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.

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.

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.

<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_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"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."

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.

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.

<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" />

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.

"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."

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.

Joel Robinson

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

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.

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.

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.

<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" />

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.

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."

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.

<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" />

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.

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.

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.

<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" />

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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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.

<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.

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.

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.

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351027]

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.

Importantly, these design principles have been applied consistently across the one, two and three-bedroom apartment offerings.

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.

The agent says buyers are increasingly recognising the area's long-term potential.

"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.

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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351031]

For Stage 1 resident Roji, it is the balance between convenience and comfort that has defined the experience of living at Kew.

"For me, it's a balance of quality and convenience," she says. "Everything I need is right here."

"If I wanted to catch the train, Scho​fields Station is just around the corner. Tallaw​ong Metro connects me to the city."

More importantly, she says, the development has delivered something that cannot be measured in floorplans or specifications.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-tallawong-23-27-schofields-road-tallawong-nsw-2762">Kew Tallawong</a> feels like home."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149637 project_image_fid=351024]

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.

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.

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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149637]

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

<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.

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.

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.

<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" />

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.

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.

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.

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.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"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.

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.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

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

<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.

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. 
&nbsp; 
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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362240] 
&nbsp; 
<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. 
&nbsp; 
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. 
&nbsp; 
"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.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362566] 
&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"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. 
&nbsp; 
"<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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=362564] 
&nbsp; 
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. 
&nbsp; 
"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. 
&nbsp; 
"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."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=13962 project_image_fid=291195] 
&nbsp; 
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. 
&nbsp; 
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. 
&nbsp; 
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.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=13962]

Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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

The inflation result the property market was waiting for

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Moelis Australia is weighing up an ASX listing of the Redcape Hotel Group this year.
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In July 2017, a Moelis Fund acquired the Redcape Hotel Group for $676m representing an asset level capitalisation rate of 9.6%. 
Redcape is the second largest gaming hotel operator in NSW and consists of 25 hotels, 22 of which are located in NSW and 3 in Queensland. 
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Moelis' chief executive Andrew Pridham confirmed Moelis' intention to consider a listing for Redcape in 2018, but said the ultimate decision would depend on market conditions.
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Moelis acquired Redcape from US hedge fund owners Varde Partners and York Capital.<a href="http://www.afr.com/real-estate/commercial/hotels-and-leisure/moelis-snaps-up-redcape-pubs-for-667m-plans-ipo-20170628-gx0k4x#ixzz4ptVxw3jV" title=""></a>
Redcape had a property portfolio comprising of 82 properties including 71 pubs and 11 shops based mainly in Queensland and NSW, with a small number of properties in Victoria and SA in 2011.
In 2011 the hedge fund consortium bought 38% of Redcape's $645 million worth of secured senior debt for around $200m and also acquired all of the $157 m worth of debt of National Leisure and Gaming, Redcape’s major tenant for between $ 35m and $40m.
The listed pub sector was battered during the GFC.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Moelis eyes ASX listing of Redcape Hotel Group

