The Gold Coast economy has grown by 25 per cent since 2020/21 to surpass $55 billion, but perhaps the more significant story is what sits behind the headline number.

For decades, the Gold Coast has been viewed through the lens of tourism, lifestyle and population growth. The latest State of the City Report suggests that perception is increasingly out of step with reality.

Released by Invest Gold Coast, the report ranks the Gold Coast as Australia's largest non-capital city economy and, perhaps more notably, second nationally behind Sydney for Economic Complexity, a measure that assesses the diversity and sophistication of an economy.

It's a result that places the Gold Coast ahead of Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, highlighting the extent to which the city's economic base has broadened beyond its traditional industries.

Today, the Gold Coast supports more than 350,000 jobs, is home to over 83,000 businesses and generates $19 billion in annual exports. Manufacturing now accounts for 62 per cent of international export growth, while sectors including health, education, advanced manufacturing, technology and professional services are becoming increasingly important contributors to the local economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the report confirmed the city's evolution into one of Australia's most significant economies.

"The Gold Coast economy continues to grow at an incredible pace. This is no surprise to those of us who have watched the evolution up close," Mayor Tate said.

"As one of the most entrepreneurial, investment driven and opportunity focused economies in the country our ambition has been realised and possibilities are endless.

"The Gold Coast has built a reputation as the city that says yes. We say yes to investment, yes to opportunity and yes to people who want to build something.

"It's this mindset helping us drive major growth across health, advanced manufacturing, screen production, marine, technology and the knowledge economy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360975]

While population growth has been one of the defining stories of the past decade, the report points to a broader economic transformation taking place.

The city's knowledge economy now contributes $7.9 billion annually and supports around 31,000 jobs, while the health and wellbeing sector contributes $5.2 billion and employs more than 42,000 people. Together, the six priority sectors identified in the report account for almost $24 billion in economic output and more than 145,000 jobs.

One of the strongest examples is the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct at Southport. The 200-hectare precinct now contains more than $5 billion worth of health, education, research and innovation infrastructure and supports over 16,000 jobs.

The report also highlights the growing role of advanced manufacturing, particularly in aerospace, defence and modular construction.

Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space Technologies recently became the first Australian commercial company to attempt an orbital launch, while companies including Modscape and ModnPods are helping establish the Yatala-Stapylton corridor as one of Australia's fastest-growing advanced manufacturing hubs.

The city's entrepreneurial culture is also translating into business growth.

Since 2019/20, the number of businesses operating on the Gold Coast has increased by 22 per cent, while firms employing more than 200 people have grown by 80 per cent. The report suggests the next challenge is converting more local start-ups and medium-sized businesses into nationally significant companies.

Development activity remains another key indicator of confidence.

There are currently more than $23 billion worth of major projects underway across the Gold Coast, supported by a record 75 active cranes, a figure that now exceeds Brisbane and represents a 150 per cent increase since 2016.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112024 project_image_fid=343235]

Importantly, the report notes the next phase of investment will need to extend beyond residential development.

While 93 per cent of crane activity is currently tied to housing, Invest Gold Coast argues future investment will increasingly need to focus on cultural, civic, infrastructure and industry-enabling projects that strengthen the city's long-term economic resilience.

Invest Gold Coast Chair Will Hodgman said the city was now benefiting from years of economic diversification.

"What is happening on the Gold Coast is the result of the city's economic base broadening, fuelled by industries with long-term, high-growth potential," Mr Hodgman said.

"This is no longer a secondary Australian economy, the Gold Coast is becoming a globally connected city with deeper capability across health, knowledge and creative industries, advanced manufacturing, technology and exports."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365786]

Looking ahead, the Gold Coast's population is projected to exceed one million residents by 2046.

For a city that was once largely defined by tourism and lifestyle, the latest figures suggest the Gold Coast is becoming something more significant, one of Australia's most diverse and economically sophisticated urban economies, and increasingly one that national and international investors can no longer afford to overlook.

Joel Robinson

75 cranes, $23 billion pipeline and a $55 billion economy: Inside the Gold Coast economic boom

Ron Bakir's Homecorp has sold more than 75 per cent of the apartments in its wellness-driven Florence Residences in Surfers Paradise following its first weekend release.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/florence-residences-24-monte-carlo-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">26-storey project on Monte Carlo Avenue</a>, which commenced construction earlier this year, has seen a flurry of buyers secure their slice of the Gold Coast's latest wellbeing-focused offering in one of the nation's most competitive property markets.

Since the pandemic, the Gold Coast's population has grown by more than 11 per cent, a rate approximately four times faster than Sydney's, driven largely by lifestyle changes and interstate migration. While buyer activity has moderated in some markets nationally, demand for newly built dwellings on the Gold Coast continues to gain momentum as purchasers increasingly prioritise lifestyle, amenity, wellbeing, liveability and long-term investment potential.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372743]

Homecorp CEO Ron Bakir says buyers today are looking for more than just a home.

"What we are seeing is a shift in how people define value in property," Bakir says.

