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“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into.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.

<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?

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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CFS Retail Property Group has booked a $400 million net profit for fiscal 2014, up 35% on the prior year.
The retail property trust has $14.2 billion of assets under management, including $8.9 billion held on balance sheet.
It is cautious on retail sales in the short-term given the 2015 federal budget impact but expect specialty store sales to steadily improve, chief executive Angus McNaughton forecasted, as Emporium Melbourne comes on line.
It officially opened its $1.2 billion Emporium Melbourne<a href="/expert-insights/investing/the-emporium-melbourne-officially-opens-its-doors"> in Baz Luhrmann-produced extravaganza</a>.
The Emporium comprises 45,000 square metres of retail space.
It is forecast to deliver 5% yield on cost.
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Emporium Melbourne forecast to deliver 5% yield on cost for CFS Retail

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Mortgage broker Mortgage Choice has notched up a full-year net profit rise of 6% to $19.85 million.
The cash profit jumped 19% to $18.7 million.
The business wrote $12.2 billion in loan approvals, which is almost 20% higher on the prior year.
Its loan book rose to $47.4 billion.
Its network of mortgage brokers expanded, hitting 405 franchises and 549 loan writers.
Chief executive Michael Russell says it was the best result so far for the company.
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Mortgage Choice takes loan book to $47 billion

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Tuesday night's episode of Location Location Location saw two buyers toss up between the two values every property player holds dear: property and location.
Bryce spent the episode helping out Laura and Marcus from Melbourne. The retro loving couple have been together for almost 11 years and have a three year old son, Archie. 
Formerly restless, with 10 moves in 10 years, the couple were keen to put some roots down - preferably in <a href="/news">Altona North</a>, where they were renting. They required a two to three bedroom house, with a big backyard for Archie. But most importantly, Marcus needed a sizable garage for his latest acquisition - a 1971 Valiant Regal, which he is in the process of restoring.
Unfortunately, after two years of looking, they'd had no luck. With both Laura and Marcus working for not-for-profit organisations, they were on a tight budget of $540,000. 
Bryce's first move is a trip to <a href="/news">Seabrook</a>, a new suburb 15 minutes further out from the CBD from Altona North, in Melbourne's west. Laura was skeptical of the area from the very start, despite a good school within walking distance. The new build house they visited had an asking price of $470,000, well within the couple's budget, and had a covered entertaining area with a small grassy backyard for Archie and garage space for the Valiant.
Although the house itself had plenty of pros, the distance from the city was a big con, especially for Laura - and so it became apparent that for this couple, it really was all about location, location, location.
Next stop was Altona, <a href="/expert-insights/investing/julia-gillard-set-to-move-back-to-adelaide-but-not-leave-altona-imminently">the one-time home of Julia Gillard</a>. Bryce had found a single storey three bedder with a large loungeroom, dining anrea and kitchen, with plenty of space for Archie. The house, which needed a little work, was also offered at $470,000 and was set to go to auction.
He also tracked down a house very close to home, in Altona North. The three bedroom house with separate dining and a garage preserved the home's original 60s features (a big plus for Laura and Marcus), but was in the shadow of a large refinery - no doubt a factor in the home's relatively modest $520,000 asking price. Though the couple were keen, they decided in the end that the backyard view of the refinery wasn't for them.
In the end, Bryce brought Laura and Marcus to another Altona North home - this time, far away from the refinery. With three good sized bedrooms, a garage and a substantial backyard, the single storey brick home on a 535 square metre block ticked all the boxes. The vendor was after no less than $510,000, but Bryce put in a strategic unconditional offer of $501,000, which did the trick, <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-altona+north-115977407">securing the home for Laura and Marcus</a> (pictured below).    
<img src="/images/2014/08/21/1.jpg" alt="">
Sydney sisters Jackie and Juliet found that house trumped location in their search for a home for Juliet. The sisters, originally from England, were hunting for a house for Juliet, with Veronica's help. Juliet has scoured the market for a house but is nervous about buying and hates auctions.
Five years on from the removal of a life-threatening brain tumour, she decided that it's finally time to settle down and get on with her life, and wanted to put down some roots. She was after a two bedroom home in an inner-western Sydney suburb with a village feel. She was keen on period homes, and dead set on a bath, with a $910,000 budget. 
Veronica first took the sisters to Luluville, a terrace cottage in <a href="/news">Rozelle</a> which dates back to the early 1900s. Outside, the home had a split level garden for entertaining, and was a snug fit. Jackie ruled that the home was too small, although it did fall within the budget, with a $800,000 price guide and a $850,000 plus estimate from Veronica. The sisters tossed up some renovation ideas, but couldn't figure out a price efficient way to make the house bigger.
Next they went to <a href="/news">Enmore</a>, where another terrace house offered a little more space. The solid double-brick home home made a good first impression for Juliet, and had original fireplaces. Currently occupied by tenants for another six months, the house had two bedrooms, a separate lounge and large eat in kitchen, with a $850,000 price tag. Unfortunately, with the auction only 48 hours after the sisters made the inspection, the home didn't make a strong enough impression to force them into action. 
The sisters also inspected a home in <a href="/news">Leichhardt</a>, another terrace. Unlike the other properties Juliet had walked through, this one had been renovated, with an extension upstairs. There was a "functional" backyard, a rather spartan, minimalist affair. Upstairs, the "spare room" was really a little mezzanine with a balcony, with no door but room for a single bed. According to Veronica, the questionable functionality of the upstairs spare room could just make the home's price attainable. It came with an $800,000 price guide.
Finally, the sisters travelled to <a href="/news">Erskineville</a>, only five kilometres from the city centre. The recently renovated home preserved some period features, with two upstairs bedrooms, and an open plan living and dining area downstairs, with a courtyard. However, the home had a small, galley style kitchen with limited storage - a major negative for Juliet. 
Vendors were accepting offers over $800,000 for the Erskineville home.
After some umming and ahhing, the sisters settled on Leichhardt, thanks to its good sized kitchen and small private balcony. Veronica put in a strong $850,000  bid after waiting til they arrived at the second week of the auction campaign, securing the home and saving Juliet from the dreaded auction process.
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Location Location Location: The crucial compromise

