Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-6" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-2" dir="auto">
<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:5a5ab36c-8dd3-454c-b456-c501f22f0eb4-0" dir="auto">
The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

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

<html><body>
In the current <a href="/expert-insights/buying/covid-19-and-the-pathway-forward-for-property">Covid-19 market</a>, there has been an increase of ‘off-market’ listings and for any buyer there are some key steps every buyer should know when purchasing a property off-market.

‘Off-market’ listings or ‘quiet’ listings are those properties that are not publicly advertised but are genuinely for sale. Some vendors choose this method for a number of reasons:

<ul>
<li>They don’t like the auction process</li>
	<li>They don’t want their neighbours to know they are selling</li>
	<li>They are not pressured in a timeframe and keen to seeking market’s interest &amp; only if a buyer offers the right price then they’ll sell</li>
	<li>They don’t want to spend on expensive public advertising campaigns with the uncertainty of whether it will sell or not.</li>
</ul>
There are a number of steps you should consider to be successful when purchasing a property that is being offered ‘off-market’ but firstly, let’s look at where you can <a href="/guides">find off-market properties</a> for sale in your local area.

Getting access to these properties in the past required buyers to either hire an expensive buyers agent (charge a fee c2% of property sales price) or contact all the real estate agents in their local area. This requires building a relationship with real estate agents, letting them know you are looking to buy a property and the requirements you want to be matched with and ask them to put you on their agent database to be alerted when a suitable property comes up. 

Even doing all this does not guarantee a new buyer will be notified as agents will generally prioritise their longstanding buyer customers.

This approach is time-consuming and many buyers are missing out on finding a property to buy. 

Today there are new platforms created such as Property Whispers giving buyers access to off-market properties for sale and matches are delivered straight to your inbox.

So once you’ve been notified of an off-market property available in your area and you’ve spoken to the real estate agent about, there a number of key steps you need to take prior to making an offer to purchase.

<ul>
<li>Write down a list of ‘must-haves’ &amp; ‘wish list’. Your ‘<a href="/guides/5-tips-every-first-home-buyer-needs-to-know">must-haves</a>’ list is your non-negotiable list  - price, features and attributes you won’t compromise on. An example of features &amp; attributes you might not compromise on could be the lounge area must be very light or there must be abundant storage cupboards or room to add storage, and the kitchen and bathroom must be newly renovated. Or it may be that you only want a quiet street with little traffic. 
	Your ‘wish list’ you are more flexible with. Whilst the features &amp; attributes on this list are things you’d like to have, if they were not available you could do without or be open to make changes to the property, if you love something else about the property more. For example you love the renovation of the property, it ticks all the boxes in space, light, finishes but it doesn’t have a swimming pool which you’d like. You’d be happy to forgo this as it has the space for one which you could build later on.</li>
	<li>Arrange a private appointment to view the property. In many cases the property will not have been styled by a professional stylist so if you don’t like their furniture don’t be put off by that, just try and visualise your own furniture in the space you are looking at.  
	If you like the property &amp; would like to view it again at a different time or need to show your partner or family members ask the real estate agent to arrange another private inspection. It is important to show the agent that you are interested without committing to anything yet. The agent always refers back to their vendor after every inspection so you want to show some interest.</li>
</ul>
If the property ticks all the boxes then you need to do your due diligence to ensure that there are no hidden surprises. You need to ask the real estate agent for the following:

<ul>
<li>A copy of the Contract For Sale which you will need a qualified conveyancer or lawyer to review &amp; advise you of any issues.</li>
	<li>Permission to arrange a building &amp; pest inspector to provide you with a building &amp; pest report can be also be done now or at a later date prior to signing a contract.</li>
</ul>
The real estate agent will most probably ask your opinion on price. Don’t feel pressured to offer any price until you are ready. However be sure that you are comfortable with the price range that the agent is telling you. In an off-market scenario where there is little competition you can be in a good position to own the property if you are comfortable in that price range. 

Once your legal advisor has reviewed the contract &amp; there are no issues you are in a position to make an offer on the <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">property</a>. 

An offer includes three things: 

<ul>
<li>Price you are willing to pay for the property, </li>
	<li>Deposit amount (usually 10% of the purchase price) </li>
	<li>Settlement terms (the date you are willing to pay for the balance of the property).</li>
</ul>
Your offer is then taken to the vendor for their consideration. There may be some negotiation required to get to a mutually agreeable price. If you are not comfortable with the negotiation process then it’s best to find someone who can assist you with this process.

Once your offer is accepted you will then be required to sign the contract and attach the deposit cheque. The vendor will then sign their copy of the contract &amp; contracts are then exchanged. Congratulations, you’ve now purchased the property.

Article written by: <a href="https://propertywhispers.com.au/">https://propertywhispers.com.au/</a>

<h2>Recently added properties:</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29358]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=24323]
</body></html>

Nick Dante

5 Key tips to buying an 'off-market' property

<html><body>
After two months of lockdown, the State of Emergency in Victoria has now been extended to 21st June to take control of the Coronavirus outbreak. However, that doesn’t mean that all shops and businesses will open right away — lifting of stage 3 restrictions will be gradual, so it means that a few restrictions and rules are still in place.

If you are dying to leave the house, here’s a handy guide on where you can and cannot go around Melbourne CBD and regional Melbourne during this time.

