Gold Coast-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ignite-projects">Ignite Projects</a> has lodged a Development Application for a landmark $120 million precinct set to transform the southern gateway of the much-loved Spit.

Positioned at the most prominent entry point to the iconic peninsula, the project has been designed with a strong focus on architecture, public space, heritage and connectivity, delivering a revitalised parkland setting that invites locals and visitors to engage with the Broadwater.

Central to The Isles proposal is a significantly upgraded public realm, including landscaped open space, a new waterfront café, and a family-friendly park featuring a naval-themed playground, open lawns and improved pedestrian connections.

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="de83a270-6091-4b26-bed0-86f9248e7f9e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%201.jpg?VersionId=vt79HlCOwV9F7eLQe9.Z3bv9JGLMaSP2" />

The design retains and celebrates key elements of the site’s history. The training mast from the vacant and degraded naval cadet building, which forms part of a former Navy minesweeper, will be preserved. The existing Navy Memorial will be relocated and upgraded in collaboration with the RSL, allowing it to be publicly accessible for the first time in years. 
&nbsp; 
Heritage-listed Humphreys Boat Shed remnants will remain and be incorporated into the landscape, while the site’s established Norfolk Pines will be retained, reinforcing the area’s character and sense of place. The enhanced parkland will ultimately create a long-term community asset at the entry to The Spit. 
&nbsp; 
The Development Application (DA) lodged with Gold Coast City Council includes 28 waterfront apartments across three levels, ranging in size from 145sqm to 383sqm, designed as a feature landmark within the precinct and complement the public domain.

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bbf94e00-b56a-47fb-a15d-3d17b0b1ec76" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%203.jpg?VersionId=A0vmBNE_KohYJo1EoZcmF5IVW4tT5aDo" /> 
&nbsp; 
Ignite Projects Director Josh Foote said the project as a whole had been carefully shaped to deliver a meaningful outcome for the wider community, not just future residents. 
&nbsp; 
“This is about more than delivering opulent apartments – it’s about creating a welcoming and memorable gateway to The Spit that people can enjoy every day,” Mr Foote said. 
&nbsp; 
“We’ve worked hard to ensure the public realm is a central part of the project, from the landscaped parklands and family-friendly spaces through to the preservation and celebration of important local heritage.”

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="443bbde5-8221-45f8-a549-dad2623df20c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%204.jpg?VersionId=iUl6nc.sHkjMdo_1RigwbwUz_celHJ3H" /> 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, The Isles adopts a considered subtropical approach, with the building form shaped to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and views to the Broadwater and surrounding parklands. 
&nbsp; 
Architect Rafael Contreras said the design responded directly to its unique coastal setting. 
&nbsp; 
“Rather than a typical built form, the architecture has been shaped by performance and experience – from optimising outlook and privacy to creating a strong connection to landscape and climate,” Mr Contreras said. 
&nbsp; 
“A central landscaped courtyard allows light, air and greenery to permeate the building, while the articulated façade introduces movement and rhythm inspired by the Broadwater.

“The Isles will create a place where people can gather, relax and connect with the water, while also delivering a refined residential product that responds to its unique setting.”

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1089570d-1120-4302-9900-fb9f75c75c26" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%205.jpg?VersionId=pl9qmKZNbaL3A7XjmD7sjhLwmXaqzzLZ" /> 
&nbsp; 
The DA relates to the residential and public realm components, with a proposed boutique marina to be progressed as part of a future stage, subject to separate approvals. 
&nbsp; 
The Isles is being delivered under The Spit Master Plan, a collaborative vision to create a new residential, tourism, leisure, natural environment and cultural heritage hub on the iconic and much-loved peninsula.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Ignite Projects has an established track record delivering premium residential projects across the Gold Coast, including The Monaco at Main Beach and Cabana at Palm Beach. 
&nbsp; 
Sales for The Isles are expected to commence in coming months from an on-site display suite, with construction targeted to begin later this year, subject to approvals.

Joel Robinson

Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit

The Federal Government’s sweeping changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax could trigger an unintended consequence: a surge of investor demand into the new and off the plan apartment sector.

While Treasurer Jim Chalmers has framed the reforms as a way to improve housing affordability and rebalance the tax system, the carve-outs for newly built housing are already positioning off the plan apartments as one of the few remaining tax-effective property investment plays.