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There are 689 auctions scheduled this week in Melbourne compared to 712 for the same time last year.
It is encouraging for sellers that for each of the last five weeks the clearance rate has risen in the lead up to spring.
As the market has appreciated over the past year it has resulted in some new suburbs joining the ranks of those with million dollar median values for houses. The new suburbs were <a href="/news">Aberfeldie</a>, <a href="/news">Caulfield South</a>, <a href="/news">Fitzroy North</a>, <a href="/news">McKinnon</a>, <a href="/news">Ormond</a>, <a href="/news">Park Orchards</a>, <a href="/news">Princes Hill</a>, <a href="/news">South Melbourne</a> and <a href="/news">South Yarra</a>.
This is particularly noteworthy as Aberfeldie is the first suburb from the western region of Melbourne to upgrade to the million dollar median value ranks while Fitzroy North and Princess Hill are the first in the north. These changes underscore just how much the structure of the housing market has changed in the last decade.
Time on market results for houses sold at private sale was essentially stable with a small rise from 43 to 44 days over the last week whilst vendor discounting fell from -5.3% the previous week to -5.1%.
Key data
<ul>
<li>Clearance rate week ending 17 August: 73.3%</li>
<li>Melbourne auctions expected week ending 24 August: 689</li>
<li>Melbourne private sales time on market week ending 17 August: 44 days (houses)</li>
<li>Melbourne vendor discounting market week ending 17 August: -5.1% (houses)</li>
<li>Listings being prepared for market are 1.2% higher in month ending 17 August (seasonally adjusted)</li>
</ul>
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rlarocca-zWhvjay44N