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Data released by SQM Research calculates the national residential vacancy rate fell to 2.3% in January 2018, with the number of vacancies Australia-wide falling to 74,113, down from 2.5% in December 2017, as renters secured homes for the start of the new year. 
In the big cities, Melbourne’s vacancy rate dropped to 1.8% from 2.1% while Sydney’s dropped to 2.3% from 2.6%. But that vacancy rate is still up from 1.9% a year earlier, reflecting slightly easier rental conditions in Sydney. The vacancy rate dropped in Canberra to 0.9% down from 1.3% in December.
Hobart's vacancy rate hovered just above a record low at 0.4%, reflecting a severe shortage of rental properties in that city.
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<td>
City
</td>
<td>
January 2017 Vacancies
</td>
<td>
Vacancy Rate
</td>
<td>
December 2017 Vacancies
</td>
<td>
Vacancy Rate
</td>
<td>
January 2018 Vacancies
</td>
<td>
Vacancy Rate
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Adelaide
</td>
<td>
3,375 
</td>
<td>
1.9%
</td>
<td>
2,772 
</td>
<td>
1.5%
</td>
<td>
2,793 
</td>
<td>
1.5%
</td>
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<td>
Perth
</td>
<td>
9,953 
</td>
<td>
5.1%
</td>
<td>
9,264 
</td>
<td>
4.6%
</td>
<td>
8,909 
</td>
<td>
4.4%
</td>
</tr>
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<td>
Melbourne
</td>
<td>
10,170 
</td>
<td>
1.9%
</td>
<td>
11,478 
</td>
<td>
2.1%
</td>
<td>
9,744 
</td>
<td>
1.8%
</td>
</tr>
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<td>
Brisbane
</td>
<td>
11,314 
</td>
<td>
3.6%
</td>
<td>
12,240 
</td>
<td>
3.8%
</td>
<td>
11,505 
</td>
<td>
3.6%
</td>
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<td>
Canberra
</td>
<td>
621 
</td>
<td>
1.0%
</td>
<td>
807 
</td>
<td>
1.3%
</td>
<td>
569 
</td>
<td>
0.9%
</td>
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<td>
Sydney
</td>
<td>
12,228 
</td>
<td>
1.9%
</td>
<td>
17,404 
</td>
<td>
2.6%
</td>
<td>
15,775 
</td>
<td>
2.3%
</td>
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<td>
Darwin
</td>
<td>
1,086 
</td>
<td>
3.7%
</td>
<td>
1,035 
</td>
<td>
3.5%
</td>
<td>
941 
</td>
<td>
3.1%
</td>
</tr>
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<td>
Hobart
</td>
<td>
186 
</td>
<td>
0.6%
</td>
<td>
96 
</td>
<td>
0.3%
</td>
<td>
126 
</td>
<td>
0.4%
</td>
</tr>
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<td>
National
</td>
<td>
78,364 
</td>
<td>
2.5%
</td>
<td>
80,092 
</td>
<td>
2.5%
</td>
<td>
74,113 
</td>
<td>
2.3%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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Elsewhere, the vacancy dropped in Perth to 4.4% from 4.6% in December, but it is still the highest of any capital city. Darwin’s vacancy rate fell to 3.1% from 3.5% over the month as the surplus of rental properties eases in that city.
Managing Director of SQM Research, Louis Christopher, said the vacancy numbers highlighted tighter rental markets in most capital cities, which was to be expected in the first month of the year as renters found new rental homes. 
 “We’ve seen falls across all cities, as students prepare for their first semester of study and lease new homes, and workers also secure new rentals, especially in Canberra which has a transient workforce and Sydney too. We are seeing very tight rental conditions in Hobart, which is putting strong upward pressure on rents. 
“While Sydney’s vacancy rate has dropped, it is still well up on levels this time last year. If the vacancy rate holds at this level in coming months, Sydney will be more of a tenant’s market in 2018 and rental growth could continue to ease,” Christopher said.
Capital city asking rents over the month to 20 February 2018 rose 0.2% to $562 a week for houses. Unit asking rents rose 0.5% to $443 a week. Over the year, asking house rents rose by 1.3% while asking rents for units increased by 2.8%. 
Reflecting a shortage of rental properties, asking rents rose the most in Hobart over the month, by 5.1% and 5.3% for houses and units, respectively. 
The asking rent for a three-bedroom house in Sydney remains the highest in the nation at $745 a week while for units it stands at $525. Canberra follows at $616 a week for houses and $436 for units. Asking rents for houses rose in Melbourne by 0.4% over the month to $528 while unit asking rents rose 1.2% over the month to $402 a week.
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SQM’s calculations of vacancies are based on online rental listings that have been advertised for three weeks or more compared to the total number of established rental properties. 
New reiwa.com data suggests Perth’s rental market has stabilised. 
REIWA President Hayden Groves said results for the December 2017 quarter suggests Perth’s rental market officially found its floor in 2017. 
“After a prolonged period of falling rents, soaring listings and record high vacancy rates, the market has strengthened. The December 2017 quarter results signal a stable market, which is welcome news for landlords and property investors,” Mr Groves said. 
Perth’s overall median rent price remained at $350 per week during the December 2017 quarter. 
Mr Groves said this was the third consecutive quarter Perth’s median rent price has held at $350 per week. 
“Perth’s median rent stabilised considerably in 2017. Where rents were once declining every quarter, we’ve now observed nine months of steady prices,” Mr Groves said. 
On an annual basis, reiwa.com data shows the median rent declined $10 per week. 
“Although there was a small decline between the December 2017 and December 2016 quarters, this is still a significant improvement on the year prior when Perth’s overall median rent declined $40 per week between the December 2016 quarter and the December 2015 quarter.
"Annually, the rate of decline has slowed considerably which is pleasing,” Mr Groves said. 
While the overall median rent price is stable, reiwa.com data shows a number of suburbs saw an improvement in rent prices over the quarter. 
“The top five suburbs for median rent price growth in the December 2017 quarter were Mindarie ($565 per week), Attadale ($455 per week), Bicton ($370 per week), Shelley ($430 per week) and Shoalwater ($295 per week),” Mr Groves said.
There were 13,555 rental properties leased in the December 2017 quarter. 
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“Despite the traditional lull of the festive season, leasing activity only declined 1.6 per cent during the December 2017 quarter. Tenants remain very active and it’s good to see that leasing activity hold up well throughout the holiday season,” Mr Groves said. 
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Madeley, Kingsley, Inglewood, Piara Waters and Cooloongup had the biggest improvement in leasing activity volumes in the December 2017 quarter. 
There were 8,912 properties for rent in Perth at the end of the December 2017 quarter. Mr Groves said rental listings in Perth have declined substantially since their peak of 11,300 in 2016.
“Listings have declined 8.4 per cent on a quarterly basis and are down 13.9 per cent compared to the December 2016 quarter. 
“These considerable declines are likely due to new dwelling commencements slowing which has resulted in stock being soaked up. Another contributing factor is the improvement in population growth into the state, which lifted to 0.84 per cent in the year to June 2017. The rental market is generally the first place to feel the effect of population growth, as new entrants into the state soak up rental stock first,” Mr Groves said. 
Average leasing days 
It took 49 days on average to find a tenant in the December quarter - five days faster than it did in the September 2017 quarter. 
Mr Groves said average leasing days had also improved by three days compared to the December 2016 quarter. 
“Healthy leasing activity and declining listings has increased demand, which means tenants are needing to act faster to secure a rental. It also shows landlords are listening to the advice of their property managers and pricing their properties competitively from the start,” Mr Groves said. 
Perth’s December 2017 quarter vacancy rate is 5.5 per cent - the lowest level since the September 2015 quarter. 
Perth’s vacancy rate is the lowest it has been in more than two years. It is now down from 6.9 per cent in the September 2017 quarter and from 6.4 per in the December 2016 quarter, which is significant” Mr Groves said. 
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Perth has highest rental vacancy rate at 4.4%, but down from 5.1% a year ago last January