The following venues will remain closed until further notice:

<ul>
<li>Melbourne Zoo, Healesville Sanctuary, and Werribee Open Range Zoo</li>
	<li>Melbourne SEA Life Aquarium</li>
	<li>Royal Botanic Gardens and Cranbourne Gardens</li>
	<li>Luna Park</li>
	<li>Crown Casino and its food and beverage operations</li>
	<li>St Paul's Cathedral and St Patrick's Cathedral</li>
	<li>Shrine of Remembrance</li>
	<li>Arts Centre Melbourne</li>
	<li>Cultural entertainment venues under the Marriner Group, including the Melbourne Comedy Theatre, the Regent Theatre, the Princess Theatre, and the Melbourne Forum</li>
	<li>Sports venues, including the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Marvel Stadium, Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena, Melbourne Arena and Melbourne Park</li>
	<li>Melbourne Star Observation Wheel</li>
	<li>Dandenong Ranges National Park</li>
	<li>Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park</li>
	<li>Phillip Island Wildlife Park</li>
	<li>Peninsula Hot Springs</li>
	<li>Puffing Billy Railway</li>
</ul>
The following will remain closed until June 30:

<ul>
<li>The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV)</li>
	<li>The Melbourne Museum</li>
	<li>Scienceworks</li>
	<li>IMAX Melbourne</li>
	<li>The Royal Exhibition Building</li>
	<li>The Victorian State Library</li>
</ul>
The following venues are open, but with social distancing measures in place:

<ul>
<li>South Melbourne Market opens as usual on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday &amp; Sunday from 8am to 5pm</li>
	<li>Queen Victoria Market opens as usual on Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday &amp; Sunday</li>
	<li>Fitzroy Gardens, Flagstaff Gardens and St Kilda Botanical Gardens</li>
</ul>
As of writing, the national cabinet is still in the midst of debating and finalising a roadmap out of COVID-19 lockdowns. In the meantime, remember to look after one another and always practise good hygiene.
</body></html>

COVID-19 restrictions: Here's where you can and cannot go around Melbourne

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVER
A significant number of wealthy individuals have used the ability of self managed super funds (SMSFs) to borrow for property and other investments to supercharge their funds.
It is not something done by retail and industry funds.
According to freedom of information documents obtained by the <a href="https://www.afr.com/companies/financial-services/richest-smsfs-are-leveraged-to-the-gills-20200421-p54lrg">Australian Financial Review</a>, in 2018 the largest 100 self-managed super funds had borrowings averaging around A$10 million each.
Given the tax benefits granted to superannuation, this exploitation of the system by Australia’s super-wealthy is scandalous, albeit legal. In 2018 more than 200 members of those biggest 100 self-managed super funds were members of the <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Financial_Review_Rich_List_2018">Financial Review Rich List</a>.
Along with other members of the 2014 <a href="https://treasury.gov.au/review/financial-system-inquiry-murray/the-panel">Australian Financial System Inquiry</a> chaired by David Murray, I voted enthusiastically for a recommendation to ban borrowing by funds.
Normally, borrowing creates risk
Unfortunately, after intense lobbying from the self-managed super fund sector, the Coalition government <a href="https://www.afr.com/companies/financial-services/richest-smsfs-are-leveraged-to-the-gills-20200421-p54lrg">rejected that recommendation</a>.
I am sure that each of the panel members put different weights on the arguments as to why “no leverage in super” would be good policy.
I focused on two.
First, leverage can lead to funds taking excessive risk, and it also enables some to “rort” the system by getting more assets into the tax-preferred status of super at the expense of the taxpayer
The second argument is about financial sector stability. Leveraged (indebted) financial institutions can be at risk of insolvency and exposed to runs by creditors. A highly levered financial system with lots of interconnectedness can face problems of fragility. Keeping super “un-levered”, as is generally the case for institutional super funds, would be good for stability.
These are not normal times
But even funds that can’t borrow, such as retail and industry funds, face problems if there is a “run” of members wishing to withdraw money.
That could arise because, believing that there are legislated limits on when members can access funds, they have invested significant amounts in longer term, illiquid assets such as toll roads, airports and office buildings in order to produce superior long term returns.
Changing the rules on when members can withdraw funds, such as with the current change to allow <a href="https://treasury.gov.au/sites/default/files/2020-04/Fact_sheet-Early_Access_to_Super.pdf">withdrawals of up to $20,000</a>, pressures funds to sell off assets they had planned on holding to generate enough cash to meet withdrawals.
Between $30 billion and $50 billion may have been <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-04-28/superannuation-early-withdrawal-risks-retirement-system-collapse/12192580">pulled out already</a>.
It isn’t a good time to be selling assets. Depressed sale prices mean the value of all members’ accounts will be further depressed.
Super funds could borrow to obtain the cash needed to meet withdrawals. But that would expose their members to considerable risk if asset prices fell further. They would have to have to pay back the loan from assets that were worth less.
For now, I’ve changed my mind
But if the liquidity problem is purely temporary, brought on by a temporary change in legislation, borrowing might not be such a bad option compared to a forced sale of assets.
While I have not changed my view on prohibiting borrowing in general, I think current circumstances warrant a limited exception.
That exception is that where there is a temporary liquidity problem, brought on by a government change in rules, the institutional super funds should be able to borrow from the Reserve Bank.
Banks can borrow from the Reserve Bank in emergencies. Why not super funds?
In this regard, I am at variance with commentators like David Murray and indeed the Reserve Bank itself. Moreover, I think there are reasonable arguments for making access to the Reserve Bank ongoing.
Bank access to the Reserve Bank, often referred to as the Reserve Bank being a “lender of last resort” is not about bailing out insolvent institutions. It is about providing temporary liquidity, at a price, to solvent, but illiquid institutions.
And the current issue is one of illiquidity, not insolvency. In principle at least, unlevered accumulation funds can’t go insolvent. If the value of assets falls, liabilities (amounts due to members) fall correspondingly.
The government should fix a problem it created
When an unexpected policy change creates a liquidity problem for super funds, it behoves policy makers to find a solution that avoids the need for funds to generate cash by selling assets at depressed prices.
Allowing super funds to borrow from the Reserve Bank using <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/r/repurchaseagreement.asp">repurchase agreements</a> would be such a solution. And since the need for liquidity is a consequence of the policy change, those borrowings should not attract a penalty interest rate.
It is important to note that these borrowings are different to the type we argued against in the financial system inquiry.
There, we were concerned about funds increasing the size of their portfolios by borrowing and taking on additional risks.
Here, the borrowings would enable funds to avoid shrinking their portfolios and enable them to reduce the risks and costs they (more precisely their members) face.
And consider making the fix permanent
My suggestion is that while borrowings by super funds should generally be prohibited, accessing temporary liquidity support from the Reserve Bank should not be part of that prohibition.
If access to such a facility is made ongoing, there would be a case for offering it at penalty interest rates and subjecting funds to liquidity regulation. But those are questions best left for reasoned discussion in more settled times.
Oh, and there has to be a severe crackdown on the ability of wealthy individuals to rort the tax benefits of super by borrowing through their self-managed super funds.
For the government to allow such borrowings but not support institutional funds by allowing borrowing from the Reserve Bank in times of crisis seems, at best, anomalous.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/137240/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/kevin-davis-3497">Kevin Davis</a>, Professor of Finance, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-melbourne-722">University of Melbourne</a>
This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-the-reserve-bank-should-fund-super-funds-during-the-covid-19-crisis-137240">original article</a>.
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Why the Reserve Bank should fund super funds during the COVID-19 crisis

