Avant Townhomes is adding to Ivanhoe’s family-sized housing options with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/three-82-ivanhoe-382-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Three 82</a>, a collection of just 16 four-bedroom townhomes on Upper Heidelberg Road.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/intrapac-property">Intrapac Property</a> townhome division has taken a contemporary approach to the traditional family home, pairing larger floorplans with the lower-maintenance format of a townhouse.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374394]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/arcadia-studio">Arcadia</a>, with landscaping by Landsite, the homes feature generous open-plan living and dining areas that connect directly to outdoor spaces, with layouts also designed to maximise natural light and privacy.

Natural stone is used throughout the interiors, including in kitchens that pair stone surfaces with bespoke cabinetry, considered storage and SMEG appliances.

The four-bedroom layouts include built-in wardrobes and a main bedroom with its own ensuite, while family bathrooms service the additional bedrooms. Each home also includes a lock-up double garage and intercom entry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374399]

Energy efficiency has been incorporated into the design through solar panels, double glazing and reverse-cycle heating and cooling, with the homes targeting 7-star energy ratings.

Rather than incorporating extensive communal facilities, Three 82 has been conceived around private residential amenity, with the 16-home scale keeping the focus on individual homes and their own indoor and outdoor spaces.

The development is located at 382 Upper Heidelberg Road, around one kilometre from Ivanhoe Village's cafés and retail and a short drive from Eaglemont Station and Ivanhoe Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374393]

Several of Ivanhoe's established schools are also nearby, including Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar and Ivanhoe Grammar School. The address also provides access to the suburb's parklands and the wider Yarra River corridor.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/nelson-alexander">Nelson Alexander</a> has been appointed to handle sales.

Construction is underway and progressing well, with Three 82 currently tracking toward completion in Q2 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152069]

Joel Robinson

Three 82 brings boutique four-bedroom townhome collection to Ivanhoe

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366760]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366769]

A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366762]

The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

Luxury apartment buyers have long prioritised design, space and finishes, but increasingly they're placing equal importance on something less tangible: how easily they can live without relying on a car.

At <a>Richmond Square</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> believes that convenience begins beyond the apartment itself, with the mixed-use precinct earning a near-perfect Walk Score of 99.

The development has been planned around the idea that some of the most valuable amenities aren't contained within a building, they're the restaurants, cafés, parks, transport connections and daily conveniences that can all be reached on foot.

Located just behind Swan Street and Church Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/richmond-square-1-wiltshire-street-richmond-vic-3121">Richmond Square</a> places residents within one of Melbo​u​rne's most established lifestyle precincts while offering a quieter residential setting removed from the busiest thoroughfares. East Richmond Station is moments away, trams run along both Swan and Church Streets, and the MCG, Melb​​ourne Park, Yarra River trails and the CBD are all within walking distance. At the same time, the precinct itself will introduce a curated mix of dining, retail, hospitality and wellness offerings, creating a destination that extends well beyond its residential buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348530]

For Fortis, that combination of location and scale was what made the site unique.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/richmond-vic-3121">Richmond</a> is one of Melb​o​urne's most established and distinctive inner-city neighbourhoods, with a rare combination of dining, culture, recreation, public transport and proximity to the CBD," the developer said.

"The opportunity at Wiltshire Street was particularly compelling because the site sits slightly removed from the activity of Swan and Church Streets while remaining only moments from everything that makes the area desirable."

Rather than developing a standalone apartment building, Fortis consolidated 15 individual properties to create one of the larger development parcels assembled on Mel​b​ourne's city fringe in recent years. That allowed the team to deliver a genuine mixed-use precinct comprising 107 residences across Wiltshire House and Carmine House, premium office space, hospitality venues, retail, wellness offerings and a future 57-room hotel.

"The scale of the site allowed Fortis to think beyond a standalone apartment building," the developer said.

"Richmond Square could be planned as a complete lifestyle precinct, bringing homes, workplaces, dining, retail, hospitality and wellness together around a series of activated public spaces. The aim was to create a destination that feels connected to Richmond rather than separate from it."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348533]

The emphasis on walkability has also resonated with buyers.

Interest has been strongest from established owner-occupiers, particularly downsizers from Richmond and Melb​ourne's inner east who want to remain close to familiar restaurants, workplaces, family and social networks while moving into a more secure, lower-maintenance home. The project is also attracting Mornington Peninsula and interstate buyers seeking a Melb​ourne residence they can lock up and leave between visits.

Many are looking for generous living spaces, room to entertain, quality finishes and confidence in the project team, but location remains one of the biggest deciding factors.

"For many buyers, Richmond Square provides a way to simplify the practical side of home ownership without reducing the quality of their lifestyle," the sales team said.

"Location is also a major driver of interest. Buyers can remain connected to the CBD, major sporting events, the arts centres, local restaurants, cafes and bars and their family while living in a private and secure residence that is easy to lock up and leave for weekends or longer periods away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13181 project_image_fid=348549]

The residences themselves have been designed with that buyer in mind. Award-winning architecture practice SJB and interior designers Hecker Guthrie have created spacious two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses that prioritise generous living areas, natural light, bespoke joinery and private terraces. Above, a rooftop sanctuary by Acre includes landscaped lawns, bookable dining rooms, barbecue facilities, wellness spaces and panoramic views across the CBD, the MCG and Port Phillip Bay.

Fortis believes Richmond Square reflects a broader evolution in apartment living, where the surrounding neighbourhood becomes just as important as the residence itself.

"Richmond Square introduces a different proposition: generously proportioned residences within a genuinely mixed-use, hospitality-led destination," the developer said.

"The project's location and Walk Score of 99 further support a lifestyle where residents can complete many everyday journeys without relying on a car."

