Sydney developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/central-element">Central Element</a>&nbsp;is doubling down in Drummoyne, lodging plans for a boutique apartment development on St Georges Crescent, only one-kilometre down the road from its first Drummoyne development, Bianca.

The new project at 15A-21 St Georges Crescent,&nbsp;a&nbsp;1,701sqm north-facing site overlooking Iron Cove, will have 45 apartmnts across 10 levels. Eight of the units will be dedicated to affordable housing.

The site sits within walking distance of Drummoyne Village, Birkenhead Point, ferry services and the Bay Run, and offers harbour views towards the Sydney Harbour Bridge and CBD skyline.

Designed by MHN Design Union, the development will deliver a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, alongside resident amenity including a gym, landscaped communal open space and three levels of basement parking.

The project has been lodged under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, with Drummoyne Village identified as a town centre capable of accommodating additional housing supply.

Central Element acquired the site earlier this year as part of its continued expansion across Sydney's eastern suburbs, lower north shore and inner west.

The developer's current pipeline includes luxury apartment projects Pearl Bondi and a separate development on Lamrock Avenue in Bondi, a residential project in Barry Street, Neutral Bay, and a mixed-use seniors living community in Greenwich.

Central Element Managing Director Nathan Chivas said the project would address a shortage of new owner-occupier housing opportunities in Drummoyne.

"While we're seeing a significant shift across Canada Bay as major infrastructure investment, population growth and planning reform drive a new chapter for the region, in suburbs like Drummoyne there remains a genuine shortage of new boutique luxury housing opportunities for owner occupiers," Chivas said.

"Sites of this nature are increasingly difficult to secure, particularly those that combine a north-facing aspect with direct water outlook. Our St Georges Crescent project responds directly to the market demand, offering a level of exclusivity, outlook and lifestyle in the highly sought after suburb."

The development application has been lodged with the City of Canada Bay Council, with the project expected to launch to market in early 2027.

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Central Element seeks second Drummoyne apartment development

The NSW Government has unveiled plans that could deliver around 1,300 new homes across Nowra and Kiama, continuing its push to unlock housing in well-located regional centres along the South Coast.

The proposals, now on public exhibition, would pave the way for around 830 homes in Nowra and a further 450 homes in Kiama, while also introducing affordable housing requirements and increased building heights in key locations.

The larger of the two proposals is centred on Nowra, where the NSW Government is seeking to rezone land within the Mandalay and Riverfront precincts.

The Mandalay sub-precinct, located close to Shoalhaven Memorial Hospital, Nowra Library and the city's aquatic centre, could accommodate around 530 new homes. Around 30 per cent of housing delivered on Homes NSW-owned land would be dedicated to social and affordable housing, equating to roughly 100 homes. Building heights would increase from the current two-storey limit to between three and six storeys.

A separate rezoning proposal for the Nowra Riverfront Precinct would unlock a further 377 homes while creating stronger connections between the Shoalhaven River and the CBD. The plans include building heights ranging from five to 12 storeys, floor space ratios of up to 2:1 and a requirement for two per cent affordable housing.

Together, the two proposals would deliver more than 900 homes across the broader Nowra area, reinforcing the city's role as one of regional NSW's key growth centres.

The housing push builds on previous infrastructure commitments in the Shoalhaven, including government funding aimed at supporting thousands of future homes in West Nowra through upgrades to water and wastewater infrastructure.

Further north, the NSW Government is also progressing plans for the former Kiama Depot site, a two-hectare parcel near Kiama's town centre.

The rezoning proposal would transform the former industrial site into a residential community capable of delivering up to 450 homes. Buildings would range between six and eight storeys, with at least 10 per cent of homes allocated as affordable housing. The proposal also includes approximately 600 parking spaces and improved walking and cycling connections.

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the proposals are designed to increase housing supply in locations close to jobs, transport and services.

"For too long, families have struggled to find somewhere to live, and activating underutilised sites allows us to deliver the new homes these families need," Scully said.

"The Minns Labor Government is getting on with the job of unlocking well-located sites close to transport, jobs, and town centres and building the homes our communities need.

"These rezonings are about removing barriers to housing delivery and making sure land is put to better use so more people can find a place to call home within the communities they choose."

The latest rezonings form part of the Minns Government's broader strategy to accelerate housing delivery across NSW, particularly in established centres where existing infrastructure can support additional population growth.

Community consultation on the proposals is now underway, with feedback set to inform the final planning controls before the rezonings are determined.

Around 1,300 new homes earmarked for Nowra and Kiama as NSW Government pushes housing supply

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mrcb">MRCB International</a> has commenced construction on its latest Gold Coast apartment development, Maris, on the site of the former Sundale Motel in Southport.

The start of construction by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/binah-constructions">Binah</a> follows an exceptionally strong sales campaign, with more than 90 per cent of apartments sold since launch. Every purchaser has been local, an&nbsp;indicator of confidence in both the development and Southport's evolution into a thriving CBD.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/maris-southport-20-queen-street-southport-qld-4215">Maris</a> will deliver 192 residences across 20 levels. The project forms part of MRCB's Australian and New Zealand development pipeline now exceeding $1.6 billion in gross development value, alongside a growing portfolio of projects globally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134403 project_image_fid=350663]

The company also commenced construction on its $600 million 26 Vista residences in Surfers Paradise last year, following strong sales momentum, with over 70 per cent of residences sold.

