/15/block%20aug%2015%20one.jpg" alt="">
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Maxine and Karstan's The Block Glasshouse Prahran apartment set for 11 October auction

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ANZ today announced variable interest rates for Australian retail home loans will remain unchanged after its September interest rate review. 
ANZ’s standard variable home loan rate remains at 5.88% per annum (5.98% per annum comparison rate). 
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ANZ keep rates steady following September RBA meeting

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As the old adage goes “you get what you pay for”.
Novice buyers looking for good advice should be willing to pay for the latest data and for access to the experts.
In saying that, there’s plenty of currently available information available for free – and quite a few experts who are regularly available for a chat.
Real estate agents 
The <a href="/expert-insights/investing/how-to-choose-the-right-real-estate-agent">best real estate agents are local market experts</a> that can let you know what the buyer sentiment is, how long properties are taking to sell and potentially let you know about properties coming onto the market soon. They work regularly in smaller defined areas – often a collection of suburbs – and know then very well.
Here’s a sample of what you can gain from chatting with an agent:
<ul>
<li>Knowledge of the type of properties available for purchase and the price ranges for each. 
</li>
<li>An understanding of the length of time a property takes to sell and which are in higher demand. 
</li>
<li>Knowledge of the type of buyer currently looking in the area. 
</li>
<li>An historical perspective (look to well-regarded agents who have worked in the area for a while) of growth and changes. 
</li>
<li>Potential referrals to building and pest inspectors, property managers and other experts. 
</li>
<li>An idea of the prestigious areas and the not so desirable streets.</li>
</ul>
Speaking to them as a buyer, you must be aware that they are working for the vendor. They will most likely tell you things in the seller’s best interest, not in yours. One way to get around this is to speak to a real estate agent in the area who isn’t selling the property you’re considering. Alternatively, you can speak to a property manager.
Property managers
A boutique property management agency can help fill in the blanks for you around tenancies and the likelihood of your property being given a good run on the rental market.
Here’s a sample of what you can gain from chatting with a property manager:
<ul>
<li>An understanding of the types of properties that are rented first. 
</li>
<li>Clearer knowledge of how much weekly rent can be charged for different properties in different conditions. 
</li>
<li>Explanation of who the tenants are likely to be. 
</li>
<li>Knowledge of the most desired rental property qualities in the area. 
</li>
<li>An up to the minute explanation of vacancy rates and any difficulties they have in renting out certain properties.</li>
</ul>
Many property managers have very good ground-level knowledge and know exactly what their tenants do and do not like. However, in terms of forecasting and predicting how the market might shift, you may prefer to speak to a property mentor.
Property mentors and advisers 
Property mentors, many of whom are buyer’s agents of some form, have a wealth of knowledge, usually from researching markets and dealing with other investors previously. However, you need to know where their skillset lies. Some are going to be able to thoroughly explain their ideas on where markets are heading, while others will help you come up with goals and strategies to get you on track with your property investing.
Some of these experts allow free access to a point, for instance a limited number of seminars and lengthy workshops – often for whole weekends. However, they often have hefty fees after this point. If you’re not paying, then you also need to wonder where they’re getting their income from – is it through commissions?
Remember our tip: follow the money. Here are <a href="/expert-insights/10-questions-to-ask-your-property-investment-adviser">10 questions to ask an adviser before taking any advice on board</a>.
Article continues on the next page. Please click below.
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Mortgage broker or lender
For information about loans, your borrowing capacity and whether or not you can get a mortgage for the property you’ve got your eye on, there are calculators available online. However, the majority of brokers’ services are at no cost to you (they usually get a commission from the lender).
You should choose the broker wisely, ensuring that their panel of lenders is as extensive as you’d like it to be and that their understanding of your category of buyer (first home buyer or investor, for instance) is sound. You can <a href="/expert-insights/finance/how-to-pick-the-best-mortgage-broker">read some information here on how to pick a mortgage broker</a>.
Here’s a sample of what you can gain from chatting with a broker:
<ul>
<li>Knowledge of who will lend to you. 
</li>
<li>An understanding of how big your deposit needs to be and whether or not you’ll be paying LMI. 
</li>
<li>Information around types of loans available and the different features of each. 
</li>
<li>Explanations of break costs and technical jargon you might not understand. 
