A trio of Queensland property groups have unveiled plans for a $300 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Noosa Bowls Club site, a proposal that would deliver more than 200 new homes in one of the Sunshine Coast's most supply-constrained markets.

Kilter Property, Frank Developments and Calile Malouf Investments are behind the plans for the 1.8-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-noosa-drive-noosa-heads-qld-4567">99 Noosa Drive</a>, which would transform the long-vacant site into a new residential precinct featuring 208 apartments, retail, hospitality and public space.

The proposal comes as Noosa continues to grapple with housing affordability and a shortage of permanent accommodation, particularly for key workers. The site's location in Noosa Junction, close to shops, public transport and employment, aligns with the direction of Noosa Council's Housing Strategy, which encourages higher-density housing within established activity centres rather than continued urban expansion.

The draft plans include 48 affordable-by-design apartments and 48 rooming accommodation units aimed at key workers. Around 2,000 sqm of ground-floor retail and food and beverage space would activate the street frontage, alongside a new public town square and landscaped open space.

<img alt="Noosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd02f53-1360-4e51-801e-bfd61a6c980e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-26%20at%208.44.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=x1iNs3BSMN6Jy7YUwaBZMHRrrKX2hMpy" />

&nbsp;

Frank Developments Founder and Director Frank Licastro said the development would continue the company's focus on architecturally-led residential projects while addressing one of the region's biggest challenges.

"Not only will this project exude a sense of luxury, it will also enhance not only the built environment but also the surrounding community," Licastro said.

"Noosa's success relies on the people who live and work here. Providing well-designed accommodation for key workers is critical to supporting the local economy and ensuring the Shire can continue to thrive."

Kilter Property Co-Founder Huw Williams said the focus was on delivering additional permanent housing while creating a mixed-use destination that benefits both residents and the wider community.

"Our focus is on delivering a well-considered mixed-use project that provides more permanent housing options, supports local workers and businesses, and delivers an exceptional product for the local market," Williams said.

"The redevelopment vision aligns with the long-term evolution of Noosa Junction as a vibrant activity centre, creating a destination that enhances the area's character while delivering significant economic and community benefits."

Calile Malouf Investments, best known for its role in Brisbane's James Street precinct and The Calile Hotel, will bring its place-making experience to the project. The company recently commenced construction on The Calile Noosa hotel and says the residential development will complement its growing investment in the region.

CMI Director Cal Malouf said the aim was to create a walkable precinct combining housing, retail and hospitality while remaining true to Noosa's character.

"We see a similar opportunity in Noosa to deliver a vibrant, walkable destination that combines exceptional housing, hospitality and retail in one integrated project," Malouf said.

Brisbane-based Cavill Architects has been appointed to design the project.

Joel Robinson

Noosa Bowls Club to be redeveloped into mixed-use apartment precinct

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.

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 Australia</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 Australia'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 Australia 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 Australia files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada Australia 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 Australia doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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

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Sorrento’s stalled Continental Hotel redevelopment project has been listed for sale, with expectations of attracting keen interest.
Colliers International agents Guy Wells and Trent Hobart have been appointed to sell the iconic Continental Hotel at <a href="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/property/continental-hotel-1-21-ocean-beach-road-23-constitution-hill-road-sorrento-vic-3943-2015405350" target="_blank">1-21 Ocean Beach Road</a> and an adjoining site at 23 Constitution Hill Road in Sorrento.
Hotelier Julian Gerner purchased the property from the Di Pietro family following a sales campaign in 2015.
Gerner has obtained planning and heritage approval for an extensive redevelopment of the 144-year-old heritage-listed hotel, the largest limestone structure in the Southern Hemisphere.
But this project has been shut down given issues regarding the project's partners.
"It is an outstanding investment and development opportunity to bring new life to Sorrento’s iconic Continental Hotel," said Wells.
“The Continental Hotel redevelopment is a major undertaking, in a seasonal location and requires a respectful and detailed restoration,” Gerner noted.
“This has created some complexity around commerciality and funding.
"Due to increasingly difficult market conditions, I have resolved to take the project back to market.”
Heritage restoration and basement works have commenced, while the planning approvals provides for mixed use development capitalising on the site to provide a hotel, public bar, restaurants, multiple function rooms, café and two penthouse apartments along with parking for 114 cars.
The hotel has been closed for over two years.
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Sorrento's stalled Conti Hotel listed for sale