Fortis has assembled an experienced team that includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/hecker-guthrie">Hecker Guthrie</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/acre">Acre</a> and builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hacer-group">Hacer Group</a>, reflecting the developer's commitment to creating projects with enduring design quality and meaningful connections to the communities in which they sit.&nbsp;

Richmond Square is an expression of that philosophy, bringing together homes, workplaces, hospitality and wellness within one of Me​lb​ourne's most walkable neighbourhoods.&nbsp;

Construction is now almost complete, providing purchasers with growing confidence ahead of its expected September 2026 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13181]

Walk Score of 99 places Richmond Square at the heart of Melbourne's most connected lifestyle

<h3 data-end="19" data-section-id="1dvgwoe" data-start="0">Summary</h3>

<ul data-end="634" data-start="21">
	<li data-end="170" data-section-id="1o77v31" data-start="21">Walker Corporation has lodged plans for a second major residential development in the Maroochydore City Centre, a 29-storey tower known as Celeste.</li>
	<li data-end="327" data-section-id="1lb0y6t" data-start="171">The Plus Studio-designed proposal at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade would deliver 208 apartments, including four four-bedroom sub-penthouses and penthouses.</li>
	<li data-end="487" data-section-id="za720" data-start="328">The application comes as Walker doubles down on Maroochydore following the strong sales campaign at SOL by Walker, where the first tower is nearing sell-out.</li>
	<li data-end="634" data-section-id="5sovec" data-start="488">Walker is a key partner in the transformation of the Maroochydore City Centre, which is expected to ultimately deliver at least 4,000 new homes.</li>
</ul>

Walker Corporation is doubling down on Maroochydore following the successful sales campaign at its first residential project in the emerging CBD.

The national developer has filed plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/celeste-30-sunshine-coast-parade-maroochydore-qld-4558">Celeste</a>, a new 29-storey apartment tower at Lot 30 Sunshine Coast Parade, just metres from its under-construction SOL by Walker development.

The plans, prepared by Plus Studio, would see 208 apartments delivered across a 100-metre tower on the 2,376 sqm site, which fronts Sunshine Coast Parade, First Avenue and Future Way within the Maroochydore Priority Development Area.

<img alt="Walker" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17038209-6fea-4ed2-855d-fd4df65b3d02" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=iZD.oVXcQn.aLpUytDAW.CWjxP4puWMy" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 36 one-bedroom apartments, 48 two-bedroom apartments, 72 two-bedroom apartments with an additional multipurpose space, and 48 three-bedroom apartments.

The upper levels would be capped by two four-bedroom sub-penthouses and two four-bedroom penthouses, taking the total apartment count to 208. The preliminary yield study also provides 262 car spaces, 114 resident bicycle spaces and storage for each apartment.

It represents Walker's next major residential move in the new Maroochydore CBD after the success of SOL by Walker, its $220 million two-tower project nearby.

SOL launched to market in early 2025 and has since seen strong demand, particularly from local owner-occupiers. By February this year, Walker said the first SOL tower was nearing sell-out, with a strong waitlist also emerging for its recently released penthouse collection.

Construction is already underway on SOL, with the first tower expected to be completed in late 2027 and the second to follow in early 2028.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

<h2 data-end="2518" data-section-id="1b2dyo5" data-start="2459">Celeste to rise 100 metres over Maroochydore City Centre</h2>

Celeste would take a different form to the twin 19-storey buildings at SOL.

Plus Studio has designed a single 100-metre tower above an activated podium, with the architecture responding to the site's prominent position and three street frontages.

The podium would incorporate commercial tenancies and public art, with sweeping façade elements wrapping the street edges. The scalloped concrete podium has been inspired by the patterns created in sand at low tide, while extensive landscaping would continue vertically through the tower.

The ground level plans show three commercial tenancies addressing Sunshine Coast Parade alongside the residential lobby and landscaped public realm. The podium would then accommodate several levels of car parking before the residential tower rises above.

<img alt="Celeste" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="121f77b1-71c5-46d7-9b36-0a7d474211ca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-10%20at%2010.24.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=MGrg9Hb7HgzLN0Lelq_xrXNAruVl77ia" />

Plus Studio said the tower had been designed to maximise views from each apartment, taking in the Maroochy River, Sunshine Coast hinterland, Cotton Tree and Maroochydore Beach and ocean.

Those views have also shaped one of the project's key features, with Walker proposing to put the primary resident amenity on Level 29 rather than lower within the building.

The rooftop would feature a 284.9 sqm pool area with an infinity edge, along with a cold pool, spa, sauna, 93.2 sqm gym, sunset lounge, BBQ and dining areas, pool deck and private dining space. Cabanas and day beds are also shown across the recreation level.

The two penthouses would extend across the upper levels and each feature private terraces and plunge pools.

<h2 data-end="4202" data-section-id="v5f4ix" data-start="4160">Walker's growing Maroochydore footprint</h2>

Celeste further reinforces Walker's commitment to the transformation of Maroochydore City Centre.

Walker is one of the key partners delivering the new CBD alongside Sunshine Coast Council and SunCentral Maroochydore, with the broader 62-hectare Priority Development Area occupying the former Horton Park Golf Course and surrounding land.

The precinct is ultimately expected to accommodate at least 4,000 new homes as Maroochydore evolves into the Sunshine Coast's principal commercial and residential centre.

When SOL secured approval in February 2025, Walker Managing Director and CEO David Gallant described it as the "first of many residential projects" the company planned for the Maroochydore City Centre.

Celeste now provides the clearest indication yet of what comes next.

The site sits immediately within the new CBD, with the design report identifying Sunshine Plaza and surrounding parkland within walking distance and Maroochydore Beach around a five-minute drive away.

For Walker, the timing of the application comes as its first residential bet on the new CBD appears to have been vindicated.

SOL has progressed from planning approval to construction while its first release has approached sell-out, giving Walker confidence to push ahead with another 208 apartments and take its residential pipeline in the Maroochydore City Centre to around 450 dwellings across the two projects.

Celeste remains subject to planning approval, with the architectural material describing the scheme as a preliminary yield study that may change through the assessment process.

Walker doubles down on Maroochydore with 29-storey Celeste apartment tower

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

For most Australians, buying an apartment is one of the biggest financial decisions they'll ever make

The location, floorplan and price are often the first considerations, but in recent years another question has become increasingly important: who is actually delivering the project?

A series of high-profile builder collapses, construction delays and defect concerns have fundamentally changed how many Victorians approach buying off the plan. The collapse of Porter Davis in 2023, which reportedly left around 1,700 homes unfinished, became one of the most visible examples of the risks that can emerge when a construction company fails. <a href="https://www.equifax.com.au/sites/default/files/lpassets/pdf/Final-Business-Market-Pulse-June-Sector-Deep-Dive-Report-2.pdf">Similar challenges across the broader construction sector</a> have left buyers asking more questions before signing a contract.