Maris has been designed to meet evolving buyer demand, offering architecturally designed layouts suited to long-term liveability. The approach reflects a growing preference for quality and adaptability among Gold Coast buyers.

Positioned next to the Broadwater in the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/southport-qld-4215">Southport</a> CBD, Maris sits directly opposite the Broadwater Parklands light rail station and within easy reach of retail, dining and lifestyle precincts, placing residents at the centre of one of the Gold Coast's most connected and rapidly maturing urban centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134403 project_image_fid=372756]

Maris will offer a full suite of resort-style residential amenities, including a pool, gym and sauna, along with a rooftop level featuring decks, lounges and dining and yoga areas that command sweeping views across the Broadwater and out to the ocean.

Binah, a New South Wales headquartered company co-founded by Amen Zoabi and Khalil Hafza in 2008, has expressed its excitement at establishing its first partnership with MRCB.

Binah's Managing Director Khalil Hafza said partnering with MRCB on Maris is a significant moment for Binah.

"MRCB's financial strength and a track record that speaks for itself give this project a solid foundation, and this marks the beginning of what will be a long and successful relationship.

"With the right people, systems and partnerships behind it, Maris is set to become a significant addition to the Gold Coast's premium residential market."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134403 project_image_fid=350664]

MRCB International CEO Ravi Krishnan said the project's progression to construction reflects both sustained demand and tightening conditions across the apartment sector, as well as MRCB's continued confidence in the Gold Coast market.

"Commencing construction at Maris is a significant step and reflects the depth of demand for quality apartments in well-connected urban locations," said Krishnan.

"Across Southeast Queensland, new apartment supply remains constrained, particularly in established precincts with infrastructure and amenity already in place. Projects like Maris are increasingly critical in meeting that demand, especially on the Gold Coast and in the city's CBD precinct."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134403 project_image_fid=372761]

Krishnan said Southport's ongoing transformation, supported by infrastructure investment and long-term planning, was underpinning renewed buyer confidence.

"We're seeing a clear shift back towards well-located urban centres where infrastructure, connectivity and amenity are already established," said Mr Krishnan. "Southport is evolving into a more mature CBD environment, and that is being reflected in buyer behaviour."

Construction at Maris is anticipated to be completed in 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134403]

Construction commences on MRCB’s $200m Maris Residences in Southport

Moonee Valley Park’s latest residential release <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveline-at-moonee-valley-park-moonee-ponds-100-thomas-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">The Eveline</a>, has achieved a new benchmark for off-the-plan apartment sales in the suburb, with the sale of The Alexandra penthouse selling for $5,435,000.

Positioned on the top floor of a 16-level residential building, the three-bedroom, three and-a-half-bathroom penthouse features uninterrupted city skyline views across the future Valley racetrack.&nbsp;

The landmark sale comes as momentum at the precinct continues to build, with the Moonee Valley Racing Club progressing works on its new racetrack ahead of the 2027 Cox Plate. The transformative development will see MVRC reimagine the beloved Valley as a vibrant year-round entertainment and lifestyle destination.

Alongside a world-class racing experience, the historic precinct will be activated with events, hospitality and public green spaces designed to attract broader audiences, while breathing new life into one of Melbourne’s most iconic destinations.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142519 project_image_fid=372786]

Development partners <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton Property Group</a> and Hostplus have delivered five residential stages over the past four years, the most recent in November 2025 with Trackside House and Stonepine House. The flourishing community is now home to almost 500 families.&nbsp;

The latest residential release, The Eveline, has recorded strong demand since launching publicly last July, securing more than $200 million in sales to date, satisfying its pre sales hurdle for construction to commence.&nbsp;

Hamton Founder and Executive Chairman, Paul Hameister OAM said, the sales&nbsp;team have been overwhelmed by demand for these unique homes in this unique project.

"Buyers continue to be predominantly hyperlocal and attracted by the 40 hectare botanic masterplan in Melbourne’s inner north west," Hameister said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142519 project_image_fid=372788]

Hamton’s Sales and Marketing Director Fergus Humphries said the team has achieved more than 70 sales over the past eight weeks, including the penthouse purchase by a local buyer.

"These results reinforce that, even in a challenging market, purchasers continue to be drawn to quality projects that offer more than just a home, they offer a lifestyle.”

Designed by Cera Stribley, the penthouse has been created with entertaining in mind, spanning close to 400 sqm of indoor and outdoor living space, including multiple terraces designed to capture sweeping views across Melbourne’s skyline, the new Valley racecourse and sunset views over Moonee Ponds.

Moonee Valley Park is one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects, transforming the iconic racecourse site into a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood integrating homes, parklands, retail, racing and community amenities.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=142519]

Moonee Valley Park penthouse sets suburb record as sales surge clears construction benchmark

A company linked to one of Australia's largest privately owned cattle businesses has lodged plans for a new residential tower in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newstead-qld-4006">Newstead</a>, continuing the rapid transformation of one of Brisbane's most sought-after, inner-city precincts.

Bottletree Holdings, an entity associated with Stanbroke Managing Director Brendan Menegazzo, has submitted a development application for a 28-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/9-longland-street-newstead-qld-4006">9 Longland Street</a>, a site that made headlines last year when it changed hands in an off-market transaction that reportedly set a benchmark land rate for the suburb.

