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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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

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

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Demand for home loans has continued to increase for an eighth consecutive month in November, according to the latest figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics.
The figures show the number of loans granted rose by a seasonally adjusted 1.4% to 46,953, after a downwardly revised 46,953 in October.
Total housing finance rose by 2.1% to $2.03 billion.
This article originally appeared on<a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php"> SmartCompany</a>.
 
 
 
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Housing finance lifts for eigth consecutive month

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The total land value of the Hunters Hill municipality was $4.865 billion as at July 2011, according to NSW Valuer-General Philip Western, with the latest riverfront residential values showing a slight decrease over the three-year period.
But there was a 6% jump across the 3,720 properties, which had a combined $4.585 billion value as at July 2008.
“Residential land on the waterfront generally showed a slight decrease in value over the three-year period,” Western said.
The extent of the drop has not been revealed by the official data.
“The value of residential land west of Burns Bay Road in Gladesville and Hunters Hill generally showed a moderate increase, while residential land to the east of Burns Bay Road generally showed a slight increase.
“The value of small retail sites generally showed a slight increase, while the larger commercial and mixed use sites showed moderate to strong increases in value,” he said.
He said the real estate analysis in the Hunters Hill municipality included 94 residential and eight commercial sales.
In the 2008 analysis the Valuer-General had 74 residential sales and three commercial sales on which to base the 2008 valuations.
Over the past year until July 2011, the municipality’s residential median land value moved from $898,000 to $899,000.
Median business land values jumped from $506,000 to $530,000 in the period.
The municipality’s most recently sold prestige listing confirms the fall in values. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/record-setting-woolwich-mansion-sold-for-loss-as-saga-winds-down/2011092551674" target="_blank">It’s the $9.2 million sale of an imposing house</a> on a 2,037-square-metre Angelo Street, Woolwich, riverfront block.
The property was given a $7.4 million land value in 2008, but in the past two years the Angelo Street property maintained a $7.03 million value as at July 2010 and July 2011.
Most houses in the municipality would be principal places of residence and therefore exempt from land tax, although if the home owner was to be posted overseas and renting the property out for a lengthy time, the tax could apply.
Typical residential land values were:
<ul>
<li>1,034 square metres at Campbell Street, Hunters Hill valued at $3,320,000 </li>
<li>418 square metres at Le Vesinet Drive, Hunters Hill valued at $1,840,000 </li>
<li>717 square metres at Lyndhurst Crescent, Hunters Hill valued at $2,640,000</li>
<li>835 square metres at The Close , Hunters Hill valued at $1,480,000 </li>
<li>487 square metres at Paul Street, Hunters Hill valued at $763,000 </li>
<li>621 square metres at Ryde Road, Hunters Hill valued at $530,000 </li>
<li>556 square metres at Toocooya Road, Hunters Hill valued at $1,270,000 </li>
<li>1331 square metres at Mark Street, Hunters Hill valued at $1,200,000</li>
</ul>
Typical commercial land values were:
<ul>
<li>342 square metres at Gladesville Road, Hunters Hill valued at $636,000 </li>
<li>202 square metres at Victoria Road, Gladesville valued at $462,000 </li>
<li>249 square metres at Woolwich Road, Woolwich valued at $520,000</li>
</ul>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Riverfront land value down in Hunters Hill