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<div>
<div>Both Melbourne and Sydney saw their auction clearance rate sit above 70 percent, however there's no new boom, according to one auction commentator.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The final tally will revise lower as late results but sit in the commendable high 60 per cent range.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The unreported results include <a href="https://www.raywhite.com/nsw/vaucluse/2120246/?lang=en" target="_blank">a Vaucluse trophy home</a> (top) which was passed in on a $16 million vendor bid at its late Saturday afternoon auction.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>There had been just the one bid taken by auctioneer, Damien Cooley of $15 million for the home of hotelier Ashton Waugh who'd listed the home with a $16 million price guide through Gavin Rubinstein, the Ray White network’s top performer.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The three-level home was completed two years ago with five bedrooms and seven bathrooms.
Peter Ahern of buck&amp;simple Architecture redesigned the Gilliver Avenue home with a panorama that takes in the city skyline, Opera House and Harbour Bridge from its 835 square metre block that cost $6.7 million in 2004.
</div>
</div>
<div>There were 1,292 capital city homes taken to auction over the final weekend of June, returning a preliminary national auction clearance rate above 60 percent for the third consecutive week.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><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/2019/7/1/CoreLogic%20weekend%20June%2030.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>It was 66.5 percent nationally, according to CoreLogic auction analyst Kevin Brogan.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The winter hibernation kicks in with lower listings down on the 1,484 homes and 1,487 auctions held over the prior weekends.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Sydney was the strongest market with volumes down to 503 auctions from the 558 auctions held over the week prior.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Sydney returned a preliminary auction clearance rate of 72 percent with the top sale being an Elizabeth Bay apartment in The Palms harbourfront complex.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The three bedroom <a href="https://www.raywhite.com/nsw/elizabeth-bay/2108574/?lang=en" target="_blank">8/12-16 Billyard Avenue</a> offering (below) fetched $3,815,000 with four registered bidders. 
</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<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/2019/7/1/Billyard%20Avenue%20Elizabeth%20Bay.jpg" alt=""> More than 100 groups went through the open homes, Ray White agent Ian Campbell said.
</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"There's a shortage of stock at the moment, and when you combine that with increased buyer confidence since the election, it makes sense that open home numbers and auction clearance rate numbers are up," he said. "The buyers loved the convenience of being able to walk in to the city or take the ferry," Campbell added.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The buyer was also keen on securing a berth for a boat on the adjoining block, Domain reported.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
The Ray White Elizabeth Bay selling agent Renee Cross had given $3.7 million price guidance for the split level, three bedroom, 231sqm apartment with two cars spaces.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It last sold at $990,000 in 1995. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Melbourne returned a 70.6 percent preliminary auction clearance rate this week, increasing on the 68.9 percent final clearance rate last week.</div>
<div>
<div> </div>
<div>Its volumes were lower week-on-week, with 536 homes auctioned down on the 635 auctions held the previous weekend.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>A four bedroom Kew home was Melbourne's top sale. The <a id="LPlnk363779" class="x_OWAAutoLink" href="https://kayburton.com.au/real-estate/house-58-alfred-street-kew-vic-3101-1325077" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">58 Alfred Street offering</a> (below) was passed in for $4.25 million with Domain reporting it sold post auction for $4.35 million to an investor, who plans to rent it out.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><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/2019/7/1/Alfred%20Street%20Kew.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Melbourne saw a pre-auction sale when $2,308,888 was paid for <a href="https://www.barryplant.com.au/glenwaverley/property/603012/48-orchard-street-glen-waverley/" target="_blank">48 Orchard Street, Glen Waverley</a>.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It was a five bedroom, two storey house sold through Barry Plant having sold in 2011 at $1,998,888.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The weekend auction performance was varied across the smaller auction markets with Adelaide seeing a 68.9 percent success rate, while only 33.3 percent of homes sold across Perth.</div>
</div>
<div>
<div> </div>
<div>Brisbane had a 36 percent clearance rate including the nation's cheapest sale.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>It was the three bedroom at <a href="https://christopherliu.raywhite.com/qld/kingston/2121864/" target="_blank">34 Antares Avenue, Kingston</a> (below) which fetched $195,000.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><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/2019/7/1/Antares%20Avenue%20Kingston.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>It last sold at $60,000 in 1998.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"Bring your tools," said Ray White Logan selling agent Chris Liu.</div>
</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The higher auction results were aligning with the trend in housing values, Kevin Brogan said, noting the rate of decline had been consistently improving through 2019, largely driven by improved conditions across Sydney and Melbourne.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"If we see auction clearance rates holding above the 60 percent mark consistently, it’s a firm sign that buyer and seller price expectations are more balanced and housing prices are finding a new floor," he said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Property commentator Andrew Wilson said the weekend results reflected a "steady solid winter market on the road to recovery for Sydney and Melbourne."</div>
"Sydney and Melbourne home auction markets continue to report clearance rates at the highest levels since 2017 with solid rising buyer momentum contrasting to the fading market of a year ago," Dr Wilson noted.
"Seller numbers however remain relatively subdued – particularly in Melbourne and will remain so for at least the next month over the school holiday period. 
"Lower interest rates are a key catalyst for a recovery in buyer confidence with another cut next week by the RBA - if it eventuates - to continue fuel a market revival," Dr Wilson said.
"There's no new boom as yet though" said SQM's Louis Christoper.
 