</li>
<li>Assistance with unusual loans, e.g. if you are going for a joint venture arrangement or having a guarantor 
</li>
<li>Assistance with pre-approval.</li>
</ul>
Local council members
Investors will have varying degrees of success in touching base with the local council, especially as some are more open to property investors than others. However, it’s always worth a call to ask some pointed questions about what is occurring in the area.
Here’s a sample of what you can gain from chatting with your local council:
<ul>
<li>Knowledge of recent or approved development applications, including specific details about them. 
</li>
<li>An understanding of the council’s growth plans for the area. 
</li>
<li>Any recent examples of significant local government spending in or around the suburb. 
</li>
<li>A point in the direction of any useful reports that they have. 
</li>
<li>Explanation of their policies around subdividing, knock down rebuilds and similar.</li>
</ul>
Here is observer <a href="/expert-insights/thorough-research-is-critical-to-dodging-property-purchase-problems">Mark Armstrong's account of how he used local council information to avoid a major property disaster</a>.
Lastly, you can always try chatting to other property investors.  They’re often in the same boat as you, are great to discuss trial and error with, and often will have stories to share you can learn from.
You can share referrals, tax tips you’ve heard and important location-based news.
Remember to be wary – investing is not one size fits all, and just because “everyone else is doing it” doesn’t mean that it’s necessarily the thing for you to do. Any novice advice, or even experienced investor advice without the necessary qualifications to back it, should be taken with the full understanding of where it is coming from.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Free advice: Five experts you can go to for information

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After 27 years of opening private gardens to the public, Open Gardens Australia has announced that its present season would be its last.
Open Gardens Australia started in Victoria before going interstate and has been behind the opening of almost 20,000 private gardens across Australia to the public.
In its heyday more than 800 gardens opened annually, but just under 500 gardens will be open this season.
Only last week <a href="/expert-insights/building/trophy-home-gardens-make-their-stamp-with-australia-post">Australia Post announced</a> that it would be featuring five beautiful private gardens from Open Gardens Australia in a new stamp issue.
<img src="/images/2014/09/05/stamps-sept-5-two.jpg" alt=""><img src="/images/2014/09/05/stamps-sept-5-one.jpg" alt="">
There were five domestic base rate (70c) stamps and products available, although the <a href="https://shop.auspost.com.au/product/open-gardens-postcard-set-1807212" target="_blank">website indicates</a> that they are currently out of stock.
<img src="/images/2014/09/05/stamps%20sept%205%20four.jpg" alt="">
Our shocked and saddened property contrarians Jonathan Chancellor and Margie Blok have been to many of them - certainly never taking unauthorised plant samples - and now nominate their favourite garden tour.
HE SAID:
<img src="/images/2014/03/28/jc-silhouette-7.jpg" style="float: right;">
It has to be Retford Park, established by Samuel Hordern in 1887.
James Fairfax now is the keeper of the English park and garden that features magnificent trees, mature shrubberies and hedged garden rooms, all sustainably managed using organic principles. 
Rhododendrons and azaleas at their peak in October. Century old bunya bunyas, redwoods and oaks impressed. I recall the more freshly planted Wollemi pines.
There's an impressive collection of classical and contemporary sculptures and that marvelled Guilford Bell swimming pool pavilion.
One later occasion on a private visit, Jeffrey Smart was there strolling the grounds. Sadly no painting ever emerged to immortalise the pavilion.
Of course as I've previously reported, the philanthropic former newspaperman <a href="/news/james-fairfax-plans-to-subdivide-then-gift-historic-retford-park">James Fairfax intends to gift his historic Retford Park estate</a> in the NSW Southern Highlands.
Its envisaged the Italianate 1887 residence will sit within a protected 32-hectare heritage curtilage.
It will be preserved in perpetuity for the community with some funds from the neighbouring prestige residential development being directed into a trust which will pay for the long-term upkeep of the home and gardens.
The gifting won't take place until subdivision sales take place. I notice <a href="https://landforsalebowral.com.au" target="_blank">they are progressing quite well</a>.
The Old South Road property, which sits on the southern edge of Bowral’s rapidly suburban expansion, has long sat on about 100 hectares including the land now zoned for subdivision.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/retfordmarch1one.jpg" alt="retfordmarch1one" width="470" height="468">
Under the proposal, the 29-hectare eastern part of the estate has been subdivided into rural-inspired lots ranging from 8,000 square metres to four hectares lots.