As Victoria continues encouraging higher-density housing to address supply shortages, transparency is becoming just as important as location or price.

One tool increasingly entering the conversation is the <a href="https://icirt.com/">Independent Construction Industry Rating Tool (iCIRT)</a>, an independent assessment framework designed to help buyers better understand the developer or builder behind a project. Originally developed by Equifax in consultation with government and industry as part of NSW's Construct NSW reforms, the system has since expanded nationally.

<h2 data-end="1519" data-section-id="7nmx3" data-start="1492">What is an iCIRT rating?</h2>

Most Australians are familiar with independent ratings in everyday life.

We compare ANCAP safety ratings before buying a car. We look at Health Star Ratings in supermarkets. Banks rely on credit assessments when lending money.

Until recently, however, there has been very little independent information available to help apartment buyers assess the business responsible for delivering a residential project.

That gap is what iCIRT was designed to address.

Builders, developers and other construction professionals with an iCIRT rating have demonstrated high-trust characteristics through an independent, evidence-based assessment across six criteria: Character, Capability, Conduct, Capacity, Capital and Counterparties. This involves a rigorous review of financial health, past project track record, and ethical conduct. Crucially, an iCIRT rating could help provide property buyers with confidence that they are working with a professional who has demonstrated the capability, capacity, and willingness to return and rectify issues.

Importantly, iCIRT is not a recommendation to purchase a particular property, nor is it a traditional credit rating. It is an independent assessment framework designed to provide objective information about a construction business using a <a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Methodology-Issue1-May-2021.pdf">published methodology</a>.

The system has been widely adopted in New South Wales, where more than one-third of medium and large residential builders and developers now hold an iCIRT rating, representing over two-thirds of the state's residential building market by value as of 2025/26.

<h2 data-end="3126" data-section-id="h6ohtj" data-start="3084">Why buyers are doing more due diligence</h2>

For many buyers, particularly those purchasing off the plan, the biggest risk isn't whether they'll like the kitchen finishes.

It's whether the project will be delivered on time, to the expected quality, and by a company capable of completing the development.

<a href="https://icirt.com/sites/default/files/2026-07/iCIRT%202025%20Consumer%20Survey%20Report%20v05.pdf">Consumer research commissioned by iCIRT</a> found more than half of respondents believed current protections do not adequately safeguard buyers from builder insolvencies or defective projects. Other research found 88 per cent of prospective buyers would seek independent ratings or due diligence before purchasing, while 90 per cent said trust in construction professionals is essential.

That doesn't mean buyers should rely on a single rating alone.

Independent legal advice, understanding the contract, and seeking financial advice all remain important parts of the due diligence process.

However, an independent assessment can provide another source of information alongside those traditional checks.

<h2 data-end="4138" data-section-id="pquzxc" data-start="4094">Trust is becoming a competitive advantage</h2>

The conversation isn't only changing for buyers.

Developers are also recognising that trust has become an increasingly important part of the sales process.

Five years ago, purchasers typically asked about floorplans, finishes and settlement dates.

Today, sales teams are increasingly being asked about the developer's experience, financial stability, previous projects and construction partners.

For companies with strong governance and established delivery records, an independent iCIRT rating provides another way to demonstrate those credentials before buyers even visit a display suite.

According to Equifax, the assessment can also help businesses drive sales and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/icirt-rating-helps-scion-secure-high-value-projects">secure high-value projects</a>, as well as identify operational improvements and <a href="https://icirt.com/resources-for-business/mirvac-reinforces-brand-trust-and-quality-independent-icirt-rating">attract top talent</a>.

<h2 data-end="4962" data-section-id="1j54ng5" data-start="4912">Beyond buyers: lenders are paying attention too</h2>

The influence of independent construction ratings is also extending beyond consumers.

According to Stamford Capital's Real Estate Debt Capital Markets Survey, an increasing number of lenders now incorporate iCIRT ratings into their due diligence processes when assessing residential development finance applications.

The survey found lender adoption has continued to rise, with many respondents saying independent assessments provide additional insight into governance, counterparties and delivery capability beyond traditional financial analysis. Some lenders also reported declining funding applications where businesses had poor or no ratings.

As construction costs remain elevated and access to development finance becomes more selective, demonstrating credibility is becoming increasingly valuable.

<h2 data-end="5801" data-section-id="1qazuxs" data-start="5772">What it means for Victoria</h2>

Victoria's apartment market is entering a new phase.

The state is seeking to accelerate higher-density housing while simultaneously introducing reforms aimed at improving confidence in residential construction.

For buyers, that means there are more tools available than ever before to research the businesses behind a project.

For developers, it signals that transparency is becoming another point of differentiation in an increasingly competitive market.

Buyers are asking more questions than ever before and increasingly expecting independent information, not just marketing material, before making one of the biggest financial commitments of their lives.

Find out how to get iCIRT rated <a href="https://www.icirt.com/sites/default/files/2025-08/iCIRT-Infographic-Assessment-Process-Final.pdf">here</a>.

<hr data-end="6469" data-start="6466" />
The information contained in this article is general in nature and does not constitute personal, financial, legal or tax advice. It does not take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Therefore, you should consider whether the information is appropriate to your circumstances before acting on it and, where appropriate, seek independent professional advice.

This article contains links to third-party websites. These links are provided for convenience only. Equifax Australia does not control and is not responsible for the content, accuracy or privacy practices of external sites.