"What attracts residents to new developments is a desire for more than just a residence. They are looking for a place that complements their lifestyle, supports their wellbeing and reflects the way they want to live into the future.

"Lifestyle, longevity, proactive health, wellbeing, connection and a sense of community are increasingly shaping purchasing decisions, particularly on the Gold Coast, where these factors continue to be a major drawcard."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372744]

Bakir says Homecorp is responding to this shift through an approach that places greater emphasis on design, amenity and experience working together to create places that feel considered, connected and enduring in value.

Inspired by Eastern European design, Florence Residences will comprise 120 apartments alongside a private residents-only wellness club featuring a resort-style rooftop pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a spa retreat, contemporary gymnasium, and a spacious yoga and Pilates studio.

The development will also feature a residents-only lounge with private dining facilities and a rooftop bar, premium outdoor entertaining areas, a hotel-style lobby lounge, generous bike parking, and pet-friendly amenities including a heated dog wash.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372742]

A limited number of apartments remain available, with an exclusive collection of four-bedroom sub-penthouses set to be released in the coming months.

Florence is one of the latest additions to Homecorp's expanding multi-billion-dollar property portfolio, which also includes plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/homecorp-lodges-plans-for-260-million-moroccan-bathhouse-inspired-tower-in-budds-beach">$260 million development in Budds Beach</a> tailored to the growing wellness market.

A development application has been lodged for a 27-storey, 156-residence tower at 8–10 Acacia Avenue and 25–27 Oak Avenue, featuring a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired sanctuary.

Apartments at Florence Residences are priced from $1,249,000, with construction expected to be completed by late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150414]

Buyers rush to Homecorp's Florence Residences as Gold Coast wellness trend gains momentum

The NSW Government has expanded its $1 billion Pre-sale Finance Guarantee program, broadening access for affordable housing providers and smaller residential developments as it seeks to accelerate housing delivery across the state.

The Minns Government says the program has already helped bring forward more than 600 homes across Sydney and regional NSW since launching in September 2025, with similar models now adopted in South Australia and Western Australia.

The latest changes, announced by Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, are designed to improve access to finance for projects that have planning approval but are struggling to secure funding.

Among the key changes is an expansion of support for community housing providers. The program will now support up to 100 per cent affordable housing projects valued at up to $30 million when delivered by not-for-profit providers, while support for larger affordable housing developments will increase for projects worth up to $80 million.

The government says the changes will help accelerate the delivery of housing for low-income workers, older people, people living with disability, and those at risk of homelessness, while reducing reliance on direct grants or subsidised loans to bridge funding gaps.

The eligibility criteria for smaller residential developments have also been broadened. The previous $5 million minimum project value threshold has been removed and replaced with a requirement that projects deliver at least four homes.

Support has also increased for projects delivering fewer than 20 homes, with the guarantee now able to cover up to 75 per cent of dwellings in a development, capped at $30 million per project.

The changes are expected to particularly benefit smaller-scale and regional developments, which often face greater challenges meeting pre-sale requirements imposed by lenders.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the scheme demonstrates how government can use its balance sheet to stimulate housing supply without relying solely on taxpayer-funded grants.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee shows how this Government is using its balance sheet to reduce risk and unlock private investment, enabling new homes to move from design to construction faster," Mookhey said.

"This landmark reform allows us to deliver homes for working families at a lower cost to taxpayers, while also maintaining strong financial discipline."

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the program had already proven effective in bringing stalled projects to market.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee has already proven it can unlock stalled projects and accelerate housing delivery by giving lenders the confidence they need to back good developments," Scully said.

"These changes will allow more affordable housing and smaller developments to access support so more homes can be built faster where communities need them most."

Housing Minister Rose Jackson said the expansion would help community housing providers overcome financing barriers that often delay projects.

"We know community housing providers are ready to build more homes, too often they're held back by barriers to finance," Jackson said.

"Expanding the Pre-sale Finance Guarantee helps remove those barriers so more affordable homes can get off the ground sooner."

The announcement was welcomed by the Property Council of Australia, which has long advocated for measures aimed at improving project feasibility and access to finance.

Property Council NSW Executive Director Katie Stevenson described the expansion as a practical intervention that addresses one of the most immediate constraints on housing delivery.

"This is exactly the kind of practical intervention we need right now, focused on getting projects out of the ground, not just approved," Stevenson said.

"It builds on a model the Property Council has worked closely with government to develop following calls for such a scheme ahead of last year's NSW Budget, so it's great to see it being expanded."

Stevenson said the reforms would help unlock projects that are ready to proceed but have been delayed by financing challenges. However, she noted that broader feasibility issues remain a significant barrier to increasing housing supply.

"The biggest challenge in NSW housing today is delivery. Too many projects have planning approval but are simply not financially viable to proceed under current settings," she said.

Speaking at the Property Council's NSW Housing Summit, Housing Minister Rose Jackson acknowledged that feasibility and financing pressures continue to constrain housing delivery, while reaffirming the government's commitment to work with industry on solutions.