The proposal would replace an existing two-storey commercial building on the 1,510 sqm corner site with a Bureau Proberts-designed tower comprising 76 apartments, ground-floor retail, office space and a suite of resident wellness amenities.

<img alt="9 Longland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c710a836-568e-4382-bc91-3c34b8e80a8b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-22%20at%209.41.45%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Vy.mQWBc7GA_a.vIBdxKqRC9XGjWalo2" />

According to planning documents lodged with Brisbane City Council, the development would comprise a mix of 36 two-bedroom apartments, 24 three-bedroom apartments and 16 four-bedroom residences, positioning the project firmly at the premium end of the market. The apartments would sit above a podium containing retail and commercial space, with three levels of communal recreation facilities spread throughout the tower. The proposal also includes 198 car spaces and 95 bicycle spaces.

Bureau Proberts has drawn heavily on Newstead's industrial heritage in developing the architectural response.

"Occupying a prominent corner in the heart of Newstead, the proposal draws from the area's industrial lineage of robust brick warehouses to deliver a distinctly contemporary response," the architects said in the design statement.

"It is conceived as a subtropical sanctuary and elevated private retreat embedded within one of Brisbane's most vibrant lifestyle precincts."

The design seeks to reinterpret the traditional Queensland vernacular through wraparound verandahs, deep shading elements and permeable facades that respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate.

<img alt="9 Longland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="25524f59-395c-4825-8fad-9b639822fa8a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-22%20at%209.42.09%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=dlWlbpCc_g3Y6yTLGqRVKvGJvO2ubMJ3" />

Planning documents describe the building as embodying the principles of "buildings that breathe", a design approach increasingly favoured in Brisbane's apartment market as developers focus on natural ventilation and outdoor living spaces.

The tower itself would rise above a heavily landscaped podium designed to reference the woolstore architecture that helped define Newstead and neighbouring Teneriffe for generations. At ground level, fine-grain retail tenancies would activate Longland Street, Wyandra Street and the existing Wyatt Street laneway, further extending the pedestrian network that has become a hallmark of the Gasworks precinct.

The application notes that more than 54 per cent of the site would be dedicated to landscaping and deep planting, while approximately 1,750 sqm of communal recreation space would be delivered across multiple levels.

<img alt="Planning" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fed3b189-1054-4b68-af5f-b0befc4a66e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-22%20at%209.42.19%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=gqeE3cjsbnLAfeTUKA1HtPZfqDs6S4Xa" />

Bottletree paid $22 million for the 1,510 sqm development site, equating to more than $14,500 per sqm, a reflection of the strong demand for development opportunities in Newstead. The suburb continues to attract both developers and buyers, underpinned by the ongoing evolution of the Gasworks and Teneriffe precincts into some of Brisbane's most sought-after lifestyle destinations.

Brisbane City Council's Sustainable Growth Strategy and Inner City Strategy both identify Newstead as a priority growth precinct capable of accommodating additional housing density due to its proximity to employment hubs, public transport and lifestyle infrastructure.

The proposed tower joins a growing pipeline of high-end apartment developments in the suburb. Fortis recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a>, a 65-apartment owner-occupier-focused development on Kyabra Street, while Consolidated Properties Group is preparing to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/castile-47-skyring-terrace-newstead-qld-4006">Castile</a>, a 227-apartment waterfront project on Skyring Terrace.

Meanwhile, builder-developer BPG is planning its own Newstead project on Maud Street, comprising just over 100 apartments and more than 1,380 sqm of dedicated wellness and resident amenity spaces, further highlighting the shift towards lifestyle-driven apartment developments in Brisbane's inner-city market.

Newstead apartment boom continues with Longland Street tower plans

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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

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

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EXPERT OBSERVER
COVID-19 has brought about downside risks for the economy and housing market.
A 0.3% decline in March GDP confirmed a technical recession is underway in Australia, total wages paid fell 5.4% between mid-March and early May, and Australian dwelling market values saw the first month-on-month decline since June 2019. But one surprising sign of stabilising emerged in May.
Home sales have risen, with home owners testing the market, and new listings are rising.
In fact, buyer demand is outweighing the volume of new listings.
Where is demand coming from
Where is demand coming from? With the economy severely impacted by COVID-19, it is surprising to see such a strong rebound in transaction activity. But there are a few factors that can explain these numbers. The first is that the 20.4% jump in sales volumes in May is off a low base.
Over April, the number of transactions across the combined capital cities market was estimated to be just 16,115. That is the lowest monthly sales volume since 1991 excluding January results.
It is also pales in comparison to the decade average of 24,700 sales per month across these markets. Although a 20.4% uplift is significant, it still only brings sales volumes to an estimated 19,400 over May.
The second is a rise in consumer confidence. The ANZ Roy Morgan weekly consumer confidence index has risen consecutively for the past 9 weeks.
At the week ending 31st of May, the index is 50.5% higher than when it bottomed out in late March.
In fact, the index is now just 9% lower than when Australia confirmed its first case of coronavirus in January. The easing of social distancing policies and low COVID-19 case numbers in Australia mean people may be feeling more confident about the future of the Australian economy, their personal finances, and property purchases.
Finally, the kind of workers most impacted by COVID-19 are those that are less likely to have mortgage debt. Between the 14th of March and 2nd of May, 27.1% of payroll jobs have been lost across accommodation and food services, and 19.0% of jobs have been lost across arts and recreation. In a previous blog, we noted that this would disproportionately affect renters rather than owner occupiers.
Data from the ABS and HILDA suggests the share of households renting that are in food and accommodation services, and are in a more precarious financial situation, is around 40%. This suggests that for now, conditions have been relatively stable in the housing market because those most impacted by the economic slowdown of COVID-19 may be less likely to have a mortgage obligation.
With stability emerging in the property transaction space, it is evident that additional housing stimulus is less urgent among those that can already afford property, and is another case for addressing housing costs for low income earners.
ELIZA OWEN is CoreLogic's <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/news/early-market-indicators-show-first-signs-housing-market-slowdown?utm_medium=email&amp;utm_source=newsletter&amp;utm_campaign=20200420_propertypulse" target="_blank">head of research</a>
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pchatterjee-seVgoiQgz5

