One of Brisbane's last major riverfront redevelopment opportunities has taken a significant step forward, with Lendlease selected as the Queensland Government's preferred development partner for the former Visy site in South Brisbane.

The seven-hectare industrial site, positioned between South Bank and West End and 1.3 kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, will be transformed into a mixed-use precinct expected to deliver more than 4,000 new homes alongside extensive public open space and riverfront parkland.

The project is one of the largest urban renewal opportunities currently planned in Brisbane and is expected to play a key role in accommodating the city's growing population ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Plans for the precinct include a network of riverfront promenades and boardwalks, new public plazas, parkland, amphitheatre-style gathering spaces and shared pedestrian and cycling links designed to reconnect the long-isolated site with the Brisbane River.

The Queensland Government is targeting delivery of the first homes and key public spaces before the 2032 Games, allowing the precinct to begin contributing new housing and public amenity well before the broader masterplan is complete.

The redevelopment is also expected to support more than 3,000 jobs across planning, construction and ongoing operations.

For Lendlease, the appointment adds another major urban regeneration project to its Queensland portfolio. The developer has operated in the state for more than 70 years and has delivered a number of large-scale mixed-use precincts in partnership with government.

Lendlease Development CEO Claire Johnston said the project represented one of Brisbane's most significant redevelopment opportunities.

"The transformation of the former Visy site represents a rare opportunity to reimagine one of Brisbane's most significant riverfront locations, deliver thousands of much-needed homes, and create long-term legacy," Johnston said.

"In partnership with the Queensland Government, we have the opportunity to create a new riverside destination that will help shape Brisbane's growth and how people experience the city for decades to come.

"This is exactly the type of large-scale, city-shaping development that will provide lasting benefits for Queensland, bringing together housing, jobs and world-class public spaces."

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jarrod Bleijie said the riverfront transformation would deliver a thriving new community precinct.

“The Crisafulli Government is delivering this golden opportunity to unlock a riverfront jewel for all Queenslanders,” Deputy Premier Bleijie said.

“This is a once-in-a-generation moment to reshape a significant slice of Brisbane and deliver lasting benefits – thousands of new homes, and public spaces for all Queenslanders to enjoy well beyond the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games – unlike Labor’s plan which would have delivered zero benefits and zero new homes.

“Queensland is well and truly open for business and through partnership with the private sector, we are accelerating delivery while ensuring strong housing, community and economic outcomes."

Early works on the precinct are expected to commence in April 2027.

Joel Robinson

Lendlease selected to deliver transformative South Brisbane riverfront precinct

Eddy Haddad's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> is levelling up its approved Wollongong development, as the coastal city south of Sydney continues to prove popular in the high-density development space.

Level 33, a longtime developer in the Wollongong area, has gone through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to upsize its approved two-tower development on the corner of Crown Street and Gladstone Avenue, just 100 metres from Wollongong Station.

The developer currently has approval for 252 apartments across two buildings rising to 19 storeys. It is now seeking approval for 33 and 38-storey towers that would deliver 467 apartments, including 67 affordable homes.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the development would comprise apartments above a three-level podium with around 1,100 sqm of retail space, along with basement parking for 448 vehicles.

According to the Urban Design Report by BKA, the proposal has the capacity to "reinforce the precinct's identity by strengthening links between health, education, and transport services, while also contributing to Wollongong's ongoing evolution as a key regional centre."

Wollongong is somewhat in vogue. Between Level 33 and Urban Property Group, the two developers have several thousand apartments planned across the city.

Level 33 is currently delivering Easterly Wollongong, one of its most boutique projects to date with just 21 high-end apartments, as well as Atchison &amp; Kenny, a 329-apartment development due for completion later this year.

The developer plans to redevelop the 13,088 sqm WIN Grand megasite into <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crown-square-216-238-keira-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Crown Square</a>, a new $500 million precinct with nearly 600 apartments. It also has more than 900 apartments planned for the former Bunnings Warehouse site at the intersection of Gipps and Flinders streets.

Urban Property Group is also playing a major role in the city's transformation. Its five-tower Keira Place precinct will deliver more than 800 homes, and it has recently lodged plans for a further 300 apartments near Wollongong Station.

First look: Level 33 upsizes Wollongong apartment towers

Just a week after filing plans for the final stage of its major Keira Place masterplan, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has unveiled another significant housing proposal in Wollongong, this time targeting a prominent site opposite North Wollongong Station.

The developer has lodged a State Significant Development Application for a 38-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-4a-flinders-street-north-wollongong-nsw-2500">4-4A Flinders Street</a>, around one kilometre north of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place precinct</a> currently taking shape on the edge of the CBD.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b6428f1-6405-4038-8476-897de440e90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium.png?VersionId=QLqEvK0OuCEwRC47oHNftrw2B1YqaHF8" />

Designed by Studio.SC, the proposal comprises a 38-storey mixed-use development containing 303 apartments, including 45 affordable housing units, alongside 174 co-living residences. The scheme also includes ground-floor retail space, extensive landscaping and public domain improvements.

Studio.SC noted in the proposal it "outlines a vision for a landmark transit-oriented mixed-use development centred around North Wollongong Station, designed to support the city’s future growth while responding to the NSW Government’s housing and planning reforms."

The architecture firm said the proposal responds to the opportunities and constraints shaping future growth within the 400-metre catchment of the station and represents "a coordinated and future-focused approach to urban intensification, contributing to the long-term evolution of North Wollongong as a connected, walkable and high-density station precinct."

The site occupies a strategic corner bounded by Flinders Street, Station Street, Stafford Street and the Princes Highway, directly opposite North Wollongong Station.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7863adad-1f71-4022-b850-f44b252738fd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium%20a.png?VersionId=WsU7av0g8_8R2tGHWxgHeFSlhu7yeY1V" />

The proposal follows Urban Property Group's recent submission for the second and final stage of Keira Place, which would deliver a further three buildings comprising 657 homes opposite Beaton Park. It builds on the first stage, which features 150 apartments across two towers and recently commenced construction.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said breaking ground on the first stage marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/urban-property-group-unveils-trio-of-towers-for-next-stage-of-new-wollongong-precinct-keira-place">Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place</a>

First look: Urban Property Group plans next major Wollongong tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/arada">Arada</a> has wasted little time expanding its ambitions in Campsie, lodging plans for a second major project in the rapidly transforming town centre just months after unveiling its three-tower One Campsie proposal on Beamish Street.

The UAE-backed developer has now taken aim at one of the suburb’s most strategically positioned sites, filing a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/10-north-parade-campsie-nsw-2194">33-storey mixed-use tower</a> at 10 London Street and 43 North Parade, directly opposite the future Campsie Metro Station. The proposal is currently on public exhibition and represents another significant vote of confidence in Campsie's emergence as one of Sydney’s key transit-oriented growth centres.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the development would deliver 156 apartments above a podium containing retail and commercial space, creating a new residential and commercial gateway to the town centre. The scheme also includes a four-level above-ground parking podium and a dedicated residential amenity floor featuring wellness and recreation facilities. At least 10 per cent of the apartments would be allocated as affordable housing for a period of 10 years.