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Perth house prices may have finally bottomed out, with the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia recording its first median dwelling price rise since March 2010, while property listings are also at near two-year lows.
The Perth median house price increased by 0.5% in the December quarter, putting the current median at $465,000; up by $5,000 on the revised September quarter figure. 
The number of properties on the market fell by 12% to 13,500 over the quarter, their lowest level since May 2010 – Perth’s long-term average is about 12,000 listings. 
In a further sign that the market is stabilising, REIWA figures show that discounting fell from 7% to 4.2% over the quarter once sales that achieved or exceeded the asking price are factored in. 
Lastly, the rental market has tightened from 3.4% to 2.3% over the past 12 months, with median weekly rents for houses rising $20 to $420 over the December quarter. 
REIWA president David Airey says the shift in median price is largely insignificant because it was “triggered by an increase in trade-up buyers countering the influence of first-home buyers”. 
“First-home buyers have been skewing the median downwards by generating large sales volumes of more affordable homes, but now this has been balanced with more upgrade buyers in the market, who tend to purchase the more expensive properties,” Airey says. 
“REIWA data show that while first-home buyers continue to be increasingly active in the market, we saw an increase in trade-up buyers during the December quarter and an increase in house sales of around 6% to 7%, which may have put a floor under prices.” 
“It’s a similar situation in the multi-residential sector with units, apartments, villas and townhouses also experiencing an increase in turnover and a 1% increase in median price,” he says. 
Airey says the drop in listings is not unexpected and reflects a seasonal decline over the holiday period when some sellers remove their properties from the market until the new year. 
“We may see listings swell towards the end of March as they have done in some previous years, so we’ll be watching that.” 
However, he says it is encouraging that listings are currently 12% lower than the same time last year and “well down on the peak of 18,200 we saw in April last year, which pushed prices down,” he says. 
“The number of houses for sale has fallen to its lowest level since March 2010, while land remains over represented with 2,800 lots on the market. 
“The housing market seems to be stabilising, with an increasing number of sellers adopting more realistic asking prices, with both the number of sellers discounting and the average discount both coming down in the quarter,” he says.
According to Airey, the rental market is the emerging pressure point in the housing system, with the vacancy rate tightening further and rents for houses increasing. 
“Our preliminary data show the vacancy rate dropping to 2.3% in the quarter and well down on the 3.4% from the same period last year. While the median rent for units and apartments remains steady at $380 per week, it has increased by $20 for houses to $420 per week,” he says. 
The overall median rent for Perth has reached $400 per week, representing an increase of 8.1% over the last year. 
“It’s evident there is greater confidence retuning to the property market reflected in the increase in sales activity in the December quarter and the fall in listings we saw across 2011. 
“This bodes well for a positive start to 2012, but we still maintain some level of cautiousness given the global economic situation despite WA having a more robust economy,” Airey says.
 
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Perth median house price up in December quarter to $465,000, first rise in almost two years

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The Queensland property market has a long way to go to get back to full health one year on from the natural disasters that devastated the state, but housing confidence is slowly returning. 
The January 2011 south-east Queensland floods and northern Queensland cyclone one month later killed 35 people and affected more than 500,000 square kilometres of Queensland, including low-lying parts of Brisbane, Ipswich and the Lockyer Valley and up North, Cairns, Townsville Tully, and Innisfail.
The Queensland floods resulted in 58,463 claims totalling $2.4 billion, while cyclone Yasi resulted in 72,203 claims amounting to $1.33 billion. An estimated 15% of claims are still to be processed, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/strata-insurance-premiums-surge-in-wake-of-queensland-natural-disasters-giving-investors-financial-grief/2011112552542" target="_blank">with insurers warning premiums will soar</a> should flood cover become mandatory.
The hard data shows that Brisbane is still struggling.
Last week, as part of his mid-year budget update, Queensland Treasurer Andrew Fraser adjusted his forecasts for housing investment, with the state still struggling to attract property investors.
“The dwelling investment outlook has softened since the budget, when investment was forecast to partly recover by 5.75% in 2011-12,” Fraser said.
In its most recent monthly update, the RP Data-Rismark index reported that Brisbane remains, alongside Melbourne, the weakest capital city, with values down 1.7% over the three months to November on a seasonally adjusted basis.  Brisbane house prices are down 9% from their peak and 7% for the year to November.
Real Estate Institute of Queensland chief executive Anton Kardash says the property market is “currently transitioning from a very tough 2011 into a market characterised by increasing buyer enquiry, sales activity, and confidence levels, and the extension of the boost will add to this more positive state of play”. The REIQ September 2011 quarter report (its most recent survey) noted some signs of green shoots, with the preliminary number of house sales up a healthy 17% compared with the June quarter. Some regions recorded substantial jumps in activity as buyers finally started to foray back into the market. “What these figures show is that it appears it took about six months for our property market to begin to heal from the natural disasters earlier this year,” says REIQ chairwoman Pamela Bennett. “Activity in most areas improved markedly in the September quarter compared to the first six months of this year, but we mustn’t get ahead of ourselves given sales activity is still about 20% below where we were this time last year.”     
While the median house price in Brisbane reduced 2% to an even $500,000 over the period, the number of preliminary house sales was up 13%. 
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
Up north there are also signs of recovery, with the Fraser Coast, Bundaberg, Rockhampton and Cairns all recording double-digit growth in the number of house sales over the September quarter.
The most recent Property Council of Australia (PCA)-ANZ Property Industry Confidence Survey of industry players <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/australian-property-market-confidence-highest-in-resource-rich-areas-pca-anz-survey/2012011153018" target="_blank">found housing confidence had risen above the national average for the December 2011 quarter</a>, after a very glum reading in September.
The improvement has been noted by Kathy McDermott, executive director of the Queensland branch of the PCA, though she says much more needs to be done to aid the state’s recovery.
“There was a nice improvement in confidence in the December quarter, but the market is still very distressed and needs support,” she told Property Observer.
The Property Council of Australia alongside the Housing Industry Association, Master Builders Australia and Urban Development Institute of Australia were united in their call for the state government to extend the $10,000 building boost available for those buying or building new homes.
This plea was answered last week, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/queensland-government-to-extend-building-boost-until-april/2012011253029" target="_blank">with the stimulus scheme extended to April</a>.
Figures released by the government show the scheme is gaining traction, with more than 500 people applying for the grant between December 30 and January 11, taking total application numbers to 3,700.
Fraser himself noted the state’s housing market is still doing it tough, particurlarly in attracting property investors.
“Civilian population growth slowed further to 11,200 persons in September quarter 2011, dampening owner-occupier demand. Lower demand has seen the ABS measure of Brisbane house prices fall 5.2% over the past year,” he said. 
“While this benefits housing affordability, weaker prospects for capital gains and greater uncertainty since the escalation in the euro debt crisis have weighed on investor demand since the budget, as has ongoing tight credit conditions. 
“These negative effects are expected to be partly offset by the positive impact from recent cuts in official interest rates and the Queensland government’s Queensland building boost grant, which is to be extended until 30 April 2012. With the surge in business investment expected to generate higher migration levels and stronger employment growth next year, the expected recovery in dwelling investment is forecast to strengthen in 2012-13.” 
There has of course been very real recovery and progress, with photos released last week showing Brisbane suburbs close to the Brisbane River that were under water and mud a year ago now completely cleaned up and back to their pre-flood state. 
The city has cleared mud and debris from 460 kilometres of the stormwater drainage network, with 23 damaged CityCat and ferry terminals back up and running, 38,000 trees planted and 403 out of the 406 flood-affected parks restored. 
Brisbane City Council has committed to providing free advice and assistance to help residents restore properties affected by the floods. 
Outside of Brisbane, some of the worst affected regions are also recovering, notes Lucinda Coates <a href="https://theconversation.edu.au/institutions/macquarie-university">Macquarie Universit</a>y’s Natural Hazards Research Centre.
“As part of a voluntary land-swap initiative, Lockyer Valley Regional Council is now giving flood-impacted residents the option to move to a new land parcel located adjacent to Grantham but outside the flood zone. At the time of writing the first residents are moving into their new homes, and 70% to 80% of residents are expected to eventually relocate.
“While this is the first time a local government authority has assisted a disaster-struck community this way, it’s certainly not the first time an Australian town has been shifted to higher ground to avoid floods,” she says.
Photograph by Erik K. Veland
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One year after floods, Queensland property market showing signs of tentative recovery

