<p>ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.</p>

<p>The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.</p>

<p>They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" /></p>

<p>The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.</p>

<p>"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."</p>

<p>The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.</p>

<p>Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" /></p>

<p>The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.</p>

<p>"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."</p>

<p>The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.</p>


Joel Robinson

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

<p>An 1880s timber cottage that has survived Kangaroo Point's transformation from riverside suburb to high-density apartment precinct is set to become the centrepiece of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/zephyr">Zephyr Group</a>'s proposed Banksia development.</p>

<p>Rather than see the locally heritage-listed Alpha Cottage as an obstacle to navigate, plans integrate the landmark home into a new 18-storey residential tower, giving one of the suburb's oldest surviving residences a new role as the project's communal hub.</p>

<p>The development application covers a 1,177 sqm amalgamated site at 127-133 Lambert Street and 30 Shafston Avenue, where Zephyr Group plans to deliver 64 apartments above three basement levels. Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/joe-adsett-architects">Joe Adsett Architects</a>, the proposal carefully weaves the retained heritage cottage into a contemporary residential scheme, with the tower elevated above the historic building to preserve its presence within the Lambert Street streetscape.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f9dc5bdb-d691-4c60-bf2b-c3ed405a3e75" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Banksia.png?VersionId=Jh4bjlewU.o8HXWt0V4KaFA_lPcF7KWM" /></p>

<p>Named after the native Australian Banksia flower, the project draws inspiration from its distinctive form through curved balconies, sculpted planter boxes and cascading subtropical landscaping that soften the building's profile.</p>

<p>As the design report explains: "The tower's identity is defined by its feature facade, drawing direct inspiration from the Banksia wildflower. The building departs from traditional rigidity through the use of elegant, GRC-moulded planter boxes that appear as if shaped by the breeze."</p>

<p>Plans propose 64 apartments, comprising 32 two-bedroom and 32 three-bedroom residences, across an 18-storey tower. Residents would have access to rooftop amenities including a swimming pool, spa, gym, sauna, private cinema, dining spaces and landscaped recreation areas, while more than half the site is dedicated to planting and open space.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="16041b5f-033e-47fa-8fbe-9886e072c1f2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pool.png?VersionId=kpx5w4EbLx0_TdWfDoD1vrSs0_cZ5Ao1" /></p>

<p>The heritage component is the defining feature of the proposal. Constructed in the early 1880s and occupied from at least 1883, Alpha Cottage is recognised by Brisbane City Council as an important surviving example of Kangaroo Point's nineteenth-century residential development and as a representative transverse-gable timber cottage. Despite extensive redevelopment across the peninsula, the building has retained a high degree of its original form and internal fabric.</p>

<p>As part of the redevelopment, the cottage will be carefully relocated a short distance within its original allotment to facilitate construction before being returned to a prominent position along Lambert Street. Original verandah elements will be dismantled, catalogued and reinstated, while significant internal features, including timber flooring, wall linings, joinery, doors, windows and hardware, will be retained. Later additions, including the enclosed rear verandah, will be removed to better reveal the building's original form.</p>

<p>Once restored, Alpha Cottage will accommodate the building manager's office, mail room and parcel facilities, providing an active everyday use that supports its long-term conservation rather than preserving it as a static display. The heritage strategy also maintains landscaped space around the building, allowing it to remain visually distinct beneath the new tower.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="43b027e1-576e-4624-a66c-7cc54ea8b7be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/banksia%20tower.png?VersionId=2W6E2yfkj2AQlWlLeV986grA5zB9f817" /></p>

<p>The Heritage Impact Assessment concludes that "the proposal secures the ongoing occupation, maintenance and conservation of Alpha Cottage," finding the development would result in "no more than a minor impact on the cultural heritage significance" of the building while ensuring its long-term future.</p>

<p>Joe Adsett Architects have designed the tower to sit above the heritage building rather than overwhelm it, creating a clear visual separation between old and new. The development's flowing balconies, integrated planting and organic façade respond to Brisbane's subtropical climate while complementing the restored cottage below.</p>

<p>Banksia occupies a prominent corner in Kangaroo Point within walking distance of the Kangaroo Point Bridge, Brisbane River, ferry services, QUT, the CBD and the Woolloongabba precinct. The site also benefits from direct access to active transport infrastructure and sits within an area earmarked for continued higher-density residential growth.</p>


Zephyr Group's Banksia to wrap new Kangaroo Point tower around 1880s Alpha Cottage

<p>Buying into a masterplanned community often means committing to a vision still years from taking shape. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>, that vision is already visible.</p>

<p>Residents have moved into the completed first stage, landscaped spaces are established, and the next chapter is now underway. Stage 1 has been completed and settled, with Stage 2 now selling off-the-plan.</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> combines attainable apartment living with sustainability initiatives rarely seen at this price point, including rooftop solar, battery storage and a resident EV-sharing program.</p>

<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/6RNt3AvtBpI?si=JUhuCV2ZRXsYaoJZ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Located on Schofi​elds Road, just moments from Tal​lawong Metro Station and Schof​ields Train Station, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been designed to appeal to a broad mix of buyers, from first-home purchasers looking for a foothold in Sy​dney's property market to downsizers seeking a connected, low-maintenance lifestyle.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> has been conceived as a thoughtfully planned masterplanned community that will evolve over multiple stages, with buyers now able to secure one, two and three-bedroom apartments within a neighbourhood that is already beginning to establish its identity.</p>

<p>One of the project's defining features is its focus on sustainability. Solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure have been incorporated throughout the development, reflecting a long-term approach to both environmental performance and everyday convenience.</p>

<p>Sustainability sits at the centre of the development's vision, with solar energy systems, battery storage and future EV charging infrastructure integrated throughout the community.</p>

<p>That emphasis on future-ready living extends beyond the technology. Landscaped communal gardens, outdoor gathering spaces and plans for a future retail precinct aim to create a neighbourhood where residents can access daily conveniences without travelling far from home.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]</p>