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Eighty Eight, a $1.6 billion mixed-use development in St Leonards, had over 200 people attend its sales launch last week.
70 percent of the 180 Stage 1 apartment sold on the day.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/project/eighty-eight-by-jqz-st-leonards-600020070" target="_blank">three tower development</a> by Sydney-based Chinese developer JQZ is being marketed by Sunny Properties Group.
JQZ paid $295 million for the site last year, beating out the likes of Mirvac and Meriton who showed interest.
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Opposite St Leonards train station, the Christie Street development will comprise two residential towers of 47 and 26 storeys, holding 654 apartments in total.
It will include one, two and three bedroom apartments, as well as five five bedroom penthouses featuring their own private lifts. 
There will also be a 15-storey commercial and retail building fronting the Pacific Highway.
The project will commence construction in August, with completion expected by 2022.
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According to Sunny Wu, managing director of Sunny Properties Group, the level of interest in Eighty Eight is proof positive that apartment buyers are still active in the Sydney market.
“While in some respects the Sydney apartment market has flattened out a little, we’re finding that quality projects with first-rate amenities are still attracting plenty of attention – and Eighty Eight By JQZ is a perfect example,” said Wu.
“All apartments will enjoy amazing views, while residents will also have access to a rooftop pool, a lively ground floor laneway retail and dining precinct, a major supermarket, and the future St Leonards Public Library.”
Designed by leading Australian architects PTW, Eighty Eight By JQZ will feature a 30,000 sqm combined commercial and retail space, and will adjoin the future St Leonards open-air civic plaza, which will branch out over the neighbouring railway line.
Mrs Wu said the timing of the sales launch was also important in terms of garnering significant buyer interest.
“We’ve deliberately timed the launch of Stage 1 sales at Eighty Eight By JQZ to coincide with Chinese New Year celebrations, capturing international buyers who are enjoying Sydney’s warmer weather during the Chinese winter.
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Apartment purchasers still very active at new 88, St Leonards development