<html><body>
Urban.com.au has recently reported that buyers are now demanding that more homes be built to a higher standard, using quality, safe and <a href="/news/urban-s-8-building-design-predictions-for-2020">eco-conscious building materials</a>. This shows that buyers are playing a more active role in identifying safe and reliable housing.

Regrettably though, once buyers move into a building, many of them no longer show the same vigilance regarding the ongoing maintenance of the building they now occupy or in which they invested.

So the question is, What to do if your apartment building isn't being maintained to an ideal standard?

The answer: Get involved. Become an active member of your <a href="/expert-insights/buying/an-owners-corporation-s-response-to-dealing-with-covid-19">owners corporation</a>.

This means attending the annual general meetings and making yourself available to join your Owners Corporation Committee, so as to be involved in the many discussions and decisions regarding the needs of your property. 

A committee consists of a group of owners elected at each Annual General Meeting who represent all the lot owners of your owners corporation. The committee is delegated the authority to make decisions on all matters in relation to the owners corporation. These include the control, maintenance and repair of the common property. The committee also has the responsibility of enforcing the owners corporation rules.

The owners also have the opportunity of setting up a maintenance plan which covers corrective and predictable maintenance of the building. This plan can be based on a ten- or fifteen-year forecast.

What could happen when one fails to get involved? To illustrate:

<ul>
<li>At one property in Melbourne’s CBD, only three out of the 395 lots were represented at the Annual General Meeting and none of these members wanted to serve on the committee. The reluctance of the members to be involved made it very difficult for this apartment building to be kept maintained to an ideal standard. This is why it is important that you be involved.</li>
	<li>At another property in the northern suburbs of Melbourne, consisting of 80 commercial/professional lots, a general meeting was called to resolve whether the Owners Corporation would fund balcony repairs that were actually private to the value of $280,000.00. Against all legal advice presented by the manager, an interim decision was reached by a vocal minority that disadvantaged those who failed to attend. </li>
</ul>
These and many other examples show the result when members fail to get involved.

<h2>The Role of Committees</h2>

Committees under the direction of an owners corporation manager, would act in the following manner:

<ul>
<li>Act honestly and in good faith; </li>
	<li>Exercise due care and diligence; </li>
	<li>Not make improper use of their position as a member to gain, directly or indirectly, an advantage for themselves or any other person;</li>
	<li>Report to the Owners Corporation at each annual general meeting; </li>
	<li>Act in accordance with the relevant Act and Regulations in your state or territory;</li>
	<li>Ensure that decisions and activities are always recorded in minutes of meetings; </li>
	<li>Submit minutes of all committee meetings to the owners corporation as part of the committee’s report at every annual general meeting;</li>
	<li>Ensure new committee members are given copies of the legislation; </li>
	<li>Consider and approve the Annual Budget </li>
	<li>Consider and approve all maintenance works</li>
	<li>Consider and decide on grievances</li>
	<li>Consider and decide on any legal matters to be followed </li>
</ul>
In my 12 years in the <a href="/news/taking-an-active-approach-to-strata-services">Owners Corporation industry</a>, I have found that the buildings that are best maintained are those with an active and vibrant committee, where differences of opinion are set aside for the greater good of all occupants and owners.