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Stronger weekend auction success rates, but no new boom as yet though: Louis Christopher

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Scentre Group has sold its Sydney CBD office towers to US private equity firm Blackstone for $1.52 billion.
It is planning to use part of the proceeds to fund an $800 million share buyback to boost investor returns.
They will grant Blackstone a 299-year leasehold interest for the office towers above the Westfield shopping centre in Market Street and Castlereagh Street, however they will retain ownership of Westfield Sydney and Sydney Tower.
Scentre shares lifted 2.56 per cent to a more than two-month high of $4.01 following the statement to the ASX concerning the matter.
Group chief executive Peter Allen said the $1.52 billion transaction price represented almost $800 million in additional value on investment and an unlevered internal rate of return of over 16 per cent per annum.
"Our development of the Sydney Office Towers in 2011 and ongoing investment until now has created significant value for securityholders," Mr Allen said.
In total Scentre now holds $2.1 billion in capital following the sale of 50 per cent of its stake in Westfield Burwood for $575 million in May.
Mr Allen said the company would initially use the new funds to repay debt before commencing an $800 million share buyback in August.
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Scentre Group has sold its Sydney CBD office towers for $1.5 billion

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
Aussie wealth remains elevated, but has eased back from record highs due to falling home prices.
But in a positive development, total household wealth (net worth) stabilised in the March quarter after the biggest fall in a decade in the December quarter. The Aussie sharemarket is acting as a wealth ‘buffer’ against the property downturn. In the March quarter, the S&amp;P/ASX200 index rose by 9.5 per cent – the strongest gain in 9½ years.
Foreigners have increased their allocation to Aussie listed shares this year. Foreign ownership of Aussie shares was hovering near 4-year highs at 31.3 per cent in the March quarter, up from 30.9 per cent in the December quarter.
The weaker value of the Aussie dollar against the greenback, a desire for iron ore exposure, attractive dividend yields, solid payout ratios and likely further interest rate cuts have boosted demand for Aussie shares. And the local sharemarket’s relatively defensive composition when compared to its China supply-chain exposed peers in Asia have made the ASX200 an attractive proposition as the global ‘chase for yield’ re-intensifies.
Looking ahead, Aussie per capita wealth is expected to consolidate around $400,000 after significant gains over the past five years, should home valuations continue to moderate. But property prices appear to have flattened in Sydney and Melbourne in June amid tentative signs of stabilisation.
And it remains to be seen whether the ASX200 index, up almost 18 per cent so far this year, can continue its blockbuster run towards record highs, especially with the company ‘confession season’ and earnings reporting season ahead in August.
Aussie share valuations look a little stretched with the Best Price/Earnings ratio straddling 3-year highs at over 17 times earnings.
And earnings per share growth is modest outside of the resources sector, but continued monetary and fiscal stimulus will continue to act as a support. Business confidence and investment is also expected to lift given greater policy certainty following the election. But trading conditions remain challenging given slowing domestic demand and US-China trade tensions.
Click <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Commsec%20shares.JPG" target="_blank">here</a> to enlarge.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Commsec%20shares.JPG" alt="">
What do the figures show?
Financial Accounts:
Total household wealth (net worth) rose by 0.2 per cent to $10,242.6 billion in the March quarter after falling by 2.1 per cent to $10,225.9 billion in the December quarter. The record-high figure for household wealth was $10,422.3 billion in the September quarter of 2018. Over the year to March, net worth fell by 0.7 per cent.
In per capita terms, wealth fell by $1,512 in the March quarter to $404,556 following a record $9,993 decline in the December quarter – the third consecutive quarterly decline.
The Bureau of Statistics noted: “The increase in household wealth in the March quarter was driven by real (inflation adjusted) holding gains on financial assets, offset by holding losses on residential real estate.”
The percentage point contributions to the change in household wealth in the December quarter, include:
Land and dwellings detracted 1.5 percentage points;
Financial assets contributed 1.8 percentage points;
Financial liabilities detracted 0.2 percentage points.
Households held a record $1,160.7 billion in cash and deposits at the end of March. Cash and deposit holdings represented 21.5 per cent of financial assets, down from 22.1 per cent in the December quarter and below the 21.8 per cent average since the global financial crisis and long-run average of 21.7 per cent.
Households held $1,015.7 billion in shares or 18.8 per cent of all financial assets in the March quarter, down from 18.9 per cent in the December quarter, but below the 19.3 per cent average since the global financial crisis and the long-run average of 22.6 per cent.
Pension fund (superannuation fund) assets rose by $119.9 billion to a record-high $2,320 billion in the March quarter. Cash and deposits stood at 10.6 per cent of financial assets, below the 12.9 per cent average since the global financial crisis, but above the long-term average of 9.4 per cent.
Foreigners held $604.8 billion of Aussie listed sharesin the March quarter, up from $548.1 billion in December, but below the record-high of $612.9 billion in the September quarter. Foreigners held 31.3 per cent of total listed shares – near 4-year highs - but slightly below the 31.6 per cent average since the global financial crisis and long-term average of 32.8 per cent.
What are the implications for interest rates and investors?
As evidenced by today’s wealth report, the Reserve Bank will be hoping that Aussie shares and bonds will continue to do the ‘heavy lifting’, shielding households from the downside risks associated with the property downturn, slow wages growth and the potential loss of momentum in the jobs market.  
Aussie bonds have been a strong performer over the year to May 31, up by 9 per cent (Bloomberg Australian Composite Bond Index 0+ Years), as government bond yields have fallen to record lows. Australia’s AAA sovereign credit rating and solid fiscal position has made sovereign bonds an attractive destination for risk averse investors.
But Aussie shares have been a star global outperformer, with the S&amp;P/ASX300 Accumulation Index up 10.9 per cent, ahead of global shares at 8.9 per cent (MSCI World Net Index) over the year to May 31 - an attractive proposition for foreigners seeking yield in a low growth, interest rate and inflation environment.
CommSec expects another rate cut in the next few months due to spare capacity in the labour market and economy.
RYAN FELSMAN is a Senior Economist at CommSec
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Foreign holdings of Aussie shares hits 4-year high: CommSec's Ryan Felsman