The proposal occupies a 1,631 sqm site bounded by London Street, North Parade and Dispensary Lane, immediately adjoining the future Metro station precinct and just metres from Beamish Street’s retail and dining strip. According to the Urban Design Report, the project seeks to deliver "a great place that prioritises human-scaled experience and provides spatial improvements to the area."

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="175a8324-015b-4856-abe3-ce6f23199fa7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium%20campsie.png?VersionId=742UGwXFhFBX4GEl6wX4PYIWREAgn6il" />

Woods Bagot describes the tower as a key marker within Campsie's next phase of growth.

"Located directly opposite the new Campsie Metro Station on North Parade, 10 London Street is a thoughtfully composed 33-storey mixed-use tower that contributes to the ongoing transformation of the town centre," the Architectural Design Report states. The report says the project is intended to provide "high-quality homes within a vibrant, connected urban environment, while helping define Campsie's future skyline."

A strong emphasis has been placed on the public realm. The ground floor incorporates over 500 sqm of retail space and active frontages along both London Street and North Parade, while the podium is wrapped by extensive landscaped planting intended to soften the building's scale and strengthen the pedestrian experience. The development would also widen surrounding footpaths and improve connections between the Metro station and the broader town centre.

Above the podium, residents would have access to more than 1,400 sqm of communal amenities, including a pool, gym and landscaped recreation spaces. A distinctive green-wall treatment extending across four podium levels forms a major architectural feature, helping differentiate the project within the emerging high-density precinct.

The tower's design is closely tied to the broader Campsie Town Centre Master Plan and the arrival of Sydney Metro. The Urban Design Report notes the proposal "directly supports the Campsie Town Centre Master Plan by delivering new homes in a location explicitly identified for growth, improved accessibility, and high-quality urban renewal." It adds that the project contributes to the master plan's vision for a strengthened town centre supported by thousands of new homes around the future Metro station.

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd17654-253e-489a-bade-6278d63db412" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/base%20campsie.png?VersionId=3roJPMQGs36dazpkhvpvbDDP73Ld.Ica" />

The application follows Arada's recently lodged One Campsie project at 124–142 Beamish Street and 16–18 Ninth Avenue, where the developer is seeking approval for 346 apartments across three towers rising 24, 32 and 39 storeys. Together, the two proposals would cement Arada as one of the most influential developers shaping Campsie's future urban form.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-arada-files-for-trio-of-apartment-towers-in-campsie-town-centre">First Look: Arada files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada entered the Australian market in 2024 and has rapidly assembled a significant development pipeline across Sydney. Alongside its Campsie holdings, the developer is soon to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wattle-green-2-fishburn-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Wattle Green</a> in Castle Hill, and has expanded its local operations following its acquisition of construction firm Roberts &amp; Co.

Located around 14 kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, the site sits at the centre of one of Sydney's fastest-changing middle-ring precincts. The Metro conversion of Campsie Station, combined with Canterbury-Bankstown Council's master planning framework, is driving significant residential intensification around Beamish Street and North Parade, with thousands of new homes expected over coming decades.

First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans

For the first time in a long time, Australia's inflation story is starting to look more like a landing than a fight.

The latest Consumer Price Index figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed annual inflation eased to four per cent in May, down from 4.2 per cent in April. On the surface, that might not seem like a major move. Inflation remains above the Reserve Bank's target range and some categories continue to record stubborn price growth.

But the significance of this result lies less in where inflation sits today and more in what it means for where interest rates are likely heading next.

The biggest takeaway is that inflation continues to move in the right direction.

Markets had been bracing for another sticky result after a period where progress appeared to stall. Instead, headline inflation came in softer than expected, helped by falling fuel prices and easing transport costs. Annual transport inflation halved from 6.6 per cent in April to 3.3 per cent in May, while automotive fuel prices fell 11.9 per cent during the month following lower oil prices and the impact of reduced fuel excise measures.

While petrol prices don't solve Australia's affordability challenges, they are one of the most visible and immediate costs for consumers. Falling fuel costs feed through the economy quickly, helping ease pressure on household budgets and business operating expenses.

The ABS data also showed headline inflation is now sitting at its lowest annual level in several months, reinforcing the broader trend that price growth is gradually moderating.

That trend is important because it aligns with what many economists and lenders have been saying for the last month.

Prior to this week's inflation data, ANZ, NAB and Commonwealth Bank had all shifted their forecasts, now believing the Reserve Bank had likely reached the peak of the interest rate cycle. Following the May inflation release, ANZ reaffirmed that view.

In its latest economic update, ANZ said it expects quarterly trimmed mean inflation to come in at 3.7 per cent for the June quarter, slightly below the Reserve Bank's forecast of 3.8 per cent. Importantly, the bank said that outcome, when combined with slowing economic activity, "supports our view that the cash rate has peaked".

The Reserve Bank has spent the better part of three years attempting to bring inflation under control through higher interest rates. If Australia's major banks are correct and rates have now peaked, the conversation shifts from how much higher rates could go to when they might begin coming down.

Westpac's caution comes from underlying inflation. The trimmed mean, the measure most closely watched by the Reserve Bank, increased from 3.4 per cent to 3.6 per cent annually. Housing inflation remains elevated at 6.5 per cent, reflecting ongoing increases in rents, electricity costs and new dwelling construction.

Electricity prices remain particularly problematic, rising 21.1 per cent over the past year following the removal of government rebates.

Housing construction costs are also showing signs of renewed pressure. ANZ noted new dwelling costs rose 0.9 per cent in May and are now running at an annualised pace of 8.6 per cent over the past three months. Builders continue to face higher labour, fuel and material costs, a reminder that inflationary pressures have not completely disappeared.

Housing affordability has deteriorated largely because of higher interest rates rather than higher property prices alone. Even modest reductions in mortgage rates would improve borrowing capacity, increase buyer confidence and reduce repayment pressure on existing homeowners.

While August is far from a certainty, the latest inflation result has strengthened the view that the next move in rates is more likely to be down than up. For borrowers, buyers and the development sector, that alone represents a significant shift from the conversation that dominated much of the past two years.

The inflation result the property market was waiting for

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?