Buyer demand outweighing new May listings: CoreLogic's Eliza Owen

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An approved beachfront tourist accommodation park at 66-72 Rules Beach Road, on the edge of The Great Barrier Reef has hit the market.
The asset offers a 5.05 hectares of land area that is the balance area of ‘Rules Beach Estate’ and is being offered by way of expressions of interest closing June 25 2020.
The site is being marketed and sold by Ray White Special Projects Qld Executive Directors Mark Creevey and Tony Williams, in conjunction with HTL Property Directors Glenn Price and Brent McCarthy.
<img src="https://f.datasrvr.com/f1/120/40079/Rules_1.JPG" width="640" data-imagetype="External">
Mr Creevey said, "we know travel overseas will be heavily restricted in the short-to-medium term, and maybe even longer, so people’s focus will turn to domestic destinations."
“We expect a huge amount of money to be invested in tourism at home, and this asset really does represent exactly the kind of resort Australians will look to visit in the near future."
Mr Williams said the thoughtful and architecturally designed scheme was led by Shane Thompson, a prominent Australian architect, and Principal of Shane Thompson Architects.
“The site has development approval in place for glamping, camping and caravan park, as well as 42 freehold holiday villas and a rural service centre,” he said.
“It’s encircled by unspoiled beaches, Deepwater National Park and Baffle Creek inlet, with access to Lady Elliot and Lady Musgrave islands.
“Substantial development and infrastructure works to the estate have already been undertaken with access, power and water connected, and DA for sewerage treatment plant," Mr Williams added.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Approved beachfront tourist accommodation park near Great Barrier Reef listed

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The<a href="/expert-insights/buying/how-will-the-coronavirus-impact-australia-s-property-market"> COVID19 pandemic</a> has changed a lot.

Politicians are listening to experts - in the health sector, at least - and a great number of people are working from home, participating in a giant experiment that will have consequences in the residential, commercial and equally important transport spaces.

Any job that doesn't require a specific workplace (such as a retail premise, construction site or a laboratory for instance) or is not a job in the frontline/emergency and health services sector has been conducted in the employee's home.

Employers big and small are getting real-time data on the effect of working from home on their employee's productivity and vast numbers of employees are working from home for the first time, gauging whether it suits them or not.

Anecdotes started trickling through various media in April and have since turned into a steady stream of organisations - and employees - calling for a permanent change to how we work and where we work after the immediate danger of the pandemic has passed.

From jobs such as <a href="https://www.afr.com/companies/telecommunications/optus-staff-to-work-from-home-permanently-20200417-p54kro">traditionally office-based contact centres</a> at one end of the spectrum to <a href="https://www.afr.com/companies/professional-services/grant-thornton-kearney-reimagine-the-post-pandemic-office-20200601-p54yc8">lawyers and consultants</a> at the other end, it seems pretty clear through reporting that change is coming.

<h2>Flexibility is always welcome...</h2>

...yet not everyone will want to continue to work from home after COVID19.  To use my own anecdote that might be shared with other members of the community, prior to the pandemic, I was lucky enough to experience 100% work from office, 100% work from home.  I've also worked under a regime where - with varying layers of flexibility - I'd be split between two places during the week.  For instance 2 days a week at home, 3 days a week in an office - over a period of 15 years.

I've always favoured flexibility to isolate myself when I need to devise solutions (when I was business analyst) or use the creative side of my brain (when writing articles) because distractions - in the form of other human beings or incessant digital communication requests - don't help with my own productivity. 

Yet I could never see myself enjoying a permanent work from home experience in a medium or large-scale organisation because the casual interactions which tend to err on the side of distraction when you are accomplishing tasks that require focus - as mentioned previously - can also be beneficial in certain contexts like when you need to brainstorm ideas or decide upon weekly/monthly goal setting. 

I could also not see myself remaining interested enough in an organisation if I was forced to interact with colleagues 100% of the time over impersonal digital communications platforms.

<h2>Orthodoxy, be damned</h2>

Getting employees to their place of employment is one of the major tasks of our transport network - this is everything from those who walk or cycle to work, catch public transport or drive to their place of employment.

And in a post-COVID19 world, if the steady stream of anecdotes published throughout the media do come to fruition - that a greater number of people will be working from home, either permanently of with varying levels of flexibility - then we have an opportunity to permanently change the way we think of peak hour and the lived experience of it.