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The Melbourne suburb of Bentleigh East is once again host to the highest volume of auctions this weekend, with 11 homes set to go under the hammer, according to CoreLogic.
Next busiest are Northcote and Reservoir, also in Victoria, with 10 auctions scheduled each.
This week, the number of auctions scheduled to take place across the combined capital cities is expected to fall, with 1,201 currently being tracked by CoreLogic, down from the 1,484 auctions held last week at final results.
Both Melbourne and Sydney are expected to see a decrease in activity this week, with 497  homes scheduled for auction across Melbourne, while Sydney is set to host 469 auctions, decreasing on the 635 and 558 auctions held last week respectively.
The smaller auction markets will also see a lower volume of homes auctioned week on week with the exception of Brisbane and Perth where auction volumes are relatively steady.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Bentleigh%20East%20June%204.JPG" alt="">
The busy auction weekend in Bentleigh East, sees <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-bentleigh+east-131323446" target="_blank">71 Bignell Road</a> (pictured in title) offered.
The property going under the hammer is a four bedroom, two bathroom house.
It comes with an indicative price guide of $1,150,000-$1,190,000.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Bentleigh%20East%20June%202.JPG" alt="">
Another example of the breadth of auctions taking place in Bentleigh East is 4A Tambet Street (pictured above).
The property going under the hammer is a four bedroom, three bathroom townhouse.
It comes with an indicative price guide of $1,120,000-$1,170,000.
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Bentleigh%20East%20June%203.JPG" alt="">
A third property going to auction in Bentleigh East this week is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-vic-bentleigh+east-131357494" target="_blank">2/3 Montclair Court</a> (pictured above).
The property going under the hammer is a three bedroom, one bathroom villa. 
It comes with an indicative price guide of $620,000 - $670,000.
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Bentleigh East again the busiest weekend property auction hotspot

