A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.

In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.

The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.

The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments

The site currently comprises three commercial properties.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.

The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" />

A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.

Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.

Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.

First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.

The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.

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The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.

Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.

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The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.

Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.

With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.

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Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.

Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363778]

The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.

Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.

Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.

The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.

Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.

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Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]

For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

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The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]

Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

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Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

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.

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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.

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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?

The Albanese and ACT Governments have struck a deal to unlock nearly 5,000 new homes across Canberra, with more than 1,700 earmarked exclusively for first home buyers.

The agreement marks the second formal partnership under the Federal Government’s election commitment to deliver up to 100,000 homes for first home buyers nationally, working alongside state and territory governments and industry.

At the centre of the deal is a $250 million funding injection from the Albanese Government, targeting enabling infrastructure to bring forward new housing supply across a number of key precincts in the ACT.

That includes funding to unlock 75 homes in the Kingston precinct, support new development in Weston Creek, and deliver estate works across the territory that will facilitate more than 500 homes by 2034. Additional investment will go towards relocating powerlines, water infrastructure in Molonglo Valley, and further expansion of the Ginninderry regeneration precinct.

Housing Minister Clare O’Neil said the agreement was about making it easier for first home buyers to enter the market, particularly in a housing environment that continues to challenge affordability.

“We’re determined to make it easier for young people and first home buyers to achieve the dream of owning a home,” O’Neil said.

“We know the housing market is tough, and we want Australians to know that Labor has got your back.”

The announcement builds on more than $800 million already committed to housing in the ACT since 2022, according to Finance Minister and ACT Senator Katy Gallagher, who said the latest funding would help ensure national housing programs are translating into real supply on the ground.

“We’re working closely with the ACT Government to unlock land and invest in the infrastructure needed to get these homes built sooner,” she said.

For the ACT Government, the agreement aligns with its broader target of delivering 30,000 new homes by 2030, with Chief Minister Andrew Barr pointing to the role of coordinated planning and infrastructure investment in accelerating delivery.

“Now, thanks to our agreement with the Albanese Government, this work is about to reach a new level,” Barr said.

The deal sits within the Federal Government’s broader $45 billion housing agenda, which includes initiatives such as the Housing Australia Future Fund, the Help to Buy shared equity scheme, and incentives aimed at increasing construction capacity and reducing barriers to development.

Canberra set for 4,900 new homes under Federal housing deal

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After some modest declines and stagnation during the month of October, vacancy rates rose 0.1% on a national level during the month of November.
But significantly Victoria tipped the 3% equilibrium, according to SQM Research.
On a national level, vacancy levels rose from 1.8% to 1.9%, with a total of 54,067 vacancies.
Melbourne had a 3.2% vacancy rate, an increase of 0.4% from the October figure of 2.8%.
Melbourne has a total of 13,411 vacancies and is up year-to-year by 0.2%. SQM Research considers 3% to be “equilibrium” in rental markets, ie a balance between landlord and renter interests. 
Darwin also experienced a modest increase of 0.4%, from 0.7% to 1.1%, totally 256 vacancies. This could spell some relief for Darwin, which has been recording a vacancy rate of less than 1% for quite some time now.
Sydney is up by 0.2% to 1.8%, with a total vacancy rate of 10,048. The figure accords with the recent Real Estate of NSW data.
Adelaide rose 0.1% to 1.5% with a total vacancy rate of 2,429 during the month of November.
Canberra went from 1.0% in October to 1.3% in November, an increase to 684 vacancies.
Hobart had a gradual increase of 0.1% to 2.1% with 571 vacancies.
Perth is still a tight market, increasing 0.1% to 0.7% with a total vacancy of 1,302. Year-on-year, Perth has been unchanged.
“The rise in vacancy rates this month is the result of a seasonal effect which occurs normally at this time of year. We expect December to also record a rise as well, due to seasonality,” says managing director of SQM Research Louis Christopher.
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Melbourne tips the 3% vacancy rate equilibrium: SQM Research