<p>The apartments themselves have been designed with liveability front of mind. Rather than chasing maximum density, the focus has been placed on creating practical homes with generous natural light, usable layouts and strong connections to outdoor space.</p>

<p>Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.</p>

<p>The appeal of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> is also closely linked to its location within Syd​ney's rapidly evolving north-west growth corridor. Over the past decade, major infrastructure investment has transformed the area, with new transport links, business precincts and community facilities reshaping suburbs like Talla​wong and Schofiel​ds.</p>

<p>The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.</p>

<p>"Typical buyers that we're finding across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> especially are your first-home buyers, your investors, your upsizers as well as your downsizers," Hawes says.</p>

<p>Connectivity remains one of the project's strongest drawcards. Residents have access to both Tallaw​ong Metro Station and Schofi​elds Train Station, providing links to the Sydn​ey CBD, Norw​est Business Park, Macquari​e Park and other major employment hubs. Retail centres including Rous​e Hill Town Centre and Sch​ofields Village are also nearby, alongside schools, parks and future healthcare infrastructure.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]</p>

<p>For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.</p>

<p>"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."</p>

<p>"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."</p>

<p>More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.</p>

<p>"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]</p>

<p>As Stage 2 enters the market, that lived experience may be one of the project's strongest selling points. Buyers are not purchasing into an untested concept or a future promise. They are joining a community that is already taking shape.</p>

<p>Ongoing investment in transport, retail, healthcare and public open space continues to strengthen the appeal of Syd​ney's north-west growth corridor, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a>'s established first stage provides buyers with a tangible sense of the community's future direction.</p>

<p>For a limited time, buyer can secure a new home at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> with just a $10,000.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]</p>


Kew Tallawong: A growing community taking shape in Sydney's north-west

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.</p>

<p>Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.</p>

<p>Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.</p>

<p><img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" /></p>

<p data-end="1160" data-start="703">The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.</p>

<p data-end="1394" data-start="1162">The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.</p>

<p data-end="1767" data-start="1396">At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.</p>

<p data-end="1936" data-start="1769">Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.</p>

<p data-end="2070" data-start="1938">"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.</p>

<p data-end="2230" data-start="2072">"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."</p>

<p data-end="2397" data-start="2232">Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.</p>

<p data-end="2600" data-start="2399">"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.</p>

<p data-end="2805" data-start="2602">Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.</p>

<p data-end="2942" data-start="2807">Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.</p>

<p data-end="3078" data-start="2944">"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.</p>


First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.</p>

<p>Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240]<br />
&nbsp;<br />
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566]<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.</p>

<p>"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."</p>

<p>Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."</p>

<p>"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564]<br />
&nbsp;<br />
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195]<br />
&nbsp;<br />
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD.<br />
&nbsp;<br />
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]</p>


Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

<p>Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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).</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

<p>To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:</p>

<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>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.</p>


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

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.</p>

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="252" data-start="225">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong data-end="413" data-start="389">Stamp Duty Benefits:</strong> Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.</p>

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Benefits</strong>: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.</p>

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="920" data-start="893">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong data-end="1162" data-start="1135">Stamp Duty Concessions:</strong> Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.</p>

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Concessions:</strong> Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.</p>

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong data-end="1617" data-start="1590">First Home Owner Grant:</strong> Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.</p>

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Relief:</strong> Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.</p>

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant</strong>: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Exemption</strong>: 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.</p>

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

<p><strong>First Home Owner Grant:</strong> The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.</p>

<p><strong>Stamp Duty Exemption</strong>: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).</p>

<p><em>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.</em></p>


Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

<p>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.</p>

<p>Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.</p>

<p>Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.</p>

<p>A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.</p>

<p>NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

<p>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;</p>

<p>NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;</p>

<p>NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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;</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.</p>

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

<p><strong>Energy Efficiency:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Cost Savings:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Environmental Impact:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Improved Comfort: </strong>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.</p>

<p><strong>Market Value and Desirability:</strong> 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.</p>

<p><strong>Compliance with Building Codes:</strong> 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.</p>


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?

<p>Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.</p>

<p>Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]</p>

<p>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.</p>

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

<p style="line-height: 1.38;">When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.</p>

<p style="line-height: 1.38;">Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.</p>

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

<p>Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.</p>

<p>It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.</p>

<p style="line-height: 1.38;"><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></p>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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!</p>

<p>Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:</p>

<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>

<p style="line-height:1.38">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.</p>


Ellen Walker

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

<p>For the first time in a long time, Australia's inflation story is starting to look more like a landing than a fight.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>The biggest takeaway is that inflation continues to move in the right direction.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>That trend is important because it aligns with what many economists and lenders have been saying for the last month.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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".</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>Electricity prices remain particularly problematic, rising 21.1 per cent over the past year following the removal of government rebates.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>