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The National Capital Authority is seeking expressions of interest for the sale of The Lobby restaurant.
The Canberra landmark has been closed for more than a year.
The authority said it would ensure that its heritage values are protected after the sale, NCA chief planner Andrew Smith said.
"Once sold, the NCA and the Commonwealth will remain committed to protecting and preserving the heritage values of The Lobby as well as the Commonwealth Heritage listed landscape which it forms part of," the authority's chief planner, Andrew Smith, said in a statement.
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Development of The Lobby would need parliamentary approval.
Smith expects that The Lobby be a hospitality venue, remaining as a restaurant or possibly becoming a bar or cafe.
The restaurant opened in 1968, mostly for politicians who wanted somewhere to dine near Old Parliament House.
The tender process is through Civium Property Group until March 15.
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The Lobby, Canberra for sale

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Stockland’s Commercial Property portfolio continued to deliver solid profit, and revaluations produced a net uplift of $124 million for the half year, including gains from several recently redeveloped assets.
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Stockland managing director and CEO Mark Steinert cited positive growth from retail leases as a contributor to the uplift.
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“We delivered comparable FFO growth of 2.7 per cent and maintained high occupancy across our retail town centres in 1H18.
"We achieved positive growth in rents for both new leases, at +1.4 per cent, and renewals at +2.3 per cent. Following a flat start to the half, retail sales growth for the second quarter of 1H18 improved to 2 per cent.
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“Our Retail strategy is focused on increasing services, lifestyle, health, dining and entertainment options to address customer demand and increase the resilience of our centres. We continue to see growth in lifestyle and entertainment tenancies, with comparable moving annual turnover (MAT) growth of 10 per cent in retail services and 2.8 per cent in casual dining and food catering over the half, reflecting the success of our remixing strategy. 
“Following the sale of the Corrimal shopping centre, we continue to take a considered approach to non-core asset disposals and remain focused on introducing third party capital across our assets. 
This quarter we will place Stockland Highlands on the market and as announced in August 2017 we are aiming to divest $300 million of retail town centres over the next 12 to 18 months, of which approximately $70 million has been completed to date,” Steinert said. 
Stockland’s Logistics and Business Parks portfolio once again delivered strong results and a 99 per cent occupancy rate, with the Group on track to continue growing the business. 
“The value of our Logistics and Business Parks business has risen around $600 million over the past four years, from $1.5 billion to $2.1 billion, and now represents 14 per cent of our total Group asset value," Steinart said.
"We achieved strong comparable FFO growth of 4.6 per cent for the half with positive leasing results and near-full occupancy. 
“We have $176 million worth of projects under construction and an additional development pipeline of over $590 million, targeting 7 per cent FFO yields and centred on the eastern seaboard capital cities.” 
Comparable FFO for the period was down 2.8 per cent across Stockland’s office portfolio, largely due to higher vacancies in Perth and ACT, however these assets are progressively being leased. Sydney assets, which represent the majority of the portfolio, performed well this period. 
“We continue to assess development opportunities for our Sydney office assets, a number of which have higher and better use options, and will consider divestment opportunities for optimised assets.” 
RETIREMENT LIVING 
The Retirement Living business continues to be supported by the fundamentals of an ageing population. 
However, sales at both existing villages and new developments over the half have been affected by the increased media attention on the sector, which has influenced customer confidence. 
Sales over the period were also affected by lower volumes of new development stock due to project timing. During the half we completed 28 development units, compared to 80 in the prior period, resulting in lower development volumes available for reservation.
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“The population of over 65s is growing at almost twice the rate of the rest of Australia and we expect market demand in this sector to continue to rise as the population ages," Steinert noted.
"Our repositioning strategy and development pipeline reflects the changing preferences of retirees, and our new contract choices and product offerings will continue to broaden our customer reach. 
“At our new developments we continue to see growth in the average price per retirement living unit, at 4.5 per cent for the period, which reflects the quality of our villages. Resident satisfaction levels consistently rate above 84 per cent, and in response to customer preferences we have an increased focus on health and wellbeing, and our services and facilities.” 
 