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Although the official 2012 residential property auction season came to an end over the weekend, now could be the time to negotiate your way into your 2013 dream home.
As we countdown to Christmas and then the new year, the Property Investment Professionals of Australia (PIPA) says opportunities in the property market could actually ripen, with those closing their cheque books too soon potentially missing out on a unique purchasing opportunity.
Last Christmas Eve in NSW there were 100 sales. They ranged from $77,000 at Cowra to $5.5 million in Bronte when Toni Collette and her musician husband, David Galafassi secured their desired Sydney base.
PIPA says the Christmas season can bring greater room for negotiation and price discounts for both investors and homebuyers, as there’s less buyer competition in the market. Finding a solicitor might make things trying during the break, though. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/seven-smart-selling-and-buying-tips-for-christmas-house-hunting-or-early-bird-2013-listing/2012112758054">But the economist Christopher Joye bought his Sydney house on a past Christmas Eve, maintaining it was a good time to crunch the cheaper deal given the vendors had the property still for sale after an unsuccessful early December auction</a>.
At Saturday auctions in Sydney, the auction clearance rate hit 71%, according to Australian Property Monitors from the 44 reported auctions. 
A clearance rate of 65% was recorded in Melbourne from the 148 auctions reported to the REIV.
“Astute property buyers and investors are still active in the property market over the Christmas and New Year break because they know some great buying opportunities can come up,” says chair of PIPA Ben Kingsley.
“Most vendors will want to start the New Year with their property transactions completed which means they are often more motivated to close a deal.”
Kingsley suggests investors and homebuyers should retrace their steps through the property market and review properties that caught their eye earlier in the season.
“Originally, these properties may have been out of your price range, but if they’ve failed to sell, the vendor may well be willing to negotiate,” says Kingsley.
REIV say their busiest month is March, with 11,500 sales in 2011.
Based on the 2011 results, REIV are expecting 6,000 sales in January for Victoria.
Almost half the sales of the busiest month, REIV says a significant reason for this is the near total lack of auctions in January.
Sydney similiarly has few January city auctions, but  Australian Property Monitor's senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson, suggests this year saw the emergence as a "summer selling season."
"Certainly the trend has been for more (December) summer auctions over the last three years."
He puts this year's highest number of December auctions down to sellers being encouraged by around nine weeks of weekend auction clearance rates above 60%.
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po-LsXgBTHBmX

Property buying opportunities could ripen in the festive season: PIPA

<html><body>
<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/stories/2012/12/vinyl.jpg" alt="Christmas tree">It's no secret that apartments are becoming smaller, so if you’re finding it difficult to locate a spot for a Christmas tree, or are allergic to the smell of pine, here’s a solution.
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/115045424/leaning-christmas-tree-wall-art?ref=sr_gallery_5&amp;ga_search_query=christmas+tree+wall&amp;ga_view_type=gallery&amp;ga_ship_to=AU&amp;ga_search_type=all&amp;ga_facet=christmas+tree+wall" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/12/aptttree.jpg"></a>
It's all the rage in the big cities of the United States. As Christmas is only days away, the American websites most likely won't be able to deliver on time, but you may be able to grab a last minute one from Australian store <a target="_blank" href="https://vinyldesign.com.au/Christmas-Designs/Christmas-Tree-Wall-Decal">Vinyl Design.</a>
It's a modern twist on Christmas ornaments, creating Christmas tree wall decals. 
<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/113857224/christmas-tree-wall-decal-geometric-xmas?ref=sr_gallery_7&amp;ga_search_query=christmas+tree+wall&amp;ga_view_type=gallery&amp;ga_ship_to=AU&amp;ga_search_type=all&amp;ga_facet=christmas+tree+wall%5C" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/12/apttree.jpg" width="470"></a>
The vinyl wall decals only take minutes to apply to your wall and then you’re free to decorate as you please.
Taking up zero space and causing no damage to your apartment walls, these modern tree decals are affordable for $45 f<a target="_blank" href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/115045424/leaning-christmas-tree-wall-art?ref=sr_gallery_5&amp;ga_search_query=christmas+tree+wall&amp;ga_view_type=gallery&amp;ga_ship_to=AU&amp;ga_search_type=all&amp;ga_facet=christmas+tree+wall">rom the handmade marketplace Etsy.</a>
There is a choice of 14 colours and the standard tree is 92 centimetres high, however there is a choice to customise your own.
Once Christmas is over, you simply peel the decal of,f with no time consuming packing up of Christmas decorations.
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/12/apttree2.jpg">
It seems that the trend of Christmas tree wall decals hasn't quite caught on yet in Australia and majority of the stores are based internationally.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/no-room-for-a-tree-modern-holi-162018"><img src="/images/stories/2012/12/bookshelftree.jpg"></a>
Other ideas for those conscious of space include DIY trees like a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/no-room-for-a-tree-modern-holi-162018">bookshelf tree and a post-it-note tree.</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/no-room-for-a-tree-modern-holi-162018"><img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/12/postittree.jpg"></a>
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Christmas trees for trendy space-conscious apartment dwellers