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A joint initiative of the Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA) and CoreLogic has revealed the best performing locations for average annual capital growth in every city over the past decade.
The CoreLogic research found the city location with the highest annual capital growth in the nation over the past decade was Lakemba in the Canterbury region of Sydney, where house prices have increased by 8.4 per cent annually. Its median house value has more than doubled over the period to now be about $881,000.
The second place-getter was also in Sydney, this time in the Oatlands-Dundas Valley region of Carlingford, where house values grew by an average 8.1 per cent each year over the past decade. Its median house value has soared from $662,000 to $1.41 million over the past decade, according to the data.
Rounding out the top three, on 7.9 per cent annual average growth over 10 years, was Rockbank-Mount Cottrell in Melbourne’s west where its median house value has increased to nearly $600,000.
PIPA chairman Peter Koulizos said the national results showed a mix of affordable and prestige suburbs had performed well over the period.
However, the research also showed that locations within markets that were deemed subdued continued to record robust house value growth, he said.
“Even though Adelaide only recorded average annual growth of 1.3 per cent over the past decade, its top performing location of Prospect saw prices increase by 3.4 per year over the period,” Mr Koulizos said.
“Likewise, in Darwin, where prices reduced on average 1.9 per cent annually, in Rosebery-Bellamack median house values increased by 3.2 per cent at the same time.
“This is actually quite common, because there are submarkets within markets which operate to the beat of their own drums, usually because of consistently strong demand from buyers keen to live or invest in those locations.”
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The CoreLogic research also found that Sydney recorded the highest average annual capital growth over the decade at 5.5 per cent, followed by Melbourne on 4.9 per cent and Hobart on 3.4 per cent.
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City location
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State
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Average annual 10-year growth
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Greater Sydney
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NSW
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<td>
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5.5%
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</td>
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Greater Melbourne
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</td>
<td>
<img src="blob:https://www.urban.com.au/0bc4b37d-2c82-49a7-9547-f42d67b0cec7" alt="page2image7120560" width="34.680000" height="0.480010"><div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
VIC
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</td>
<td>
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
4.9%
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</td>
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Greater Brisbane
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</td>
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QLD
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1.3%
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Greater Adelaide
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SA
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<img src="blob:https://www.urban.com.au/b4ef0a80-cbca-4dce-b872-3d581956a50b" alt="page2image7118320" width="34.680000" height="0.480010">
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1.5%
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Greater Perth
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WA
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-1.4%
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Greater Hobart
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</div>
</td>
<td>
<img src="blob:https://www.urban.com.au/02c28a48-d80d-4008-8255-fd93ccc24120" alt="page2image7118544" width="34.680000" height="0.480010"><div class="layoutArea">
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TAS
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3.4%
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Greater Darwin
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<img src="blob:https://www.urban.com.au/8de548a5-d64c-49b4-91f8-8ae9d20c2c7b" alt="page2image7130080" width="34.680000" height="0.480010"><div class="layoutArea">
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NT
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-1.9%
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Australian Capital Territory
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</td>
<td>
<img src="blob:https://www.urban.com.au/6142c85e-8244-4a52-b03a-a2ed6e76ec25" alt="page2image7127392" width="34.680000" height="0.480010"><div class="layoutArea">
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ACT
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2.8%
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Source: Corelogic.com.au
“The other capital cities recorded less than stellar average housing value growth rates over the past decade,” Mr Koulizos said.
“Annual growth of between 1.3 per cent to 2.8 per cent over the past decade is part of the reason why so many investors and property investment experts are eyeing Brisbane, Adelaide and Canberra as potentially having the best capital growth prospects over the next 10-year period.”
Darwin and Perth recorded negative annual growth over the period at -1.9 per cent and -1.4 per cent respectively, according to the research.
“Investing in the housing market is typically a long-term strategy. Short-term movements are less important than the longer-term trends, which typically see housing values moving through a cycle where values will rise, fall and track sideways,” CoreLogic Head of Research Tim Lawless said.
“The past 10 years has seen areas of Sydney and Melbourne outperform most other markets thanks to strong economic conditions and high rates of migration, which has fuelled housing demand, however, such high rates of capital gain have eroded housing affordability and compressed rental yields.”
Mr Lawless said investors were likely to find that over the next 10 years the best performing markets are quite different.
“Just as they were over the earlier decade where, for example, mining regions and regional coastal markets where some of the strongest performing areas,” he said.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/3/4/CoreLogic.jpg" alt=""> 
Source: CoreLogic.com.au 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Best performing suburbs over the past decade: PIPA & CoreLogic

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Teska Carson is marketing a retail investment opportunity at Burwood East in Melbourne’s eastern suburban heartland.
The property will be auctioned on Friday, March 27 at 1pm on site.
The shop 13, 10-14 Burwood Highway, property comprises a 60 square metre retail premises utilised as a newsagency and returning $46,160 per annum on an eight year term (with an eight year option) from August 2019.
Located in the tightly held and highly sought after Burwood Heights Shopping Centre the property, trading as East Burwood Newsagency, is part of a Woolworths anchored centre with 37 shops including a Commonwealth Bank, BWS, medical, health &amp; beauty, café and food outlets.
According to Teska Carson marketing agents, Luke Bisset and Michael Taylor, the property also benefits from the Centre’s excellent exposure to both Burwood Highway and Middleborough Road, and ample on-site customer parking.
This is a superbly located property which infinitely enhances its investment credentials along with the secure eight year lease and the attraction of 37 specialty stores and the Woolworths supermarket.
These credentials have made these shops highly desirable from an investment point of view and it goes without saying that this property is likely to attract a high level of investor interest,’’ Mr Bisset said.
He said the property, zoned Commercial 1 under the City of Whitehorse Planning Scheme, also benefitted from its position within the City of Whitehorse which is home to some of Melbourne’s leading educational, medical and leisure facilities and features the largest information and communication technology precinct in Melbourne’s east. 
Located 20 kilometres east of Melbourne’s CBD the municipality covers an area of 64 square kilometres, has access to an extensive public transport system and is strategically positioned to take advantage of the Eastern Freeway and EastLink.
Mr Taylor said the local community was very well resourced and continued to attract new residents and new businesses.
This strongly growing community provides investors with confidence that demand for commercial property will also continue to grow,’’ Mr Taylor said.
He said the property’s key attributes included its prime location within a strongly trading centre, a secure eight year lease and transport links and parking. 
With good trade exposure, the property has optimistic growth prospects.
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Leased retail property in Burwood East for sale: Teska Carson

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
With insolvencies at an all-time high, and the continued risk of constructing high-rise unit blocks, it is essential developers focus on the ‘missing’ middle ring, employ a sustainable business model and address imbalances in the property market, according to RiskWise Property Research CEO Doron Peleg.
This has never been more important, Mr Peleg says, as figures show building approvals, especially in Sydney, are on the increase.
According to the latest figures from the HIA, building approvals in November reached their highest level since March 2019, up by 11.8 per cent due, predominantly, to a surge in NSW. 
Figures show, in seasonally adjusted terms, building approvals for the month of November 2019 increased in NSW (+52.8 per cent), South Australia (+3.8 per cent) and Queensland (+1.0 per cent).
However,<a href="http://www.riskwiseproperty.com.au/" target="_blank"> RiskWise’s</a> Mr Peleg said an increase in approvals did not necessary bode well for the property market as indicated by the record number of developer insolvencies.
ASIC reports the number of construction businesses that went into external administration rose from 371 in the September quarter of 2018 to 514 in 2019. Meanwhile, over the 2018-19 financial year, 556 construction companies went under, 101 more than the previous financial year.
In addition, 169 NSW-based construction companies went into administration, receivership or a court-ordered shutdown in the June quarter which was the highest number since the September quarter in 2015.
According to CreditorWatch, the construction sector also topped the list for recovery court actions Australia-wide and in NSW, court actions for recovery in the third quarter of 2019 were 35 per cent higher than the comparable quarter of 2018.
Mr Peleg said there had already been numerous cases of lots approved for development and subsequently sold at a loss, especially in light of the construction defect reports. 
“And if you are losing 20 per cent, you are lucky. We are really talking about millions of dollars,” he said.
“The point is developers are at risk of insolvencies and this means they need to mitigate this risk by ensuring they have a sustainable business model, focus on the ‘missing’ middle ring and address imbalances in the property market.
“Focusing on the missing middle is by far more of a solution than taking the risk of off-the-plan high-rise development.”
Mr Peleg said population growth, job creation, improving economies and good infrastructure that Sydney and Melbourne were experiencing would draw people to these cities and, therefore, increase demand for property, with population forecasters expecting both to hit the eight million mark by 2050.
In addition, he said in the current environment of already high prices it would be more difficult for owner-occupiers to compete with property investors, especially given the current environment of low interest rates and low out-of-pocket expenses.  
“We expect to see investors increase their activity in the market as it is currently well below peak and this will put further pressure on dwelling prices and housing affordability,” he said. 
“But it must be remembered that family suitable units in the middle rings are more attractive to owner-occupiers looking for larger floor space, lower price per square metre and smaller unit blocks. These are, effectively an alternative dwelling to houses, which are, in many areas, unaffordable.
“These imbalances in the market cannot be resolved without a strategic solution and co-ordinated plan by all levels of government.
“In the meantime, what it means for developers is they should be focused on developing the middle rings with family-suitable accommodation close to transport hubs and schools. There are actually many areas that have a great potential and carry a low risk, it is only a matter of business strategy and proper risk management practices.”
DORON PELEG is the CEO of Riskwise
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The missing middle should be developer focus: RiskWise's Doron Peleg