I have seen committees make brave decisions, assisted by their OC Manager, to ensure compliance with the Act and to balance the needs of all stakeholders. Some of the best committee members are those who are busiest in their professional and personal life but who take an active interest in their investment by getting involved to ensure that the building in which they reside or invest is maintained to an ideal standard.
</body></html>

Melvie

What to do if your apartment building isn't being maintained to an ideal standard 

<html><body>
<h2>To Buy Or Not To Buy?</h2>

There was a time, not so long ago when buyers, mainly investors, were tripping over themselves to buy <a href="/guides">off the plan</a> apartments. It was a phenomenally hot market and the price of property was increasing beyond wild expectation. There were also fabulous stamp duty concessions available to all who bought off the plan apartments. This made buying a very attractive proposition and sent a flurry of investors into overdrive to purchase property in this way. As time progressed the world has gone through kaleidoscopic change, there are many different schools of thought on the merits of <a href="/guides">buying off the plan apartments</a> at this time. One school of thought is to turn your backs on OTP (off the plan) as they are too risky, especially with the cladding debacle and oversupply. Another school of thought is that buying in this manner still offers strategic advantage, you just have to know how to extract that advantage to turn it into a profitable venture.

<h2>Determining the Market</h2>

Firstly, it is imperative that as a buyer, you make it your business to learn as much as possible about the pros and cons of buying off the plan. Understand that OTP is a concept purchase. That is, there is no physical building to view, only plans and models. You are making an investment in the ‘promise’ of an apartment yet to materialise. As such, you place yourself in a position of relative strength. The vendor wants to sell you what is perceived to be one of the greatest advantages of OTP; the ‘promise’ of time. This can be a good thing depending on the market. Should the building take a year or three years to construct, you can leverage that time to save your funds and thus borrow less and also capitalise on market growth and ask for incentives from the developer. Effectively, it comes down to how well you can read the market. Is it a buyers’ market or a sellers’ market? Determining this can put you in a clear position, hopefully one of great advantage. Note well, time does not always promise capital growth; you are making an investment and like all investments there is a side serving of risk. Sometimes offering a great return, other times, not so great. In the case of the latter, this can be problematic if the valuation does not come in at settlement. In a rising market it will not be a problem but in a retreating market you will need to cover the shortfall of the valuation and settlement price so be prepared. If you fall into the latter, sellers’ market, then the advantage rests with the developer. In other words, there are more people interested in the same property.

<h2>Buyers’ Market</h2>

In a buyers’ market, the advantage rests with the buyer, so take advantage of this time and don’t simply accept what the glossy marketing material wants to sell you. <a href="/guides">Ask the developer</a> what more he or she can offer you to get you over the line. Perhaps there is an incentive to pay for <a href="/guides/how-much-can-i-expect-to-pay-for-owners-corporation-fees">body corporate fees</a> or upgrades. You might be surprised what is available to those who ask. I believe that there is currently a window of great opportunity for buyers. The pandemic has wrought a swag of consequence on all facets of society, however, if you are in the enviable position of being employed and well able to secure a loan then the field is clear for you to sprint into action. The pool of buyers has contracted; many having lost their jobs and developers would welcome interest in their stock. It may be very wise to use this time to your advantage.

<h2>Deposits</h2>

It is often the case that there is at least a year or more to wait for the building completion of an OTP. This means that you have to part with your ten percent deposit for that amount of time rather than investing it and making it work for you during this interval. The solution to this is a deposit bond. This is a particular instrument that allows you to pay a fraction of what you might pay in deposit, to a deposit bond company, they, in turn, offer the developer a guarantee on your deposit. There are a few companies that offer these bonds and if the developer accepts this, then you may pay a fee of a few hundred dollars and in return the bond company guarantees your deposit. You need to demonstrate that you have the deposit and if in the event you cannot pay at the designated time of settlement, the bond company pays on your behalf and then will sue you to recover the money. You need to approach this judiciously, as with everything related to buying property.

<h2>Stamp Duty Savings</h2>

A few years ago, the government changed that rule so that you can only attain a concessional stamp duty rate if it is your primary place of residence. Bleak news for investors, good news for first or second home buyers. This is definitely an attractive incentive saving you thousands.

<h2>The Checklist</h2>

Navigating your way through the labyrinth of purchasing OTP does not have to be a traumatic experience. It can be ultra rewarding and a big step into homeownership. 

Have your checklist ready: 

<ul>
<li>Deposit/deposit bond</li>
	<li>Establishing if it will be your primary place of residence or an investment opportunity</li>
	<li>Incentives offered by developers (remember to ask)</li>
	<li>Guarantees on cladding (very important in this day and age. Some developers are including this in their marketing material. If you don’t get a guarantee in writing, walk away).</li>
	<li>How much time will it give you to save for a larger deposit (check completion date)</li>
	<li>Consider buying in the outer suburbs. There is a lot of growth and less expensive</li>
	<li>Consider buying with a co-buddy to halve your expenses and get into the market earlier (Imperative that you have a co-ownership agreement in place. Don’t enter into this structure unless you are legally protected.)</li>
	<li>Understand the market: buyers or sellers</li>
	<li>Conduct due diligence: is it overpriced, under-priced, well priced. Where does it sit with the median price for the area? Your valuation will depend on it!</li>
</ul>
Never rush your purchase. Always take time to conduct your due diligence so that you can enjoy the reward of a considered decision and security that home ownership can offer.
</body></html>

Navigating Your Off The Plan Purchase

<html><body>
Online property auctions have been a growing trend in the world of real estate, as a service for interstate and international clients who are physically unable to attend auctions in person. Since the <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/26/coronavirus-restrictions-tipped-to-send-australian-house-prices-tumbling">ban on open-house inspections</a> was made by the Federal Government, with the majority of Australian living in Government-advised <a href="/guides/covid-19-how-apartment-dwellers-can-keep-themselves-safe-during-self-isolation">self-isolation</a> and <a href="/guides/covid-19-how-to-adapt-to-working-from-home">working from home</a> to prevent further spread of the Coronavirus, more people are taking an interest in online auctions.