The philanthropic former chairman of the ailing publishing company that bears his family name, first advised he would bequeath Retford Park for the benefit of the public in an article written by me in 2009 in the Sydney Morning Herald. It was his idea for at least three decades.
Retford Park has been the country home of the arts patron since he paid £15,000 in 1964 for it on a then four-hectare holding.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/retfordmarch1two.jpg" alt="retfordmarch1two" width="470" height="468">
Retford Park, with an Italianate revival-style mansion, dates back to the 1880s when it was the summer retreat of the retailing Hordern family. 
"I think Retford Park is an important part of the heritage of the Wingecarribee Shire area and provision has been made in my will for the house and the immediate surrounding land, including the garden, to be left in trust to be viewed by future generations," Mr Fairfax told me in 2009.
Listed on the register of the national estate since 1980, Retford Park takes its name from the village in Nottinghamshire, the northern England town from where Anthony and Ann Hordern immigrated in 1825.
The grounds have many heritage oaks, an enduring association with the Hordern's retailing business, whose emblem was an oak tree under which were the words: "While I live, I'll grow".
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/retfordmarch1three.jpg" alt="retfordmarch1three" width="470" height="310">
It was first sold after Anthony's great-grandson, Sir Samuel Hordern, died in 1956, leaving an estate of $279,000. It was briefly owned by the cattle stud operator King Ranch (Australia), of which Edwina Hordern's husband, Peter Baillieu, was managing director.
In his 1991 book, Regards to Broadway, Fairfax recollected he'd had no plans to buy a country house. "But chatting to Peter Baillieu at a cocktail party in December 1963, I learned that Retford Park and 10 acres [four hectares] of land were to be sold." 
It occurred to James that it might be a suitable place for his mother to stay on her annual six month visits from England.
Fairfax, the eldest son of the late Sir Warwick Fairfax and his first wife, Betty Wilson, then set about regularly buying adjoining rural land.
He also set about enlivening the house. 
"When my offer of £15,000 for the house and 10 acres with an option to buy another 10 in three years was accepted, I went into the usual ‘What on earth have I taken on?’ syndrome, but soon recovered as I got involved in the redecoration which was being done by Leslie Walford," he recalled to Sue Rosen in 2011.
"Some six months later, in the winter of 1964, I commissioned Donald Friend to paint a mural in the dining room," he said.
Leslie Walford, who died earlier this year, said in a 2011 interview with Rosen that he recalled flying up to Mittagong with James to inspect the house.
His first impressions of it was "the garden choking the house".
"The house was a sort of cow-pat colour, a very unappealing colour. It had thick walls and narrow long slit windows and a tower, a rectangular piece of work with lots of frilly balconies, cast-iron lace and a pretty porte cochere. It had some delicate prettiness added to the strength of the architecture … it was a wonderful looking house."
Colour photos courtesy of <a href="https://www.highlifemagazine.com.au/" target="_blank">Highlife Magazine</a>, which reports on life in the Southern Highlands of Australia.
Margie Blok has her say on the next page. Please click below.
 
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<img src="/images/2014/03/28/mb-silhouette-6.jpg" style="float: left;">
SHE SAID:
It’s Markdale for me. Acknowledged as one of the great country gardens of Australia, this magnificent garden was part of the Australia’s Open Garden Scheme for many years.
The garden surrounds the homestead of Markdale, a 6,000 acre rural property at Binda, a tiny hamlet near Crookwell in the Southern Tablelands of New South Wales. Owned by the Ashton family for three generations, the garden began during the 1920s and was re-designed in 1949 by Edna Walling, one of Australia’s most influential landscape designers. 
<img src="/images/2014/09/05/markdale%20sept%205%20one.jpg" alt="" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
Markdale Homestead. Photo: Danny Kildare. Source: <a href="https://www.markdale.com/" target="_blank">Markdale.com</a>.
The award-winning five-acre garden is featured in many books and magazines on Australian gardening. Extensively rejuvenated in recent years, it has a wealth of beautiful features including a long pergola of blue and white wisteria, dry stone walls, dozens of specimen trees, sweeping lawns and a beautiful lake with a Chinese bridge. 
Under the Ashton family’s guidance, the garden retains its strong influence of Walling’s design and plantings. It remains substantially as she planned it - sweeping lawns merging with mown paddock, and informal curved paths leading the eye into hidden depths of the garden and then out to the hills beyond.