<p>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.</p>


The inflation result the property market was waiting for

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<div>Australasia’s biggest property group, <span id="0.7442116941323146" class="highlight">Ray</span> <span id="0.2038638881688163" class="highlight">White</span>, is preparing itself for what is tracking to be the industry’s busiest weekend of auctions so far in 2018.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>A total 3,689 auctions are scheduled to take place this week across the capital cities, according to CoreLogic, a traditional rise in auctions occurring in the week prior to Easter. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Melbourne will host the highest number of auctions out of all capital cities with 1,934 homes going under the hammer, which will make it the second busiest week on record for the city.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>One of Brunswick’s most charming homes (above) is scheduled to go to auction on Saturday at midday (AEDT).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<span id="0.5470571188022452" class="highlight">Ray</span> <span id="0.04650709860855462" class="highlight">White</span> Brunswick sales agent Alex Ilyin said no expense was spared in the build of <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-brunswick-127675706" target="_blank">32A Thistle St.</a>
</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The modern three bedroom build is full of elegant period features, from the high kickboards to a traditional fireplace.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Everything is done to a premium standard,” Mr Ilyin said. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Interest has been really great, and it’s generally come from people transitioning from their first purchase, so a lot of young professionals.”</div>
<div> </div>
<div>There’s a price guide attached to 32A Thistle St, Brunswick of around $1,150,000 to $1,250,000, in line with the Statement of Information.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>Another exciting Melbourne auction is scheduled for 1pm at 22A Bringa Ave, Camberwell.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Marketed by <span id="0.9239246109726515" class="highlight">Ray</span> <span id="0.2920828070509026" class="highlight">White</span> Box Hill’s Jeremy Tyrrell, the single-level villa is appealing to buyers looking for the perfect downsize option or families wanting convenient access to Camberwell High and Melbourne's private school belt.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>To South Australia, where 9kms northwest of Adelaide’s CBD is a 1955 three bedroom home (above) scheduled to go under the hammer on Saturday morning. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Marketed by <span id="0.5852751586754685" class="highlight">Ray</span> <span id="0.1725198935404344" class="highlight">White</span> Adelaide’s George Kargiotis, 17 Shirley Ave at Woodville West is expected to draw a solid auction crowd comprised mainly of first-home buyers.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“The owner has renovated the home which now has polished floors, fresh paint, a new second bathroom and kitchen,” Mr Kargiotis said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>In Western Australia, <span id="0.0474139130819774" class="highlight">Ray</span> <span id="0.6499063051478601" class="highlight">White</span> North Quays principal Scott Langley is managing the auction of a Kallaroo tri-level home (above).</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The 827sq m coastal property is at 4 Woolwich Close, around 25kms outside of Perth’s CBD.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“It’s a great street, located in the Northshore Estate, and near parks and the newly refurbished shopping centre,” Mr Langley said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Most interested people are looking to renovate as it’s a great project home to renovate with the bonus option of subdividing and building three new dwellings.”</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>
<span id="0.5910561449481334" class="highlight">Ray</span> <span id="0.9265340774103629" class="highlight">White</span> Coorparoo principal Cliff Tarr is looking forward to Saturday’s auction of a Brisbane home (above) which has been held by the same family since 1964.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The 885sq m corner block of land with a three bedroom house at 109 Albert St is in the popular suburb of Camp Hill, around 8km to the CBD.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Land is gold in Camp Hill,” Mr Tarr said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“It’s one for families looking for a big block, or developers.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Camp Hill has a very strong volume of owner-occupier houses, great parks, elevation, city views, and it’s just a beautiful spot close to everything.”</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>Down the M1 highway, <span id="0.771749667243177" class="highlight">Ray</span> <span id="0.011798626151508618" class="highlight">White</span> Mermaid Beach’s Troy Dowker is taking a classic Gold Coast beach house (above) to auction on Saturday afternoon.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The 506sq m oceanfront block is at 120 Pacific Pde, Bilinga.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Bilinga is probably one of the more high demand suburbs, not only on the Gold Coast but across Queensland,” Mr Dowker said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Lots of people love the tranquillity and charm of the southern Gold Coast.”</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The four bedroom, two bathroom home has a deck overlooking the ocean, a large backyard for kids, while there’s also direct access to the beach.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
<div>Meantime, <span id="0.198446465824914" class="highlight">Ray</span> <span id="0.8808428398185644" class="highlight">White</span> Lane Cove principal Paul Nees is taking a five bedroom, two bathroom Riverview home with a premier north aspect to auction on Saturday morning.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The rare 965sq m property, at 1 Carranya Rd, has a current approved development application to extend the house, although Mr Nees said the dual-level residence already offers plenty of space.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“The house itself is a great size, plus it has a swimming pool,” Mr Nees said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“It’s within walking distance to Saint Ignatius College, which is a big drawcard.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“It’s an area with a lot of parkland and it attracts families because of the desirable school catchment.”</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Mr Nees expects the property to sell at the top of the auction’s $2.5 million to $2.75 million price guide. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Riverview is a small established suburb on the shores of Sydney’s Lane Cove River.</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div> </div>
<div> </div>
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Ray White's pre-Easter Super Saturday offerings