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Online home loans are offered by banks and lenders that do not have branch access or employ staff to meet with customers in person. 
More often than not, the trade-off is getting cheaper interest rates and paying lower ongoing fees. 
While most banks and lenders are governed by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), some online lenders are not governed by the APRA. 
Nonetheless, all online lenders must adhere to a set of guidelines by the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) which means, though you won't have any in-person banking service, you will still have consumer protection rights which includes the right to make a complaint through the Australian Financial Complaints Authority (AFCA)
There are a growing number of online lenders in the Australian market, the main ones being <a href="https://www.clickloans.com.au/" target="_blank">Click Loans</a> (3.76 per cent comparison rate per annum), <a href="https://www.mebank.com.au/" target="_blank">ME Bank</a> (3.44 per cent), <a href="https://www.statecustodians.com.au/" target="_blank">State Custodians </a>(2.85 per cent)<a href="https://www.statecustodians.com.au/" target="_blank">,</a> <a href="https://www.ubank.com.au/home-loans" target="_blank">UBank</a> (2.84 per cent),<a href="https://tictoc.com.au/" target="_blank"> Tic:Toc</a> (2.8 per cent) <a href="https://australianmortgage.com/" target="_blank">Australian Mortage Marketplace (AMM)</a>, and <a href="https://www.loans.com.au/" target="_blank">loans.com.au</a> (2.8 per cent) to name a few. 
Like most home loans, online home loans require applicants to submit paperwork proving their eligibility for a loan. 
At <a href="https://www.mebank.com.au/home-loans/" target="_blank">ME Bank</a> for instance, the below are required:
1. Proof of Identity
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/3/9/5_IDENTITY.jpg" alt="">
 
Not being able to meet and greet you in person means that online lenders will need proof that who they're lending to is you. 
Applicants will need at least 100 points of ID upon application. 
ME Bank recommends, "A passport is a good start, plus a combination of your driver's licence, bank cards, Medicare card or birth certificate." 
2. Paperwork 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/3/9/business-office-entrepreneur-professional.jpg" alt="" style="caret-color: #000000; color: #000000;">
Not everything online is more convenient, and the paperwork required for an online home loan is a prime example. 
ME Bank required its applicants to have: 
<ul>
<li>At least three consecutive payslips;</li>
<li>A copy of your latest PAYG Summary or Notice of Assessment from the ATO; </li>
<li>Any bank statements showing other income, like Centrelink payments;</li>
<li>Your accountant's details, if you're self-employed; and </li>
<li>Evidence you've saved for a deposit. </li>
</ul>
In addition, paperwork regarding your financial position is needed because being eligible for a home loan is not solely based on how much one earns. 
This set of paperwork is necessary in assuring lenders that you can afford to repay your loan. Therefore, ME Bank also requires:
<ul>
<li>Any other loans or debts you have, like car finance or personal loans; </li>
<li>Assets in your name; and</li>
<li>An estimate of your living expenses.</li>
</ul>
Most lenders will also require you to have a clean credit report prior to approving your finance, so a copy of your cred report will also be important. 
Last but not least, the final piece of paperwork is a statement from you about the security for your loan, which in laymen terms means the home you are applying a loan for. 
You will be required to supply details in writing of the property, and include the signed contract of sale.
If you're building, you'll need a council permit and your fixed-price builders contract. 
Like most of the prior procedures, this is to assure lenders of where the money is going, and whether it is a secure investment. 
3. A Solicitor or Conveyancer
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/3/9/5_LAWYERS.jpg" alt="">
Last but not least, towards the end of the application, you will be asked to provide details of your solicitor or conveyancer. 
ME Bank explains, "Having your legal professional lined up before you're ready to apply for a loan will speed up the paperwork."
ME Bank is an online bank founded in 1994, and is owned by a group of approximately 30 Industry Super Funds. 
Around 5,000 of Australia's 11,000 mortgage brokers are accredited with ME Bank, so it is crucial that you ask your mortgage broker if they offer ME's home loans. 
Online home loans also have a selection to choose from, so it is recommended that aspiring borrowers shop around to see which is most suitable. 
State Custodians for instance offer the below:
<ul>
<li>Low Rate Home Loan; </li>
<li>Investment Home Loan;</li>
<li>Fixed Rate Home Loan; </li>
<li>Interest Only Home Loan; and</li>
<li>Low Rate Line of Credit </li>
</ul>
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What you need to know when getting an online home loan: ME Bank

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Land values across the Hunter region have generally increased since 1 July 2018. 
The NSW Acting Deputy Valuer General, Paul Chudleigh, has recently published land values for the Hunter region.
The land values reflect the property market at 1 July 2019.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/2/3/8_Hunter%20Region.jpg" alt="">
Hunter region local government areas include Cessnock, Dungog, Maitland, Muswellbrook, Singleton, and Upper Hunter.
<h2>General overview</h2>
The total land value for the Hunter region increased by 2.3 per cent between 1 July 2018 and 1 July 2019 from $23 billion to $23.6 billion.
The movement of residential land values across the region generally remained steady at one per cent. However, a slight increase (3.5 per cent) was experienced in the Upper Hunter local government area.
Overall, commercial land values in the region increased slightly by two per cent. Most land values remained steady, however Maitland local government area experienced an increase of 3.1 per cent attributed to increased demand for commercial services within Maitland’s local centers.
Industrial land values in the region increased moderately overall by 6.3 per cent. The strongest increases were experienced in Cessnock (9.9 per cent) and Maitland (9.7 per cent) where land values were impacted positively by the Hunter Expressway and improved access to Newcastle.
Rural land values experienced an overall increase of five per cent. The rural increases occurred despite ongoing drought conditions. Dungog local government area had the strongest overall increase at 7.6 per cent.
Mr Chudleigh said property sales are the most important factor considered by valuers when determining land values.
“It is important to note that land value is the value of the land only and does not include the value of a home or other structures.”
The 1 July land values have been prepared by private contract valuers with expertise in their local areas working on behalf of the Valuer General, to determine new land values across the region. Property NSW, part of the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment, has quality assured the land values for accuracy and consistency.
Mr Chudleigh said councils receive new land values for rating at least every three years. All councils have been issued with 1 July 2019 land values.
“Land values are one factor used by councils to calculate rates,” said Mr Chudleigh. “Changes in land value don’t always mean a change in council rates.
Each council develops a revenue policy to use when calculating rates to fund services for the community. Councils make their draft policy available for public comment.”
Landholders will receive a Notice of Valuation showing their land value before it is used by council for rating. This gives landholders time to consider their land value.
Revenue NSW will use the 1 July 19 land values to calculate land tax for the 2020 land tax year. Registered land tax clients will receive a land tax assessment from Revenue NSW from late January 2020.
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Hunter land values increased since July 2018