Copyright © 2026 Equifax Australia Information Services and Solutions Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Buying off-the-plan in Melbourne? How independent iCIRT ratings are set to change Victorian property

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Grand final day is one of the biggest days in Melbourne’s calendar.  Statistically, one in 40 Melburnians will be in attendance at the MCG, with many more glued to screens around the city’s pubs and homes.
Bounce is at 2.30pm, Saturday September 29, with celebrations and commiserations continuing all through the night.
So how many vendors are game enough to risk their luck trying to sell a house on that one day in September? Apparently just 33, according to Australian Property Monitors.
The weekend before there are about 700 auctions scheduled, according to APM, and 500 on the following weekend.
Last year there were 50 auctions on grand final day and 50 the year before.
It's not an interruption in Sydney given the NRL grand final is at 5pm on Sunday, September 30, although school holidays has a lightening impact in both major capital cities.
Anthony Orellana from YPA Estate Agents Taylors Lakes is taking a four-bedroom Sydenham house to auction at 12.30pm on the day.
He says he’s not worried about losing interest to the big game.
“If you have something that people want they’ll come regardless,” Orellana says.
“How many times do you buy a house throughout your lifetime? It doesn’t happen that often.
“I’m not worried about missing the game. Carlton isn’t playing anyway.”
He hopes to sell the property for $320,000 to $350,000. He says he has four registered bidders who will be there on the day.
Property Observer has tracked down 29 of the auction listings:
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-vermont-111442015">14 McDonough Lane, Vermont, Vic 3133</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-glen+waverley-111469283">25 Cappella Court, Glen Waverley, Vic 3150</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-fitzroy+north-111477839">2 Percy Street, Fitzroy North, Vic 3068</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-essendon+north-111499339">1/36 Prince Street, Essendon North, Vic 3041</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://propertyobserver.com.au/administratorhttp:/www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-northcote-111499407">50 Brooke Street, Northcote, Vic 3070</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-malvern+east-111467779">1/42 Webster Street, Malvern East, Vic 3145</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-armadale-111488335">11 Mount Pleasant Grove, Armadale, Vic 3143</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-rowville-111390015">2 Shearer Drive, Rowville, Vic 3178</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-oakleigh+east-111431195">85 Clayton Road, Oakleigh East, Vic 3166</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-oak+park-111440351">232 Waterloo Road, Oak Park, Vic 3046</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-reservoir-111468871">91 Barry Street, Reservoir, Vic 3073</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-lilydale-111492527">2/10 Deschamps Street, Lilydale, Vic 3140</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-oakleigh+south-111390595">2/7 Dalgan Street, Oakleigh South, Vic 3167</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-kensington-111416827">18/1 Gatehouse Drive, Kensington, Vic 3031</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-hughesdale-111481915">23 Paget Street, Hughesdale, Vic 3166</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-blackburn+south-111492543">12 Holroyd Court, Blackburn South, Vic 3130</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-box+hill-111582287">13 Bass Street, Box Hill, Vic 3128</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-vic-brunswick+east-111474835">202B Edward Street, Brunswick East, Vic 3057</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mitcham-111487255">U1/8 Coppin Close, Mitcham, Vic 3132</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-clayton-111531659">5/1438 Centre Road, Clayton, Vic 3168</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-sunshine+north-110301917">100 Phoenix Street, Sunshine North, Vic 3020</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-burnside+heights-111414943">4 Albert Court, Burnside Heights, Vic 3023</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-springvale+south-111354183">4 Woodstock Place, Springvale South, Vic 3172</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-mount+waverley-111491775">118 Huntingdale Road, Mount Waverley, Vic 3149</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-meadow+heights-111421027">2 Eucalyptus Place, Meadow Heights, Vic 3048</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-sydenham-111418859">41 Bungarim Wynd, Sydenham, Vic 3037</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-hadfield-111460511">1/27 Larlac Street, Hadfield, Vic 3046</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-broadmeadows-111419063">106 Cuthbert Street, Broadmeadows, Vic 3047</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-caroline+springs-111392743">5 Osterley Close, Caroline Springs, Vic 3023</a>
The REIV’s Robert Larocca says there aren’t many auctions compared with other weekends, and they’re almost all in the morning.
"It is traditional that there is a low number of auctions on grand final day.
"Those that do have an auction always ensure it’s before the ball is bounced,” Larocca says.
"Overall it has no impact on the state of the market as everyone just avoids the afternoon for auctions, and those that are interested in one in the morning make the effort to turn up."
Melbourne's weekend clearance rate was 60% from the 619 auction results reported to the RIEV over the September 15 and 16 weekend. It was 57.5% in Sydney, according to APM.
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awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

AFL grand final day auction avoidance, with few vendors willing to risk missing the bounce

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The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rba.gov.au/publications/bulletin/2012/sep/index">Reserve Bank released its September quarter bulletin,</a> which included a superb article outlining the bank's research around supply-side constraints across the capital cities of Australia.  The report identifies four factors that are impediments to a responsive housing supply across the country:
<ul>
<li>Complexity of the planning process that can create uncertainty, lengthy delays and risk for developers as well as significantly increase costs for developers;</li>
<li>Provision and funding of infrastructure – gone are the days of the government funding the costs of roads, utilities and community services out of the tax base.  The report states “developers often fund at least half of new utility and transport infrastructure in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide”.  Often the costs fronted by developers are negotiated across each project, providing an uneven playing field and planning uncertainty;</li>
<li>Land ownership and geographical constraints – fragmented land ownership across infill and greenfield locations makes it difficult for developers to identify and acquire sites that are appropriate for large-scale development.  Additionally, the geographic constraints such as the large tracts of national park north and south of Sydney are identified in the report; and</li>
<li>Public attitudes towards infill development – the report specifically comments on infill developments being subject to community opposition, which can result in rejection, restrictions on development approval and a loss of project viability.</li>
</ul>
One of the most revealing tables in the report compares the costs of greenfield development across each of the major capital cities. Indicative costs for developing a greenfield site in Sydney are more than three and half times what it costs in Melbourne.  The imbalance in development charges provides a distinct insight about why new development has been so lacklustre in Sydney while at the same new housing supply has been very sufficient in Melbourne.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/09/rpsept17.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/rpsept17thumb.gif"></a>
Source: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/">RP Data</a>
The report is timely in the sense that the ABS also released its June quarter dwelling commencements data, which showed that, despite a 4.6% rise in dwelling commencements over the quarter (which was driven by a spike in the volatile ‘other’ sector which generally refers to apartments), new dwelling starts were down 10.8% over the year.
The graph below, which tracks annual dwelling starts versus the annual change in population growth, clearly highlights the lack of any response in housing supply to surging population growth between 2004 and 2008.  In fact, as population growth (read ‘housing demand’) surged, new housing starts were trending downwards.  More recently we are once again seeing population growth ramping up at a time when new dwelling construction remains weak.
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/09/rpsept171.gif"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/rpsept171thumb.gif"></a>
Source: <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank">RP Data</a>
The third graph from the RBA report highlights how a comparably low-cost and reasonably efficient land release strategy played out for Melbourne.  Despite recording similar rates of population growth between Sydney and Melbourne, the number of land parcels released in Melbourne has been more than double what has been recorded in Sydney.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/rpsept172.gif">
Source: <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank">RP Data</a>
The RBA authors of the report summarise their findings like this:
“Given the difficulties involved in satisfying the large number of stakeholders involved in the housing supply process, it is likely that these important issues will remain on the policy agenda for some time.”
I couldn’t agree more.  Developing land in Australia is currently a tough gig, it seems, and with most state governments looking to bolster their budgets it is hard to imagine any resolution to issues like infrastructure charges and levies any time soon.  From another perspective, attracting population growth means that development needs to be facilitated (if not encouraged) by all levels of government.  A larger taxation base has got to be a positive for most state governments at the moment given their financial positions.
Tim Lawless is national research director of <a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank">RP Data.</a><a href="https://www.myrp.com.au/" target="_blank"> </a>
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tlawless-5VLUrbAk9s