During her career Walling’s style changed very little, yet each of her garden designs is individual. One of her signatures is the use of stone in low fences, paths and steps to give architectural structure to a garden, and then softening it with dense planting. Her design principles also include creating unity between the garden and the house, while working with the existing landscape and existing features including slopes and trees. 
At Markdale, Walling’s design took advantage of the glorious natural scenery of paddocks and hills. Framing the garden without obscuring the beautiful views to the hills are magnificent trees including golden elms, golden ash and claret ash, silver birch, pinoaks, hawthorns, aspens, spireas, viburnums and native eucalypts.
At the same time Walling was working on the garden, the Ashtons commissioned architect Professor Leslie Wilkinson to redesign the homestead. This unique partnership of Walling and Wilkinson has never been repeated. 
<img src="/images/2014/09/05/markdale%20sept%205%20three.jpg" alt="" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
Source: <a href="https://www.markdale.com/" target="_blank">Markdale.com</a>.
It was Geoff Ashton (one of four sons of James Ashton who built the original homestead) and his wife, Janet, who hired Walling and Wilkinson. For the past three decades, their son, also named Geoff, and his wife Mary, have maintained the garden, homestead and property.
They have thought about selling it on and off over the past decade, and I know would simply love for a buyer to emerge who has a passion for the property.
Although Walling’s outline of the garden has changed little, the existing beds have been replanted and developed under the skillful guidance of Mary Ashton. She and her husband took the reins at Markdale in 1983 during one of the worst droughts in recorded history. Sadly, many plants in the garden died during that drought.
Faced with the enormous task of restoring the Markdale garden, Mary extensively read and researched Walling’s methods and principles to gain insight into her original intent for its design. 
Mary took a careful and considered approach to the garden before developing layers of thick planting in beds and borders beside the stone pathways leading to various garden areas which provide a different view from each direction. 
<img src="/images/2014/09/05/markdale%20sept%205%20two.jpg" alt="" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;">
Source: <a href="https://www.markdale.com/" target="_blank">Markdale.com</a>.
But the Markdale garden is as much about the use of space and architecture as it is about planting. One of its focal points is the lake, and Walling was justifiably proud of its design. 
Among documents held in the Edna Walling Collection, of the La Trobe Australian Manuscripts Collection at State Library of Victoria, is a letter written by Walling to Miss Mervyn Davis that describes her inspiration for the Markdale lake. 
Dated 7 June 1965, Walling’s letter reads: “Dear Mervyn,Re “Markdale”... The best thing I did there was to deal with the erosion in the paddock over which I was taken for a walk on Sunday morning. It was within view of the living room window and when Mrs Ashton told me of their plan to build a series of ... concrete barriers right down the deep ... It seemed to me a pretty poor idea. "Why not dam it back and have a lake" I sez!”
About two and a half hours drive from Sydney, Markdale is a must see for people with a passion for gardens.
And at the property,<a href="https://www.markdale.com" target="_blank"> the Ashton family offer s</a><a href="https://www.markdale.com" target="_blank">elf-catered bed and breakfast accommodation</a> for up to 24 people in two original 1850s stone houses and shearers quarters.
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Retford Park and Markdale: Glorious gardens to thrive beyond Open Gardens' demise

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First home buyers are often working with a different set of requirements than more experienced investors.
With fewer working years behind them, beginners are likely to have a smaller deposit to work with and fewer assets than upgraders or downsizers - and much less experience.
Financing is a large part - perhaps the largest part - of securing your own home, and many lenders are aware of the circumstances facing first home buyers.
Once upon a time, the Rudd government introduced First Home Savers Accounts, where savers could receive a government co-contribution of up to $1,020 on the first $6000 savers deposited each year. They were also eligible for a range of tax concessions, but were faced with a number of restrictions on when they could withdraw their money.
The First Home Saver Account scheme was <a href="/expert-insights/buying/four-things-you-must-know-about-the-axed-first-home-saver-accounts">scrapped by the Abbott government</a> this year, leaving some confused as to whether the <a href="/expert-insights/buying/do-the-first-home-saver-account-eligibility-requirements-still-apply">restrictions still apply to their accounts</a>. While ME Bank have <a href="/expert-insights/finance/me-bank-looks-for-an-answer-to-scrapping-of-first-home-saver-accounts">suggested they may offer a similar product</a> in the future, it has not yet eventuated.
Now, with no federal scheme supporting first home savers, it's up to them to seek out the best deals from lenders to finance their first purchase.