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Members Equity Bank will look to sell its home loans through mortgage brokers after signing a distribution agreement with National Mortgage Brokers (nMB).
Melbourne-based nMB is the bank’s first broker partner, and it has plans for additional third-party agreements further down the track.
The bank’s decision to partner with brokers comes as more lenders look to strengthen ties with the broker market.
According to Fujitsu Consulting’s October 2011 Australian Mortgage Industry report, mortgage brokers currently originate 43% of all mortgages in Australia.
As a result, lenders have been improving their broker service propositions, including NAB, which last year extended its waived application fee and $700 switching incentive to its broker-only Homeside brand.
In October last year, a poll of 942 brokers by NAB’s Homeside division found that more than two-thirds of brokers believe the bank has improved its broker interaction.
In July, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/finance/brokers-see-better-bank-relations-after-st-george-commission-move/2011071550817" target="_blank">St George increased the amount of commission brokers could earn</a> by upping the upfront commission component from 50 basis points to 65 basis points and also reintroduced a 15-basis-point trail commission.
Gerald Foley, managing director of nMB, says the negotiated distribution agreement allows ME Bank to make its products available to the estimated 40% of new borrowers who use a broker. 
“Our network relationship will also deepen ME Bank's accessibility into areas where it may not have strong representation today,” says Foley. 
According to Ian Hendey, ME Bank’s group executive for brand, product and distribution, the decision to use third-party distribution followed considerable research across its customer base “that clearly signalled the broker channel was a key additional distribution channel”.
“Our research found that that more than half of our target market of industry super fund and union members would contact a mortgage broker for their home loan needs,” he says. 
The decision by the bank to part with brokers comes as figures from mortgage aggregator AFG revealed that non-major bank lenders’ share of mortgage lending increased strongly in December to nearly a quarter of all loans. 
Non-major bank lenders wrote 24% of all AFG loans in December, up from a previous 12-month average of just 19%.
 