Four reasons Australia can't keep up with housing demand

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Mortgage comparison website RateCity.com.au recorded a surge in fixed-home loan inquiries in August following lenders reducing their fixed rates.
The website reported that nearly one in five home loan enquiries (18%) in August were fixed-rate inquiries compared to just 5% in July.
“Three-year fixed rates are starting from as low as 5.39% – that’s 23 basis points below the lowest variable home loan rate in the RateCity database (5.62%),” says RateCity.com.au spokesperson Michelle Hutchison.
“That makes fixed rates look very attractive to those concerned about future interest rate rises,” she says.
RateCity.com.au’s lowest three-year fixed rate offering is 5.39% from ME Bank (<a href="/news">which cut fixed rates in September</a>) with its lowest variable offering being 5.62% from UBank for those refinancing.
The surge in fixed-rate inquiries came before the Commonwealth Bank and a number of smaller lenders cut some of their fixed rates, suggesting inquiry levels could rise higher in September.
The <a href="/news">Commonwealth Bank cut its fixed rates on September 6</a> with the biggest reductions made to its four-year fixed rate home loan (down 30 basis points) and five-year fixed (down 40 basis points).
Its three-year fixed rate was cut by 10 basis points to 5.74%
Westpac cut fixed rates in June, with the biggest cut being a 50 basis point reduction to its four-year fixed rate offering – the bank's benchmark three-year fixed rate was cut by just 5 basis points to 5.84%.
Other lenders to cut their fixed rates recently include Greater Building Society, which cut its five-year fixed-rate home loans rate to 5.99%.
Mortgage broker Mortgage Choice recorded a big jump in fixed-home loan applications in August with the product rising from 15% to 20% of all home loans arranged by its loan writers over the month.
Mortgage Choice attributed this improvement to more attractive reduced rate offerings and a penchant for borrowers to be conservative in their choice of home loans.
Australian fixed-rate mortgages revert to a floating rate (variable rate) after the fixed-rate period, meaning potentially higher mortgage repayments given the difference between the average fixed rate and average variable rate.
This makes them different to loans in countries such as the US where the fixed rate is locked for the entire term, explained Vera Chaplin, managing director of structured finance at credit rating agency Standard &amp; Poor’s.
Australian lenders do offer fixed-rate terms as long as 15 years but with very high interest rates.
Westpac’s 12-year fixed-rate home loan carries an interest rate of 8.19% while the Commonwealth Bank offers a 15-year fixed-rate home loan at 7.59%.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Fixed-rate home loan inquiries surge as lenders continue to cut fixed-rates: RateCity.com.au

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Sydney fell further behind on its new home construction targets in the first quarter of the year, according to social policy think-tank the McKell Institute.
In its inaugural quarterly housing monitor report for the first quarter of 2012, the McKell Institute calculated there were 3,017 new home completions, just over half  (52%) of the 5,825 new dwellings that are required to meet the Sydney 2036 metropolitan target  – a shortfall of 2,908 homes. 
The institute says that under Sydney metro targets dating back to July 2006 until the first quarter of 2012, Sydney should have delivered 133,975 new homes.
However, over this period Sydney has delivered only 80,466 new homes, a deficit of 53,509 homes (or roughly 40%).
The biggest shortfall of new homes is occurring in the outer north-west and outer south-western suburbs of Sydney, where the government expects more than 40% of new homes to be built between now and 2036.
The McKell institute calculated that in the first quarter of the year just 322 homes were built in south-west Sydney – comprising Camden, Campbelltown, Liverpool, Wollondilly – 1,291 fewer than required under NSW government targets, and representing a shortfall of 75.1% for the quarter.
Similarly, in the north-west growth corridor – comprising Blacktown, Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Penrith and The Hills – there were only 562 homes built, compared with a target of 1,408 – a shortfall of 60.1%.
Just two zones met their targets in the first quarter of the year, including eastern Sydney, which has the smallest government requirement and comprises some of the most expensive property in the city in the suburbs of Botany Bay, Randwick, Waverly and Woollahra.
The other zone to meet its target was central west Sydney – incorporating Auburn, Bankstown, Fairfield, Holroyd and Parramatta – which has a target of 96,000 by 2036.
Metro 2036 target, quarterly, first quarter 2012
Click to enlarge
<a title="Click to enlarge" rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2012/09/mckellsept17.jpg"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/mckellsept17thumb.jpg"></a>
The quarterly targets are calculated based on December 2010 NSW government modelling, which estimates that Sydney needs an additional 770,00 homes by 2036 – a 46% increase on the current 1.68 million homes – to cater for an additional 1.6 million people by this time, taking the city’s population to over 6 million residents.
The greatest concentration of houses is required in the south-west, where the NSW government has a target of 155,000 new homes by 2036, and the north-west – Blacktown, Blue Mountains, Hawkesbury, Penrith, The Hills – where the target is for 169,000 homes to be built by 2036.
The McKell report also quotes Australian Property Monitors (APM) statistics which show that Sydney’s median weekly asking rent for a house is $500 compared to Melbourne’s which is a far more affordable $360 per week, whilst the median price for a home in Melbourne is $531,000 compared $642,000 in Sydney.
It also notes that fewer than one-third of Sydney residents under the age of 35 own a home, while over the last five years, Sydney’s housing approvals numbered 98,822, compared with 192,648 in Melbourne.
“These [undersupply] figures ought to sound an alarm bell for the newly elected councillors across Sydney who need to understand that home ownership is becoming a preserve of the wealthy,” says McKell Institute executive director Peter Bentley.
McKell fellow and author of its Homes for All report (which set even higher new home construction figures) Sean Macken say the figures suggest the housing situation is going to get much worse in a city which is already Australia’s most expensive to buy or rent a home
“Councils across the city need to flatly reject NIMBYism and accept that if they don’t approve more dwellings and get the construction sector pumping, our housing affordability crisis will get out of control.”
At last week’s BIS Shrapnel forecasting conference, it was reported that NSW would have a dwelling stock defiencey of 52,800 homes by 2014 at current rates of construction.
BIS Shrapnel warned of “significant stock defiencies” emerging, particularly in Sydney, and forecast an “upturn in residential building" in NSW and other states with undersupply issues.
The undersupply of new homes in Sydney is also one of the factors “creating signficiant pressure in residential property markets, driving price and rental growth and ensuring Sydney remains the least affordable capital city in Australia," says BIS Shrapnel.
BIS Shrapnel says the high level of unaffordability has been a significant contributing factor in the lack of new houses being built in NSW, “alongside a complex planning framework and lack of suitable land releases”.
 