<html><body>
<p>Citizen engagement is, or should be, central to city planning. When it comes to planning and implementing transport infrastructure the focus tends to be on how to engage the public, when to engage, and what form this should take. But we should be asking another, more important question: how can citizen engagement make infrastructure planning more democratic?</p>
<p>In many cases proposed transport infrastructure and the conflicts and debates it provokes are actually about much more than the project proposal. If the project is a new light rail system, for instance, the questions are: Who and what will it serve? What will it look like? And what impacts (positive and negative) will it have on the city over time?</p>
<p>Any efforts then to reduce citizen participation, to stifle the question “What kind of city do we want to be?”, will meet with resistance.</p>
<p>Recent <a href="https://government.unimelb.edu.au/news-and-events/news/university-of-melbourne-launches-next-generation-engagement-project" target="_blank">academic</a> and <a href="http://infrastructureaustralia.gov.au/policy-publications/publications/future-cities.aspx" target="_blank">government</a> projects and reports on citizen participation and infrastructure planning have called on our governments to do three things:</p>
<ol>
<li>consult and engage citizens early in infrastructure planning</li>
<li>improve quality and access of citizen engagement at the strategic planning stages</li>
<li>use more sophisticated strategic planning tools and practices to improve decision-making.</li>
</ol>
<p>However, a key challenge, as echoed in <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/House/ITC/DevelopmentofCities/Submissions" target="_blank">submissions</a> to a current parliamentary <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/House/ITC/DevelopmentofCities" target="_blank">inquiry into city development</a>, is the disconnect between <a href="http://www.afr.com/business/cities-need-data-not-more-stakeholder-consultation-sap-20180226-h0wnvm" target="_blank">citizen participation and decision-making</a>. To overcome this disconnect, early consultation and new participation platforms are critical. Yet these alone cannot resolve this problem.</p>
<h2>How does democracy come into this?</h2>
<p>Engaging citizens in a meaningful way in infrastructure planning is good and necessary for many reasons. That we live in a country that purports to be a democracy is central to that argument. But there are other reasons too. These include the potential to make decisions that better respond to citizens’ needs and desires.</p>
<p>Another reason that often goes unstated is that infrastructure is a public thing. Whether it is ultimately publicly or privately owned, operated and controlled, there is a relationship between infrastructure and democracy that ultimately makes infrastructure planning and implementation a contested process. Savvy consultation does not alter this fact.</p>
<p>As the political scientist Bonnie Honig recently <a href="https://books.google.com.au/books?id=k0JdDgAAQBAJ&amp;pg=PA5&amp;dq=interpellate+us+into+democratic+citizenship&amp;hl=en&amp;sa=X&amp;ved=0ahUKEwj71aTu8-rZAhVKe7wKHdRyCoYQ6AEIJzAA#v=onepage&amp;q=interpellate%20us%20into%20democratic%20citizenship&amp;f=false" target="_blank">argued</a> in her book, Public Things: Democracy in disrepair:</p>
<p>Public things [such as infrastructure] are part of the ‘holding environment’ of democratic citizenship; they furnish the world of democratic life … They also constitute us, complement us, limit us, and interpellate us into democratic citizenship.</p>
<p>Since 2013 I have researched citizen participation in infrastructure planning. The focus has been on multi-billion-dollar, transformational urban transport infrastructure proposals in Australian and Canadian cities.</p>
<p>My primary focus has been on projects such as the <a href="https://theconversation.com/east-west-link-shows-miserable-failure-of-planning-process-40232" target="_blank">East-West Link</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/transurbans-west-gate-tollway-is-a-road-into-uncharted-territory-89164" target="_blank">West Gate Tunnel</a> in Melbourne, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/westconnex-audit-offers-another-17b-lesson-in-how-not-to-fund-infrastructure-73206" target="_blank">Westconnex</a> in Sydney (working with <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/glen-searle-103536" target="_blank">Glen Searle</a>). But my interest is not in contested tollway projects alone. I also examined the <a href="http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/transit-referendum-voters-say-no-to-new-metro-vancouver-tax-transit-improvements-1.3134857" target="_blank">2015 Vancouver plebiscite on transit funding</a>, and the rollout of two light rail projects in the Greater <a href="http://www.metrolinx.com/en/greaterregion/projects/hurontario-lrt.aspx" target="_blank">Toronto</a> and <a href="http://www.metrolinx.com/en/greaterregion/projects/hamilton-lrt.aspx" target="_blank">Hamilton</a> Area (GTHA) in Canada.</p>
<p>Research of this kind into cross-city, cross-country and cross-modal (road and public transport) transit systems produces insights into the relationship between citizen participation and infrastructure planning. It makes visible both party-political and socio-political struggles for the present and future city, which infrastructure – be that a major road or a light rail system – often represents.</p>
<p>Transport infrastructure awakens controversy because these projects embody the debates that frame who we are as a group of people living in a city.</p>
<h2>A process of sidelining the citizens</h2>
<p>The question of what kind of city we want to be is often left to strategic planning. However, this question needs to remain at the forefront of decision-making in project planning too.</p>
<p>Take the cancellation of the East-West Link project. You would be excused for assuming that this cancellation, following the election of the current Victorian government in 2014, was a rejection of inner-city toll roads and a “roads must be built to tackle congestion” paradigm.</p>
<p>But weeks later the government announced the now A$6.7 billion West Gate Tunnel project. This announcement was met with similar concerns to those raised against the East-West Link. These centred on the very undemocratic processes that produced these projects in the first place.</p>
<p>Another key concern was about the efficacy of building tollways when other valued alternatives such as public transport are not only available but also desired. Indeed, these are set out as ambitions for the future city in a succession of metropolitan plans.</p>
<p>In the weeks and months after the West Gate Tunnel announcement, a community liaison group and then a public process of evaluating the environmental effects were organised. This did result in some design modifications. However, this was a process about how best to manage out conflict and limit engagement to questions about design.</p>
<p>This is common practice for transport infrastructure planning across Australia. It it is not what can be reasonably called “best practice” in citizen engagement.</p>
<p>The lack of transparency and carefully controlled consultation remove the publicness of infrastructure.</p>
<h2>Market-led planning and its impacts</h2>
<p>The West Gate Tunnel is a case study in both market-led planning and how these processes can be an assault on democratic, participatory planning. These proposals and other public-private partnership schemes continue to be devised, as seen recently with a proposed “<a href="http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/victoria/future-melbourne/tech-giants-push-for-piece-of-30bn-super-city-in-east-werribee/news-story/51e77278242514b23567bf6b9e00050c" target="_blank">super city</a>” in East Werribee.</p>
<p>It’s clear more needs to be said about the links between citizen participation and infrastructure planning in this context. To design better citizen consultation is to better understand what galvanises citizen interest and protest.</p>
<p>It is more than just the project. It is what the project represents. In many cases, it is a departure from a clearly stated vision for the city.</p>
<p>Our ability as citizens to assert what is in the public interest – throughout the infrastructure planning process – can be further severed when unsolicited proposals become commonplace.</p>
<h2>A way forward</h2>
<p>A recent alliance between the Coalition and the Greens in the upper house <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/tools-down-at-west-gate-tunnel-after-liberals-greens-halt-6-7b-dud-20180307-p4z3am" target="_blank">revoked the West Gate Tunnel planning amendment</a>. It’s a reminder that any planning process that undermines inclusive citizen participation and ignores the publicness of infrastructure planning will meet with resistance. Westconnex, the East-West Link, <a href="https://theconversation.com/au/topics/roe-8-34736" target="_blank">Roe8</a> in Perth, and now the West Gate Tunnel are all examples of this.</p>
<p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/92840/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">Infrastructure cannot be divorced from the city and its citizens. But as long as citizen engagement is limited, infrastructure will be a hotly contested area of decision-making.</p>
<p><span><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/crystal-legacy-18412" target="_blank">Crystal Legacy</a>, Senior Lecturer in Urban Planning, <em><a href="http://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-melbourne-722" target="_blank">University of Melbourne</a></em></span></p>
<p>This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/sidelining-citizens-when-deciding-on-transport-projects-is-asking-for-trouble-92840" target="_blank">original article</a>.</p>
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Citizens should be included when deciding on transport projects