There has also been a surge of online off-the-plan enquiries, online inspections, digital walk-throughs, and demand for VIP appointments and online property auctions. 

Whether auctions are in-person or online, they are a highly competitive environment, which can seem like a daunting option for many property seekers. To help you bid in an auction with confidence, here are some tips that could help you win your dream home.

<h2>Do your research</h2>

<a href="/guides/how-to-navigate-buying-property-during-the-covid-19-crisis">Navigating the real estate environment during COVID-19</a> has been challenging, with many homebuyers relying on real estate websites and online resources to provide them with sufficient information. 

Whether you intend on living in the property or renting it out as an investment, you will need to ensure you are well prepared and informed. 

It is advised that prior to bidding or purchasing a property prospective owners should complete their own research on various different properties, sale prices, surrounding amenities and real estate data on neighbouring suburbs or cities. 

<h2>Looks can be deceiving </h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6257]

Property inspections allow prospective buyers to visit the house in person and envision whether the home suits their lifestyle or standard of living. Real estate agencies affected by the ban on open houses are sharing more photographs, floorplans, and <a href="/news/urban-s-tour-of-the-escala-newquay-display-suite">walkthrough videos</a> to help assist with the visual aspect of buying property remotely.

While this does provide buyers with a clearer view of the property, it is important to remember that looks can be deceiving as some properties can be manipulated to appear better looking on paper or in photos than they do in person. 

There are also a number of features to <a href="https://contractorsfromhell.com/7-things-to-look-out-for-during-an-apartment-inspection/">look out for during an inspection</a>, which can't necessarily be seen in photographs or in a video. These can include the quality of materials used in the build and the itemisation of inclusions and optional upgrades. This information can be obtained by requesting a full material breakdown, and by talking with the sales agent about what is included in the property price. 

Some agencies are still allowing in-person tours for VIP appointments if you do have the opportunity to attend a house inspection Apartments.com.au has created a <a href="/guides/home-inspection-checklist-step-by-step">step-by-step home inspection checklist</a>. 

<h2>Read up on the rules</h2>

Prospective buyers can prepare for an online auction by familiarising themselves with the rules and regulations of the auction, paying the deposit and registering themselves on any necessary platforms. 

<h2>Deposit registration</h2>

As mentioned above, prospective buyers participating in the auction are required to pay a deposit prior to placing a bid. This ensures that everyone that participates is genuinely interested in the property and has followed all the necessary procedures. 

Some agencies accept deposits through bank cheques while others request direct monetary funds transferred through internet banking or trust. 

It is important that you always check that the selling agency has received your deposit prior to bidding, as buyers that win the auction but fail to transfer the deposit risk losing the property altogether. 

<h2>Think fast </h2>

Property auctions can be competitive and fast-paced, so first-time online bidders should ensure that they are not left behind by ensuring they are well prepared.

Some bidders may be more invested in a property than others, and will refuse to back down by placing larger bids than others. The best way to avoid being intimidated is to not hesitate and place a counter bid immediately after theirs. 

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28100]

Since the auction is taking place online and you are unable to read the facial expressions of other bidders, placing a counter bid directly after another person's offer can show confidence (just make sure you set yourself a limit). 

<h2>Strategise </h2>

Observe the patterns other bidders are using. For example, some bidders may start low and build their way up, others may only watch the bids and then surprise their competitors with a high number, and lastly, some will quickly counter bid their opponents immediately after a bid. 

Observing how others manoeuvre and behave in an auction early on in the bidding, can help you plan your own strategy. 

<h2>Throw in an odd number</h2>

There is a popular belief that you have to place a bid with a round number such $200,000 and whilst most auctioneers prefer them, you can bid an odd number to throw off other bidders. Throwing in a bid with an odd number such as $203,000 may come as a surprise to many new bidders, and could potentially disrupt their strategy or rhythm they have developed throughout the auction. 

This will also help buy you time to strategise which bidders are in for the long run and which ones will begin to drop out. 

Some people also create a budget prior to bidding at an auction, for example, they may set their limit to $600,000 and no more. If you throw in a large odd number by surprise such as $607,000 they are often more likely to quickly drop out which can help you win faster or eliminate the majority of your competition. 

<h2>Conclusion </h2>

There are many different tactics and strategies that can be used to win an auction, but the most important can only be utilised if you complete all the necessary paperwork and research. 

And while you do need to place the highest bid to win an auction, a tactful bidder could have a greater chance of beating their competitors.
</body></html>

Tips for bidding at an online auction 

<html><body>
As Australia’s nationwide lockdown continues, parents are finding themselves turning to homeschooling for their children – with some parents even becoming tutors themselves. Homeschooling can be a challenge, especially for parents who are already <a href="/guides/covid-19-how-to-adapt-to-working-from-home">working from home</a>. However, there are many ways you can make working, studying and teaching at home a lot easier.