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Retail leases and redeveloped assets drive Stockland half year results

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Businesses requiring industrial space for transport and logistics are driving Melbourne’s industrial property market, committing to 332,389sq m of warehouse space throughout 2017, according to Savills Australia.
The company’s latest Industrial Briefing reveals these sectors accounted for 43 percent of the total 770,936sq m leased in the 12 months to December 2017.
Savills Melbourne’s Associate Director of <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/research/australian-research.aspx" target="_blank">Research</a>, Monica Mondkar, said that although the total space leased was down on the 928,154sq m reported to be leased by the end of 2016, it remained 11 percent above the 10-year average of 696,765sq m.
“The trend toward online sales is a key factor behind the continued growth in demand for warehouse and distribution centres,” she said. 
“This has been benefitting Melbourne’s west in particular, due to its relative affordability and proximity to the Port of Melbourne, which is Australia’s largest container port.”
Ms Mondkar said Melbourne’s western industrial precinct, which was the most affordable of all precincts, had been consistently increasing its share in the city’s industrial leasing market.
“The western suburbs now account for 46 percent of Melbourne’s total leasing activity, as compared to 35 percent 12 months ago,” she said.
Of the 354,205sq m of industrial space (tenancies more than 2,000sq m) leased in Melbourne’s western industrial precinct in the 12 months to December 2017, 63 percent, or 224,645sq m, was secured by the transport and logistics sectors across 19 leases. 
“This figure represents a whopping 57 percent increase in take-up on the previous year, pushing absorption from transport-oriented businesses to record-high levels,” Ms Mondkar said.
The report briefing highlights 35 lease deals in Melbourne’s west in 2017, 11 more than in 2016, with 14 leases for more than 10,000sq m.
Savills Melbourne’s Director for <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/services-and-sectors/industrial.aspx" target="_blank">Industrial &amp; Business Services</a>, Greg Jensz, said an undersupply in serviced land availability had driven prices, particularly for smaller lots.
“With the increase in underlying land prices, incentives to lease are expected to drop and face rents should grow from circa $75 to $80 per sqm for larger buildings 10,000 sqm plus, and from $80 per sqm up to mid-to-high $80 per sqm for mid-sized buildings between 5,000sq m and 8,000sq m,” he said.
Looking forward, Ms Mondkar referred to several infrastructure projects under development and in the pipeline, which would benefit Melbourne’s industrial markets by improving connectivity, reducing travel times, and expanding the transportation network.
“The West Gate Tunnel Project will provide a second river crossing at Maribyrnong and an alternative to the West Gate Bridge, with direct access to Port Melbourne,” she said.
“When this happens, more logistics-oriented companies will seek to set up in Melbourne’s western industrial precinct.
“In addition, the state government has announced a $1.8 billion public-private partnership to upgrade about 700 kilometres of arterial road network through the western suburbs, which will further augment industrial demand in those areas.
“Lastly, the federal government initiative to develop a $10.9 billion inland rail line between Brisbane and Melbourne will drastically improve the last-mile delivery process, and drive a considerable amount of industrial development to the proposed route in Melbourne’s western corridor.”
Savills is a leading global real estate service provider offering the full spectrum of services from strategic advice to managing assets and projects and transacting deals. Monica Mondkar is Associate Director of <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/research/australian-research.aspx" target="_blank">Savills Research &amp; Consultancy</a> and Greg Jensz is Director of <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/services-and-sectors/industrial.aspx" target="_blank">Savills Industrial &amp; Business Services</a>. To learn more about Savills, visit <a href="http://www.savills.com.au" target="_blank">savills.com.au</a>.
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Transport and logistics fuel Melbourne’s industrial leasing market: Savills Australia