For every person who works from home, either permanently or on a flexibility arrangement, that's one less trip the transport network needs to manage.   

Yet if the bulk of people who shift to working from home do it on a set timetable, like Mondays and Fridays, the peaks would become more intense on the other working days in the week. 

The ideal scenario would be that employers rotate rosters of people who work on a flexible arrangement so that we get across the board reduction in people traveling in peak on every weekday - journeys will be more pleasant with the same level of peak services.

There's also an argument to be made the concept of a weekend or Saturday/Sunday timetable needs to be ditched or dramatically altered.  If we get the working week right - through the reduction in trips by car and public transport - squeezing more out of what we already have - then we can't have everyone take to their cars on weekends, clogging the transport network up again.

<h2>Is it time to re-think long-distance inter-city commuting?</h2>

Taking the logic of continuing to work 1 or 2 days a week in a Melbourne office or any other state capital and the remaining 3 to 4 days an employee would work from home, it follows that the employee wouldn't necessarily need to live within metropolitan Melbourne.

Since the Regional Fast Rail projects of the 2000-2010 decade came online, patronage on Vline services has grown markedly.  Excluding the astronomical growth on the Geelong long that can be attributed to outer suburban patronage growth in places like Tarneit, more people are traveling from the regional cities and towns that surround Melbourne.

Where once I would have seen the logic in planning orthodoxy that resisted inter-city commuting, and facility far more of it, when it occurs less frequently, but with more people, the argument that the regional cities will become dormitory towns for the big smoke becomes a lot harder to justify.

For the regional towns and cities, it's an opportunity to create shared workplaces which in turn will create agglomeration benefits in those towns and cities much like central Melbourne (or any other state capital) sees with all the ancillary businesses that serve office workers.  It, naturally, also benefits them from growing their respective populations which in turn would create more local jobs there as well.

For businesses with centralised offices whether it's in the CBD or a suburban node they can diversify the space they own or lease. 

Sure, you can be a cynic and point out the bean-counters in organisations will likely push for a reduction in office space if a large number of a business' employees start working remotely to save on outlays, but there'd also be an argument those workplaces could evolve and adapt to tasks they'll need to facilitate when the remote employees are on. their weekly jaunt in the office.

For capital cities, it means the pressure on housing sectors mightn't be as great with regional cities shouldering a much higher portion of the population burden.

For Victoria and to an extent New South Wales but not realistically any other state, this would mean the transport focus should shift to increasing capacity for regional services (which is a focus in Victoria and belatedly now in NSW) and connecting nodes in metropolitan areas so journeys can be facilitated by public transport rather than existing road networks.

That's one logic path - there may be others, however everyone should prepare for orthodoxy to be challenged in a post-COVID19 world.

Lead image credit: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Refurbished_Vline_Vlocity_Interior.jpg">wikipedia</a>.
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Alastair Taylor

What should happen after The Great Work From Home Experiment concludes?

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The RBA have continued to hold rates at record lows at the June 2020 meeting.
RBA Governor Philip Lowe said the government bond markets are operating effectively and the yield on 3-year Australian Government Securities is at the target of around 25 basis points.
"Given these developments, the Bank has purchased government bonds on only one occasion since the previous Board meeting, with total purchases to date of around $50 billion," Lowe said.
Lowe added the bank is prepared to scale-up its bond purchases again and will do whatever is necessary to ensure bond markets remain functional and to achieve the yield target for 3-year AGS.
"The target will remain in place until progress is being made towards the goals for full employment and inflation."
CoreLogic's head of research Tim Lawless says the low cash rate setting is one factor helping to support housing market conditions, citing owner occupier mortgage rates averaging less than three per cent as another.
He also mentioned the reports which are emerging that banks are offering extended interest-only periods and allowing customers to pivot to interest-only repayment schedules.
"This kind of policy is likely to become more wide spread later this year, as ‘mortgage holiday’ periods end and government stimulus measures taper." Lawless said.
 "Such a low cost of debt, along with improving consumer sentiment and an easing in social distancing policies were factors supporting an 18.5% rise in housing activity through May, after sales plunged by about 33% nationally in April", Lawless added.
"The low rate setting and improving level of market activity also partially explain why housing values have fallen by less than half a percent through the COVID-19 crisis to date.   
"As the cash rate target is set to remain at current levels, Governor Lowe has also called for the extension of fiscal policy measures.
"With additional stimulus measures in the wings, including the potential for stamp duty reforms and cash handouts to support new home building and renovations, we could see some additional support for housing activity later this year."
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