Stevenson said the government's recognition of those challenges was encouraging ahead of next week's state budget.

"It's positive to see the government clearly recognising that feasibility pressures are now a binding constraint on supply," she said.

"With the Budget just days away, the focus must be on backing delivery, making sure projects stack up, finance can flow, and more homes can move from approval to construction."

The expanded Pre-sale Finance Guarantee forms part of the NSW Government's broader housing agenda, which also includes planning reforms, the NSW Housing Pattern Book, and a series of rezonings intended to increase housing capacity across the state.

NSW expands Pre-sale Finance Guarantee to unlock more affordable and regional housing

Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372212]

Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372227]

Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372225]

While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372222]

The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146717]

Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6395]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6399]

Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=353235]

A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6390]

“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

The Walden pairs house-scale living with North Sydney connectivity

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?

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Mortgage relief? NAB forecasts RBA rate cut, not hike, after softer economic conditions

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GUEST OBSERVATION
 
After two decades equating budget surpluses with good economic management, it might seem convenient that the federal government has <a href="https://ministers.treasury.gov.au/ministers/josh-frydenberg-2018/speeches/speech-australian-chamber-commerce-and-industry-canberra">changed its fiscal strategy</a> just before the budget to focus on jobs over keeping the deficit in check.
But it’s the right move. The world has changed in ways that make government spending more necessary and government debt more sustainable than ever.
Debt talk still dominates <a href="https://www.afr.com/policy/economy/budget-must-chart-course-to-eliminate-debt-and-deficit-20200929-p5605q">newspaper headlines</a> and many of Treasurer Josh Frydenberg’s <a href="https://ministers.treasury.gov.au/ministers/josh-frydenberg-2018/transcripts/interview-karl-stefanovic-today-show-1">media appearances</a>. But it shouldn’t. Here’s why.
We are in the middle of a major economic shock
The COVID-19 recession is the biggest economic shock since the Great Depression. GDP <a href="https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/economy/national-accounts/australian-national-accounts-national-income-expenditure-and-product/latest-release">fell 6.3%</a> in the year to June, the worst annual result since 1929.
The federal government should use its balance sheet to spread the costs of such a large shock over time. The alternative would be to leave those who lost their jobs or businesses in poverty.
The government’s emergency response saved businesses and jobs from going under in the short term. Now, as we emerge from the crisis into the recovery phase, large-scale stimulus is needed to boost demand and create new jobs.
Debt has never been cheaper
It has never been cheaper for governments to borrow. As the next chart shows, the interest rate on 10-year Australian Government Bonds is less than 1%. If inflation stays above 1%, as the Reserve Bank and Treasury expect, the “real” interest rate the federal government pays on the bond will be negative. That is, it will effectively be paid to borrow.
<hr>
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/361517/original/file-20201005-20-1oqmgxs.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="Yields on 10 Year Australian Government Bonds."> Author provided
<hr>
These very low interest costs change the dynamics of managing debt we accrue now. Investments that boost future growth – including spending to reduce unemployment and close the output gap – will pay for themselves.
This is the fiscal “free lunch” spoken about by the former chief economist of the International Monetary Fund, <a href="https://www.aeaweb.org/articles?id=10.1257/aer.109.4.1197">Olivier Blanchard</a>, and the deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of Australia, <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au/speeches/2020/sp-dg-2020-09-22">Guy Debelle</a>.
Extra stimulus won’t spook financial markets
To get the unemployment rate below 5% by the end of 2022, the <a href="https://theconversation.com/now-well-need-100-120-billion-why-the-budget-has-to-spend-big-to-avoid-scarring-145489">Grattan Institute</a> estimates a further A$100 billion to A$120 billion of fiscal stimulus is needed on top of what governments have already announced.
This is unlikely to cause financial markets to break a sweat. Even if gross debt was to nudge 50% of GDP in the next few years, it would still be far below that of most other developed nations before the COVID crisis. At the end of 2018-19, the gross public debt in the UK was 85% of GDP, in the US 103%, and in Japan more than 200%. All have borrowed substantially more since then at very low rates.
There’s also no risk that significant government spending will cause wages or inflation to rise dramatically. In fact, Australia has the opposite problem. Wages were stagnant before the crisis and are forecast to remain so for years. Inflation has been persistently below the Reserve Bank’s inflation target and is forecast to remain so for years.
We can manage debt without austerity
Frydenberg has signalled that, as employment recovers, the government’s fiscal strategy will shift to stabilising and then reducing debt as a share of GDP. Although his stated threshold of “well under 6% unemployment” is <a href="https://theconversation.com/frydenberg-is-setting-his-budget-ambition-dangerously-low-146855">not ambitious enough</a>, the idea makes sense.
The good news is that with interest rates on government borrowing so low, debt as a share of GDP can be reduced without pursuing austerity in the form of deficit reduction.
The interest rate is one of three factors that affect the size of debt relative to GDP. The other two are the budget balance (the incremental contribution to debt) and nominal GDP growth, which depends on economic activity and inflation.
Even if interest rates were a little higher than now (say, 1.5%), the government can reduce debt relative to GDP even while continuing to run large deficits, provided that nominal GDP growth returns to a moderate level (say, 4.5%, as it was before the pandemic).
The next chart shows that under these circumstances the government can run deficits of up to $50 billion and still reduce debt as a share of GDP.
<hr>
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/361518/original/file-20201005-24-r8s4ta.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/361518/original/file-20201005-24-r8s4ta.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="Gross debt-to-GDP projections based on different budget deficit scenarios."></a> Author provided
<hr>
Different rates of GDP growth would change this story, as the next chart shows. With an even higher nominal growth rate, debt would shrink even faster relative to GDP. In a scenario of prolonged low growth, debt would increase relative to GDP a little, but remain very modest.
<hr>
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/361519/original/file-20201005-14-1f2z9na.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="Gross debt-to-GDP projections based on different GDP growth scenarios"> Author provided
<hr>
The government can do things to boost nominal growth in areas such as tax reform, education and skills, workforce participation, energy and climate policy, and land-use planning. The Reserve Bank should also do more by boosting inflation, which would support nominal growth.
Don’t scrimp on stimulus
There are many <a href="https://insidestory.org.au/the-biggest-bang-for-the-stimulus-buck/">urgent and valuable priorities</a> for government spending right now, such as permanently raising JobSeeker, boosting child-care support and building more social housing.
More debt might impose a small cost over a very long time. But the cost of insufficient stimulus and a prolonged recession would be vastly bigger.
The choice is simple. We should not let debt panic distract us from making it.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/147369/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/danielle-wood-147710">Danielle Wood</a>, Chief executive officer, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/tom-crowley-1041697">Tom Crowley</a>, Associate, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/grattan-institute-1168">Grattan Institute</a>
This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/dont-worry-about-the-debt-we-need-more-stimulus-to-avoid-a-prolonged-recession-147369">original article</a>.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