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ANZ has noted housing demand/supply fundamentals continue to tighten, buoyed by net migration and population growth accelerating.
Given building activity was only moderately higher than cyclical lows, there was now pressure in vacancy rates.
Strong demand for existing rental stock was adding upward pressure to advertised rents across most Australian capital cities rental markets.
It was also creating some spill over activity in the home buying market from first home buyers, with the relative cost of mortgage payments to rents decreasing.
"Looking through the distortions of first home buyer policy incentives, first home buyer finance levels are around 25% higher than the recent low in early 2011, the report by David Cannington and Paul Braddick noted.
"We expect demand for first home buyer finance will continue to recover through 2013," the 2012 housing chartbook said.
The report noted house prices have increased in recent months across most capital cities aided by interest rate cuts and tightening underlying housing market demand/supply fundamentals.
However, the housing market outlook across states and territories will likely remain "quite desynchronised."
In the coming year, house prices in Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Darwin are likely to increase moderately, while soft state economic activity is expected to keep house prices flat to moderately lower in Melbourne, Adelaide and Hobart.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

ANZ notes housing demand/supply fundamentals continue to tighten, with net migration and population

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Australand has rebuffed the unsolicited, non-binding proposal from GPT to acquire much of its core business.
Its taken five days for the Australand board to make its response to what effectively was the cherry-picking proposal of GPT for Australand’s investment property portfolio and its commercial and industrial business.
The offer involved Australand retaining the residential business.
The Australand board has today declared the GPT proposal as "not providing a compelling value proposition."
It was not in the best interests of Australand’s securityholders with the board suggesting the offer "does not provide a sufficient premium nor compensate Australand securityholders for the transaction costs that would be incurred by Australand, structural inefficiencies and risks involved with implementing the proposal including the uncertainty as to the trading value of the residual residential business as a stand alone listed company."
The board does not intend to engage with GPT in relation to the proposal which they view as  "incomplete, highly conditional and subject to a number of factors including undertaking due diligence, exclusivity and market break fees."
The proposal involved GPT acquiring the assets at a premium of $140 million to the 30 June 2012 book value.
 
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Australand rejects GPT offer

<html><body>
Residential property prices in Perth and Darwin could rise as much as 7% next year, but  little optimism is held by Australian Property Monitors' senior economist, Dr Andrew Wilson for Melbourne, Adelaide and Hobart.
Record immigration levels, housing shortages and rising rents will boost Perth’s potential, APM suggests.
APM expects the best capital growth to be in Darwin and Perth in 2013, with Wilson saying Sydney and Brisbane also look good leading into 2013.
He expects price growth between 3 and 5% for both cities.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/12/apmdec131.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/12/apmdec132.gif"></a>
“APM expects investors will continue to be active in 2013 increasingly attracted to bricks and mortar investment by historically low interest rates and the prospects of capital gains – particularly focused on Sydney, Perth and Brisbane.
“Overall markets have stepped forward modestly into recovery in 2012, with the prospect of this trend continuing in most capital cities,” Wilson says.
Sydney’s inner-west, Canterbury-Bankstown and Hills suburban areas were tipped as areas to watch.
Despite Brisbane’s economy underperforming, prices there have stabilised and should improve. The apartment market should also perform well next year.
But capitals such as Melbourne, Adelaide and Hobart are expected to remain flat with little price growth.
Dr Wilson said markets would continue to be driven largely by localised factors such as job security concerns, cost of living pressures and state and federal government fiscal policies.
While local economic factors may constrain Melbourne’s middle market, APM expects the prestige market to continue building solid buyer momentum.
“[The year] 2013 should continue to build on the modest gains of the past year. However, the forthcoming federal election and the likelihood of a protracted campaign may result in some uncertainty amongst home buyers and sellers, with confidence already low,” he said.
APM says 2012 had been a positive year for the Australian housing market following a generally subdued period of buyer activity in 2011.
The national median house price rose by just under one percent over the 10 months to October 2012.
"Although the housing market performance in 2012 has been generally positive, results have nonetheless been mixed and patchy, with buyer and seller confidence remaining fragile.
"Capital city markets have responded mainly to local demand and supply drivers although the reduction in official interest rates from 4.75 percent in November 2011 to 3 percent in December 2012 has improved housing affordability and contributed to higher levels of buyer confidence.
"The cut in mortgage interest rates has however been offset by significant rises in the cost of living driven particularly by tight state and national government fiscal policies and increased energy costs," Wilson says.
"2013 should continue to build on the modest gains of 2013 however much will depend on the performance of the national and local economies.
"The December cut in interest rates to the lowest level on record should help get the market off to a good start to the year," Wilson says.
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APM expects property investors will be active in 2013, especially in Sydney, Perth and Brisbane