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Recent disastrous <a href="https://theconversation.com/au/topics/bushfires-1377">bushfires</a> have rebooted debate about how to (re)build in the Australian bush. Questions are being asked about <a href="https://theconversation.com/australian-building-codes-dont-expect-houses-to-be-fire-proof-and-thats-by-design-129540">building standards</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/building-standards-give-us-false-hope-theres-no-such-thing-as-a-fireproof-house-130165">whether a fire-proof home is possible</a>, the <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/national/government-approved-bushfire-bunkers-could-help-protect-homes-lives-20200101-p53o0m">value of fire bunkers</a> when it’s too late to leave, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/before-we-rush-to-rebuild-after-fires-we-need-to-think-about-where-and-how-130049">if we should even live in the bush</a> any more.
I suggest homes and community buildings in bushfire-prone areas can be made much more fire-resistant, perhaps even fire-proof, by adopting earth-covered, off-grid structures – known as <a href="https://www.earthshipecohomes.com.au/about">Earthships</a> – as the new standard.
Built for survival
Houses sheltered by earth have a higher chance of survival in a bushfire. This is because <a href="https://inhabitat.com/this-earth-sheltered-australian-hobbit-home-stay-cozy-all-year/">earth-based constructions are non-flammable</a> (while topsoil can burn and smoulder, clayey, sandy and gravelly soil does not).
A typical Earthship design has double-glazed windows to the north to let in winter sun, while mounds of earth, pushed up to roof level, protect the south, east and west walls. Taking this a step further, an earth-covered house includes a layer of earth over the roof.
The north-facing double-glazed windows (an essential element of <a href="https://sustainability.williams.edu/green-building-basics/passive-solar-design">passive solar design</a>) is the only part of the building that needs some other protection.
<a href="https://hia.com.au/business-information/standards-regulations/building-in-bushfire-prone-areas">Bushfire building codes and standards</a> already demand that windows have extra-thick, toughened glass to resist burning debris and intense heat. Double glazing (two layers of glass separated by a small air gap) offers extra protection. In very high-risk areas, bushfire shutters are a requirement.
Although not demanded by building codes, automated sprinklers could be used to spray water on the windows. But automated systems are problematic during a bushfire when <a href="https://www.bnhcrc.com.au/news/2019/ten-years-black-saturday-what-have-we-discovered">power and water supplies are likely to fail</a>.
Independent water supplies (big water tanks) and pumps (usually petrol or diesel) are often a condition of approval for new homes in fire-prone areas. However, these are difficult to automate because of choke, throttle, ignition and refuelling issues.
Examples around Australia
Enter the Earthship. Invented by American architect <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_Reynolds_(architect)">Michael Reynolds</a>, thousands have been built all over the world, often by owner-builders.
I built Australia’s first council-approved Earthship – Earthship Ironbank - in the bushfire-prone Adelaide hills. Australian examples can be found in all states, including at <a href="http://www.earthshipironbank.com.au/">Ironbank</a> in South Australia, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2017-10-30/kinglake-black-saturday-survivor-builds-earthship/9091972">Kinglake</a> in Victoria, <a href="https://www.earthshipecohomes.com.au/east-augusta-wa">East Augusta</a> and <a href="https://www.earthshipecohomes.com.au/jurien-bay-wa">Jurien Bay</a> in Western Australia, and <a href="https://www.earthshipecohomes.com.au/suburban-earthship">Narara</a> and <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/news/it-geek-building-dream-home-out-of-old-tyres-bottles-and-cans/">Marulan</a> in New South Wales.
Earthships have an electric pump powered by solar panels and a battery for day-to-day water supply – and to fight fires. Sprinklers can then spray water on any vulnerable areas regardless of grid failures and without needing to deal with the flammable fuel that petrol and diesel pumps require.
The standard Earthship design has another feature that could save lives. Underground pipes called earth-tubes or cooling tubes bring fresh air into the building at a nice temperature (better than outside) due to the heat-exchanging effect of the earth around the pipes. When wet fabric is placed over the end of the pipes, these can filter out bushfire smoke.
Earth-covered homes are very air-tight, which combined with the earth-tubes helps keep out smoke and reduce <a href="https://www.bushfirecrc.com/sites/default/files/managed/resource/katherine-haynes.pdf">asphyxiation risks</a>.
Another defence mechanism is the “greenhouse”, a sunroom and corridor space on the sunny north side used for passive heating and cooling, treating wastewater and growing food. Yet another layer of double glazing isolates the greenhouse from the living spaces behind it. Adding indoor sprinklers (commonplace in commercial buildings) to the greenhouse could create a “wet buffer zone” and stop embers blowing into living areas where flammable furnishings are a hazard.
An iconic Earthship feature is the tyres used to form the exterior earth walls. While empty tyres are highly flammable, in this design they are not. The tyres are filled with compacted earth and protected by a layer of earth many metres thick (inside walls are rendered). There is already <a href="https://pangeabuilders.com/earthship-buildings-are-fire-resistant-not-a-total-loss/">evidence of their fire-resistant nature</a>.
Safer for the planet too
My PhD research focused on the energy efficiency and environmental footprint of the Earthship, comparing it to other construction systems and designs.
Earth is a low-cost, readily available material. It takes very little energy to dig it up, needs no processing and minimal (if any) transport. It is difficult to think of a more sustainable, inexpensive and non-flammable material.
I found off-grid homes minimise their eco-footprint by kicking three very dirty habits: the power, water and sewage grids. “Earthy” construction methods, such as Earthship, rammed earth, mudbrick and strawbale, also have much lower environmental impacts.
Earth-covered buildings are <a href="https://www.intechopen.com/books/energy-conservation/earth-shelters-a-review-of-energy-conservation-properties-in-earth-sheltered-housing">renowned for their energy efficiency</a>. Earth insulates and has “thermal mass”, an architectural term for dense materials (e.g. concrete, brick, rammed earth, water). Thermal mass evens out temperature changes by absorbing heat when it is too hot inside and releasing heat when it is too cold inside. This means minimal heating and cooling bills.
There are a few “tricks” to getting council approval. Hire an experienced structural engineer and use a private certifier or surveyor for building rules consent as they are better equipped to certify compliance with the <a href="https://ncc.abcb.gov.au/ncc-online/About">National Construction Code</a>. The one aspect of the Earthship I couldn’t get approved was an <a href="http://www.earthshipironbank.com.au/">indoor greywater garden and toilet-flushing system</a>.
Parts of the roof are earth-covered with fire-fighting sprinklers on the roof and windows. If I was building again I’d prioritise bushfire resilience by making it fully earth-covered with fire shutters, sprinklers and a safe room.
Further study is needed to scientifically validate my proposal here. However, we already have some evidence that Earthships, with a few minor design changes, might be the most sustainable, liveable, economical, fire-resistant buildings ever conceived of.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/131291/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/martin-freney-953199">Martin Freney</a>, Lecturer in Industrial and Sustainable Design, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-south-australia-1180">University of South Australia</a>
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-earthships-could-make-rebuilding-safer-in-bushfire-zones-131291">original article</a>.
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What are Earthships and how can they help with bushfire rebuilding?