We need more stimulus to avoid a prolonged recession

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The residential investment market is currently in uncharted territory with the Corona-virus pandemic hitting many households, according to the August Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
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The valuation firm took a look at investor activities across the nation.
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The report notes whilst state and federal government initiatives have helped keep some calm in the market, there is a lot of speculation from property professionals that the longer this pandemic goes for the more stress there will be on both tenants paying their rent and investors paying their mortgages. 
As a result this potentially could see an array of properties hitting the market within a short period of time which could put downward pressure on property prices.
"However, at the time of writing, Western Sydney has experienced a lower impact from COVID-19 in comparison to other areas of Sydney such as the inner suburbs which have a higher apportionment of renters and unit supply," the valuation firm said. 
In the greater west, a popular investment option comes in the form of a house and granny flat which can provide a second rental stream and depending on the location, potential for longer term capital growth.
An example of this is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-colyton-133173686" target="_blank">1 Kipling Drive, Colyton</a> (pictured below), located nearby to St Mary’s which is set to be a major transport intersection linking the existing rail line to the Western Sydney Aerotropolis at Badgerys Creek.
The property is a partially updated 3 bedrooms, 1 bathroom on 632 sqm of land. Detached at the rear is a 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, self-contained granny flat.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/9/7/colyton%20.jpg" alt="">
The property sold in May for $659,000, with a combined rental potential of $700 per week, calculating to a gross rental return of around 5.5%.
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As seen in other parts of the city, new units can quite often sell below the previous purchase ‘off the plan’, even after several years, the report noted. 
An example of this is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-apartment-nsw-penrith-133083770" target="_blank">725/1-39 Lord Sheffield Circuit, Penrith</a> (pictured below), a two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit which sold off the plan in February 2017 for $584,000 however re-sold in March 2020 for $505,000. The off the plan purchase was unable to be supported even in 2017.
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The investor market across the South Western Sydney suburbs, in particular the Liverpool LGA, is generally very active as it offers a range of investment opportunities across a variety of asset classes, the report suggested. 
"The rental market is very competitive which has seen rentals stagnate and in some areas fall," the valuation firm said. 
The capital growth in property that has historically driven investor interest is no longer prevalent with some asset classes’ showing a decrease in value from the peaks of the 2016 and 2017 period.
Currently on realestate.com.au there are approximately 99, modern two-bedroom two- bathroom units available and approximately 160, three-to-four bedroom homes available for rent within the Liverpool LGA.
"The entry level of the investment market is driven by affordability and low risk. This is where you typically find your Mr and Mrs Citizen well represented as they are looking to park their savings into the property market rather than in a low interest bank account," the valuation firm said. 
Popular investment opportunities for this market are modern units in the sub-$600,000 range, a single house in one of the modern estates in the sub-$750,000 range, or a house and granny flat set-up. All three property types achieve reasonably safe returns and can come with some tax benefits as well, the report noted. 
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Notwithstanding the below examples, duplex pairs and small unit blocks provide additional investment opportunities however they require a larger capital outlay.
A two-bedroom, two-bathroom unit in 12-14 George Street Liverpool sold in March for $460,000, with an assessed gross yearly rental of $20,650, representing a 4.5% yield. 
However the previous sale in March 2016 was for $519,000, meaning an 11% decrease in value over four years. 
A modern four-bedroom, two-bathroom house in a new estate in Edmondson Park sold in April for $730,000, with an assessed gross yearly rental of $26,400, representing a 3.6% yield. 
"Whilst the rental return is not as strong as a unit may be, this type of property traditionally will show superior capital growth," the valuation firm said. 
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A recent sale of a house and granny flat in Lurnea in June for $835,000, would likely achieve a gross combined annual rental of $38,400, representing a 4.6% yield.
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Moving away from your traditional investment classes, the rezoning of land in the South West, particularly in designated Growth Corridors and the Aerotropolis Precinct has seen property prices skyrocket. 
For the broader residential market you have most likely missed the boat, but for those lucky enough to have owned land prior to any hint of rezoning taking place, developers are paying well above what could have ever been imagined for these traditionally rural areas. 
Nowadays these areas are occupied by developers and established land bankers, the report noted. 
A recent sale of a one-hectare site in Austral, sold in April for $2.625 million. The previous sale of this property was back in 2014 for $1.855 million, a 41 per cent increase in six years.
Another property in Bringelly sold in May for $2.3 million. The previous sale was back in 2015 for $1.15 million, a 100 per cent increase in five years.
"Western Sydney is currently considered the best place for returns, given the varied properties to invest in. We believe a well located house and granny flat provides a great option for their higher yields and depending on the location, future development potential given the land component.
"In other parts of Sydney, investors can look to play the long game and bear the short term loss of rents, for the ability to secure a property at a discount, and also take advantage of current low interest rates. There is value across all levels with strong medium to long term capital growth opportunities," the valuation firm said. 
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Western Sydney sees a lower impact from COVID-19: HTW residential 