 
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Sydney housing crisis deepens as outer suburbs fall further behind on new home building targets: McKell Institute

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Bridge Road Richmond's retail strip has recorded its highest vacancy rate in five years, amid a prounced trend towards more vacant shops across Melbourne.
Bridge Road's vacancy rate has risen from 2.9%  to 11.5% over the past two years. Just five years ago the discount fashion shopping mecca had the lowest vacancy rate of 11 suburban shopping strips.
Property Observer counted 25 "for lease" signs along Bridge Road between Punt Road and Church Street over the weekend.
There were many more closing down sale signs. Some tenants, including Flight Centre, were relocating along the strip, but most exiting the strip.
Overall, the prime retail suburban vacancy rate in Melbourne had climbed from 3.2% to 5.3% over the past two years. Church Street, Brighton, had the lowest vacancy rate followed by High Street Armadale and Acland Street St Kilda.
Knight Frank's retail survey, comprising 2,369 shops, found that the vacancy rate in Acland Street in St Kilda rose from zero to 3.7%.
Other results were: Burke Road, Camberwell, 2.8% to 7.2%; Clarendon Street, South Melbourne, 0.6% to 6.1%; Chapel Street, Prahran, 2.7% to 4.2%; Puckle Street, Moonee Ponds, 0.5% to 4.2%; Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn, 1.8% to 4.4%, with the Malvern end increasing from 2.8% to 3.5%.
Despite the rise in vacanicies, Knight Frank research analyst Rodney Wong says yields remained relatively stable.
Recent sales in Glenferrie Road and Chapel Street had sold with initial yields ranging between 3.5% and 4.5%, indicating prime retail assets were still sought after, particularly by private investors.
Wong acknowledged consumer and retailer confidence remained subdued after the impact of the federal government's $2.8 billion household assistance package in May and June.
Sales of discretionary items of clothing and sales in department stores also fell, but turnover in cafes, restaurants and takeaway food outlets generally outperformed total retail sales.
Wong says the prime retail strips are still attracting global brands.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Melbourne shopping strip Bridge Road, Richmond, has highest vacancy rate in five years

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 294  auctions in Sydney for the weekend of September 15. The clearance rate was 57.5%. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf"> Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

po-LsXgBTHBmX

APM's 294 Sydney auction results show 57.5% clearance rate

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Eco Trendee Homes, the developer of a recently purchased Bribie Island site, has lodged development plans with Moreton Bay Council.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/bribie2.jpg">
Ty Wardner, the Sunshine Coast-based developer, recently<a href="https://www.realtor.com.au/cgi-bin/vgmsg/vgqld/propview.p"> </a>paid about $4 million in a receivership sale for the 42-hectare block of land on Bribie Island, 50 kilometres north of Brisbane.
The subdivision site was bought with preliminary development approval for 544 lots.
The $100 million plans, which date back to 2007, include 10 proposed stages of traditional housing lots, medium-density and retirement developments.
<img style="margin: 5px; float: left;" width="300" src="/images/stories/2012/09/bribie.png">
The existing approval for the development will lapse in 2013.
The Eco Trendee plans were drafted by urban planners and architects The Helibronn Group.
The site, at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-qld-bongaree-200165486">69 Coolgarra Avenue in Bongaree</a>, attracted formal offers from nine groups when offered through a public tender campaign by Ray White Special Project Queensland directors Mark Creevey and Tony Williams.
Williams says there was strong interest from developers before its sale earlier this year.
"There is definite demand for developers looking for good sites to acquire.
"Broadly across south-east Queensland there’s a limited quantum of sites a reasonable distance from Brisbane with a capacity and size like this. There are a handful in hands of larger developers."
"It varies from asset to asset, but by and large with a stereotypical site with advanced planning you’ll get good interest," Williams says.
It was sold under instructions of McGrathNicol, the receivers and managers of Dux Property Group.
Williams says the land is close to the surf beach and golf courses.
“The area is well serviced with amenities, with the Bribie Island Shopping Centre containing Woolworths and 30 specialty shops.
The proposed development includes a 7.65-hectare lake as a central water feature.
The 148-square-kilometre island is the most northern of the three major islands forming the coastline sheltering Moreton Bay and is the only island linked to the mainland by bridge.
In 2009 Dux Property Group took exception to the government’s 2004 valuation of the site at $17.35 million and took the Department of Natural Resources and Water to the Land Court of Queensland.
By  June 2012 the site was valued at $8 million.
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Eco Trendee Homes lodges development plans for Bribie Island block