<html><body>
<p>The 2018 City Wealth Index uses four critical measures to identify the cities that matter to the wealthy – wealth, investment, lifestyle and future. </p>
<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p> </p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">Wealth</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">Investment</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">Lifestyle</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">Future</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">Overall Rank</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>New York</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">1</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">1</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">1</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">1</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">1</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>London</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">4</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">2</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">5</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">2</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">2</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>San Francisco</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">5</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">4</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">2</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">6</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">3</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Los Angeles</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">2</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">5</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">12</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">4</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">4</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Chicago</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">6</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">18</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">3</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">8</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">5</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Singapore</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">7</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">15</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">3</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">10</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">5</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Paris</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">13</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">14</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">7</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">5</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">7</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Tokyo</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">10</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">22</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">6</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">2</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">8</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Hong Kong</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">3</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">3</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">10</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">25</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">9</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Washington DC</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">12</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">10</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">7</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">13</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">10</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Sydney</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">20</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">7</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">14</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">17</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">11</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Dallas</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">9</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">6</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">35</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">9</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">12</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Boston</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">24</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">13</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">21</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">7</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">13</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Houston</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">8</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">15</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">29</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">14</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">14</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Miami</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">19</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">8</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">19</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">20</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">14</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Atlanta</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">20</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">10</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">24</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">15</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">16</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Beijing</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">15</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">37</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">15</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">19</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">17</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Shanghai</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">29</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">21</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">23</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">15</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">18</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Munich</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">39</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">23</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">26</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">20</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">19</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Madrid</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">52</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">25</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">9</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">24</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">20</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td nowrap width="86">
<p>Melbourne</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">44</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="76">
<p align="center">15</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="70">
<p align="center">25</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="60">
<p align="center">26</p>
</td>
<td nowrap width="78">
<p align="center">20 </p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p>Liam Bailey, Global Head of Research at Knight Frank, commented this year’s index produced some very interesting results with regard to the projected growth of wealthy households around the world that will be exciting to track.</p>
<p>"However, North America’s domination of the current household wealth tables is unequivocal.</p>
<p>"Although the economic powerhouses such as New York and London dominated the overall rankings again, it is interesting to note the power of other US cities.”</p>
<p>Knight Frank’s Head of Residential Research, Australia Michelle Ciesielski noted Sydney sits at 11<sup>th</sup> overall on the City Wealth Index, influenced by ranking seventh in the category ‘investment’ in property over the two years ending 2017. <em style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.15999984741211px;"><br></em></p>
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Sydney and Melbourne rank in top 20 in Knight Frank City Wealth Index

<html><body>
<div>
<p>Sydney has the nation's most evenly distributed new apartment market which puts it at less risk of inner city oversupply, the 2018 UDIA State of the Land Report suggests. </p>
<div title="Page 4">
<div>
<div>
<p>Sydney accounted for 28% of total market supply in 2017 with 37,740 lots/multi-units completions, which reflected a similar production output to 2016 but a 48% uplift on 2014 </p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p>Just over a fifth of new Sydney unit completions (apartments, townhouses and terraces) were within five kilometres of the city centre in 2017.</p>
<p>It compared to almost half of all Melbourne unit completions.</p>
<p data-gtm-vis-first-on-screen-7770372_137="2971" data-gtm-vis-total-visible-time-7770372_137="4000" data-gtm-vis-has-fired-7770372_137="1">In Adelaide and Brisbane almost two-thirds of new unit completions were within their respective five kilometre inner rings.</p>
<div title="Page 4">
<div>
<div>
<p>Population growth, or lack of it, is the primary driver of demand for new dwellings, the report noted.</p>
<p><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/2018/3/23/UDIA%201.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p><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/2018/3/23/UDIA%202.jpg" alt=""></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p>The UDIA said a third of new Sydney units were within 5 to 10 kilometres of the CBD, 28 per cent of completions were 10 to 20 kilometres out and 18 per cent of completions were as far as 50 kilometres from the centre of town, according to data compiled for the report by CoreLogic.</p>
</div>
<div>
<div id="article-inline-ad">The UDIA report also found that new multi-unit completion (10 units or more) hit a record 77,365 in 2017, up 8 per cent on 2016 and 64 per cent higher than three years ago.</div>
</div>
<div>
<p>Most of this growth was due to a 25 per cent rise in Melbourne unit completion which reached 25,900 last year, just below the 28,300 units completed in Sydney.</p>
<p>It noted the heighted levels of new residential supply being delivered had been led by Melbourne which recorded a total production of almost 49,000 lots/multi-units in 2017, which was up 96% on 2014.</p>
<div title="Page 4">
<div>
<div>
<p>Melbourne’s total market output accounted for 37% of the combined capital city lots/multi-unit production in 2017. </p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p data-gtm-vis-recent-on-screen-7770372_137="9975" data-gtm-vis-first-on-screen-7770372_137="9975" data-gtm-vis-total-visible-time-7770372_137="4000" data-gtm-vis-has-fired-7770372_137="1">Brisbane's unit market fell 3 per cent over the year to 11,900 completions while Perth slumped 38 per cent to just under 5000 completions.</p>
<p>Among the smaller unit markets, Adelaide completed 2130 units, up 39 per cent, with Canberra's new unit market doubling to 4100 units last year.</p>
<div title="Page 4">
<div>
<div>
<p>Residential supply from Perth has retracted sharply over the last three years, with the 2017 output of 11,900 lots/multi-units representing 9% of national capital city supply, down from the 16% national market share with 17,900 lots/multi-units in 2015. </p>
<p><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/2018/3/23/UDIA%203.jpg" alt=""></p>
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<p> </p>
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UDIA says spread of Sydney apartment construction would reduce oversupply risks