Here are a few tips:

<h2>BEFORE HOMESCHOOLING COMMENCES</h2>

Communication is the first step to providing children with a successful learning experience. Organise lesson/study times, 

<ul>
<li>Work schedule: How can homeschooling work around your work schedule? Is there flexibility to shift your work hours to accommodate homeschooling?</li>
	<li>Chores at home: Ensure you have a clean and tidy workspace to commence work/study. Encourage all family members to keep a tidy household, to give you more time for work and study.</li>
	<li>Personal space: Create a clear distinction between work and play to avoid distraction.</li>
</ul>
Once you've defined the schedule, cleared a workspace and set up a plan for working/studying productively, for parents who are looking to tutor their children, it's time to set out your content plan. Contact your child's teachers, search for online resources and talk to you child about what they are currently learning about. The Department of Education has prepared factsheets and other resources for parents to make sure everything is being taken care of when learning from home. Online resources for <a href="https://www.education.vic.gov.au/documents/parents/learning-from-home-parent-fact-sheet.docx">VIC</a>, <a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1464mZWKPA0TW32jWFCEajBAxjreNCSxiA_hgF3OkFOM/template/preview">NSW</a>, <a href="https://sites.google.com/ed.act.edu.au/act-home-learning/resources-to-support-home-learning">ACT</a>, <a href="https://www.education.tas.gov.au/learning-at-home/australian-education-sites/">TAS</a>, <a href="https://educationsa.govcms.gov.au/sites/default/files/preparing-for-online-learning-fact-sheet-for-parents-and-carers.pdf">SA</a>, <a href="https://www.education.wa.edu.au/learning-at-home/support-services-and-resources">WA</a> differ, so make sure you access the right one.

<h2>WHEN CLASSES ARE IN SESSION</h2>

Make it clear to your child that even though they are learning from home, the learning process should still be taken seriously, and the daily schedule should be adhered to as if they were in a classroom. Devise a schedule which features a combination of activities to retain your child's interest and concentration. This can include, directed learning, self-learning, practical activities, computer learning/research, and snack/fitness breaks.

The Victorian Government’s <a href="https://fuse.education.vic.gov.au/EarlyChildHood">FUSE Early Childhood</a> page offers resources for effective play-based learning. If your child is in primary school or high school, allow them to keep in touch with their schoolmates. Video calls are always fun — parents can also arrange for their children to have Skype exercise sessions with their friends.

<h2>AFTER CLASSES</h2>

Homework provides your child with an opportunity to revise whatever that was learned and further develop their skills. Assign homework for core subjects, but make sure not to overburden your child.

Much like working from home, it is easy for kids and parents to lose track of time — dismiss classes on time, and ensure that your child gets sufficient sleep to recharge for tomorrow.

Adjusting to a new role requires patience and resilience. Recognise that it is physically and mentally demanding for both yourself and your child, so it's important to be compassionate and maintain a good level of communication with your family.
</body></html>

COVID-19: Homeschooling has begun, so here are some helpful tips for parents

<html><body>
<a href="/guides/covid-19-is-it-possible-to-practise-social-distancing-at-home-absolutely">Social distancing measures</a> are tightening each day with the majority of the world's population confined to their homes. The government and health officials are urging the public to maintain a 1.5-2 metre distance from others during essential outings including grocery shopping, trips to the chemist, travel to work (essential workers only) and for one hour of exercise. At this point, it means that dog owners will still be able to walk and exercise their pets on a daily basis. 

Physical activity is important for both humans and animals, with most dogs requiring at least 2 hours of exercise each day to stay fit and healthy. 

There is currently no evidence that suggests that humans can contract the COVID-19 virus from dogs; however, studies have shown animal fur can carry the virus. 

Because of this, governments and local councils are urging dog owners to be more diligent in maintaining the health and safety of their pets such as by altering their walking schedule and creating a two-person limit when walking a dog. 

To assist you in caring for your pet during COVID-19, here's a guide to help you walk your dog in a safe and responsible manner. 

<h2>MAINTAINING GOOD HYGIENE</h2>

One essential health and safety precaution during the current pandemic is to wash your hands. Owners and dog walkers should be washing their hands for 20-30 seconds before and after each walk. 

Some health experts have also recommended people tie their hair up before going out and washing their face and hair upon returning. It is also recommended that you wipe down your dog's paws and fur before entering the home in case they have picked up germs from public surfaces.  

Surfaces such as park benches, tables, taps, bins, fences and gates should also be avoided. If you need to touch a surface, ensure that you are wearing disposable gloves or carrying hand sanitizer to disinfect the surface and your hands.

<h2>DRIVING TO DOG PARKS </h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2020-04-09_at_2.10.22_pm.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2020-04-09_at_2.10.22_pm.png?itok=x2SLWpBQ" width="580"></a></figure>The government restrictions during COVID-19 outline that <a href="https://7news.com.au/lifestyle/health-wellbeing/scott-morrison-announces-recommendation-against-all-non-essential-travel-c-756725">cars are only to be used for essential travel</a>, which means dog walkers who prefer to drive to enclosed dog parks, will need to change their routines to exercise their dogs in walking distance from their homes. 

People living in busy city areas with few park spaces in their vicinity should also alter their walking routines, restricting themselves to only walking in off-peak hours around less-trafficked blocks. People with animals and livestock in rural areas will still be able to travel to their properties to feed and care for their animals. 

Vets will still be able to provide emergency service for animals. However, non-essential trips to the vet should be avoided. If you do require veterinary assistance, you should call the vet prior to attending. 

<h2>AN INCREASE IN PEOPLE WALKING</h2>

Due to the closure of public and outdoor gyms, swimming pools and playgrounds, many people are opting for walking as a preferred form of exercise. People with friendly dogs who are prone to approaching other people or dogs should be mindful of those that do not like dogs or interacting with them, by leashing their dogs and walking them elsewhere. 

Check for 'off-leash' signs before entering a park, or sign up to the <a href="http://www.parkyourpet.com.au/">Park Your Pet</a> app to find out where the nearest off-leash parks are in your area.

<h2>SOCIALISING YOUR DOG</h2>

Many dogs love visiting 'off-leash' parks because it gives them the chance to socialise with other dogs. However, during this time, it is advised that dogs and their owners maintain their social distance until the situation is under control.