Melbourne's new million dollar median suburbs: RP Data's weekend auction preview

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GUEST OBSERVATION
I never in my wildest dreams thought that I would be able to buy quality property in Sydney under $300,000…
But the GFC awarded me this moment in time that we absolutely took advantage of it. <a href="/news">Campbelltown </a>(Macarthur Shire) was the spot.
But why Campbelltown? It made for some great buying, simple!
The south-western Sydney location had all the ingredients of a great investing location with a fast growing population, great accessibility to employment in Sydney CBD or growing commercial and industrial sectors in Minto and Hoxton Park through either the M5 freeway or by train.
The last key ingredient was the GFC. This caused house prices to drop dramatically and consumer confidence to go out the window, allowing me to have no competition with other buyers and allow for some pretty low offers to secure some great deals.
This all happened for us in 2009. I was that confident in the area that I purchased eight properties there. Well, that’s all the past and now is what we want to all hear about, the results.
I am glad to say that we have had a few investors recently sell their properties in Campbelltown for what I would call “very impressive” results.
We were that confident, we even filmed the first property to be auctioned and it went better than expected!
The reason for some of our clients selling is to grab the profits they made from their investment property and pay down their home loan in a lump sum. Imagine having a home loan for $300,000, being able to drop $100,00 plus onto it in one go, making it $200,000.
Wouldn’t that increase your cash flow dramatically?
With a quick loan re-adjustment, it sure would!
But, you don’t stop there – now your cash flow has increased along with the available equity in your home, you go back out and buy two or three properties.
When two of those properties mature in value, you do the same and pay off your home loan in full!
Since this, we’ve had another great result with a client selling their house we purchased for $298,000 and sold for $412,000. 
Back to the story, I congratulate these investors doing what most wouldn’t – invest when everyone else ran away and they will reap the rewards for doing so.
TODD HUNTER is buyer’s agent, director and location researcher for Sydney-based <a href="https://www.wheregroup.com.au/" target="_blank">wHeregroup</a>.
He reached a personal investment portfolio of 50 properties in 2006 and has also started building an SMSF portfolio.
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thunter-umjjMzoT8b

The investors who bought when everyone else was running away are now reaping the rewards