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Australia has just experienced a summer of environmental extremes. Water has played a key role. This includes prolonged drought, <a href="https://theconversation.com/weather-bureau-says-hottest-driest-year-on-record-led-to-extreme-bushfire-season-129447" target="_blank">dry soil and bushland contributing to bushfires</a>, and widespread shortages of water for agriculture and drinking supplies. Thankfully, <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/jan/21/australia-fires-has-the-rain-put-out-the-bushfires-and-could-they-flare-again" target="_blank">rain extinguished many bushfires</a> that had burned for weeks and months.
The late summer heavy rain fell in some, but not all, regions. Australia’s capital city water supplies have had different fortunes this summer. The Bureau of Meteorology “<a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/water/dashboards/#/water-storages/summary/state" target="_blank">water dashboard</a>” provides daily data.
Cities where storages are low
Five capital city water supplies dropped over summer by between 2.2% and 11.4% of their storage capacity.
<a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/water/dashboards/#/water-storages/summary/urban?location=Hobart" target="_blank">Hobart</a> has proportionally dropped the most, by 11.4 percentage points, to 59.8%. This reflects relatively small storages and the city’s dry summer with only 65mm of rain. That’s less than half the historic average.
The <a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/water/dashboards/#/water-storages/summary/urban?location=Adelaide" target="_blank">Adelaide</a> storages fell by 8.4 points to 43.5%. Adelaide had a typical dry summer with 66mm. That’s close to the historic average, as the city has a Mediterranean climate with hot and dry summers.
Adelaide’s water storages provided only 10% of the city’s water supply in 2018-19, with <a href="https://www.sawater.com.au/community-and-environment/our-water-and-sewerage-systems/water-sources">83% drawn from the Murray River</a>. The Commonwealth is providing nearly <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-11-07/drought-stimulus-sa-desalination-plant-murray-river-water-farms/11679136">A$100 million</a> for Adelaide’s desalination plant. This aims to allow upstream irrigators to grow fodder with the river water that was destined for Adelaide.
 
Perth has had another dry summer. Its catchment rivers have supplied only 44.1 gigalitres (GL) of water since April 2019. This is much lower than the <a href="https://www.watercorporation.com.au/water-supply/rainfall-and-dams/streamflow">long-term pre-1975 average of 413GL</a> over the same time period.
Perth water storages <a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/water/dashboards/#/water-storages/summary/urban?location=Perth">fell by 5.7 percentage points this summer to 39.5%</a>, the lowest of all capital city supplies.
<a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/water/dashboards/#/water-storages/summary/urban?location=Canberra">Canberra</a> lost 4.6% of its water supply. The end-of-summer level of 46.5% continues a rapid decline from 100% in October 2016.
Despite the falling reserves, Canberra’s Icon Water has not imposed water restrictions. It <a href="https://www.iconwater.com.au/My-Home/Saving-Water/why-isnt-canberra-in-water-restrictions.aspx">advises</a> that the Cotter Dam was enlarged in 2013. Icon Water can also draw “top-up” water from the Murrumbidgee River.
<a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/water/dashboards/#/water-storages/summary/urban?location=Melbourne">Melbourne’s</a> supplies fell 2.2 percentage points to 61.6%.
Cities where storages rose
Three capital cities recorded water storage increases this summer.
<a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/water/dashboards/#/water-storages/summary/urban?location=Darwin">Darwin’s</a> supply was close to full as recently as April 2018. Since then it has been on a downward trend. A modest 6.4% gain over this summer’s wet season took it to 60.3%.
Darwin appears to be having its second poor wet season in a row. The city had 675mm of rain (Darwin Airport) this summer. That’s about 67% of its historic summer average of just over 1,000mm.
<a href="https://www.powerwater.com.au/about/what-we-do/water-supply/darwin-water-supply">Options canvassed for increasing Darwin water supply</a> include using Manton Dam, which was built in the 1940s but is now used for recreation.
<a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/water/dashboards/#/water-storages/summary/urban?location=Brisbane">Brisbane’s</a> southeast Queensland storages increased by 8.6 percentage points to 69.6%.
<a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/water/dashboards/#/water-storages/summary/urban?location=Sydney">Sydney’s</a> storages increased the most, by 35.7 points to 81.4%.
Sydney was distressed by its dwindling water supplies as summer approached. Storages were at 45.7% at the start of December. <a href="https://www.nsw.gov.au/news-and-events/news/level-2-water-restrictions-to-start-across-sydney/">Level 2 water restrictions were imposed</a> from December 10.
These were the toughest summer water restrictions for an Australian capital city. All use of hoses for gardens and washing cars was banned. Many Sydneysiders struggled to keep their gardens alive, lugging around buckets and watering cans. A catchcry across Sydney was “<a href="https://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2019/nov/24/let-your-lawn-die-five-ways-to-care-for-a-garden-in-a-drought">let your lawn die</a>”.
On February 6 2020, heavy rains started falling in coastal southeastern Australia, including Sydney and its water catchments.
The automatic weather station at Mount Boyce, near Blackheath on the edge of the Warragamba Dam catchment, recorded <a href="http://www.bom.gov.au/climate/dwo/202002/html/IDCJDW2087.202002.shtml">415mm in four days</a>. From February 6-27 Sydney’s water storages nearly doubled, from 41.7% to nearly 82%. This added more than 1 million megalitres (ML), equivalent to more than 1.5 years’ demand.
On February 6, parched catchments were adding 10ML a day to Warragamba Dam. A week later the catchment rivers had risen and many were in minor flood, adding <a href="/news">65,000ML a day</a> on February 13.
At the end of summer Sydney Water <a href="https://www.sydneywater.com.au/SW/water-the-environment/what-we-re-doing/water-restrictions/index.htm">announced</a> it was dropping level 2 restrictions.
Some parts missed out
The February rains were patchy, however. Many water-stressed parts of New South Wales were not so lucky.
Orange in the state’s Central West remained on <a href="https://www.orange.nsw.gov.au/water/">level 5 water restrictions</a> all summer. Orange Council pleaded with residents to curb water use to less than 160 litres per person per day. Residents responded by using even less, averaging <a href="https://www.orange.nsw.gov.au/water/oranges-water-supply/">126 litres a day</a> in February.
Nearby Bathurst declared <a href="https://www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au/396-environment/energy-sustainability/waterrestrictions">“extreme” water restrictions</a> from February 24. Its main storage, Chifley Dam, is just under 30% and also had a blue-green algae alert.
Chaffey Dam provides drinking water to the Tamworth area and sits at <a href="https://www.keywater.com.au/dam-storage-levels/">just 14.3%</a>. Over summer it received over 800ML but has to balance this inflow with environmental releases. Tamworth remains on <a href="https://yourvoice.tamworth.nsw.gov.au/town-water-supplies/water-restrictions">level 5 restrictions</a>. If Chaffey Dam drops below 10% a daily <a href="https://www.northerndailyleader.com.au/story/6583543/100-litre-target-to-be-set-if-chaffey-falls-to-10-per-cent/">target of 100 litres per person looms</a>.
A cause for concern is that many large NSW irrigation dams across the Murray-Darling River system remain very low for the start of autumn. For example, Burrendong Dam near Dubbo was at <a href="https://realtimedata.waternsw.com.au/">4.5% at the end of summer</a>. This dam supplies water to the city via the Macquarie River.
The Macquarie River also supplies other settlements, irrigators and industry, such as the mines at Cobar.
Flooding rains in inland Queensland are returning healthy flows to dry inland rivers such as the Barwon and the Darling. On February 25, Bourke Shire Council <a href="https://bourke.nsw.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/mr200225.pdf">announced</a> happy news that “strong flows in the Darling River” allowed the lifting of water restrictions. Bourke residents had endured water restrictions for more than 550 days.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/132669/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/ian-wright-5162">Ian Wright</a>, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Science, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/western-sydney-university-1092">Western Sydney University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/jason-reynolds-398576">Jason Reynolds</a>, Senior Lecturer in Geochemistry, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/western-sydney-university-1092">Western Sydney University</a>
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/a-city-by-city-guide-to-how-water-supplies-fared-in-australias-summer-of-extremes-132669">original article</a>.
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How water supplies fared in Australia’s summer of extremes