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ME Bank connects with brokers as second-tier lenders gain ground

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Will Australia's  resources boom continue? Well, the experts certainly think so.  If you have any interest in the resources sector, arguably the best source for information is the Bureau of Resources and Energy Economics.  The most recent forecast for the 2011-12 financial year is a 15% increase in the value of Australian energy minerals and metals over the previous year, bringing the total value to over $200 billion, which is a record for export earnings.
The number and value of advanced resources projects is at an all-time high with most of these projects located in Queensland (31) and Western Australia (40).
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Additionally there are a further 404 "less advanced" projects that are either undergoing feasibility study, awaiting approval or awaiting final investment decisions.  These include 14 proposed LNG developments, which have the potential to add 75 million tones to Australia’s annual LNG production capacity.  BREE also point out that there are 15 less advanced iron ore projects, which have an estimated capital expenditure of $1 billion or more.
In its Resources and Energy Quarterly for December, BREE outlines its forecasts for the sector and acknowledges there is some risks based on the global economic woes, specifically European sovereign debt and the liquidity crisis.  Additionally there has been some weakening in the spot prices for key commodities such as iron ore and metallurgical coal.
The bulk of the demand for mineral and energy commodities will continue to be supported by China, India and other non-OECD economies.  Within the OECD, demand for Australian commodities is likely to be strongest in Japan, where the infrastructure spending post earthquakes and tsunami will be high.  Economic growth is likely to slow across our major export markets (China GDP is projected to ease to 9%, India’s economic growth is expected to slow to 7.5% and Japan’s economy should increase by 2.3%), however BREE has suggested the improved economic conditions in the ASEAN countries, where GDP growth is expected to be around 5.5%, should offset any slowdown in export growth.
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Growth across the sector will be accompanied by employment growth.   The size of the mining industry work force increased 19% during 2010-11 and is up by more than 170% over the past decade.
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BREE is forecasting improved performances in the volume and value of key Australian commodity exports. Exports of iron ore, which is Australia’s largest commodity market, is forecast to increase by 13% in volume and 11% in value. The export of metallurgical coal, the second largest commodity export, will rise by 7% in volume and 13% in value.
Based on the above information it looks like the resources sector will continue to benefit from ongoing demand for Australian commodity exports.   A direct benefit will continue to be seen in those housing markets that are closely tied to each of the respective commodity markets and the major service centers that provide essential services and a large component of the labour force to the mining regions.  Mining-related investments are of course very sensitive to movements in commodity prices and global demand; however there don't appear to be any cracks emerging in these markets just yet.
The indirect benefit, of course, will be seen in robust local economic conditions and a continuation of the two speed economy.  The most recent forecasts from the RBA show GDP growth at 4% by June 2012 before easing to 3-3.5% by December 2012 and underlying inflation tracking around 2.5% to 2.75%.
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Tim Lawless is head of research at <a href="https://www.rpdata.com/" target="_blank">RP Data</a>.
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://blog.rpdata.com/2012/01/will-the-resources-sector-continue-to-boom/">RP Data's blog</a>.
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tlawless-5VLUrbAk9s

No cracks appearing in resources sector: RP Data's Tim Lawless

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The auction clearance rate in Sydney across 2011 was 53%.
It was down from 61% in 2010 and 65% in 2009 but up 47% in 2008, according to Clinton McNabb, research analyst at Australian Property Monitors.
The clearance rate fell gradually across the year from 59% in February to a low of 49% in December.
The highest auction clearance rate was in the week ending February 12 at 63%, and the lowest week was the week ending December 10 at 47%.
There were 25,435 auction listings in 2011, down 5.4% compared with 2010.
The total value sold in 2011 was $11.26 billion, down a considerable 20% compared with 2010.
There were 12,701 properties sold at auction in 2011, some 18% fewer than the year before.
APM advised the median price for houses sold at auction was $845,000, down 2.9% year on year.
The median price for units sold at auction was $580,000, down 0.9% year on year.
Alexandria headed the suburbs with the highest auction clearance rates at 77%, followed by Ashfield 74% and Dulwich Hill.
The suburbs with the weakest auction clearance rate were Avalon 30%, Kellyville 30% and Collaroy 36%.
The inner west, inner Sydney and south west had the best-performing auction markets, while the central coast, outer-western Sydney and northern beaches were the worst performing, McNabb says.
 