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According to the best estimates at the time, almost 105,000 Australians were homeless on census night in August 2006. This promoted then prime minister Kevin Rudd to make the <a href="https://www.fahcsia.gov.au/our-responsibilities/housing-support/programs-services/homelessness/the-road-home-the-australian-government-white-paper-on-homelessness-0" target="_blank">ambitious commitment</a> to accommodate all people sleeping rough and halving the number of homeless in Australia by 2020.
The government committed significant resources for specialist homeless services and new affordable housing initiatives, particularly through <a href="https://www.economicstimulusplan.gov.au/housing/pages/default.aspx" target="_blank">economic stimulus</a> and various <a href="https://www.fahcsia.gov.au/our-responsibilities/housing-support/programs-services/homelessness/national-partnership-agreement-on-homelessness" target="_blank">multi-governmental agreements</a> under the new federal financial relations regime.
But how successful have Australian governments been in reducing homelessness?
At this stage, we don’t know. Part of the reason is the difficulty in estimating the number of people who are homeless. But we hope the Australian Bureau of Statistics' (ABS) revised definition of homelessness will give us a clearer understanding of the crisis in Australia.
The existing definition
Since 2001, the “<a href="https://www.health.gov.au/internet/publications/publishing.nsf/Content/mental-homeless-toc~mental-homeless-1~mental-homeless-1-2" target="_blank">cultural definition</a>” of homelessness, developed by Melbourne academics <a href="https://rmit.com.au/browse;ID=prh5wwtapmo9" target="_blank">Chris Chamberlain</a> and <a href="https://www.swinburne.edu.au/chancellery/mediacentre/media-centre/view-expert/david-mackenzie" target="_blank">David MacKenzie</a>, has been used to describe the nature and extent of homelessness in Australia. This definition defines homelessness as not having access to: “ the minimum accommodation that people have the right to expect in order to live according to the conventions of contemporary life”.
Chamberlain and Mackenzie describe the accepted minimum Australian community standard as “a small rented flat”, with the minimum required amenities, such as a bedroom, living room, bathroom and kitchen.
This “cultural definition” of homelessness led to the identification of three categories within the homeless population:
a) primary homelessness – people without conventional accommodation living on the streets, in deserted buildings, railway carriages, under bridges and in parks (“rough sleepers”);
b) secondary homelessness – people moving between various forms of temporary shelter including friends' homes, emergency accommodation, refuges and hostels; and
c) tertiary homelessness – people living permanently in single rooms in private boarding houses without their own bathrooms or kitchens and without security of tenure. They are homeless because their accommodation does not satisfy the requisite conditions of the minimum community standard.
The ABS endorsed this “cultural” definition of homelessness, but in 2009 advised that it was reviewing Chamberlain and MacKenzie’s seminal work to provide its own official methodology.
A new definition
The ABS released a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/subscriber.nsf/log?openagent&amp;2050055001_2011.pdf&amp;2050.0.55.001&amp;Publication&amp;C255AA8D9A430DAFCA257863000EEE6B&amp;&amp;2006&amp;31.03.2011&amp;Latest">discussion paper</a> reviewing the methodology of Counting the Homeless in March 2011. It didn’t change the definition but it challenged some of the assumptions that informed the definition. The discussion paper was <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/fears-over-recount-of-homeless-20110313-1bt0q">criticised</a> for lacking consultation with experts and failing to have an on-the-ground understanding of homelessness.
Commendably, the ABS then took the opportunity to engage more fully with experts in homelessness policy and service delivery. As a result of this work, the ABS <a target="_blank" href="https://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/subscriber.nsf/log?openagent&amp;2049055001_2012.pdf&amp;2049.0.55.001&amp;Publication&amp;61102520832D348ECA257A6F0012AF91&amp;&amp;2012&amp;05.09.2012&amp;Latest">released a report</a> earlier this month that includes a new definition of homelessness:
When a person does not have suitable accommodation alternatives they are considered homeless if their current living arrangement:
<blockquote>
<ul>
<li>is in a dwelling that is inadequate; or</li>
<li>has no tenure, or if their initial tenure is short and not extendable; or</li>
<li>does not allow them to have control of, and access to space for social relations.</li>
</ul>
</blockquote>
Unlike the cultural definition, which judges the adequacy of housing against an amorphous “standard”, this new definition is informed by the notion of “home” and the elements that are consistently identified with home.
The definition is intended to operationalize the collection of official estimates of homelessness through the census. While an admirable goal, this presents several practical difficulties.
The definition includes elements of “habitability” or “adequacy”, which aren’t measured by census data. And the definition <a target="_blank" href="https://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/Latestproducts/2049.0.55.001Main%20Features82012?opendocument&amp;tabname=Summary&amp;prodno=2049.0.55.001&amp;issue=2012&amp;num=&amp;view=">fails to address</a> any specific cultural definition issues relating to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ understandings of home or homelessness, which the ABS has committed to addressing.
Interestingly, the Commonwealth is now <a target="_blank" href="https://www.fahcsia.gov.au/our-responsibilities/housing-support/programs-services/homelessness/exposure-draft-homelessness-bill-2012">contemplating</a> a new statutory definition of homelessness. The Commonwealth’s definition has been <a target="_blank" href="https://www.google.com.au/url?sa=t&amp;rct=j&amp;q=&amp;esrc=s&amp;source=web&amp;cd=2&amp;cad=rja&amp;ved=0CCgQFjAB&amp;url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.homelessnessaustralia.org.au%2FUserFiles%2FFile%2FMedia%20Release%2F2012%2FHA%20MR%20on%20Draft%20Bill.pdf&amp;ei=C_5PUPLFFZDsmAXcqoHYBA&amp;usg=AFQjCNE6t5QiTUAx9Wr_wgH6Z1Eh7dF42Q">criticised</a> for introducing an element of choice into peoples’ experience of homelessness, risking the perpetuation of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/community/HomelessnessServices/InformationKitForVolunteers/Module1/DoPeopleChooseToBecomeHomeless.asp">common myth</a> that people choose to be homeless.
It is unfortunate that there will be multiple definitions rather than a commonly accepted and understood definition, but the loose consensus on the ABS’s work may lead to an agreed definition and understanding of homelessness.
Recounting the homeless
A week after releasing the new definition, the ABS <a target="_blank" href="https://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/subscriber.nsf/log?openagent&amp;20490_2006.pdf&amp;2049.0&amp;Publication&amp;A83FE9CE21ABBC64CA257A7500148E57&amp;&amp;2006&amp;11.09.2012&amp;Latest">recast the estimate</a> of people who were counted as homeless through the census process in 2001 and 2006. As a result, the number of homeless Australians counted changed from about 100,000 to over 95,000 in 2001 and 105,000 to almost 90,000 in 2006.
There are also changes in demographic groups: the estimate of people experiencing homelessness in the Northern Territory has almost tripled; overcrowding is recognised as a new form of homelessness; and the number of young people (aged 12-18) has halved. The measurement of young homeless people is particularly problematic (<a target="_blank" href="https://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/subscriber.nsf/log?openagent&amp;20490_2006.pdf&amp;2049.0&amp;Publication&amp;A83FE9CE21ABBC64CA257A7500148E57&amp;&amp;2006&amp;11.09.2012&amp;Latest">acknowledged by the ABS</a>) and may be the clearest example of the shortcomings of using census data to measure homelessness.
While the use of census data is problematic, this data shows a minor decrease in the number of people experiencing homelessness from 2001 to 2006, and the ABS will release its estimation of homelessness from the 2011 census later this year, which will we hope show a further decrease.
Despite the revised figures, as <a target="_blank" href="https://www.chp.org.au/">Council to Homeless Persons</a> CEO Jenny Smith <a target="_parent" href="https://www.probonoaustralia.com.au/news/2012/09/abs-figures-reassess-homelessness?utm_source=Pro+Bono+Australia+-+email+updates&amp;utm_campaign=f6112135d4-News_11_September9_11_2012&amp;utm_medium=email">points out</a>, there is still a huge and growing demand for homelessness services, with thousands of people becoming homeless on any given night and limited resources in the sector to deal with this pressure.
The ABS’s commendable work in measuring homelessness will enable the government to report against its commitment to halve homelessness by 2020. While the census isn’t the only tool, it is part of a body of work that will contribute to a better understanding of homelessness, and how it can be ended.
James Farrell is a lecturer in law at <a href="https://deakin.edu.au/" target="_blank">Deakin University.</a>
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://theconversation.edu.au/" target="_blank">The Conversation.</a>
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cknowlton-QnEa6ntUYP