<h2>STAYING CONNECTED WITH THE DOG WALKING COMMUNITY </h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2020-04-09_at_2.12.28_pm.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2020-04-09_at_2.12.28_pm.png?itok=rWKbb8jg" width="580"></a></figure>It is estimated that there are <a href="https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/how-many-pets-are-there-in-australia/">4.8 million domestic dogs</a> in Australia which equates to 20 dogs for every 100 people. Dog walking has become a very social activity, which has led many people to form friendships with their neighbours. Social media groups are a great way to stay connected during this time, and share tips and advice for other dog owners in your community.

<h2>AGGRESSIVE BEHAVIOUR </h2>

Lack of training and socialisation of dogs can lead to aggressive tendencies towards people and other dogs. Owners with dogs who have such tendencies should not be walking their dogs in parks at any hour. (As a dog walker myself, I've found people with aggressive dogs tend to walk them at night)

New Zealand has also reported an <a href="https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/120782435/coronavirus-dog-attacks-spike-during-lockdown-councils-say">increase in dog attacks</a> since the COVID19 lockdown. 

<blockquote>
"We all play a part in keeping each other safe during this lockdown and part of this is remembering our responsibilities as dog owners." 
</blockquote>

Peter Thom, Hauraki District Council spokesman via Stuff News

<h2>PLAYING IN THE GARDEN </h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2020-04-09_at_1.29.23_pm.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="386" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2020-04-09_at_1.29.23_pm.png?itok=lODPHPJ8" width="580"></a></figure>As life under lockdown continues with many <a href="/guides/covid-19-how-to-adapt-to-working-from-home">working from home</a>, some dogs may be feeling the stress and loneliness of being locked indoors for extended periods of time. 

Pet owners with gardens are encouraged to help eliminate their dog's boredom by playing outside with them. When doing so, ensure your garden is properly secured.

<h2>INDOOR FRIENDLY GAMES </h2>

Games such as hide and seek and treasure hunts can be played indoors with your pets, as well as scent games, shorter distance fetch and tag. 

<h2>ELDERLY DOG OWNERS </h2>

The Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison has recommended that those over the age of 70 self isolate in their homes. Dog owners aged 70+ and people who fall within the at-risk groups* are still able to walk their dogs in public, although it is advised they take care, or request the help of a neighbour or family member. 

*People with pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and respiratory illnesses like asthma or a history of pneumonia are also more susceptible to contracting the virus and should consider self-isolating at home. 

<h2>WALKING SOMEONE ELSE’S DOG </h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2020-04-09_at_1.29.51_pm.png" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2020-04-09_at_1.29.51_pm.png?itok=EHzrt-gM" width="580"></a></figure>Volunteering to walk a self-isolating person's dog is a great way to assist your local community. Dog walkers should remember to practise good hygiene techniques before and after their dog walks, and to only interact with the animals' owners from a safe distance without entering their homes. 

Dogs from self-isolating households should always be leashed during walks to avoid contact with other people and animals in public. 

<h2>OWNERS THAT CONTRACT COVID-19</h2>

If you contract the COVID-19 virus, you should cease all interactions with your pet and pass on the responsibility of care to your friends and family if possible. 

You can also request that your pet's new caregiver stays connected through social media with regular video calls, daily photos of your pet, walking your dog down past your house, or by installing a <a href="https://www.wideopenpets.com/now-you-can-video-chat-with-your-pets-via-petchatz-and-pawcall/">pet video calling device</a>. 

Dogs play a significant role in our societies, as our companions and members of our families, so it's important to give them extra love and attention during this time. 
</body></html>

How to walk your dog during the COVID-19 pandemic

<html><body>
If you’ve never owned a property in an Owners Corporation* before, and aren’t sure what to expect financially, here are <a href="/guides">some questions</a> I tell clients to ask themselves to help them determine what <a href="/guides/how-to-make-strata-fees-work-in-your-favour">fees they could be expected to pay</a>.

*formerly known as a Body Corporate

<h2>1. Does the complex have a lift, gymnasium or swimming pool?  </h2>

If so, costs to maintain these types of facilities can be significant. And, if you own a property in a complex with one of these, it is likely your Owners Corporation Fees will be higher than those in a complex without.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3730]

<h2>2. How many lots (apartments, units) does the complex have?  </h2>

Usually, the higher the number of lots, the lower the fees. Why is this? Because there are more people to share costs with. And even though the operating costs of larger complexes can be more significant, because there is a lot more common property to maintain – and often, in larger complexes, there are facilities like lifts, gymnasiums, and swimming pools – the operating expense is spread out across the number of lots, so an individual’s contribution tends to be less overall.  

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4807]

<h2>3. What percentage or unit of liability is your lot on the Plan of Subdivision?  </h2>

If there are varying percentages or units of liability, the higher the percentage or unit of liability, the more you will pay in Owners Corporation Fees. Unsure what your lot’s percentage or unit of liability is? Check the Plan of Subdivision for your Owners Corporation, which contains this information.  

The percentage or unit of liability per lot is determined by the surveyor early on, most often before building construction commences. Quite often, the percentage or unit of liability will be equal (which then generally results in everyone paying the same or equal amount of Owners Corporation Fees).  

However, this is not always the case. There are factors that determine whether a particular lot may attract a higher percentage of liability, and more often than not, the size of the lot is the main contributing factor. If you’re planning to purchase a three-bedroom penthouse apartment, as opposed to a one-bedroom first-floor apartment, and the percentages or units are varying, it is likely your share of the Owners Corporation Fees will be higher than those of the one-bedroom first-floor apartment.  