Lenders Mortgage Insurance
One option is seeking out a lender that will accept a small deposit. When putting down a deposit lower than the standard 20%, many lenders will require you to pay for lenders mortgage insurance (LMI), which will protect them against a loss should you default on your home. This isn't a product that is unique to first home buyers, but can be used by buyers across the board who don't want to make a 20% deposit.
While it might be <a href="/expert-insights/buying/what-can-you-buy-with-a-25-000-deposit">tempting to put down a 5% or 10% deposit</a> and pay the few thousand dollars for LMI, keep in mind that you're not exchanging money for equity in your home (as you would be if you increased your deposit size) and the money cannot be recovered when you sell your house.
Beyond grants, it's mostly up to mortgage brokers and lenders to deliver products that may make life easier for first home buyers. Here are some of the available options.
Guarantors
While some parents don't want to contribute money to their child's deposit, they can support a first purchase by acting as a guarantor. A guarantor has a legal obligation to pay back a loan if the borrower (often their child) can't continue making their repayments. Occasionally, a lender will require a guarantor to use their home or a large asset as security for a loan. Sometimes guarantors can set a limit on the amount they'll contribute to a loan.
With a guarantor, a first home buyer making a 10% deposit can often forgo or reduce LMI. A number of different lenders accept guarantors - Beyond Bank has a <a href="https://www.beyondbank.com.au/personal-banking/home-loans/first-home-buyers-loan" target="_blank">"Parent Equity" scheme</a>, while St George refers to the practice as a <a href="https://www.stgeorge.com.au/personal/home-loans/tools/home-loan-features/family-pledge" target="_blank">"Family Pledge"</a>.
While guarantees are often associated with parents, some lenders accept friends as guarantors. Resolve Finance offers guarantor home loans where a friend or family members use the equity in their own homes to guarantee a loan, allowing borrowers to go without a deposit.
While guarantors sound good, beware. If there is any doubt over your ability to repay your loan, you could end up costing your guarantor their home or retirement savings.
First home buyer packages
A number of lenders offer first home buyer "packages" or specialist products. The discounts or benefits they offer vary (as does their value).
Commonwealth Bank offers a <a href="https://www.commbank.com.au/personal/home-loans/first-home-buyer-offer?gclid=cotw6i6av8acfdr8vqodjbkaiw&amp;c" target="_blank">$1,000 cash bonus on your first loan</a>, which could be straightforward and appealing to some.
In South Australia, first home savers using <a href="https://www.homestart.com.au/buying-a-home/I-m/first-home-buyers" target="_blank">Home Start Finance</a> can make a deposit as low as 3% of the value of your loan, and the First Home Owner Grant is included in deposit calculations.
Meanwhile, <a href="https://www.bankmecu.com.au/borrowing/loan-packages/first-home-buyers-loan-package" target="_blank">bankmecu</a> offers a first home buyers loan package where borrowers can pay $350 per year in exchange for lower rates, three months free building insurance during settlement, 10% off  general insurance premiums and no monthly or additional repayment fees, subject to certain conditions.
Other lenders, such as the <a href="https://www.nicu.com.au/loans-home-loan-packages" target="_blank">North Ireland Credit Union</a>, get even more creative, with furniture vouchers and credit card incentives.
If you are considering a first home buyer package, go in with open eyes and take some time to do your calculations. Think about what's valuable to you - would you prefer to pay a set fee every year for the possibility of lower rates? This could be a worthwhile option, but only if the saving in interest is greater than your yearly fee. Don't simply take up first home buyer packages because they look good superficially, but consider as many loan options as you can.
In deals not exclusive to first home buyers, lenders are also <a href="/expert-insights/finance/record-low-fixed-rates-who-is-offering-them">offering record low rates: </a>ME Bank currently offers a 4.94% rate on their three year fixed rate loan. However, bear in mind that added flexibility offered by a variable loan. 
Take the time to look at the short-term incentives available, but don't forget - buying a home is a long-term commitment.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Finance deals for first home buyers 

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The idea of consumers being on an even playing field is a simple one, yet one that has not been achieved in real estate.
Despite all the talk of a property purchase being one of the biggest financial decisions of your life, and home ownership’s role in the 'Australian Dream', there’s something distinctly unAustralian about the game of smoke and mirrors at play in our industry.