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CoreLogic observed that over the 12 months to December 2018, the estimated residential population of Australia increased by 1.6% or by 404,783 persons; the largest increase in raw number terms since September 2017 and it was also the third consecutive quarter in which the annual population increase trended higher.
Looking at the two components of population growth at a national level (natural increase and net overseas migration) they found that net overseas migration remains the primary driver of population growth.
Over the year, natural increase was recorded 156,337 persons, the highest it has been since March 2015 and 8.5% higher than in December 2017. Net overseas migration was recorded at 248,446 persons, the highest it has been since September 2017 and 2.8% higher than the previous year.
Across the states and territories, net interstate migration is also a contributor to population growth.
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Pop%20growth%201.JPG" alt="">
NEW SOUTH WALES
 With an estimated population of 8,046,070 persons, the population has increased by 123,813 persons or 1.6% over the past year, which is in-line with the national rate of growth. The 123,813 person increase was the greatest since September 2017 and was made-up of natural increase of 53,711 persons, net overseas migration of 91,999 persons and a loss of 21,897 persons due to net interstate migration. Natural increase of 53,711 persons was the greatest on record while the 91,999 persons increase due to net overseas migration was the largest increase in 12 months. The loss of 21,897 residents due to net interstate migration was slightly lower than the previous quarter but up from 19,299 persons a year earlier.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Pop%20growth%202.JPG" alt="">
VICTORIA
The estimated population increased by 2.2% over the 2018 calendar year taking it to 6,526,413 persons with an increase of 139,430 persons over the past year. The 139,430 person population increase consisted of natural increase of 40,256 persons, net overseas migration of 85,965 persons and net interstate migration of 13,209 persons. Although the population continues to increase rapidly, both net overseas and net interstate migration are lower than they were a year ago and natural increase is higher than a year ago but lower than the previous quarter.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Pop%20growth%203.JPG" alt="">
QUEENSLAND
The estimated population increased by 89,905 persons, or 1.8%, throughout 2018 taking the estimated population to 5,052,827 persons. The 1.8% annual increase in population was the largest since June 2013 and consisted of increases of 31,070 persons due to natural increase, 35,039 persons due to net overseas migration and 23,796 due to net interstate migration. Natural increase was the greatest it has been since March 2017, net overseas migration was the greatest since September 2013 while net interstate migration is the highest of any state it has slowed for two consecutive quarters and is the lowest since December 2017. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Pop%20growth%204.JPG" alt="">
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
With an estimated 1,742,744 residents, the population increased by 0.8% or 14,585 persons throughout 2018. The 14,585 person increase included natural increase of 5,490 persons, net overseas migration of 13,319 persons and a loss of 4,224 persons due to net interstate migration. Natural increase was the greatest it has been since June 2017, net overseas migration was the greatest it has been since June 2010 and the outflow of residents to other state and territories was the slowest it has been since March 2015.
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Pop%20growth%205.JPG" alt="">
West Australia
Over the 2018 calendar year the estimated population increased by 23,961 persons or 0.9% to take the total population estimate to 2,606,338 persons. The 23,961 person increase over the year is well down on the peak of the mining boom when WA added 73,922 in 2008. The 23,961 person increase over the past year was made-up of natural increase of 18,601 persons, net overseas migration of 14,863 persons and a loss from net interstate migration of 9,503 persons. Natural increase was the lowest it has been since September 2009, net overseas migration was the highest it has been since December 2014 and the loss of residents to other states and territories was the smallest since March 2016.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Pop%20growth%206.JPG" alt="">
Tasmania
The population increased by 1.2% over the past year or 6,499 persons which was the largest annual increase in population since September 1990, taking the estimated population to 531,529 persons. Natural increase was recorded at 1,260 persons, the greatest it has been since December 2016. Net overseas migration was recorded at 2,717 persons, the greatest it has been since September 2017. Net interstate migration was recorded at 2,522 persons, the greatest it has been since June 2004.
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Pop%20growth%207.JPG" alt="">
Northern Territory
As at December 2018 the estimated population was 245,854 persons which was actually a reduction in population of 1,010 persons over the past year. While natural increase was recorded at 2,680 persons and net overseas migration at 526 persons. NT lost 4,216 residents due to net interstate migration causing the overall population to fall. Natural increase was the smallest since December 2005, net overseas migration was the smallest since September 2003 and the loss of residents due to net interstate migration was the largest on record. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Pop%20growth%208.JPG" alt="">
Australian Capital Territory
The population increased by 1.8% or 7,574 persons throughout 2018 taking the estimated resident population to 423,811 persons. Over the year, natural increase was recorded at 3,247 persons, net overseas migration of 4,014 persons and net interstate migration of 313 persons. Natural increase was the lowest it has been since September 2009, net overseas migration was the lowest it has been since December 2016.
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/27/Pop%20growth%208.JPG" alt="">
The data shows that the national population is still growing at a rapid rate despite recent moves to lower permanent migration. The population of NSW and Vic continues to grow by the greatest amount. Population increase in NSW is primarily driven by natural increase and net overseas migration, accounting for 37.0% of national net overseas migration. Vic has seen 34.6% on net overseas migration nationally over the past year and has also recorded the second highest rate of net interstate migration (behind Qld). Vic, Qld, Tas and ACT are seeing a positive rate of net interstate migration as more people arrive from interstate than leave. Over the coming quarters it is expected that similar trends will continue with strong population increases in NSW and Vic driven by overseas migration and strong rates of net interstate migration for Vic and Qld. Of course population growth, particularly migration, is a proxy for housing demand. High levels of migration mean increased demand for housing which is a factor that should assist in putting a floor under the recent declines in dwelling values (particularly in Sydney and Melbourne). Furthermore, increasing populations should also assist in the absorption of the large volume of apartments under construction in Sydney and Melbourne.
CAMERON KUSHER is the head of research for the Australian branch of CoreLogic
Kusher regularly posts on the <a href="https://www.corelogic.com.au/news" target="_blank">CoreLogic website</a>.
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ckusher-ujnxiKuFQs