Definition of homelessness changes, but growing demand for homelessness services

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The business of buying, selling and leasing of residential, rural and commercial property for investment purposes is well known and understood; the same cannot be said regarding the purchase of an operating business.
Business broking is a specialist sector of real estate, and investors, or those looking to develop their careers, would be wise to take note.
Some people like to buy a business as an investment, and others may want to use their skills to run it themselves. People buy and sell all manner of enterprises – from traditional ones, such as newsagents, or service enterprises, such as electricians, through to more modern ones, such as digital marketing companies.
Potential buyers and current owners need to know that the market for functioning businesses is substantially different to the broader property market. For sale signs are not always used and the advertisements do not always appear on the property sales websites.
As a result of these factors, a business broker is an important guide and adviser.
A business broker is a qualified real estate agent who specialises in the selling and buying of businesses. To effectively do their job, brokers need to be expert in a range of areas additional to those in which a residential or commercial estate agent specialises; after all, when a business is sold, different factors are considered in arriving at a ‘value’.
They need to be able to understand the particulars of the business they are selling, as the value in a business comprises of a range of related factors, including its current performance, customer base, competitors and future prospects.
To find an REIV business broker and learn more about business broking, visit <a href="https://www.reiv.com.au/" target="_blank">www.reiv.com.au</a>
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enzoraimond-7fvRFHPR52

Why you need a business broker to invest in businesses

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Young people have way too much to think about these days. Even youngsters who have only just begun their working lives are expected to know about superannuation, top-up limits and co-contributions. They’re expected to be responsible now for their retirement in 40 years’ time.
How did we get here? In 1992 the superannuation guarantee required all employers to put a mandated percentage of an employee’s salary into a super fund. The super guarantee could not be accessed until the worker retired.
So the onus for retirement shifted from the government and employer to the employee. And the quality of retirement for those in their 20s and 30s will be their own responsibility: the amount of retirement income they accumulate will depend on investment decisions made now.
The best time to build a nest egg is precisely in those years when you least want to think about it. Because super is a 40-year investment, small increases to contributions and slight changes in what kind of fund you use at the beginning of the journey can have a big impact at the retirement end.
Also, the very people who could be helping young people with advice – financial planners – are moving away from their old commission structure to a fee-for-service model. The fee-for-service model means the client pays for the level of service they receive. And because young people have less money and are less engaged with retirement planning in general, young people don’t go to planners.
This creates what some people call a “service gap”, which could cost people tens of thousands of dollars at retirement. We know from our own research that young people want advice about retirement, but they do not use planners.
Last year we polled 500 young people from Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, aged 25-34 years. When asked how interested they were in planning for their future, 92 per cent answered either very interested or somewhat interested.
When asked if they plan on seeking advice to discuss their financial goals, around half answered “yes”.
This means that a huge majority of young people want to set themselves up for the future, but only half of them want to access the right advice. This is an important insight because financial planners don’t just help select the right super funds to invest in, they also set up the associated aspects of a person’s present and future wealth. They attend to the whole picture, something younger generations are not experienced about.
The investment options people nominate when they are not advised is illuminating. When asked what they’d be most interested in investing in, 51% said the share market, which is currently quite risky and volatile.
So the question has to be asked: why do young people feel more comfortable with a volatile investment class than they do with professional advice?
It’s an issue that has to be resolved if the self-funded retirement system is to work properly.
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/ybrwealth" target="_blank">Talk to me on Facebook</a> at or on <a href="https://www.twitter.com/@markbouris" target="_blank">Twitter</a>. Let me know what you think.
Mark Bouris is executive chairman of <a href="https://www.ybr.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Yellow Brick Road</a>, a financial services company offering home loans, financial planning, accounting and tax, and insurance.
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