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GUEST OBSERVATION
In July 2019, the government introduced <a href="https://www.agedcarequality.gov.au/news-media/commission-media-release-new-aged-care-standards-commence" target="_blank">new aged care standards</a> to “raise the bar” in an aged care system where some nursing home residents have experienced care that is <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-10-31/aged-care-royal-commission-report-finds-unsafe-industry/11658328" target="_blank">neglectful, depersonalised, uncaring, unsafe and of poor quality</a>.
We took a close look at <a href="https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/non-compliance-checker" target="_blank">breaches of aged care standards</a> from 2019 to see what effect the new aged care standards are having, and where aged care providers are falling short.
What are aged care standards?
Aged care standards are the minimum standard of care the government expects nursing homes to provide.
They are supposed to ensure people in aged care have access to quality care including competent staff who listen, best-practice clinical care and nutritious and tasty food.
Nursing homes that don’t meet standards are given a notice of non-compliance. If the provider doesn’t fix the problems that made it non-compliant, then it will be sanctioned.
If assessors decide there is an immediate and severe risk to residents, nursing homes can also be immediately <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-to-check-if-your-mum-or-dads-nursing-home-is-up-to-scratch-123449">sanctioned</a>. The nursing home provider must then bring the care up to standard before they can take new residents.
The new aged care standards
From 2014 until the new standards were introduced in July 2019, the number of non-compliance notices and sanctions increased steadily as can be seen in the chart below.
This was likely due to a combination of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-08-11/aged-care-commission-hears-recommendations-ignored/11400026">increasing scrutiny</a> of the quality of residential care as a result of the unsafe care revealed at Oakden in 2017, and the establishment of the <a href="https://agedcare.royalcommission.gov.au/Pages/default.aspx">aged care royal commission</a> in October 2018. A 2018 policy change meant providers <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Parliamentary_Departments/Parliamentary_Library/FlagPost/2018/February/nursing_home_quality_and_compliance_visits">were no longer warned</a> about upcoming accreditation visits.
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<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/318042/original/file-20200302-18295-1fbu84s.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/318042/original/file-20200302-18295-1fbu84s.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
 Chart: Else Kennedy. <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/">CC BY-ND</a>
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The new standards, introduced in July 2019, <a href="https://www.agedcarequality.gov.au/news-media/commission-media-release-new-aged-care-standards-commence">focus</a> on “personal dignity and choice”.
They were designed to support the provision of care based on what residents want, rather than penalising providers when they let residents do something that could be considered “risky”, such as allowing someone with mild dementia to walk to the shops, or having a pet in the nursing home.
The number of non-compliance notices and sanctions in the first six months of the new standards decreased. This is likely because assessors visited fewer nursing homes in this period, and may still be learning how to interpret the new standards.
Aged care providers and industry bodies have <a href="https://www.australianageingagenda.com.au/2019/03/22/balancing-act-will-test-transition-to-new-quality-standards/">criticised</a> the new standards for being <a href="https://www.australianageingagenda.com.au/2019/03/01/objective-measures-needed-for-better-quality-regulation-rc-advised/">subjective and vague</a>. They do not measure objective resident outcomes like depression or number of infections.
For-profit companies had a higher rate of non-compliance in 2019
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<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/318047/original/file-20200302-18262-1vtgbvj.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/318047/original/file-20200302-18262-1vtgbvj.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
 Chart: Else Kennedy. <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/">CC BY-SA</a>
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Some <a href="https://www.aihw.gov.au/getmedia/87fa8d3e-ca23-48e7-905f-57df367f8f14/aihw-age-101.pdf.aspx?inline=true">6% </a>of for-profit residential care facilities failed aged care standards in 2019, some of them multiple times. In comparison 5% of not-for-profit and 4% of government facilities failed standards.
The rate of non-compliance in for-profit facilities was 27% higher than not-for-profits, and 54% higher than government facilities.
This suggests for-profit providers in Australia are more likely to provide lower quality care. An <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2721035/">international review</a> has noted similar trends in other countries.
Profit margins are <a href="https://theconversation.com/its-hard-to-make-money-in-aged-care-and-thats-part-of-the-problem-103339">slim</a> in aged care, and for-profit providers are under pressure to make profits by cutting costs. This could lead to a lower standard of care compared with not-for-profit or government providers.
Reasons for non-compliance in 2019
The most common reasons for non-compliance in 2019 were in the area of personal and clinical care and the area of governance.
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<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/318043/original/file-20200302-18291-1usnscx.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/318043/original/file-20200302-18291-1usnscx.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
 Chart: Else Kennedy. <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/">CC BY-ND</a>
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An example of a nursing home breaching the personal and clinical care standard could be if the home’s practices mean it isn’t giving medication correctly, isn’t managing wounds properly, or isn’t providing dignified help for residents using the toilet.
Homes might also breach the personal and clinical care standards if they don’t have sufficiently skilled staff such as registered nurses to care for residents with complex health needs.
A nursing home might be non-compliant in governance when it doesn’t have the right systems in place to monitor and improve its clinical care, for example in the areas of infection control or restraints. It might also be non-compliant if residents and families don’t have enough of a say in how the facility is run.
The new standards were supposed to place an <a href="https://www.agedcarequality.gov.au/news-media/commission-media-release-new-aged-care-standards-commence">increased focus</a> on dignity and choice, supporting the identity of a person, and increasing their say in the care they receive. This means catering for residents who want to have showers in the evening, stay up late, or make their own lunch. Previously there was much less emphasis on these aspects of aged care.
It is somewhat promising that more breaches of non-compliance in the “dignity and choice” standard have been picked up since the new standards came in. But given we know care is often poor in this area and there is an increased focus on this standard, we could have expected a more significant change.
Based on the first six months of non-compliance and sanctions data for the new aged care standards, we cannot be confident the new standards are ensuring nursing homes provide higher quality care. We await more data.
Until then, aged care residents and their families should monitor the quality of care they receive, know their aged care rights, and <a href="https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/contact-us/complaints">complain</a> if they think there is an issue.
If you or a family member are considering using an aged care provider, you can check whether the provider has breached standards via the <a href="https://www.myagedcare.gov.au/non-compliance-checker">My Aged Care non-compliance checker</a>.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/131449/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/lee-fay-low-98311">Lee-Fay Low</a>, Associate Professor in Ageing and Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a>
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/which-aged-care-services-near-you-werent-up-to-scratch-in-2019-131449">original article</a>.
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Which Australian aged care services weren't up to scratch in 2019?