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The number of residential properties listed for sale across Australia increased by 4.9% during the month of November but remain unchanged year-on-year according to SQM Research.
The overall listings totalled 363,436 nationally but there is only the difference of 10 listing when compared to November 2011.
SQM Research says Darwin is showing signs of severe under supply with a decrease of 21.7% in listings compared to this time last year. However, during November the Northern Territory capital city experienced a 3.3% increase in stock, bringing total listings to 1,188.
Perth experienced the highest increase of listings this month with a 10.4% change - bringing the total listings to 18,737 – but dropped 3.5% when compared to November last year.
Sydney experienced a 7.7% increase on last month but is 9.0% lower than last year, with a total of 31,863 listings.
Melbourne has increased by a modest 2,345 listings compared to last month – a total of 5.3% - but isstill down on last year by 0.4%.
Brisbane listings also increased compared to last month by 3.1% - a total of 27,331 – but is down 1.2% on November 2011.
Canberra listings increased by 9.2% compared to last month and 4.4% year-on-year, with listings totaling 4,103.
Hobart also increased significantly by 6.4% to 4,615 listings during the month of November. Hobart experienced the biggest year-on-year change with a 6.6% increase.
“It seems the spring selling season did come late for the property market, with the November results being the first spring month to record a meaningful increase in listings,” says managing director of SQM Research Louis Christopher.
SQM Research predicts closer to Christmas, the level of stock will stagnate or decrease slightly as the property market slows down for the end of the year.
“In line with seasonality, I expect the December and January results to records falls,” says Louis Christopher.
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Residential listings rise 4.9% in November to bloom late in the last month of spring: SQM Research

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Pricey Forrest – with a median house price of $1,722,500 – is ACT's slowest selling suburb, with an average of 138 days on the market before private treaty sale.
In second place is Casey, with a median house price of $535,000 and an average of 121 days on the market.
Third place is a draw between Campbell and Forde, which both have an average sitting time of 155 days.
Campbell's median house price is $893,000 and Forde's median house price is $543,000.
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1" style="width: 470px;"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="106" valign="top">
Suburb
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
Postcode
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
Median Price
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
Days on market
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="106" valign="top">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Forrest</a>
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
2603
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
$1,772,500
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
138
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="106" valign="top">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Casey</a>
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
2913
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
$535,000
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
121
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="106" valign="top">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Campbell</a>
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
2612
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
$893,000
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
115
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="106" valign="top">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Forde</a>
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
2914
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
$543,000
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
115
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="106" valign="top">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Monash</a>
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
2904
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
$512,000
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
112
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="106" valign="top">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Bruce</a>
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
2617
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
$645,000
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
108
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="106" valign="top">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Isaacs</a>
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
2607
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
$815,000
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
98
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="106" valign="top">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Griffith</a>
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
2603
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
$1,060,000
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
93
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="106" valign="top">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Hughes</a>
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
2605
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
$777,500
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
93
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="106" valign="top">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Flynn</a>
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
2615
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
$480,000
</td>
<td width="106" valign="top">
92
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rpdata.com/" style="outline-style: none; outline-width: initial; outline-color: initial; text-decoration: underline; color: #6888b1;">RPData</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.rpdata.com/"></a>
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Forrest tops ACT 10 slowest selling suburbs: RP Data 