<html><body>
<p>The Gold Coast region was the busiest non-capital city region last week, with 53 auctions; however Geelong recorded the strongest clearance rate at 80 per cent, according to CoreLogic.</p>
<p>Click here<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/3/16/clearance%202.jpg" target="_blank"> to enlarge.</a></p>
<p><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/2018/3/16/clearance%202.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>A townhouse in Geelong sold at auction for $461,000 (pictured below).</p>
<p><span>The home was sold by Peter Fort from Whitford.</span></p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-vic-geelong-127592414">12/203-207 Little Malop Street</a> unit offers two bedrooms, central bathroom and open living with private courtyard.</p>
<p><span><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/2018/3/16/geelong.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p><span>Located in the heart of Geelong CBD, it is within walking distance of Westfield, restaurants, parkland, the waterfront and the hospital precinct.</span></p>
<p><span> </span></p>
<p> </p>
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Geelong auction market remains strong 

<html><body>
<p dir="ltr"><span>Warren Ginsberg, from Ray White Double Bay, finished last week in a flurry with a trifecta of sales <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_495084649"><span class="aQJ">on Friday</span></span> to seal four contracts <span class="aBn" data-term="goog_495084650"><span class="aQJ">in four days</span></span> to the value of $11.2 million.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">A timeless residence at <a id="m_-6465388716788642138LPlnk206200" href="https://maps.google.com/?q=50+Olola+Ave,+Vaucluse&amp;entry=gmail&amp;source=g" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://maps.google.com/?q%3D50%2BOlola%2BAve,%2BVaucluse%26entry%3Dgmail%26source%3Dg&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1521758800931000&amp;usg=AFQjCNHU-QvA3-p123qQh9kayfvOYYUydA"> 50 Olola Ave, Vaucluse</a> received significant interest, with 132 enquiries across three weeks (pictured below).</p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><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/2018/3/23/Original31412505.jpg" alt=""></span></p>
<p dir="ltr">Ginsberg said he was happy with the quick nature of these premium sales.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“For three out of the four sales last week, the average time on market was 17 days giving confidence the market is still strong,” Ginsberg said.</p>
<p dir="ltr">“We’ve seen double-digit growth for many years now, so it was inevitable a general price decrease was looming, however I’m confident the market can still offer great returns based on the low days on market.”</p>
<p dir="ltr">The Studdy family sold <a id="m_-6465388716788642138LPlnk118069" href="https://maps.google.com/?q=480+Old+South+Head+Rd,+Rose+Bay&amp;entry=gmail&amp;source=g" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://maps.google.com/?q%3D480%2BOld%2BSouth%2BHead%2BRd,%2BRose%2BBay%26entry%3Dgmail%26source%3Dg&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1521758800932000&amp;usg=AFQjCNEkuKY4EXKz1Ot9_JBF0gWVsXwvKg"> 480 Old South Head Rd, Rose Bay</a> (pictured below).</p>
<p dir="ltr"> </p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><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/2018/3/23/Original31474663.jpg" alt=""><br></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span>“As a mortgage broker, I’ve seen the average time on market up to 40 days in some instances and for Warren to exchange within half that time and exceed our asking price by 13 per cent is really incredible,” Oliver Studdy said.</span></p>
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Quick Olola Avenue, Vaucluse sale

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<p>After a four week marketing campaign, Ray White Group's Andrew Jolliffe, has sold the Padstow Park Hotel. </p>
<p>The hotel, currently ranked 169 in the State's top 200 gaming hotels, and the recipient of a recent extension of trading hours windfall until 2am, is situated opposite Padstow train station on a 2700 sqm block. </p>
<p>Jolliffe advised that the auction room was again well supported by purchasers. </p>
<p>His auction sale record is now sitting at an 86% success rate.</p>
<p>The hotel was purchased for $26,000,000.00 by JDA hotels who enjoyed a management agreement at the hotel, confirmed Jolliffe. </p>
<p>The hotel was sold by White &amp; Partners who bought it in 2014 for $13.7 million when sold by Wesfarmers hospitality arm Coles Liquor. </p>
<p>"The market remains particularly active at present with the bandwith of sales for A grade hotels operating between 7% and 8.5%" commented Jolliffe. </p>
<p>Speaking on behalf of the purchaser, John Feros said they clearly knew the hotel, and had a good appreciation of the area; "having operated hotels in that part of Sydney for decades." </p>
<p><span><span>Ray White Hotels Australia has another 80m worth of hospitality assets currently under agreement, including the Ophir Tavern in the State's South West which the firm sold on behalf of Sydney based P.E. firm EBC Capital last Friday following an EOI campaign.</span></span></p>
<div class="page" title="Page 1"> </div>
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Padstow Hotel price almost doubles in four years

<html><body>
<p><span id="ember15838" class="ember-view">The Agency has partnered with the </span>Australian Turf Club, and as<span id="ember15843" class="ember-view"> part of its sponsorship, the prestigious George Ryder Stakes will now be The Agency George Ryder Stakes.</span></p>
<p><span id="ember15843" class="ember-view">Matt Lahood has assisted the ATC for 20 years as a property advisor.</span></p>
<p><span id="ember15843" class="ember-view">"I am thrilled to re-connect with this much-loved Australian sporting institution," he said.</span></p>
<p><span id="ember15843" class="ember-view">He caught up with the ATC chairman Laurie Macri to celebrate their working together (above).</span></p>
<p>The Agency George Ryder Stakes – one of five Group 1 races on Longines Golden Slipper Day – is also ranked as one of the highest rated races in the world.</p>
<p>The world’s equal highest rated horse Winx has won the past two The Agency George Ryder Stakes and is again aiming for the $1 million Group 1 race.</p>
<p><span class="ember-view"> </span></p>
<p><span class="ember-view" style="box-sizing: inherit; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; border: 0px; outline: 0px; font-size: 14px; vertical-align: baseline; color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.74902); font-family: -apple-system, system-ui, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', 'Fira Sans', Ubuntu, Oxygen, 'Oxygen Sans', Cantarell, 'Droid Sans', 'Lucida Grande', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Hiragino Kaku Gothic Pro', Meiryo, 'Hiragino Sans GB W3', 'Noto Naskh Arabic', 'Droid Arabic Naskh', 'Geeza Pro', 'Simplified Arabic', 'Noto Sans Thai', Thonburi, Dokchampa, 'Droid Sans Thai', 'Droid Sans Fallback', '.SFNSDisplay-Regular', 'Heiti SC', 'Microsoft Yahei'; white-space: pre-wrap; background-position: 0px 0px;"> </span></p>
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The Agency sponsors George Ryder Stakes