It’s no secret that I am against hiding information from property buyers. It’s also no secret that there are groups lobbying for better regulation. So far we’ve failed to regulate ourselves.
The internet has changed property. It’s the unrestricted playground of consumers and industry members where we can review, blog, write and question the experts to our heart’s content. This information floats around far into the future, meaning that indiscretions can always be dug up and that historical details are available. It also means that anyone with a modem, a bit of cash or some tech skills can set up a website and appear to be a genuine expert. Most people can write a book and self-publish it, given a little effort and some ‘how to’ steps. Most people can also get themselves quoted somewhere, put out a semi-decent press release or hold a webinar.
Technology has simultaneously made our lives easier, with instant access to the latest data, and overwhelming. There is a vast array of different viewpoints available. Some of those viewpoints will be worth your time and energy, others not so much. The internet has made us more educated about property – able to undertake our own research about prices a lot more quickly and easily – and ready to make decisions.
When new websites and technology emerge in real estate, it’s widely discussed. Whether it’s Squiiz, Homely or NextForSale, they make headlines. They’re often exciting – bringing us more information in different forms, more competition and shaking up the industry a bit.
One new site, <a href="https://realas.com/home/" target="_blank">realAs</a>, looks to stop underquoting in the industry as a by-product of their new platform that claims to accurately identify the prices properties will sell for.
Speaking with realAs’ Josh Rowe yesterday it struck me that the only new sites we need, and the only ones that are likely to survive, are those that tackle a problem we’re facing – or provide something new – rather than adding to the busy online real estate landscape.
Rowe told me one very important thing about realAs’ successes and failure. When it doesn’t accurately predict a property’s purchase price, they won’t hide it. They won’t keep these secrets from their users.
One thing we are able to do being an online platform is ask you to take part in coverage, to call stories out when you think they’re wrong and to bring your opinion to the table.
We want to try an experiment with this new technology, with you involved.
If you’re heading out to an auction over the next month, let us know about it. Email me the home’s address via <a href="mailto:jduke@propertyobserver.com.au">jduke@propertyobserver.com.au</a>. Tell us the price guide, and once you’ve attended let us know the reserve price. We’ll then compare the sale result with the realAs price and put the data to the test.
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Letter from the editor: Real estate and the internet

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Winter’s property prices gains recorded by the RP Data CoreLogic Home Value Index were the largest rises across capital cities for the period since 2007.
No small feat, with prices now on average 10.9% higher than over the past year, and recording 4.2% growth in the three months to August 2014.
However, this growth has largely been led by Sydney and Melbourne, and it’s unsurprising that talks of a slowdown are now prominent. Over the past year Sydney has seen home value results up 16.2%, and Melbourne up 11.7%. Adelaide was the next strongest performer at a much slower 5.9% pace.
Senior research analyst Cameron Kusher notes that when extending the growth analysis to June 2012, Sydney and Melbourne remain strong at 27.2% and 18.5% growth respectively. However, Darwin and Perth also recorded double-digit figures – at 20% and 15% respectively.
“A longer term and retrospective outlook shows that the strength in the housing market has really been all about Sydney and Melbourne - from the market peak in March 2008, to its low point in December 2008, combined capital city home values fell by 6.1%. From that point, values once again began to increase,” Kusher said.
Since December 2008, the picture becomes even more divided. Sydney home values are up 50.1%, Melbourne home values have also soared by 47.5%. Darwin, Canberra and Perth also recorded fairly strong growth at 29%, 21.5% and 15% respectively. However, Hobart values are 1.4% down, and Brisbane and Adelaide only recorded an uptick of 5.3% and 9.9%.
“In light of the recent value growth it is important to realise that it is really a Sydney and Melbourne story with value growth only moderate elsewhere,” Kusher said.
The suggestion, then, is that Sydney and Melbourne will be the first to slow. But to understand why they may do so it's recommended that you first look at the reasons for growth.