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EXPERT OBSERVER
Regional Queensland markets are at their strongest in three years, with growth momentum unfolding in multiple centres across the state.
Our Autumn 2020 survey of sales activity shows that Regional Queensland has 55 locations with upwardly mobile markets, the highest we have recorded in our quarterly surveys since early 2017. There has been only one better quarter in the past five years.
The number of “declining” markets has reduced (from 12 six months ago to six now) and there are now few danger markets outside of the perennial struggler, Mount Isa.
Resources-related centres which have been in decline previously - including Gladstone, Emerald and Moranbah - are showing increasing signs of recovery, with notable uplift in median house prices in these places.
The Sunshine Coast continues to lead Regional Queensland in terms of the number of suburbs with rising demand. It has 12 growth suburbs and numerous others with steady buyer demand.
The Sunshine Coast has a strengthening economy boosted by massive spending on infrastructure as it transitions from tourist town to international city. A $400 million upgrade will allow Sunshine Coast Airport to accept international flights later this year, while the Sunshine Coast International Broadband network will create the fastest internet connections to Asia anywhere in eastern Australia via the subsea cable.
The Sunshine Coast is also building a 53ha CBD from the ground up and a $5 billion medical precinct is well under way.
Nearby Gympie also has growth markets and benefits from offering an affordable alternative to the Sunshine Coast, to which it is well-connected following billion-dollar highway upgrades.
The big improver in our Autumn survey is Cairns, which now has nine suburbs with growing sales activity. Some of its suburbs are producing solid growth in their median prices.
This puts Cairns on level terms with the much-larger Gold Coast City, which also has nine growth suburbs but 33 suburbs with plateau markets - which suggests the Gold Coast market overall is solid but not heading into big price growth.
Townsville is gradually fighting back from the devastating floods of early 2019 and now has five upwardly mobile suburbs but, as yet, no compelling evidence of price growth.
There is growing evidence of recovery in resources towns in Central Queensland. Gladstone, which was plunged into downturn by developer oversupply, now has lower vacancies, better sales activity and prices are rising again - but still remain well below the pre-downturn peak levels. Anyone tempted should remember the volatility shown by this market in the past.
Iconic coal mining town Moranbah is also fighting back. Its median house price rose 11% in the past year to reach $230,000 - but with a long way to go reach the heights of the mining boom when the median topped $700,000.
Emerald continues to improve, with its median price up 10% to $330,000 in the past year.
Blackwater’s situation shows how much these markets fell after the mining boom stopped - and how deceptive median price statistics can be. Its median price has risen 42% in the past 12 months but is still just $140,000. Previously, typical values had plunged to below $100,000.
Mackay has stood out in recent surveys as a recovering market with good growth prospects and currently has four suburbs with rising sales activity. Rockhampton has potential but as yet has not joined the upward trend.
The important inland city of Toowoomba is showing promise but, as yet, has no compelling evidence of significant growth.
The overall improvement in sales volumes across Regional Queensland is beginning to show up in price performance. Our research shows that half of the towns and suburbs of Regional Queensland have recorded some level of price growth in the past year.
The strongest performers overall have been the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast, with Cairns locations also starting to show up.
Sunshine Coast leaders in annual price growth include Warana (up 19%), Parreara (up 12%) and Alexandra Headland (up 18%) for houses, and Buddina (up 26%) for apartments.
The best on the Gold Coast have been Palm Beach, Worongary and Surfers Paradise (all up 10%) for houses, and Burleigh Heads, Currumbin Waters and Clear Island Waters (all up 10-12%) for apartments.
The tourist town of Port Douglas, which is part of the Cairns LGA, is notable for delivering good median price growth for both houses (up 11%) and apartments (up 7%) in the past year.
TERRY RYDER is the founder of hotspotting.com.au ryder@hotspotting.com.au twitter.com/hotspotting
To win a free investment strategy session with Terry Ryder, complete our <a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/ZXRSJVJ" target="_blank">sentiment survey here</a>.
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Sunshine Coast drives regional QLD property to strongest point in three years: Hotspotting’s Terry Ryder

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Sydney weekend clearance rates remain strong after another RBA rate cut encouraged buyers who've yet to show coronavirus induced recession fears.
Elsewhere public holidays in four of the eight states and territories meant the 1456 number of homes was less less than half the number last week (3026).
Across the capitals the preliminary clearance rate rose from 73.9 per cent to 74.8 per cent.
Sydney’s was again the strongest auction market at 82 per cent.
Its highest sale was at 8 Wallis Street, Woollahra.
It sold through Ben Collier and Fraser Turvey at The Agency for $6.1 million to buyers had been renting after selling their own home, looking to upsize in the local area.
It last sold for $3.4 million in 2015 with little more than a splash of paint in the meantime.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-nsw-woollahra-118933903" target="_blank">8 Wallis Street</a> offering was four-bedroom, three-bathroom residence. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/3/6/main.jpg" alt="">
Built in 1888, the three-story residence features a ten-metre wide frontage, elegant lounge and dining areas, manicured gardens and two balconies. 
The home had ornate ceilings, original fireplaces and floorboards. 
The 367 sqm block is privately set between Centennial Park and the Queen Street village.
Sydney's most affordable auction this weekend was on <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-nsw-rockdale-132933770" target="_blank">Watkin Street</a>, Rockdale.
The one-bedroom, one-bathroom unit sold pre-auction through PRD estate agents Nick Reskakis and Jonathan Kollias for $340,000 to a first time buyer.  
<div class="fluid-width-video-wrapper">Melbourne was the second busiest auction market, but the Moomba public holiday on Monday saw just 404 auctions.</div>
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<div class="fluid-width-video-wrapper">There was a reduced 68 per cent success rate, down from 77 per cent the weekend before.</div>
CoreLogic auction analyst Kevin Brogan attributed the declining rate to weaker participation due to the long weekend.
The city’s highest disclosed sale was Marazion, a three-bedroom, two-bathroom at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-canterbury-132961506" target="_blank">Faversham Road, Canterbury</a>.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/3/9/8_MARAZION.jpg" alt="">
The 1920s-built home sold for $2.89 million through Jellis Craig estate agents Simon Lord and David Banks.
The elegant Victorian property showcases a Spanish Mission façade, and impressive craftsmanship with its diamond headlights, stained glass windows, and solid timber features throughout.
The 715 sqm home last sold for $850,000 in 2003.
Adelaide's top sale was a three-bedroom, two-bathroom sandstone villa at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-sa-unley+park-132392842" target="_blank">Northgate Street, Unley Park</a>.
The 894 sqm villa sold for $1,395,000 through Toop &amp; Toop estate agents Peter McMillan and Eloise McMillan. 
 
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