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This week is full of announcements from some big Australian companies. Things are changing.
Two announcements come from BHP Billiton and AGL and both will have a big impact on the Hunter Region of NSW. Hopefully a positive change that will strengthen the local economies and translate to the housing market.
As you all know, property is my number one choice of investment strategy. In contrast, my share market investment experience is pretty limited. In fact, I can nail it down to two things; watching what my managed superannuation fund does and sitting around a table with a group of girlfriends drinking wine and having a little bit of input into the allocation of my investments in our Kash Kow funds.
The Kash Kows was formed about 10 years ago when a few women decided we should build our investments and have a bit of fun trying to figure out how the stock market works. We all throw in $25 per month then when there is enough money in the kitty, make some (usually) dodgy decisions on what we buy. We do try and get in 'guest speakers' ply them with alcohol and nibblies then hit them up for a tip. Other times we will actually do some real  research to work out what company to invest in. We started as 'share traders' which quickly turned to 'share investors' when none of us had time to watch the daily fluctuations of the share market and actually do the trades.
Luckily for us we had purchased BHP long ago at about $12 a share. While I can safely say we are nowhere near their major shareholders, I do take an active interest in what BHP do, particularly in the Hunter.
'BHP's demerger sees it keep it's Hunter Valley coal mines' read one headline that caught my eye this week.  With the big company deciding to split their interests and assets into two, I wondered what was their criteria in choosing which would stay with BHP and which would be 'spun out'.
Recently BHP was able to boost exports and cut costs sufficiently to overcome the slide in commodity prices. Its current share price is reflecting this. So are the vacancy rates in <a href="/news">Muswellbrook </a>and <a href="/news">Singleton</a>. Cutting costs meant letting go of contractors and downsizing some divisions.  However productivity so it seems, has never been so good.
I read it's the first time in three years that BHP has improved profits year-on-year. This has been achieved despite prices for some of BHP’s most important commodities – particularly iron ore and copper – trending lower during the 2014 financial year.  They seemed to have ramped up their volume in coal.
BHP has said it would include its Illawarra metallurgical coal business in NSW in the demerged group, but would be hanging on to its thermal coal assets in the state’s Hunter Valley. Metallurgical coal is less abundant than thermal coal and is primarily used in the production of coke, which is an important part of the integrated steel mill process. 
“In a single step, we will significantly increase BHP Billiton’s focus on the exceptionally large resource basins that underpin its competitive advantage. As we move towards a simpler portfolio, comprised of our pillars of Iron Ore, Copper, Coal, Petroleum and potentially Potash, we will become a higher-margin, higher-return business..." said BHP Billiton Chief Executive Officer Andrew Mackenzie.
My interpretation of this change is a sign of confidence from the company in the coal mines of the Hunter Valley.
The other big 'change' announcement this week was the AGL and Macquarie Generation (MacGen) owned by the NSW State Government acquisition. The deal covers the Bayswater and Liddell power stations near Muswellbrook, the Liddell solar farm, the Hunter Valley gas turbine near Liddell, the development site ‘‘Bayswater B’’ for a new base load power station four kilometres west of Bayswater, and the Tomago generation development.
From the proceeds, about $700 million is expected to go into the government infrastructure fund Restart NSW to fund high priority future infrastructure projects across NSW like schools, rail, roads and hospitals. The <a href="https://www.hunterinfrastructure.nsw.gov.au/About.aspx" target="_blank">Hunter Infrastructure &amp; Investment Fund</a> will benefit from this.
AGL says there are many strategic benefits to this purchase and plans to spend $405 million over four years on revised maintenance and upgrades at its Liddell and Bayswater plants.
Hopefully this change and investment will also trickle down into the local economies.
And so I ponder on these two large change projects and have to agree with George Bernard Shaw that "Progress is impossible without change".
<a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au" target="_blank">www.propertybloom.com.au</a>
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Change is coming to the Hunter Valley

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The jubilant Minister for Family and Community Services, Gabrielle Upton, and Minister for Finance and Services, Dominic Perrottet, have announced the first sale of a government-owned heritage property at Millers Point sold at McGrath auction for $1,911,000 tonight.
The news of the sale price was broken on Twitter by 2GB, with bidding starting at $1 million.
The last public housing tenant paid $77.20 a week rent at the property which had revised price guidance of $1.3 million plus. It has water views over Walsh Bay.
An initial price guide of $1 million plus was suggested for the rundown four-bedroom heritage-listed home which has been vacant since early 2011.
“For every Millers Point property that is sold, we can build three modern properties that are more accessible and comfortable,” Upton said after the auction.
She said the sale was "a win" for the 58,000 households on the waiting list for public housing because it helps make the social housing system more sustainable and will help get new properties in the system sooner.”
But activists says that the minister who introduced the relocation policy, Pru Goward has thrice declined to commit all sale proceeds to public housing.
The first property to go under the hammer, <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/property/for-sale/house/nsw/millers-point/?adid=2011305320" target="_blank">119 Kent Street</a> (pictured above), received strong buyer interest with more than 200 groups inspecting the four bedroom, four level property in the first two weeks of its listing.
That was despite property inspections being strictly by appointment, with buyers teeing it up with the listing agent.
There were also more than 1,500 enquiries received through the real estate agent’s website and more than 50 pre-auction very bulky contracts were issued.
There are currently five other properties on the auction market - including through Di Jones Real Estate - as part of the government’s latest tranche of sales in the Millers Point precinct.
The original 30 or so who buyers who bought into the area over the past few years on 99-year leases are unimpressed that the latest offerings are being sold as freehold.
But it was concerns of activist tenants turning up to distrupt the auction, that there was the silly non-disclosure as to the location of the auction by the vendors, the state government.
Conditions of entry to the auction, drawn up by Government Property NSW and obtained by Fairfax Media, was intent on banning any form of video, audio or photography. 
All media outlets were to be denied entry.
Almost 600 public housing tenants will be relocated across 293 homes for the two years sales program, which has been described by critics as ''social cleansing''. Even the Pet Shop Boys during their recent visit tweeted their concern as to the relocation outcome.
There are about 220 terraces and 70 apartments.  
One of the properties is a four-bedroom 1840 Georgian house called Tarra, that has views of the Opera House from underneath the bridge.
The strict silly auction rules were reported by The SMH as including:
<ol>
<li>As the auction will be held on private property, McGrath reserves its rights.</li>
<li>Admittance to the auction is for bona fide buyers who are in a position to purchase the property on the night.</li>
<li>Due to restricted space, only pre-registrations will be accepted and only two people per group are permitted.</li>
<li>No press or media or other real estate agents will be permitted entry.</li>
<li>No video, audio or still photography will be permitted.</li>
<li>Individuals that cause disturbance on the night or during the auction process will be asked to leave or may be removed.</li>
<li>You will be asked to sign the above conditions of entry on the night.</li>
</ol>
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Vacated Millers Point four level terrace fetches $1,911,000 at private state government auction