Australia's population grew over 400,000 in 2018: CoreLogic's Cameron Kusher

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The NSW Government has taken the next step in reforming the building and construction industry by providing the first in-depth look at proposed legislation as part of the Building Stronger Foundations discussion paper.  
The community and industry now has an opportunity to provide feedback on the proposed reforms to deliver greater transparency, accountability and quality of work in the building and construction sector. 
The legislation will implement many of the recommendations from the Lambert and Shergold-Weir reports into the building industry, and now we want to hear from industry and the wider community to help finalise the legislation
The NSW Government is implementing four key reforms to deliver a more robust regulatory framework for the construction of buildings, including:
- A requirement for buildings to be designed and constructed to plans that fully comply with the Building Code of Australia,
- A requirement that all building practitioners, including building designers, architects and engineers, be registered to ensure they have the appropriate skills and insurance, and can be held accountable for their actions,
- Introduction of a new industry-wide principle of duty of care, enabling home owners to seek compensation if a building practitioner has been negligent, and
- Appointment of a Building Commissioner, who will regulate all aspects of the NSW building industry, and have the power to investigate and take disciplinary action for improper conduct.  
 We are committed to getting these important reforms right and ensuring they are developed in close consultation with the industry and community.
The consultation period is open until 23 July 2019 which will then allow for legislation to be drafted and introduced into the NSW Parliament.
The appointment of the Building Commissioner is expected to be finalised in coming weeks. 
Kevin Anderson is the Minister for Better Regulation and Innovation.
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Next step in building reforms from the NSW Government