Kusher points to six factors that drove the two markets:
<ol>
<li>Mortgage rates are extremely low (note that this isn't just the case for Sydney and Melbourne). </li>
<li>For eight of the past 10 years both Sydney and Melbourne have recorded the greatest increase in in population of all cities. In fact, for each of the past 13 years Melbourne has recorded the greatest population increase of all capital cities. </li>
<li>The outflow of residents from Sydney and Melbourne to other states, particularly Queensland and Western Australia, has slowed dramatically since the financial crisis. </li>
<li>The comparatively stronger value growth between 2009 and 2012 in Sydney and Melbourne means home owners have the equity to purchase investment properties or to upgrade from their current home. The sluggish recent value growth in other cities does not afford home owners the same level of equity and therefore less of an opportunity to upgrade or purchase investment properties. </li>
<li>Investment activity has been very much focussed on Sydney and Melbourne as values have grown, which has encouraged further growth. Investors are seemingly targeting capital growth rather than rental returns with Sydney and Melbourne having the lowest rental returns of any Australian capital cities. Of course, this growth won't continue forever. </li>
<li>The New South Wales and Victorian state governments have changed the availability of first home buyer grants to apply to new rather than existing properties. This has discouraged first home buyers from entering the market, creating more opportunities for upgraders and investors.</li>
</ol>
Source: RP Data
So what might be the factors causing a downturn?
“Given these factors are those driving demand and subsequent growth in home values, should these change, we may see a slowdown in value growth across these cities,” he said.
The obvious one? A rise in interest rates. Kusher notes that this could slow down the exuberance in the Sydney and Melbourne markets.
At present, the RBA has pointed to stability as the likely course of action, with experts predicting rises in 2015.
“With interest rates already at historic low levels and returns on safe investment classes so low, the maintenance of current interest rate settings is likely to continue to encourage investment in housing,” he said.
The other option to dampen house price growth: macro prudential control, alike to that seen in the UK and New Zealand.
At present, limitations to lending have been introduced in New Zealand to allow just 10% of lending to mortgages of LVRs above 80%. In the UK the picture is similar, bringing in limitations to just 15% of new mortgage lending going to mortgages 4.5 times the annual income of the mortgagee.
Kusher notes that given current median prices in Sydney and Melbourne, it’s fair to say that 15% of mortgagees are borrowing above 4.5 times their annual income.
“Of course, other sectors of the economy need lower interest rates so they have continually flagged a period of rates stability,” he said.
“With home values in Sydney and Melbourne continuing to march higher it seems as if only higher interest rates or the introduction of macro prudential tools can realistically stop the growth in home value.”
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The factors that could trigger Sydney and Melbourne’s price growth slowdown: RP Data

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AMP Capital has bought the National Australia Bank building in Docklands for $433.5 million.
The Cbus built property, designed by Woods Bagot, at 700 Bourke Street was completed last year.
It is 99% leased to NAB, with an average lease expiry of 13 years. 
There are 4% fixed rental increases which will boost the long-term income yield to 7%.
But the initial yield is 5.75% for the new 63,000-square-metre building.
Colliers International agents John Marasco, Nick Rathgeber, and Leigh Melbourne and Savills agent Ian Hetherington handled the sale.
{qtube vid:=cwF1_nYjzo8}
Photos courtesy of <a href="https://www.woodsbagot.com/project/national-australia-bank-docklands" target="_blank">Woods Bagot</a>.
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AMP Capital buy the Woods Bagot-designed NAB Docklands office

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There was just one house in the cheapest 10 Sydney weekend sales of last weekend.
It was a three bedroom house in <a href="/news">Leumeah </a>that fetched $440,000 at <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/sold/house/nsw/leumeah/?adid=2011348259" target="_blank">13 Burns Road</a> which sold through Richardson &amp; Wrench Ingleburn.
The prices started at $350,000 for Liverpool unit which last traded at $270,000 in 2009, reflecting 5% annual growth.
49/4-6 Lachlan Street, <a href="/news">Liverpool</a> had the potential for $420 a week rental.
The nine units ranged from a studio in the Mont Clair, <a href="/news">Darlinghurst</a> block to three bedrooms at <a href="/news">Greenacre</a>.
The cheapest 10 were:
<ol>
<li>Two bedroom unit Liverpool -  $350,000  </li>
<li>Studio unit Darlinghurst - $365,000 </li>
<li>Three bedroom unit Greenacre -  $389,500  </li>
<li>Two bedroom unit Bexley - $420,000 </li>
<li>Two bedroom unit Cabramatta -  $431,000 </li>
<li>One bedroom unit Camperdown -  $432,000 </li>
<li>Three bedroom house Leumeah - $440,000 </li>
<li>Two bedroom unit Ramsgate  - $445,000 </li>
<li>Two bedroom unit Parramatta - $447,000 </li>
<li>One bedroom unit Brighton Le Sands - $455,000</li>
</ol>
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