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It’s fair to say that the name Baz Luhrmann is not exactly synonymous with restraint.
The Australian director best known for pulling off meticulous and extravagant displays of debauchery in films such as The Great Gatsby, Moulin Rouge and Romeo + Juliet, brought his trademark touch to the grand opening of Melbourne’s Emporium shopping centre last night.
The $1.2 billion centre in the shell of the former Lonsdale Street Myer building was looking suitably glamourous for the event's 1,500 attendees.
The opening came at a great time for the centre’s owners, CFS Retail Property Group, who just announced a $400 million net profit for the 2014 financial year.
International retailers Top Shop and Uniqlo are among the tenants who have been welcoming customers for a few months preceding the launch. Though a few of centre's tenants are still waiting to open, the 225 retail spaces at Emporium are fully leased.
Luhrmann's vision for the opening was a "reimagined" Melbourne. While the opening event's giant tennis ball, beneath a cavorting acrobat, was a nod to the Australian Open, and a pink and purple horse sculpture a tip of the fascinator towards the spring racing carnival, other features of the launch had more tenuous links to the city.
<img src="/images/2014/08/21/26.jpeg" alt="">
Choreographed dancers wearing soldier and nurse costumes? A stretch.
<img src="/images/2014/08/21/3.jpeg" alt="">
A slick band seemingly swimming amongst a sea of gladioli? Not so sure…
<img src="/images/2014/08/21/2.jpeg" alt="">
Roller skating waiters eager to top up your glass of champers? I’ll roll with it.
The efforts certainly impressed attendees, including swimmer Michael Klim, singer Natalie Bassingthwaite and pyjama designer Peter Alexander. Property Observer also noted the attendance of The Block Glasshouse’s Darren and Dee.
However, Luhrmann was undoubtedly the star of the show. On a tour of the party, the director was mobbed by attendees, who had no doubt forgotten the nearly three hour ordeal that was Australia.
<img src="/images/2014/08/21/10625049_10152411629248640_3586282144434533793_n.jpg" alt="">
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Baz Luhrmann opens Melbourne's Emporium in a riotous glitzy affair