RBA holds rates at June meeting, spent $50 billion in government bonds

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At its meeting today, the Board decided to maintain the current policy settings, including the targets for the cash rate and the yield on 3-year Australian Government bonds of 25 basis points.
The global economy is experiencing a severe downturn as countries seek to contain the coronavirus. Many people have lost their jobs and there has been a sharp rise in unemployment. Over the past month, infection rates have declined in many countries and there has been some easing of restrictions on activity. If this continues, a recovery in the global economy will get under way, supported by both the large fiscal packages and the significant easing in monetary policies.
Globally, conditions in financial markets have continued to improve, although conditions in some markets remain fragile. Volatility has declined and credit markets have progressively opened to more firms. Bond rates remain at historically low levels.
In Australia, the government bond markets are operating effectively and the yield on 3-year Australian Government Securities (AGS) is at the target of around 25 basis points. Given these developments, the Bank has purchased government bonds on only one occasion since the previous Board meeting, with total purchases to date of around $50 billion. The Bank is prepared to scale-up its bond purchases again and will do whatever is necessary to ensure bond markets remain functional and to achieve the yield target for 3-year AGS. The target will remain in place until progress is being made towards the goals for full employment and inflation.
The Bank's market operations are continuing to support a high level of liquidity in the Australian financial system. Authorised deposit-taking institutions are making use of the Term Funding Facility, with total drawings to date of around $6 billion. Further use of this facility is expected over coming months.
The Australian economy is going through a very difficult period and is experiencing the biggest economic contraction since the 1930s. In April, total hours worked declined by an unprecedented 9 per cent and more than 600,000 people lost their jobs, with many more people working zero hours. Household spending weakened very considerably and investment plans are being deferred or cancelled.
Notwithstanding these developments, it is possible that the depth of the downturn will be less than earlier expected. The rate of new infections has declined significantly and some restrictions have been eased earlier than was previously thought likely. And there are signs that hours worked stabilised in early May, after the earlier very sharp decline. There has also been a pick-up in some forms of consumer spending.
However, the outlook, including the nature and speed of the expected recovery, remains highly uncertain and the pandemic is likely to have long-lasting effects on the economy. In the period immediately ahead, much will depend on the confidence that people and businesses have about the health situation and their own finances.
The substantial, coordinated and unprecedented easing of fiscal and monetary policy in Australia is helping the economy through this difficult period. It is likely that this fiscal and monetary support will be required for some time.
The Board is committed to do what it can to support jobs, incomes and businesses and to make sure that Australia is well placed for the recovery. Its actions are keeping funding costs low and supporting the supply of credit to households and businesses. This accommodative approach will be maintained as long as it is required. The Board will not increase the cash rate target until progress is being made towards full employment and it is confident that inflation will be sustainably within the 2–3 per cent target band.
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Nature and speed of COVID-19 economic recovery uncertain: RBA Governor Philip Lowe's June 2020 meeting statement

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Westpac's chief economist Bill Evans says there is certainly a case for negative interest rates in Australia, despite the RBA previously suggesting they have gone as low as they intend to go.
"What we have to bear in mind is the Reserve Bank is a long way from its objectives, and expects to be a long way from its objectives right out to the end of its forecast period", Evans said in an update <a href="https://westpaciq.westpac.com.au/Article/43635/14186/" target="_blank">on Westpac IQ</a>.
The forecast period is June 2022.
The RBA want full employment, which is around 4.5 per cent, and inflation in the two to three per cent range, however the Reserve Bank are forecasting the unemployment rate will be at 6.5 per cent mid-way through 2022.
"Markets have been flirting with the idea of negative interest rates in a number of economies", Evans said. "The US the UK really stand out.
"Of course we know EU has had negative interest rates since 2014 and Japan has had negative interest rates for a long time as well.
Evans says markets are predicting by the first half of next year, US interest rates will be down to 0, the UK will be down to 0, NZ will be down to 0.
But Lowe said in November, and reaffirmed in recent months, that lowering the cash rate would be extraordinarily unlikely.
To watch Evans full explanation, click below.
<iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/-te6bkUaqhM" frameborder="0" width="560" height="315"></iframe>
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Where there is a case for negative interest rates

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Regional Victoria remains one of the nation’s leading markets, especially on price performance. Of the 138 suburbs and towns ranked our Price Predictor Index, 116 of them have recorded price growth in the past year. 
That means 84% of locations throughout Regional Victoria have growing prices. More than half of those growth markets have increased their median house prices more than 5% in the past year, including many which have had double-digit growth.
The strength of prices in Regional Victoria is confirmed by the latest price data published by CoreLogic on 1 June. House prices recorded, after recording solid increases in March and April, were unchanged in May, while unit prices were up 0.5% during the month.
Regional areas of the state have been boosted by buyers out of Melbourne, including home buyers seeking a more relaxed and affordable lifestyle, while in some cases working remotely for a city business. The coronavirus shutdown period which forced people to work from home is likely to further enhance this trend.
Our Winter survey of sales activity reveals that Regional Victoria has remained quite resilient in terms of sales activity, in the faces of the Covid-19 impacts. There has been only a minor reduction in the number of locations with growing sales activity, compared to the results of our Autumn survey.
There are 27 locations with rising demand. The numbers for the Winter survey are comparable to the results of the previous four quarterly surveys, which generally have indicated that the Regional Victoria market jurisdiction has passed its peak but remains sturdy.
This market was at its strongest throughout 2018, when three consecutive quarterly surveys had 47, 47 and 51 locations with rising sales activity.
But, as our research regularly demonstrates, real estate prices often remain strong long after the peak of the market in terms of sales activity.
This is shown by the many individual suburbs and towns throughout Regional Victoria which have recorded median price growth above 10% in the past 12 months.
Ballarat has been particularly outstanding, with price growth headed by the suburbs of Ballarat Central (up 24%) and Lake Wendouree (23%). Brown Hills, Redan, Alfredton and Sebastopol have all increased between 10% and 12%. Other Ballarat suburbs have increased 7-8%.
The best performers in Geelong have been Drysdale (19%) and Bell Park (10%), while growth in Bendigo has been led by East Bendigo (21%).
But growth markets have been spread widely throughout the state, including Irymple (27%), Tatura (23%), Nagambie (19%) and Euroa (18%).
Other which have risen by between 10% and 14% include Apollo Bay, Portland, Woodend, Churchill, Daylesford and Morwell.
There are numerous locations throughout Regional Victoria which have delivered annual growth of 7-8-9%.
In terms of locations with rising sales activity, which is a pointer to future price growth, the outstanding LGAs are Geelong and Bendigo.
The City of Greater Geelong has provided strong growth markets for the past three years and continues to show resilience. It benefits from its ability to provide an affordable alternative to Melbourne, underpinned by a strong local economy and good links to the nearby capital city.
In our Winter survey we have identified seven growth suburbs and four consistency suburbs, a good result in difficult times. There are also 15 suburbs in Greater Geelong classified as plateau markets. 
Bendigo has five growth markets and two consistency ones, in addition to nine plateau markets. This important regional city is benefiting from growing interest from Melbourne buyers and also investors from other parts of Australia.
Bendigo is behind Ballarat in the market cycle so we think has more upside, looking to the future. Ballarat has been a great performer in the past 2-3 years, as the price growth figures show, but is past its peak, with only one suburb remaining with growing sales activity.
The other standout is Latrobe City, where Morwell, Newborough and /Traralgon are all growth locations, while Moe and Churchill are consistency markets.
Other growth markets across the state include Ararat, Benalla, Castlemaine, Gisborne, Romsey, Cobram, Horsham, Mildura, Wonthaggi and Mooroopna.
Terry Ryder is the founder of hotspotting.com.au
<a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au">ryder@hotspotting.com.au</a>
twitter.com/hotspotting
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Ballarat leads the regional Victorian house price boom: Hotspotting's Terry Ryder