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EXPERT OBSERVER
We think the RBA will leave rates on hold today but keep the door open for more easing depending on the outcome of the budget and other economic news in the coming weeks, particularly the inflation numbers due in a couple of weeks. Our focus is more on the liquidity measures as they have a direct impact on lending and investment.  Our data suggests that investors are starting to move into the real estate investment market as low rates start to bite into both their savings and future cashflow projects. Early signs are of a faster than expected Melbourne recovery, but we’ll get a better idea of this trend in coming months. 
Bottom line: Future cuts will have a minimal impact on market lending rates, particularly to ordinary real estate investors. But liquidity measures loosening or tightening are perhaps more important. Bond yields are pricing in a lower for longer rate scenario and we think a November cut is more likely than October. Talk must be followed by action. 
Stephanie Davies is the investment director at Wealthi.
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

RBA rate cut would have minimal effect on lending rates

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Expressions of interest for a development site opportunity in the heart of Brisbane’s north closed without an immediate sale.    The Kedron properties at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=K0hqbDJ2aytYTTVuOThoM2txbyttK3V3dEJhVE9BcEQ5K3JPRkFqQzNQZVBaSkxOa05aQk9jK3I1bkRoWkR4MkFXcDdqNDd3cHUrYmg4VERRelZyRS9xWHIwbElKay9MWkJoUlhvSENJSHdEdTBjcjBGUm1PaEpzSU1sR1N2R3FRZnZpNWI1WGYreWsxeExwd3I2aVgrVjZ0Z04xQkhReW5MaG1IZlFSKzhBUHhpb0ZnY0JaeU1TY0JMaDZDcjlq&amp;rh=ff0068835071c240aa7c8d491c47b4000d9b0331" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">531-537 Gympie Road,</a> 21 Kate Street and 20-26 Boothby Street came with a substantial 16,724sqm site area.
It also offers a 59m frontage to Gympie Road and a 42m entry to Boothby Street.   The property was being marketed by Ray White Commercial QLD Managing Director and Partner Michael McCullagh and Manager – Brokerage Services Andrew Doyle.   “This really is a fantastic asset that provides an irreplaceable blank canvas development opportunity with a holding income of $413,630 per annum,” Mr McCullagh said.
“Commanding a huge site area in this established and growing suburb, this site lends itself to the design and delivery of a range of development options.   “Long-standing tenants provide significant holding income, some of which have a strong trading history for decades.   The property is also in close proximity to existing retailers such as JB Hi-Fi, Pet Barn, Chemist Warehouse, Coles, Aldi and several car dealerships.   “Gympie Road is a major arterial route which connects the Brisbane CBD to the city’s northern suburbs and services over 23 million cars per annum,” Mr Doyle said.
“As of 2019, the immediate 3km catchment area surrounding the subject properties recorded an estimated resident population of 77,334 people, with an average annual growth rate of 1.92 per cent from 2016-2019.    “The broader catchment area is relatively affluent overall, with average annual income per household exceeding $114,000, or around $15,000 higher than the Queensland average.”   Expressions of interest closed on September 24. 
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EOIs close on rare Gympie development site opportunity without immediate sale