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GUEST OBSERVER
While hotels in Sydney and Melbourne are experiencing unprecedented trading performance, there was a relative dearth of sales activity in 2017 with national transaction values down 35% compared to the 2016 calendar year.
There were no significant hotel sales recorded in Sydney’s core CBD and only a small number of investment grade hotel transactions in Melbourne’s CBD.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/2/19/transactions.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/2/19/transactions.jpg" alt="">
Since the peak of transaction sales set in CY 2015, there has been a precipitous decline in the total dollar- value of hotels transacted across Australia. Many owners seem to be opting to hold their hotels for fear of being cashed up without the ability to re-enter the market; which is becoming a self-fulfilling prophecy.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/2/19/transactions2014.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/2/19/transactions2014.jpg" alt="">
In 2018, we anticipate that Sydney and Melbourne markets will continue their strong trading performance given record international and domestic tourist numbers and visitor spend, and relatively muted supply growth.
There continues to be a fairly substantial (and apparently growing) price gap between Buyers and Sellers. This “gap” is accentuated in Perth and Brisbane where Sellers consider Sydney and Melbourne cap rates as being applicable to their markets.
We see counter cyclical opportunities in 2018 in Brisbane, which we consider has bottomed and will bene t from the Commonwealth Games and activities associated with the Queens Wharf development, as well as a number of other signi cant public infrastructure projects and large scale private developments. Conversely, Perth has additional new supply still to enter an already soft market, which in the short term will lead to further downward pressure on both occupancy and room rate. Likewise, this should give rise to buying opportunities for well capitalised counter-cyclical investors.
We are expecting developers in Sydney and Melbourne to exit their hotels to take advantage of robust capital values, lack of availability of existing investment grade hotels, and to capture the ubiquitous and deep pools of capital still searching for hotels in these key markets. The Developers exit point will be either a site sale with associated DA, turnkey sale with fund through obligations or project take out at completion.
Yield compression continues as the dearth of opportunities drives up pricing and leads to tighter yields (refer Graph 1):
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/2/19/savills1.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/2/19/savills1.jpg" alt="">
This lends weight to Savills Hotels often quoted notion of a global synchronisation of real estate investment yields, particularly in gateway markets like Sydney and Melbourne.
Click here <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/2/19/yield.jpg" target="_blank">to enlarge.</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/2/19/yield.jpg" alt="">
With the evolving situation regarding Australian Prudential Regulation Authority regulations, the spotlight on international bank capital adequacy ratios and the implementation of the so called “Basel IV” accord (arguably just a completion of the Basel III reforms), bank lenders in the Australian market will continue to scrutinise more carefully hotel assets, forecast cash flows and borrowers for the strength of their covenant. 
The likely effects include:
1. Assets or development projects which are not showing generous returns (and in the case of developments, a strong positive delta between total development cost and on completion value), adequate security (in essence, more modest loan to value ratios), serviceability and interest coverage will be rejected by Australian trading banks
2. Borrowers themselves will be heavily scrutinised – those with experience in hotel investment and ownership in the market, as well as healthy balance sheet positions, will obviously be preferred by traditional lenders and are therefore more likely to re-emerge as the most active buyers
3. Non-bank lenders will have an opportunity to supplant themselves over Australian banks and provide a range of debt products from ordinary senior debt to a range of structured debt solutions. This in itself should assist with a further maturation of the Australian hotel investment market
Direct overseas buyers and overseas equity (managed by local Australian funds) from mainland China, Hong Kong, Japan and Singapore continue to be the main sources of capital scouring the Australian market for hotel opportunities; however, local investors should not be disregarded and have been active players in the market, particularly in the second half of
We also foresee a return of traditional US, UK and European private equity and fund managers as active players in the local hotel investment landscape in 2018 and beyond.
Michael Simpson is the managing director of Savills Hotels.
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Lack of Australian hotel sales in 2017 mask opportunities in 2018: Savills