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More than four-fifths of experts (29/34, 85%) say the economy won’t fully recover until at least 2022.
However, more than one-third of experts (37%, 14/38) expect Australia to have its first quarter of GDP growth in Q3 2020.
<img src="https://mcusercontent.com/cc5e9bce699fa1d71a67cf499/images/d8d0b433-be64-41ce-8ca2-8f894987f81f.png" data-imagetype="External">
Mark Crosby, applied macroeconomist at Monash University, said Q3 GDP growth is more about how bad the preceding quarters have been.
“If growth in Q3 2020 was measured against any quarter in 2019 it would be negative.
“In other words it's growth but nowhere near a reversion towards trend in Q3, not the end of recession (other than in definition) and not the end of rising unemployment,” Crosby said.
Restaurants and bars won’t return to normal until 2021
Those anxious for a "normal" restaurant experience once restrictions ease, may be waiting longer than they think.
Nearly half (47%, 15/31) of the experts who weighed in on hospitality said restaurants and bars won’t be operating at full capacity and without social distancing restrictions until 2021.
Less than a third (10, 31%) expected to see this happening this year.
Cooke said while restrictions are beginning to be relaxed, Australia still has a way to go until things return to normal.
“While restrictions are beginning to ease, it’s clear we’re still a long way off from booking a big group table at the pub over the long weekend,” Cooke said.
More than one-third of experts (37%, 14/38) expect Australia to have its first quarter of GDP growth in Q3 2020.
Mark Crosby, applied macroeconomist at Monash University, said Q3 GDP growth is more about how bad the preceding quarters have been.
“If growth in Q3 2020 was measured against any quarter in 2019 it would be negative.
“In other words it's growth but nowhere near a reversion towards trend in Q3, not the end of recession (other than in definition) and not the end of rising unemployment,” Crosby said.
Restaurants and bars won’t return to normal until 2021
Those anxious for a "normal" restaurant experience once restrictions ease, may be waiting longer than they think.
Nearly half (47%, 15/31) of the experts who weighed in on hospitality said restaurants and bars won’t be operating at full capacity and without social distancing restrictions until 2021.
Less than a third (10, 31%) expected to see this happening this year.
Cooke said while restrictions are beginning to be relaxed, Australia still has a way to go until things return to normal.
“While restrictions are beginning to ease, it’s clear we’re still a long way off from booking a big group table at the pub over the long weekend,” Cooke said.
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85% of experts say economy won't recover till 2022: Finder.com.au