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Sydney early bird vendors got the auction buyers in 2011: APM

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The clearance rate for Melbourne auctions in 2011 was 56%.
It compared with 71% in 2010, 81% in 2009 and 63% in 2008, according to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria.
The highest clearance rate in any week was 65% in the week ending March 13 and the lowest was 49% in the week ending November 20, says REIV chief executive Enzo Raimondo.
There were about 28,800 auctions throughout the year. The number exceeded the number held in both 2009 and 2008 but was fewer than 2010, when there were 32,497 residential auctions across Melbourne.
The total value of auction sales was $11.6 billion compared with $16.8 billion in 2010, $12.1 billion in 2009 and $10.2 billion in 2008.
The highest clearance rate was recorded in Wantirna South, where 82% of homes sold. It was followed by Abbotsford, Balaclava, Gladstone Park and Warrandyte as the top five suburbs when ranked by clearance rate.
However Richmond had the most auction activity, with 336 sales at auction and a strong clearance rate of 73%. It was followed by Melbourne, Bentleigh East, Hawthorn and Reservoir as the top five busiest suburbs when ranked by numbers sold.
Four of the properties that went up for auction in Richmond in 2011 <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/the-block-auction-a-dose-of-reality-which-sydney-finally-loved/2011082251240">were the cottages featured on the reality TV show The Block</a>. 
 
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Richmond the busiest Melbourne auction suburb in 2011: REIV

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ANZ has kept its variable mortgage lending rates unchanged following its first interest rate review out of step with the RBA. 
The bank’s standard variable rate is currently 7.3%.
 
The monthly review follows a statement in December 2011 that the bank would announce any changes to variable mortgage rates for retail mortgages and small business lending on the second Friday of each month, not following official RBA cash rate announcements. 
The next RBA announcement will be made on February 7, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/economy/february-rate-cut-tipped-to-boost-australian-housing-market/2012011253030" target="_blank">when it is expected to cut the cash rate by 25 basis points to 4%</a>. 
ANZ will make its next independent rate decision on February 10. 
“By reviewing key variable lending rates each month we can more accurately reflect the sustained changes in funding costs we incur through the interest we pay to customers for their deposits and to investors in wholesale money markets,” says ANZ chief executive Australia Philip Chronican. 
“It helps us to contribute to an informed debate about how we fund our customers’ loans and the effects of the continuing global financial crisis on Australia, particularly the significant economic instability which currently exists in Europe. 
“We want the process of setting interest rates for our customers to be simple and transparent. This includes a promise to work hard to maintain competitive interest rates that will not disadvantage customers over the term of their loan. 
“To increase certainty for our customers the effective date for any variable interest rate changes made as part of the monthly review process will now be one week after the announcement, regardless of whether interest rates are going up or down. 
“In coming to our decision this month we wanted to be clear that these higher interest rates we are now paying our depositors and the elevated prices we are required to pay for wholesale funds are going to be sustained given the volatility we saw late last year. 
“We also assessed our competitive position, the subdued state of credit demand and the overall state of the economy and decided it was prudent to maintain our current rates at this time,” he says. 
The bank used the following criteria in making its decision: 
1. "Ensuring attractive returns for depositors: ANZ is committed to providing customers with competitive returns and absolute security for their savings. 
2. "The cost of wholesale funding: This covers the interest we pay on funds from wholesale markets. The cost of these funds has become more volatile and expensive since the GFC and has been elevated in recent months as a result of the European debt crisis. 
3. "Our competitive position: ANZ is determined to remain competitive by attracting customers, winning business and managing our costs. 
4. "Our customers’ ability to afford loan repayments: We are committed to pricing loans and lending in a responsible way and giving consideration to the financial health of our customers, the economy and the banking system in Australia. 
5. "Regulatory requirements: As a bank, ANZ works within a strong prudential and regulatory environment. For example, we must hold capital reserves and levels of liquidity to operate safely and securely for customers.
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ANZ keeps rates unchanged in first independent call

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Members of the Fairfax-owned holiday accommodation listing site Stayz have received compensation after the website suffered a technical glitch that stopped them being paid for properties rented out to tenants.
The glitch, which lasted from December 19 to January 4, was extended due to staff going on holiday, a spokesperson has confirmed.
"It was a small number of transactions caused by a simple technical problem. It lasted a little longer than it should have because of the holiday period," the spokesperson confirmed to SmartCompany this morning.
The spokesperson says the affected members – less than 3% of property owners – will have their listing on the site free of charge for the next two months.
"A review is also underway to determine how the glitch was extended due to the holiday period."
Notification of the problem was sparked when users said they had not received payments dating back to Christmas, with some bills running into the thousands of dollars.
But the spokesperson says everything is back to normal for the site, which lists 33,000 properties.
"It was a simple technical problem, the system is now carrying on as it was before and the problem is resolved."
This article was originally published on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/">SmartCompany</a>.
 
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