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<p>Australia’s inflation target is to keep annual consumer price inflation between 2 and 3 per cent, on average, over time, a Reserve Bank of Australian discussion paper re-affirmed last week.</p>
<p>The measure of consumer price inflation is the percentage change in the Consumer Price Index (CPI), which is deemed is a suitable measure because it captures price changes for the goods and services that households buy, is independently produced by the Australian Bureau of Statistics, is publicly available and does not get revised.</p>
<p>Since the early 1990s, the rate of CPI inflation – also known as ‘headline inflation’ – has, on average, been within the target range and expectations of inflation have been consistent with the target.</p>
<p>The Reserve Bank also closely monitors ‘underlying’ inflation, which excludes items that have particularly low or high inflation rates (either frequently or in a given quarter).</p>
<p>This allows the Reserve Bank to look through any temporary factors that are affecting the CPI and to assess broader inflation pressures.</p>
<p>Underlying inflation has averaged around the same as headline inflation since the early 1990s. Low and stable inflation has reduced uncertainty in the economy and has underpinned economic growth.</p>
<p>  </p>
<p><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/2018/3/16/I1.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The paper noted the inflation target provides a framework to guide a central bank’s policy decisions and to ensure accountability in its management of the economy.</p>
<p>The Reserve Bank adopted the inflation target in the early 1990s, as did various central banks around the world, with other central banks following suit over the subsequent decade.</p>
<p>In 1996, the Reserve Bank and the Government agreed on the importance of the inflation target and formalised this agreement in the Statement on the Conduct of Monetary Policy (which is typically updated following a change of government or Reserve Bank Governor).</p>
<p>The Reserve Bank uses an inflation target to help achieve its goals of price stability, full employment, and prosperity and welfare of the Australian people.</p>
<p>The paper noted this was because price stability – which means low and stable inflation – contributes to sustainable economic growth.</p>
<p>"Targeting inflation of 2 to 3 per cent avoids the many costs to the economy from inflation that is too high or too low," it noted.</p>
<p><strong>If inflation is too high:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Consumers’ purchasing power – the real value of money – is reduced. If prices are increasing faster than people’s nominal incomes, they will be able to afford fewer goods and services than before.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Workers may then seek larger wage increases to compensate for the effects of higher inflation on their purchasing power. In turn, higher wage growth raises firms’ costs, which may lead firms to raise prices further and/or reduce the number of workers they employ.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Spending and investment decisions may be distorted. This is because high inflation can influence when households make purchases or businesses make investment decisions. For example, if households expect higher inflation, they may make purchases sooner than originally planned to avoid paying more.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Returns on investment may be lower. Inflation influences investment decisions because a higher inflation rate will reduce the real return on the investment. Inflation can also affect the real interest paid by borrowers to lenders. For example, if inflation turns out to be higher than expected when the loan was agreed, the lender will get less than they had planned because inflation reduces the purchasing power of the interest earnings they receive.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Businesses need to update their prices more frequently and consumers spend more time comparing prices. This increases their uncertainty about the economy, which may discourage spending and investment and reduce economic growth.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>A country’s international competitiveness may be lowered. If inflation is higher in one country, then the goods and services it produces will become more expensive compared with other countries (unless its currency depreciates). For more on exchange rates, see <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au/education/resources/explainers/exchange-rates-and-the-australian-economy">Explainer: Exchange Rates and the Australian Economy</a>.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>If inflation is too low:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>
<p>Consumers may delay purchases if they expect prices to fall. As a result, falling prices – a situation called ‘deflation’ – can lead to lower spending. Businesses could respond by laying off workers or reducing wages which, in turn, places further downward pressure on demand and prices.</p>
</li>
<li>
<p>Businesses facing difficult conditions may find it hard to reduce the real wages of their employees and may resort to laying off workers instead. This is because businesses that need to decrease their real wages usually choose to allow their nominal wages to grow at a rate that is below the general rate of inflation, and if inflation is very low this is more difficult to do.</p>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="box">
<p>A real value is a dollar value – also known as a nominal value – less the effects of inflation.</p>
<p>The difference between real and nominal values can be shown using income as an example. Suppose that a worker earned $100 last year and $105 this year. The worker has received a 5 per cent increase in nominal income. Also suppose that the inflation rate is 2 per cent over the same period. If we subtract the rate of inflation from the growth in the worker’s nominal income, then the worker’s real (or inflation-adjusted) income has increased by 3 per cent. This means that the worker can buy 3 per cent more goods and services than before. In other words, their purchasing power has increased by 3 per cent. This and some other examples are shown below.</p>
<p><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/2018/3/16/I2.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Monetary policy aims to keep inflation between 2 and 3 per cent, on average, over time, in support of the Reserve Bank's goals of price stability and full employment. Assessing the current and expected rate of inflation against the inflation target helps the Reserve Bank in making monetary policy decisions. When inflation is above the target, this can be a sign that the economy is overheating. When inflation is below the target, this can be a sign that there is spare capacity in the economy.</p>
<p>The cash rate is then used to dampen or stimulate economic activity so that inflation is consistent with the target. If inflation is expected to be higher than the target for a prolonged period, the Reserve Bank would typically increase the cash rate. If inflation is expected to be lower than the target for a sustained period, the Reserve Bank would typically lower the cash rate. Changes in the cash rate take time to affect the economy.</p>
<p>The discussion paper noted that was why the Reserve Bank looks to what inflation is forecast to be in the future when deciding on the level of the cash rate today. </p>
<p>When deciding if monetary policy should respond to inflation – both current and expected – the Reserve Bank Board distinguishes between temporary and persistent changes in inflation.</p>
<div><strong>If inflation is expected to be:</strong></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/2018/3/16/I3.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div class="image-graph">Temporary changes in inflation may be caused by things like supply disruptions or seasonal sales, while persistent changes in inflation arise from things like a sustained increase in wage growth across the community. The Reserve Bank ‘looks through’ temporary changes in inflation when setting monetary policy. However, if households and businesses expect a change in inflation to be longer lasting, it can have a bigger effect on their behaviour and consequently become more important to monetary policy decisions.
<p><strong>Why target 2 to 3 </strong>per cent<strong>?</strong></p>
The 2 to 3 per cent target range is sufficiently low that inflation at this level does not significantly influence people’s economic decisions. This target range was set in the early 1990s when inflation of around 2 to 3 per cent had already been achieved. It was decided that inflation should be kept at around that rate, given the fact that the lowest average inflation rate experienced by other countries had, over many years, been a little over 2 per cent. At these levels of inflation an economy can achieve sustainable growth in output and employment.A higher inflation target could increase uncertainty and costs in the economy. A lower inflation target, on the other hand, is costly to achieve.For example:<ol>
<li>The reduction in growth in spending and investment required to keep inflation at a lower target would lower output growth and increase unemployment.</li>
<li>Having inflation much lower than 2 to 3 per cent over the medium term can limit the ability of monetary policy to stimulate demand. For example, in response to a sharp decline in aggregate demand, it may be the case that monetary policy should be set such that real interest rates become negative. Having a very low inflation target (so that actual inflation is close to zero) makes it more difficult to reduce real interest rates to such levels.</li>
<li>Businesses that need to decrease their real wages and prices in response to negative events usually choose to allow their nominal wages and prices to grow at a rate that is below the general rate of inflation; if inflation is very low, there is less room for a business’s wages or prices to grow at a rate below inflation.</li>
</ol>In addition, the inflation target must be high enough to account for measurement bias in the CPI. The CPI is upwardly biased because it is calculated with a fixed basket of goods and services which is only updated once a year; until 2017 it was updated only once every few years.A fixed basket does not take into account that households will adjust their spending patterns to buy less of items with relatively higher inflation rates and buy more of items that are becoming relatively cheaper. Consequently, the price of the basket of goods and services that they actually consume will increase by less than the price of the fixed basket. The Reserve Bank’s inflation target is flexible. This means that inflation does not need to be in the target range at all times, but on average, over time. Inflation can be affected by temporary influences, such as supply disruptions or a tax change, which monetary policy should not respond to.Furthermore, having a flexible inflation target allows the Reserve Bank to consider its broader objectives of employment and financial stability. </div>
</div>
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Understanding the RBA's inflation target: Economics 101 