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Ray White Commercial Queensland settled around $8.5 million of property deals in the Banyo and Northgate precinct alone in July, over two transactions.    The first transaction at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=Zlc4M0lHejNQTjdwL2dwcFRNcXQ3bkc5ZXBkcFAxV1hkazdXWjhZdnlhTkl2R2hyd2drTTZURldCaWdUNVZzRnJIelJWMEsxUzcrRWZydlZXNGFpWGlPSmlZaG5Sb2JkcHJaYjJFQWIyQlFJdXc2UFZpK3pmOEtqYXR4VHdvRnBGYTZWM095ZFdSRjlGUnB6WGFVQ01tcm1NQlFzRmdoQ3Z6eWg3MDUwN3hGQUtKY2hKTURLc21QNDNRYnJrSFM5&amp;rh=ff00685a69c68ddc0d8fcc52934089b2a5fcb7d1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lot 2/71 Raubers Road</a> (above) in Northgate traded for an undisclosed amount, but industry sources revealed the price was in the mid three-million-dollar range.    The offering was a semi-modern industrial facility of 2,294sqm.
The site was purchased by a local owner occupier whose business was going exceptionally well in current market conditions.    The second transaction at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=Zlc4M0lHejNQTjdwL2dwcFRNcXQ3bkc5ZXBkcFAxV1hkazdXWjhZdnlhTkl2R2hyd2drTTZURldCaWdUNVZzRnJIelJWMEsxUzcrRWZydlZXNGFpWGlPSmlZaG5Sb2JkcHJaYjJFQWIyQlFJdXc2UFZpK3pmOEtqYXR4VHdvRnBtRGdSRkZYaDErUklUM2ZkR05yOUlORW1KWHpQTEVja01hRVRESnJYNWdqWXNHdGN6eDZtVTVHYzNTZ3RNdXFn&amp;rh=ff00685a69c68ddc0d8fcc52934089b2a5fcb7d1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lot 6/459 Tufnell Road</a> (below) in Banyo settled for $5,300,000. 
The property was sold via a sale and lease-back process.
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Moto National Accessories committed to a five plus five-year term, at a commencing rental of $328,125. 
The price achieved equated to an initial yield of 6.19 per cent, or $2,309 per sqm on GFA.   “We’re not surprised by the interest in the Banyo and Northgate precinct. Trains, planes and automobiles drive industrial transactions, and this pocket ticks all those boxes,” said Ray White Commercial Queensland Manager Andrew Doyle.   “Further to the sales we’ve settled, we’ve observed another $22,000,000 in transactions through the Northgate and Banyo precinct since COVID-19. This definitely highlights the comfort level buyers have in this area,” said Ray White Commercial Queensland Manager Aaron Aleckson.   “In a market like the current one, it’s important as an agent to get a sense of what buyers want,” said Ray White Commercial Queensland Director – Brokerage services Paul Anderson.
“We clearly have that read now, and we’re very pleased to be offering a new opportunity in the Banyo and Northgate precinct – which is a brand-new industrial asset leased to Domayne”.    Ray White Commercial Queensland is offering <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=Zlc4M0lHejNQTjdwL2dwcFRNcXQ3bkc5ZXBkcFAxV1hkazdXWjhZdnlhTkl2R2hyd2drTTZURldCaWdUNVZzRnJIelJWMEsxUzcrRWZydlZXNGFpWGlPSmlZaG5Sb2JkQUdvcXBWT3p0aThVa3RCVWZNbUZzQ3ltb29GRnZRVGtFQzRteU5tbm01UDhoQUY1ODdIdWgrM0ZxUjUwL1N5UnpncXY1bVQ3bUxnODNaNE9rK2Z3WkkyQUZPSWJnbVZXU0dzUWdwQTlFaE09&amp;rh=ff00685a69c68ddc0d8fcc52934089b2a5fcb7d1" target="_blank" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lots 16 and 17/62 Crockford Street</a> (above) in Northgate for sale via auction on October 16.   The property is a brand-new facility of 2,358sqm on a 4,000sqm allotment.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/9/21/LOTS%2016%20NORTHGATE.jpg" alt="">
It has been leased to Domayne at an annual rental of $330,000 per annum net, with a primary lease term expiry of April 2027.   
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Banyo and Northgate, Queensland see $8.5 million of property deals