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Housing credit provided by lenders to borrowers increased by just 0.3% over October, continuing a trend of record low mortgage growth, according to RBA figures.
This followed an increase of 0.4% over September to leave housing credit growth at 4.7% for the year to October – the lowest rate of growth for data going back to 1976.
Owner occupier lending rose just 0.3% to be up 4.3% for the year with investor lending activity slightly stronger, up 0.4% for the month and 5.4% for the year.
The lack of a pick-up in mortgage lending may provide further encouragement for the RBA to cut the cash rate on December 4.
CommSec says the weak lending figures add weight to a December rate cut.
"The Reserve Bank is likely to be disappointed by the latest round of data. There are not many reasons for encouragement and overall the data doesn’t highlight any significant shift in activity patterns across the economy," says Savanth Sebastian, economist at CommSec.
The central bank is likely to be more focussed on the global economy and the downside risks to global growth. At the Reserve Bank Board meeting next week, it is likely that the merits of another rate cut will be debated long and hard. We believe the Reserve Bank should be cutting rates by 25bps in a effort to spur activity and shore up domestic growth
Overall, Australian consumers and businesses continue to deleverage with total credit provided to the private sector by financial intermediaries rising by just 0.1% over October 2012, after rising by 0.3% September. Over the year to October, total credit rose by 3.8%.
Personal credit increased by 0.1% over October, after increasing by 0.3% to be down 0.7% for the year to October.
Business credit decreased by 0.3% over October, after increasing by 0.3% over September to be up 3.3% for the year to October.
Banks share of all lending stands at 92% with non-bank lenders accounting for 8% of loans advanced.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Mortgage lending growth falls in October to remain at historical lows: RBA

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<h3>Top 50 areas in Australia by annual income</h3>
Toorak residents recorded the highest average income in Australia in 2009-10, according to<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/australian-capital-territory/australia-s-highest-income-suburbs-revealed-toorak-tops-the-list-followed-by-double-bay-bellevue-hill/2012112858152?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=news" target="_blank"> figures released </a>by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) with an average $132,252 income.
<table style="width: 528px;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Toorak</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
VIC
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$132,252
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Double Bay</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Bellevue Hill</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$129,116
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Mosman</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$126,956
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Hunters Hill</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Woolwich</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$123,869
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Woollahra</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$120,199
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Dover Heights</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$115,387
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Rose Bay</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Vaucluse</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Watsons Bay</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$115,148
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Cottesloe</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$113,892
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Nedlands</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Dalkeith</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Crawley</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
WA
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$106,981
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">City Beach</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
WA
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$102,971
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Willoughby</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Castle Cove</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Northbridge</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$102,791
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Brighton </a>(Vic.)
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
VIC
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$101,776
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Paddington</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Moore Park</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$100,337
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Mosman Park</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Peppermint Grove</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
WA
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$99,609
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Balmain</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$98,734
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Lindfield </a>- <a href="/news">Roseville</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$97,633
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">North Sydney</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Lavender Bay</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$97,038
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">East Melbourne</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
VIC
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$95,349
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Gordon</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Killara</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$94,339
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Albert Park</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
VIC
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$91,871
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Ascot</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
WA
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$90,945
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Hamilton</a> (Qld)
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
QLD
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$90,900
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Claremont </a>(WA)
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
WA
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$90,534
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a href="/news">Swanbourne</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Mount Claremont</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
WA
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$90,517
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Armadale</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
VIC
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$89,534
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Cremorne</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Cammeray</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$88,512
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Terrey Hills</a> - <a target="_blank" href="/news">Duffys Forest</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
NSW
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$87,676
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Red Hill</a> (ACT)
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
ACT
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$87,496
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Forrest</a>
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
ACT
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$87,488
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Griffith </a>(ACT)
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
ACT
</td>
<td style="background-color: #caffff; width: 200px; border: #009894 1px solid;" valign="bottom">
$87,473
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source ABS, ATO</body></html>

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