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22584]

<h2>4. Is there more than one Owners Corporation/Subdivision, and is your lot part of more than one Owners Corporation/Subdivision?  </h2>

Some complexes have multiple Owners Corporations/Subdivisions. Again, this is something that is generally determined by the surveyor before building construction commences. But this does mean that there are multiple areas of common property to maintain, which can result in you having to contribute towards the operating expenses of more than one Owners Corporation. For example, your property might be on the upper floor of a complex and accessed via a lift which is in the common property for Owners Corporation/Subdivision 2. The properties on the ground floor, which aren’t accessed via the elevator, may not be part of Owners Corporation/Subdivision 2, therefore they are not required to contribute to the operating expenses of this Owners Corporation.

<h2>5. How much is my Owners Corporation’s insurance?  </h2>

As well as covering the cost of regular maintenance, repairs, common utilities, essential services, management, and other expenses, Owners Corporation Fees also include the <a href="/guides/contents-vs-strata-insurance-a-guide-to-understanding-the-cover-for-your-brand-new-apartment">cost of insurance</a>. This can often be the most significant expense for an Owners Corporation (although, when divided up and compared, an individual’s contribution towards the insurance in an Owners Corporation, is often less significant than the cost of home and contents insurance for a stand-alone property).  

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29947]

Owners Corporations are obliged under Section 54 of the Owners Corporations Act 2006 to <a href="https://www.lookupstrata.com.au/owners-corporation-insurance-requirements-victoria/">have insurance</a> for the buildings and common property, including public liability. And the quality and style of the complex can impact on how significant the insurance costs are.  

Although the above is not an exclusive list of factors that will determine how much an individual can expect to pay for Owners Corporation Fees, and the overall operating expenses of an Owners Corporation can vary significantly, generally these factors can assist an individual in understanding why the Owners Corporation Fees in one complex, might differ from those in another.  

Where to next? If you’re considering purchasing a property in an Owners Corporation, refer to the <a href="https://lplc.com.au/ufaqs/what-owners-corporation-information-must-be-included-in-a-section-32-statement/">Section 32</a> for specific information on the property, including what the current Owners Corporation Fees are, or seek advice from your solicitor or conveyancer.

If you already own a property in an Owners Corporation and aren’t sure why your Owners Corporation Fees are at the level they’re at, contact your manager or chairperson and request further advice or a copy of the Owners Corporation’s Budget. After all, it’s important for all individuals to clearly understand and be aware of what the operating expenses of their Owners Corporations are.    
 
</body></html>

How much can I expect to pay for owners corporation fees?

<html><body>
These days, it’s all about <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYQjssb7xdk">social distancing</a>. Studies have shown that the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has an incubation period of five days — a significantly longer period of time compared to the common cold, which is generally one to two days — and patients can infect others before beginning to show symptoms. Before a cure is found, social distancing is the way to go about limiting the spread of the virus. 

In a <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-20/coronavirus-covid-19-scott-morrison-enhanced-social-distancing/12075532">press conference</a> last week, Prime Minister Scott Morrison advised Australians to maintain at least 1 to 1.5 metres of physical distance between one another in public spaces. However, social distancing is just as critical at home as it is outdoors, especially if anyone at home had been in contact with a possible carrier. The Australian Department of Health has released <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2020/03/coronavirus-covid-19-information-on-social-distancing.pdf">guidelines</a> to do so.

Social distancing should be and can be, pre-emptive and low cost, according to the <a href="https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2020/212/10/pre-emptive-low-cost-social-distancing-and-enhanced-hygiene-implemented-local">Medical Journal of Australia</a>. In other words, social distancing should be practised as early as possible as a preventive measure, and it can be achieved without spending money on sophisticated medical equipment.

<h2>The following applies to all households:</h2>

Maintaining hygiene around the household is essential, especially in ‘high touch’ areas such as the bathroom and the kitchen. Health officials discourage against touching one’s face, so perhaps intimate contact between family members should be avoided for the time being. Health officials are also encouraging people to take extra precautions when coughing or sneezing. Fluids can easily pass on from one person to another through hands; considering the high infection rate of COVID-19, this etiquette should not be taken lightly. The correct and socially responsible way is to cough or sneeze is into the <a href="https://www.sbs.com.au/topics/science/humans/article/2016/02/15/why-you-should-sneeze-your-elbow">crook of your elbow</a> and always remember to wash that item of clothing as soon as you can. 

<h2>For households with members under quarantine, or members who are ill: </h2>

In addition to the above steps, extra steps have to be taken to contain the spread of the virus under one’s roof. If a family member at home is ill, they should ideally stay in an isolated room, and reduce all physical contact with other members of the household.

If possible, there should only be one person caring for the sick individual, and the carer should be wearing a surgical mask at all times. When bringing food to the patient, it is encouraged to leave it by the door or a place where the patient can collect it without being in contact with the carer. The door of the patient’s room should also be kept closed at all times to reduce the risk of the virus travelling to other parts of the home.

If anyone at home is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/what-you-need-to-know-about-coronavirus-covid-19#how-to-seek-medical-attention">follow instructions from the Department of Health</a> and seek medical attention immediately. For serious symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, the urgent medical helpline is 000.

The Australian Government has also set up a National Coronavirus Helpline for those who wish to seek information about the virus. The number, 1800 020 080, is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 
</body></html>

Latest Guides

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

News

Editor's Picks

News

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Guides

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

News

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

News

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News