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Back on 19th March when we first looked at the impact of the intensifying shutdown of the Australian economy on the housing market (see here) we concluded that the impact would depend on how high unemployment rose.
Our base case was a recession that saw unemployment rise to around 7.5% and would push average home prices down around 5%, but the risk was that a deeper downturn with say 10% unemployment could see a 20% fall in prices. Subsequent government support measures along with an earlier reopening of the economy have reduced the risk of worse case scenarios for home prices.
So Far So Good
The combination of the need for social distancing and the banning for a while of traditional on-site auctions led to a sharp decline in properties for sale.
In addition to this, the Federal Government’s JobKeeper scheme keeping around 3.5 million people in paid employment and a doubling in unemployment benefits along with bank mortgage payment holidays, all of which are for the six months to September, have helped head off an increase in forced sales that might have occurred given the size of the hit to the economy.
So, while property demand has fallen, it’s been matched by a collapse in supply, which has left the property market in a bit of a twilight zone.
While listings have started to pick up a bit lately, they are still very low and this has all helped soften the blow to house prices that would have otherwise occurred, but prices are still starting to fall. According to CoreLogic, after slowing to just 0.2% growth in April, average capital city home prices fell -0.5% in May.
Prices fell in all cities except Adelaide, Hobart and Canberra, with Melbourne -0.9%, Sydney -0.4% and Perth -0.6%. This has seen the monthly change in capital city home prices collapse from a peak of 2% in November.
The positives for the property outlook
There are basically five “positives” for property prices. 
Mortgage rates have fallen to record lows with deals around 2 to 3%. This is keeping mortgage debt interest costs as a share of household income well below historic highs even though the ratio of household debt to income is at a record high of around 200%. Low mortgage costs also make the funding costs for an investment property very low.
As noted above, while listings remain low. 
Government support measures have provided a huge boost to household income, supported businesses, supported employment for around 3.5 million workers, prevented a confidence zapping surge in measured unemployment &amp; with bank mortgage payment holidays (which has seen around 440,000 mortgage deferrals) are preventing a sharp rise in mortgage delinquencies and hence forced sales. 
The shutdown, impacting mostly services jobs, has hit women and younger workers harder in contrast to past recessions which have hit male breadwinners harder and this may have helped keep down debt servicing problems. 
China is running 2-3 months ahead of Australia with respect to the coronavirus shock and its experience provides some guide. While property sales were near zero in the peak lockdown month of February average property price growth slowed but did not go negative and is now picking up a bit.
The negatives
Against these positives there are these big “negatives” for property prices flowing from the coronavirus shock.
High unemployment. We have long regarded the combination of high house prices and high household debt as Australia’s Achilles heel and so we feared back in March that a large rise in unemployment could trigger debt servicing problems, forced sales and so sharp falls in prices.
As it’s turned out, measured unemployment is being suppressed and household incomes supported by stimulus measures. This is by design to help businesses, jobs and incomes hold up through the shutdown period.
It’s likely headed off the worst case 20% decline in house prices scenario we saw in March. But once the support measures end later this year, measured unemployment will likely rise to around 8% and take a long time to fall back to the pre coronavirus levels around 5.2%.
This in turn is likely to lead to some increase in mortgage defaults as bank payment holidays (for around 440,000 mortgages) end, boosting forced sales and act as a drag on property demand, albeit it’s unlikely to be anywhere near what would have occurred in the absence of support measures through the shutdown. 
A big drop in immigration. Thanks to travel bans, the Government expects net immigration to fall to just below 170,000 this financial year and to around 35,000 next financial year from 240,000 last financial year. This is a huge hit and if it occurs – the Government could always allow a faster return of immigration – it will take population growth over 2020-21 to just 0.7%, its lowest since 1917.
It will imply a hit to underlying dwelling demand of around 80,000 dwellings over the next 12 months taking it down to around 120,000 compared to underlying demand last year of around 200,000. This risks resulting in a significant oversupply of dwellings, reversing years of undersupply that has maintained very high house prices since mid-last decade.
A cut to immigration is not something China has had to deal with, so its property market experience is not directly translatable to Australia.
Falling rents and rising vacancy rates. Vacancy rates rose sharply in April and this plus rent relief is putting downwards pressure on rents. This will be further impacted by very low immigration. It will further weigh on investor demand and may cause problems for heavily geared property investors.
Measures to boost housing construction. Faced with a big reduction in housing construction activity over the year ahead, governments appear to be working on plans to boost activity to protect home builders’ jobs via new home building grants and possibly the construction of social housing.
Normally first home buyer grants provide a boost in overall demand. But if the focus is just on boosting supply at a time when underlying demand is very low reflecting lower immigration it could add to downwards pressure on average prices. (Proposed moves from stamp duty to land tax in some states could provide a short-term boost to home prices but should be long term neutral if the same revenue is raised and it’s unclear whether or when it will occur.)
Concluding comment
Our worst-case scenario for a 20% decline in prices and those of others seeing 30% plus falls are unlikely thanks to support measures and the earlier reopening of the economy. To get these worst-case scenarios would require a “second wave” of coronavirus cases &amp; so a renewed shutdown or another down leg in the economy in response to a surge in bankruptcies.
However, further falls in prices are still likely, as “true” unemployment (to become clear after September) remains high for several years, government support measures and the bank payment holiday end after September, immigration falls and likely government measures boost housing construction. Our base case is for national average prices to fall around 5-10% into next year.
Sydney &amp; Melbourne are likely to see 10% falls as they are more exposed to immigration and have higher debt levels whereas Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth &amp; Hobart are only likely to see small falls and Canberra prices are likely to be flat. This may be seen as a reasonable outcome in terms of making housing more affordable but without posing a big threat to the economy (via a downwards spiral of falling prices and negative wealth effects on consumer spending) at the same time.
Dr Shane Oliver Head of Investment Strategy and Chief Economist at AMP Capital
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Australian house price collapse likely averted but expect more weakness ahead: Shane Oliver

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A Gowanbrae mortgagee home has been listed for sale.
Located at 87 Primula Boulevard, the home features four bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a double garage.
The total block comprises 898 square metres, with 399 square metres of internal floor space inside the house.
A price guide of $1,150,000 to $1,250,000 was provided. 
The block of land was purchased in 2013 for $290,000, and the house was completed in 2015.
Lilian Farrugia, from Stockdale &amp; Leggo Gladstone, has the listing.
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