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<p class="m_6268133976315433249x_MsoNormal"><span>Australian cities continue to offer the world’s highest quality of living and remain attractive destinations for expatriates on assignment, according to Mercer’s 20<sup>th</sup> annual <a id="m_6268133976315433249LPlnk333679" href="https://www.imercer.com/content/mobility/quality-of-living-city-rankings" target="_blank" data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?hl=en&amp;q=https://www.imercer.com/content/mobility/quality-of-living-city-rankings.html&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1521672718938000&amp;usg=AFQjCNGzgPb919p4f5qmXOE6SosrcdYguQ">Quality of Living survey</a>. </span></p>
<p class="m_6268133976315433249x_MsoNormal"><span>However, it was also revealed that cities in emerging markets, though challenged by economic and political turmoil, are catching up with top ranking cities following decades of investing in infrastructure, recreational facilities and housing in order to attract talent and multinational businesses.</span></p>
<p class="m_6268133976315433249x_MsoNormal">This year, Vienna tops the ranking for the 9<sup>th</sup> year running and is followed by Zurich (2), Auckland and Munich in joint 3<sup>rd </sup>place.</p>
<p class="m_6268133976315433249x_MsoNormal">In 10<sup>th</sup> place, Sydney ranked highest for Australia, followed closely by Melbourne at 16<sup>th</sup> place.</p>
<p class="m_6268133976315433249x_MsoNormal">Just missing out on the top 20 was Perth at 21, followed by Adelaide (29), Canberra (30) and Brisbane (37).</p>
<p class="m_6268133976315433249x_MsoNormal">Simon Kennedy, Mercer’s Market Insights Leader in Australia said that Australian cities continue to rank high due to factors such as stable political and social environment, strong infrastructure, good quality housing and recreational facilities combined with excellent medical and health services which attract international talent and businesses.</p>
<p class="m_6268133976315433249x_MsoNormal">“Today’s workplace is rapidly changing as we see more and more companies moving workers abroad,” said Kennedy.</p>
<p class="m_6268133976315433249x_MsoNormal">“However, to successfully transition employees to new locations, companies must understand the demands of operating in a contemporary VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous) environment. Importantly, companies need to be mindful of not only the costs associated with expatriate postings, but the quality of life provided by the new locations.”</p>
<ul>
<li><span lang="EN">All Australian cities within the global top 40; Sydney and Melbourne at 10 and 16 respectively</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN">Vienna ranks highest for quality of living for the 9<sup>th</sup> year in a row</span></li>
<li><span lang="EN">Mercer’s 20th annual Quality of Living survey provides rankings for more than 450 cities throughout the world; this year’s ranking includes 231 of these cities</span></li>
</ul>
<p class="m_6268133976315433249x_MsoNormal"><span> </span></p>
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