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A long-term lease has become available for the heritage Bridge Hotel building in Werribee.
Rick Berry and Stuart Kennett of Fitzroys are handling the campaign, closing March 21, on behalf of Wyndham City Council.
The two-storey Art Deco heritage building was built in 1926.
It comprises five main ground-floor bar and function areas across 602 square metres and 10 first-floor rooms over 186 square metres.
A 40 year-lease of two 20-year terms is available.
It is next to the newly constructed West End Car Park that provides 200 free public parking spaces.
Werribee has been further enhanced by the $275 million Wyndham Harbour marina and ecologically sustainable residential community project.
The development of four Catalyst Sites at Riverbend, Gateway and Cherry Street will bring to the Werribee City Centre $250 million of private investment, 600 new jobs, 700 new apartment residents, 100 serviced apartments to accommodate visitors, 1,400 new public and private parking spaces, 150 room Holiday Inn hotel, and a new Werribee Library and Integrated Community Learning Hub of more than 8,000 square metres. 
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Bridge Hotel, Werribee available for long-term lease

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Quest Apartment Hotels has reopened its doors in Toowoomba, following nine months of restoration work.
The hotel was damaged by fire last June, after a blaze broke out at an adjacent property. 
Building owner FKG commenced the $5 million restoration works after the blaze, replacing soft furnishings, broken windows and glass, electrical, plumbing and wiring along with fresh paint and carpet throughout, after smoke and heat ravaged the entire eastern face of the hotel.
Quest Toowoomba franchisee, Cynthia Rice has been with Quest since 2003.
“The former Church of Christ building is of significant cultural value to the local community, representing part of Toowoomba’s history, while having a wonderful aesthetic. We couldn’t be happier to have restored the property back to its former glory,” she said.
Located at 133 Margaret Street, the property features 74 apartments in total – a combination of studio apartments with kitchenettes, along with one, two and three bedroom apartments with kitchen and laundry facilities and a separate living/dining area. 
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Quest Toowoomba officially reopens its doors

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A retail investment on Brunswick Street, Fitzroy has sold at a floor rate of $15,260 per square metre.
Fitzroys agents Ervin Niyaz and David Bourke negotiated the $1.45 million sale.
The sale of 360A Brunswick Street was at a 5.3% yield.
The fully self-contained ground floor premises of 95 square metres sold with a new 5+5-year lease to convenience store Select 7, returning $77,000 per annum plus outgoings.
Bourke said the boom in medium and high-density development had grown the immediate catchment and attracted more young professionals to the archetypal stylish inner-north location.
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