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Super Retail Group, owner of brands including Rebel Sport and Supercheap Auto, has reported a 5.6% jump in profits for 2014.
The retail group’s net profit after tax rose to $108.4 million, while revenue lifted by 4.6% to $2.11 billion.
Super Retail Group managing director and chief executive Peter Birtles said in a statement the result, while in-line with forecasts, reflected mixed performance across the group.
Birtles said the auto retailing division was an outstanding performer with around 10% growth, but the company’s leisure and sports retailing arms had lagged.
“In the leisure retailing division, the BCF business was impacted by a slowdown in sales in stores that had previously benefited from investment in the mining industry,” said Birtles.
“The sports retailing division had a solid start to the year but performance was impacted by inventory supply challenges resulting from the implementation of new merchandise and supply management systems in October and from a slowdown in customer demand following the federal budget and a warmer start to winter.”
This article first appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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Super Retail Group reports 5.6% jump in profits

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Australia’s million dollar property club hit new heights this year in what can only be described as an explosion in the number of suburbs nationally with a median value in excess of $1 million over the past year.
Sales data to June 2014 confirmed that there are now 417 suburbs nationally which boast a median value of $1 million or more, up from a healthy 312 for this time in 2013.
While Sydney claimed majority market share to make it to the million dollar club with 22 suburbs ranked in the top performing list out of 25, while Perth had two suburbs and Melbourne had just one.
<img src="/images/2014/08/21/rp-data-aug-21-one.png" alt="">
RP Data’s July combined capital city home values index shows that values increased by 10.2% over the 12 months to July 2014. As a result of robust growth, the cost of housing has increased and subsequently, there was a significant increase in the number of suburbs with a median value of $1 million or more.
As at June 2014, there were 397 suburbs nationally with a median house value of $1 million or more and 20 suburbs for units. The 417 total suburbs with a median value of $1 million or more is the highest number over the past five years.  
The number of suburbs with a million dollar price tag for houses increased by 104 over the past year while for units; the number is up by five. New South Wales in particular recorded the most substantial increases in million dollar suburbs over the past year.  
The number of New South Wales suburbs with a median value of $1 million or more is up 42% over the year.  Across the other states, there’s been a 24% rise in Victoria, 25% rise in Queensland, 44% rise in South Australia, 22% rise in Western Australia, no change in the Northern Territory and a -11% fall in the Australian Capital Territory. Tasmania has zero suburbs with a median value of $1 million or more.  
The large rise in the number of suburbs with a median value of $1 million or more in New South Wales is reflective of the strong home value growth in the Sydney over the past year.  
Over the 12 months to July 2014, Sydney home values have increased by 14.8%. Proportionately, Sydney suburbs comprise 61% of all $million plus suburbs nationally followed by Melbourne at 14% and Perth at 12%.
Of most significance from today’s million dollar findings, is the rise in the number of suburbs with a median value of more than $2 million. Last year 37 suburbs had a median value of $2 million or more while in June of this year, the number of suburbs had increased to 42.
Clearly, low mortgage rates are creating a surge in market activity. This encourages people to look to upgrading to bigger homes and in more ideal locations. We’re seeing a large slice of this activity taking place within the higher-end of the housing market and as a result, propelling home values higher and into the million dollar realm.
Looking at the suburbs with the highest national median value, Sydney’s <a href="/news">Point Piper</a> remains as the nation’s most expensive housing market.  As at June 2014, houses in Point Piper had a median value of almost $5.7 million. <a href="/news">Woolwich </a>in Sydney was not far behind with a median value of $5.5 million.
Of the 25 suburbs with the highest median value, all suburbs listed were for houses rather than units.  Twenty two of the 25 suburbs listed were in Sydney with one in Melbourne and two in Perth.  
<img src="/images/2014/08/21/rp-data-aug-21-two.png" alt="">
The results show that higher values, particularly in Sydney is becoming more prevalent.  With mortgage rates low and tipped to remain low we would expect that in 12 months’ time we will have even more suburbs with a median value of $1 million or more.  Although we anticipate the rate of value growth is likely to slow over the coming year, we do expect further increases.
A rise in suburbs with a million dollar plus price tag is great for those who own a home in these areas. For those that don’t, it highlights that these buyers have fewer housing options and continue to be pushed further away from the city centre where most of these homes in excess of $1 million are located. 
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons.
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