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EXPERT OBSERVATION 
Australia’s record economic expansion has almost completed its 28th year. Interest rates have fallen to fresh record lows; wages are growing near 2.5%; underlying inflation is around 1.5%; the jobless rate is 5.2%.
Total returns on Australian shares (All Ordinaries Accumulation index) have lifted by 11.4% over 2018/19 (20-year average +9.5%) to a smidgen below record highs.
What does it all mean?
The 2018/19 financial year is almost complete and it is an opportune time to see how investments, financial markets and economies have performed over the past year.
Overall, the global economy has slowed over the past year, largely restrained by the US-China trade conflict. Central banks are now favouring rate cuts over rate hikes largely because inflation remains low.
The US economy generally remains in good shape. But Chinese authorities have been stimulating their economy in response to the slowdown caused by the trade dispute with the US.
The Australian economy is currently growing at a 1.8% annual pace – the slowest pace in 9.5 years. Just like other major economies, growth slowed over the year. Uncertainty over the Federal Election result also slowed activity ahead of the May 18 poll. Activity is expected to lift with election uncertainty resolved.
The Reserve Bank has re-assessed policy settings in response to stubbornly low inflation. The Reserve Bank now believes that unemployment can fall to 4.5% before igniting inflationary pressures.
As a result the Reserve Bank cut the cash rate by 25 basis points in June to 1.25% and has flagged another rate cut in coming months.
Inflation is expected to edge higher to around 2% in 2018/19 with unemployment 4.50-5.00%. But much will depend on the global trade environment.
<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/2019/6/25/commsec%201.jpg" alt="">
Returns on shares have lifted by just over 11% in 2018/19 and growth of 7-11% is expected in 2018/19.
The Australian dollar should support the record economic expansion, largely holding in the late 60s/early 70-cent range against the greenback.
<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/2019/6/25/commsec%202.jpg" alt=""> 
What does the data show?
<ul>
<li>Interest rates</li>
</ul>
The cash rate was reduced from 1.50% to 1.25% in June. It was the first rate change since August 2016.
The market-determined 90-day bank bill rate has held between 1.21% and 2.10% over 2018/19 and is ending the year near record lows.
Yields on the long bond – 10-year government bonds – have held in a range of between 1.29% and 2.79% and yields are ending the year near record lows.
<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/2019/6/25/commsec%203%20.jpg" alt="">
<ul>
<li>Currencies</li>
</ul>
The Aussie dollar has fallen around 6% over 2018/19. The Aussie started the year around US74 cents and is ending the year near US69 cents.
We have calculated that the Aussie is ranked 103rd strongest against the US dollar of 120 currencies tracked.
The currencies of Thailand, Egypt, Uganda, Mexico, Philippines and Japan all have lifted around 3-7%.
The weakest currencies have been in the emerging economies of Venezuela, Argentina and Haiti. Only 24 currencies have lifted against the greenback over the year.
<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/2019/6/25/commsec%204.jpg" alt="">
In the first six months of 2019, the Aussie dollar has fallen by around 2% against the US dollar, making it the 97th strongest of 120 currencies tracked.
The currencies of Russia, Egypt, Thailand, Central Africa and Canada have lifted around 3-10%.
The weakest currencies have been the emerging economies of Haiti, Argentina, Turkey, Pakistan and Ghana. Only 42 currencies lifted against the greenback over the year.
The Aussie has gradually trended lower for around two years. Over most of the period US policy interest rates were rising while the Aussie cash rate was left unchanged.
The Aussie fell from around US80 cents to US68 cents (if the January 2019 ‘flash crash’ to US67.43 cents is ignored).
<ul>
<li>Commodities</li>
</ul>
Commodity prices eased over the second half of 2018 in line with slower global growth but recovered some lost ground in 2019.
The Commodity Research Bureau futures index has fallen by 11% over the year, but the CommSec daily index is up 3%.
The difference between the two indexes is basically iron ore, with its price up 81% over 2018/19 while gold and coking coal gained 12%.
Base metal prices fell 10-20%; oil is down 23% while spot natural gas has slid 58% and thermal coal fell 37%.
<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/2019/6/25/commsec%205.jpg" alt="">
Sharemarket
The Australian sharemarket started 2018/19 with the All Ordinaries at 6,289.7 and the ASX200 at 6,194.6.
The All Ords currently stands at 6,734.3 points (up 7.1%) with the ASX200 is at 6,650.8 (up 7.4%). We estimate that Australia is 19th of 72 global bourses.
So far 35 bourses have recorded gains in 2018/19. The best performer has been hyperinflation-affected Zimbabwe but Argentina and Brazil have lifted more than 40%. The US Dow Jones has lifted by around 10%.
<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/2019/6/25/commsec%206.jpg" alt="">
The worst performers have been West Africa, Nigeria, Kenya, Ghana, Lebanon and Pakistan and Egypt. The Irish sharemarket has fallen 12%.
In the first six months of 2019, the All Ordinaries has risen by 18%, ranking Australia 8th of 73 nations. Greece, Argentina, Russia and China have been amongst the top performers (up around 20-37%) while Lebanon, Sri Lanka and Oman are amongst countries recording the biggest declines.
<ul>
<li>Investment returns</li>
</ul>
Total returns on Australian shares (All Ordinaries Accumulation index) have so far lifted by 11.4% over 2018/19, hitting record highs in recent days.
Returns on dwellings have declined by 3.6% to date in 2018/19 while returns on government bonds have lifted by 10.4%.
<ul>
<li>Sectors &amp; size groupings</li>
</ul>
Of the 22 identified industry sub-sectors, only eight have recorded declines in 2018/19.
Leading the gains have been Consumer durables &amp; apparel and Telecom (both up by near 41%) followed by Commercial services (up 21%) with Software &amp; services and Transportation (up 20%).
At the other end of the scale, Household &amp; personal products has fallen by over 36%, followed by Autos &amp; components (down 21%) and Energy and Capital goods (both down 8%).
Of the size categories, the ASX50 has outperformed (up over 9%) from the ASX100 (up 8%) and the Small Ordinaries and MidCap50 (up 1%).
What are the implications for investors?
Returns on shares are near record highs. In fact sharemarket returns have only fallen once in the past 10 years. So an investor that has employed a diversified strategy across asset classes would be well pleased with the performance over recent years.
The outlook for the sharemarket remains positive. The Federal Election is in the background for another three years. And the Reserve Bank has adopted a stimulatory monetary policy.
The Reserve Bank now believes that the economy can operate at a faster pace, thus generating greater job growth with the hope of driving the jobless rate to 4.5%.
The cash rate was cut by a quarter percent in June and a similar decline is expected in the next few months.
But the Reserve Bank doesn’t believe it can do it all alone – it is calling on greater fiscal stimulus.
Certainly Federal and State governments are being active in advancing new infrastructure projects. And with budgets broadly balanced or in modest surplus, there is scope for even more fiscal stimulus to be applied.
Over the coming year, infrastructure building and net exports will add to economic growth.
The Reserve Bank hopes that the stimulatory policy settings will lead to stronger household spending as well. Weaker home building will be the main factor weighing on growth.
Last year we noted: “Over the coming year CommSec expects the All Ordinaries index to be near 6,400-6,600 points in December 2018 and 6,600-6,800 points in June 2019”. The December forecast proved too ambitious but the June forecast looks to be safely achieved.
Over the coming year CommSec expects the All Ordinaries index to be near 6,800-7,000 points in December 2019 and 7,100-7,300 points in June 2020.
Housing markets across the nation are continuing to rebalance to reflect the increase in supply (new home construction).
Lower home prices and rate cuts will ensure that first home buyers remain active.
Investors are also expected to return although sharemarkets are expected to remain more attractive in the short run.
Over 2019/20, national home prices may post small gains between 0-4%. Since the Federal Election there have been signs of stabilisation of Sydney and Melbourne home prices.
The low inflation/low interest rate environment is entrenched, meaning that lower nominal investment returns are also here to stay. So investors will need to remain flexible and alert to the returns achieved across sharemarket sectors and across asset classes to ensure that their savings are keeping pace with the cost of living.
The ‘triple L’ theme (low unemployment, low inflation, low interest rates) will also dominate global markets over the coming year.
In fact the US Federal Reserve is already contemplating rate cuts despite delivering the last rate hike just over six months ago.
The Aussie dollar is expected to largely trade in the late 60s/early 70s against the US dollar over most of the coming year. But interest rate differentials between the US and Australia and the US-China trade discussions are the two factors that could move the Aussie out of the tight range.
At the time of writing, financial markets were waiting on the next instalment of US-China trade talks.
Successful completion of the talks should lead to a major upgrade in prospects for the global economy.
If agreement remains elusive, expect stimulatory monetary policies to remain in place in China as well as advanced global economies.
Craig James is Chief Economist at CommSec. 
Ryan Felsman is Senior Economist at CommSec.
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Economic growth slows with more stimulus on the way: CommSec's year in review 