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A long-waited development site in the centre of Maryborough has hit the market via expressions of interest.    The substantial 6.8ha land area with dual street frontage is centrally located at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=WDlEeE43WHk4cDU3VXV3SEx6K1g3a0FGK28vMDZVUHBNTmdGelRVTnpGTkhrYzNZMlp2R3gzbm5MZW1BWXhEUmpqQlJQODk3NmE0RVBLQ1J6c2NxUThUM1BUZlV2S3lteXQ1d3ZYN0NZT3VJY2NZYklENWJuNVVmR09hR1hITmo3VVRBZDFMU0l6UCtON3VZenFBdVJmbGY2eE9aRlQxbHhuZ0Z3S0FEWjRlMmI1eVVGb1c3M1NONndFL3JqdVdq&amp;rh=ff006881b6ec913c13708079ee4bb2af5d5ee0de" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">Lot 183, Neptune Street</a>.
It benefits from being level with all essential infrastructure directly adjacent.   The property is being marketed by Ray White Special Projects Qld Directors Mark Creevey and Tony Williams, along with Ray White Maryborough Principal Guy Meredith. “The site is designated Community Facilities and Community Hub zone and the existing building is approved for a Community Care Facility,” Mr Creevey said.   “Land parcels of this size with any sort of approval already in place are highly sought-after throughout Queensland and we’re anticipating a lot of interest in this one.”   “A real gem of this site is the potential for alternate residential development (STCA) along with concept plans for major health-based mixed-use development,” Mr Williams said. The property is just 500m to Maryborough Hospital and is opposite PresCare Yaralla Aged Care Facility and is in close proximity to a vast array of facilities and amenities.”   “The parcel of land is minutes from the CBD in a well-regarded part of town and holds enormous potential for both mixed use and/or residential development (STCA),” Mr Meredith said. “Maryborough is just three hours north of Brisbane with a strong manufacturing hub and is the gateway to The Great Sandy Straits and Fraser Island.” 
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Maryborough development site hits the market 

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Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has advised Qube Holdings Limited, Australia’s largest integrated provider of import and export logistics, on the sale of its Minto industrial site to Charter Hall. 
The sale of the 30.6-hectare Minto site was first announced in July 2020 and, with approval from the Foreign Investment Review Board, settled on 15 September for around $207 million, reflecting an initial yield of 4.76 per cent. 
The site is located close to the South Sydney Freight Line, the M5, M7 and Hume Highway in NSW.
It will now form part of Charter Hall’s expanded industrial and logistics property portfolio, the $5.2 billion Prime Industrial Fund.
The site is fully leased to four automotive logistics tenants and is currently used for car import, storage and distribution, and has the potential to be developed as an intermodal rail terminal. 
Real estate partner Deanne Ogilvie acted on all aspects of the sale, including undertaking vendor due diligence, preparing and negotiating the contracts, and attending to exchange and settlement of the sale. 
“We have been acting for Qube for more than a decade and in regards to the Minto site for more than six years and are pleased to have assisted Qube on this sale.
"The site is a strategic property asset – well located, fully leased and with the potential to be developed as an intermodal rail terminal – and is a key addition to Charter Hall’s growing portfolio," Deanne said.  
In addition to the Minto site, Qube Holdings Limited is assessing funding and ownership options for one its most significant real estate sites, the Moorebank Logistics Park. 
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Minto industrial estate of Qube Holdings Limited sold for $207 million

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Premium investment properties remain highly sought after by private, high-net-worth investors, according to Colliers International.
Paul McGlynn and Harry Bui of Colliers have sold McDonald’s Bella Vista (pictured above) to a private Asian investor from Melbourne for $6.65 million on a net yield of 3.1%. 
The acquisition was for a 2,885sqm long-term ground lease. 
McDonalds Australia constructed a brand-new single level restaurant with dine-in and drive-thru take-away facility, open to the public since May 2019.
Mr McGlynn and Mr Bui will be also taking the adjoining Shell Service Centre Bella Vista (pictured below) to the market for sale by international expressions of interest.  
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/9/21/Norwest_060820_36%20Large.jpg" alt="">
Both properties are located in a gateway position at the entrance of Norwest Business Park within the north-west growth corridor in Sydney’s Hills District.  
On a 2,813sqm site, this new Shell service station with an annexed café is anticipated to receive high levels of interest from both local and international investors.
The opportunity benefits from its premium location in Norwest Business Park, long WALE profile of 10 years by income, strong annual rental escalation, and head lease to Viva Energy Australia with a fully leased net passing income of around $604,544 per annum. 
“Premium investment properties with long leases such as a freestanding petrol station leased to Viva Energy, 7-Eleven, Caltex, BP or freestanding fast food sites like McDonald’s are currently very sought-after,” said Harry Bui, National Director, Investment Services at Colliers International. 
“Private high net worth investors are the most common buyer profile within the sub-$20million investment market, while both property syndicates and consortiums showed increased interest towards premium investment assets with longer WALE’s and company leases to national blue-chip corporate tenants.” 
There have been several significant national portfolio sales for premium investments in the past year.
This includes; 33 7-Eleven petrol stations, which sold for $156 million in October 2019 and February 2020 with an average yield of 4.76% and; 25 Caltex petrol stations sold for $133 million in November 2019 with strong underlying land values for future development.  
Charter Hall also took a 49% stake in a portfolio of 225 BP petrol stations in Australia, worth $1.7 billion with a weighted average lease expiry (WALE) of 20 years which was the biggest deal of 2019. 
Paul McGlynn, National Director, Industrial at Colliers International said that the Norwest area where both properties are located will benefit from major State and Federal Government projects.
“Norwest is in the suburb of Bella Vista which is surrounded by major State and Federal Government infrastructure projects, specifically the North-West Metro which opened in May 2019, North-Connex due to open next month, the re-development of Parramatta CBD (11 kilometres South) and establishment of the new second Western Sydney Airport (43 kilometres West).”
“These infrastructure projects coupled with substantial increases in new residential dwellings and population growth locally will rejuvenate and promote Western Sydney, helping the area to become a major economic powerhouse.”
Colliers International will also be bringing a brand-new, flagship BP in Tighes Hill, Newcastle to market. 
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Two Norwest properties in Sydney indicate premium investments remain sought after

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A development site, currently occupied by the Coorparoo RSL in the affluent Brisbane suburb hits the market.   The property at 20 Harries Road commands a 2,693sq m corner site with 105m street frontage, and is opposite Coorparoo Square.
The $252 million mixed-use development has recently completed by heavyweights Fraser Property Australia and Honeycombes Property Group.   The property is being marketed for sale by Ray White Commercial Qld Director and Head of Investment Sales Tom Barr and Ray White Special Projects Qld Executive Director Matthew Fritzsche.
“The site and location offer fantastic development potential with a code accessible height up to 16 storeys, with upper levels to incorporate panoramic city views,” Mr Barr said.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/9/21/Aerial_2.jpg" alt="">   “Potential development opportunities include vertical retirement living/aged care, residential apartments, build-to-rent, student accommodation, medical, commercial, and retail (STCA).”   “A real drawcard is the potential for a short-term leaseback from the Coorparoo RSL post settlement, which would provide some additional holding income for the purchaser (likely a developer), whilst finalising their development scheme, obtaining town planning approval, and de-risking the project.  
"This would also give the Coorparoo RSL time to acquire another property and get their new facility ready for occupation.”
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/9/21/Image_2_1.jpg" alt="">   “The upcoming Eastern Transitway will also really appeal with the project delivering targeted bus priority measures to improve safety, reliability and capacity along Old Cleveland Road, from Coorparoo to Carindale,” Mr Fritzsche said.   The popular suburb is only 3km to the Brisbane CBD and is within walking distance to public transport.
 Expressions of interest close on October 14. 
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Coorparoo development site hits the market

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With much the nation having the long weekend public holiday, auction activity across the combined capital cities is set to be subdued this weekend. 
Amid the limited listings, some agents succeeded in selling before auction, including <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-riverview-134313290">112 Riverview Street</a>, Riverview.
Belle Property’s Simon Harrison sold the property, which last traded in 2005 for $580,000.
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There are 719 capital city homes scheduled for auction this week, according to CoreLogic, down on the 1,082 auctions held last week and lower than the 1,324 last year.
Across the individual cities, scheduled volumes are set to be lower over the week across all but Perth and Melbourne. However, for both cities the rise is across already extremely low volumes.
Sydney makes up more than half of the overall scheduled auction volumes, with 473 homes scheduled, off the back the busiest week the city had seen since early April last week (812).
Melbourne volumes are higher over the week but the city continues to see some of the lowest levels of activity recorded. There are 77 Melbourne homes scheduled for auction, up from 40 last week.
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According to Ray White, the Melbourne property deep freeze is over, with numbers set to soar in the coming weeks.
News of eased restrictions has already inspired buyers to list their properties with already 26 Melbourne Ray White auctions scheduled for this week, compared to last week’s four.
The national Ray White Group recorded a 70 per cent Sydney clearance rate last weekend, one of the highest in six months.
An offering in East Ryde, marketed by Ray White’s Barrie Brown, is expected to do well this weekend.
Situated at <a href="https://ecomms.raywhite.com/collect/click.aspx?u=d2QwOW9DWld4TzJhNXgyRWZuQ1hRV1ZETUk5QXRjTUlDWTdNZGNXdmZQdTdZNjAzL2hzYjNsb04xZG1QRGtHRlhoZ2ozbFVLZUQ4ZmJTTkpIMUwvSU5iTnkwUG9ETHBQR0VxUlJZUEUyWjA4UloyVTVQbnVjdXJidExBN05oQXo3M3ZoZG04UENSNVp6THc5a0xkcDErL3EzYVhuMXRYdnROaFZ1SVh0Nkk4PQ==&amp;rh=ff006a241e9e53799580abbb0c4cb9afb1ccc258">2 Rodney St</a>, the three-bedroom home is listed with a price guide sitting at $1.6 million.
"There have mainly been young couples coming to inspections which fits the suburb’s core demographic,” Mr Brown said.
In Queensland near beachside homes are listed for auction this weekend.
A four-bedroom, four-bathroom Mermaid Beach residence.
The tri-level home, located at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-mermaid+beach-134386122">34 Dudley Street</a>, was designed by architect John Campbell and features floor to ceiling windows, an alfresco area and light-filled interiors.
Over the same week one year ago, 1,324 homes were taken to auction across the combined capital cities returning a final auction clearance rate of 67.6 per cent, according to CoreLogic. 
In Sydney last year, just 317 homes went to auction across the city on the week of the long weekend. 
In comparison, 950 homes were taken to auction over the previous week. 
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