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Under all Victorian tenancy agreements (fixed-term and periodic) entered into on or after 19 June 2019, rent can only be increased once every 12 months, rather than at six-monthly intervals.
The rent must not be increased before the end of a fixed-term tenancy agreement, unless the terms of the agreement allow for this. 
Six-monthly increases will still be allowed for agreements entered into before 19 June 2019 that are:  
<ul>
<li>existing fixed-term tenancy agreements of less than five years, and</li>
<li>existing periodic (month-by-month) tenancy agreements. </li>
</ul>
For all rent increases, landlords and property managers must use the updated notice of rent increase from the government's <a href="https://submit.consumer.vic.gov.au/ch/25390/2d6fc35/2426631/kkudkBKulnOy8z1kwAfvAXi2_pv4syhyUwzlNsIS" target="_blank" data-auth="NotApplicable">rent increases page</a>.
Landlords and property managers will now have the option to provide the prescribed renting guide Renting a home: a guide for tenants electronically to tenants who have consented to receive information this way. Previously, they were required to provide the guide as a printed booklet. 
To provide the guide electronically they must:
<ol>
<li>ensure they have the tenant’s written consent to receive notices and other documents electronically. This can be included in the terms of their lease, or obtained with the Consent to electronic service of notices and other documents form, available from the <a href="https://submit.consumer.vic.gov.au/ch/25390/2d6fc35/2428465/kkudkBKulnOy8z1kwAfvxyCeVfkKGydYNqjp4quc" target="_blank" data-auth="NotApplicable">renting guide page</a>
</li>
<li>send the tenant the following link: <a href="https://submit.consumer.vic.gov.au/ch/25390/2d6fc35/2428465/kkudkBKulnOy8z1kwAfvxyCeVfkKGydYNqjp4quc-1" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">consumer.vic.gov.au/rentingguide</a>
</li>
</ol>
More than 130 reforms to the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 were passed in the Victorian Parliament in 2018.
Some were selected for early implementation this year, with the remaining reforms to be fully implemented by 1 July 2020. 
To help prepare for these changes, a new dedicated <a href="https://submit.consumer.vic.gov.au/ch/25390/2d6fc35/2426770/kkudkBKulnOy8z1kwAfvUUHF0I5Iat4GUJWDXMdk" target="_blank" data-auth="NotApplicable">Changes to renting laws section</a> is now available as a one-stop information source on:
<ul>
<li>the early reforms that are already in effect</li>
<li>stakeholder consultation </li>
<li>key reforms and their impact on tenants and landlords.    </li>
</ul>
The Victorian Government said it is working with industry and community groups to develop information and training materials to help them prepare for these changes.
 
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Victoria restricts rent increase frequency to 12 months

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The building of inner city apartments in Melbourne and Sydney has slowed to a dangerous level, according to The Australian columnist, Robert Gottliebsen.
He suggests governments are making the looming unit shortfall worse.
"Not only is substantial employment and business activity at stake in both states, but in Sydney the NSW government has dreamt up an unbelievable plan that will halt apartment construction in many areas, potentially for years," he wrote.
He says apartment building has slowed dramatically because communities and councils across the city are making it as hard as possible for high density living projects to find a way through the approval processes.
"Normally such decimation of an industry is caused by demand, but in June 2019 demand is not the problem."
The supply in both cannot be generated to meet looming demand.
He noted at the moment in both cities there is excess supply but demand momentum helped by the return of Chinese to the market has already lifted Sydney apartment prices by 10% after they had fallen by 20 to 30%.
"During 2020 the demand-supply ratio will change markedly."
In both Sydney and Melbourne it takes about three years for a development to get through the approvals, while in other states the apartment approval process takes less than a year, he said.
In Sydney the current approval mess means that production of apartments is now down 40%.
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