Under the changes handed down in the Federal Budget, investors purchasing established properties after budget night will no longer be able to access negative gearing benefits. The Government will also replace the long-standing 50 per cent capital gains tax discount with a new inflation-indexation model and introduce a minimum 30 per cent tax on gains from July 2027.

However, there is a major exemption.

Investors buying new builds, including off the plan apartments, will still be eligible for negative gearing and will be able to choose between retaining the current 50 per cent CGT discount or adopting the new indexed model.

That distinction is expected to reshape investor behaviour almost immediately.

For years, established housing has dominated investor purchases because of its perceived lower risk, immediate rental returns and stronger historical capital growth. But with the tax advantages now heavily skewed toward new housing supply, the economics are changing rapidly.

The Federal Government has been explicit about its intent.

“The housing market and tax system are broken,” Chalmers said ahead of the Budget, arguing that existing concessions were disproportionately rewarding speculation rather than supporting housing supply.

The Government says the reforms are designed to encourage investment into new housing rather than established stock, a move aimed at increasing supply during a prolonged housing shortage.

According to the official Budget papers, limiting negative gearing to newly built homes is intended to “better align tax incentives with housing supply objectives.”

For the apartment development sector, particularly the off the plan market, the changes could become one of the strongest investor tailwinds in years.

Developers across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane have spent the past two years battling elevated construction costs, higher interest rates and subdued investor confidence. Many projects have struggled to secure sufficient pre-sales to commence construction, particularly in markets heavily reliant on investor demand.

The Budget changes may now alter that equation.

Investors seeking tax-effective property exposure will increasingly find themselves funnelled toward newly built apartments simply because established dwellings no longer offer the same benefits.

Commonwealth Bank described the reforms as one of the most significant shifts to residential property investment settings in decades, noting that the package is centred around “limiting negative gearing for residential property to new builds” while replacing the existing CGT framework.

That could have profound implications for the apartment sector.

Off the plan apartments already hold several advantages for investors. Purchasers typically secure a property at today’s price while settlement occurs years later, allowing time for capital growth and reducing the upfront capital burden. Brand-new apartments also generally attract depreciation benefits, lower maintenance costs, and stronger appeal to renters seeking modern amenity.

Now, they may also become one of the only residential property types still offering the full suite of historical tax advantages.

Industry analysts expect investor demand to increasingly migrate toward projects that can clearly demonstrate strong rental demand, transport connectivity and long-term supply constraints.

The shift is likely to be particularly pronounced in apartment markets already underpinned by structural undersupply, including inner Brisbane, the Gold Coast, parts of Sydney’s Lower North Shore and select Melbourne precincts where new apartment commencements have collapsed over recent years.

The reforms also arrive at a time when apartment supply nationally remains critically constrained.

Australia is already struggling to meet the Federal Government’s target of delivering 1.2 million new homes over five years. Construction feasibility pressures have delayed or shelved thousands of apartments across the country, particularly as building costs remain elevated and financing conditions remain tight.

Critics of the Budget changes argue the reforms could reduce overall investor participation in the housing market and place upward pressure on rents by discouraging investment in established housing.

Some economists estimate the measures could reduce housing supply over the longer term if overall investor appetite weakens.

However, the Government is betting that redirecting investor capital into new housing supply will offset those concerns.

“To continue to incentivise construction of new housing, investors building new residential properties will be able to choose either the 50 per cent CGT discount or the new arrangements,” the Budget papers stated.

That wording has been closely watched by the development industry because it effectively positions new apartments as the preferred investment class within residential property.

For off the plan developers, the reforms could become a powerful sales tool.

Projects that have increasingly relied on owner-occupier demand may once again attract investors seeking to preserve the tax advantages still attached to newly built housing before the July 2027 changes take effect.

The reforms are also expected to sharpen the divide between established and new housing markets.

Rather than a broad investor retreat from property altogether, many analysts expect a redistribution of capital toward sectors still supported by Government incentives.

That could create stronger demand for apartment projects in key urban growth corridors and transit-oriented precincts where population growth, migration and rental shortages remain elevated.

The policy direction also aligns with the Government’s broader push toward increasing housing density in established urban areas.

Across Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, planning reforms are increasingly encouraging higher-density apartment development around transport infrastructure and activity centres. By maintaining tax incentives for new housing, the Federal Government is effectively reinforcing that agenda from a taxation perspective.

For apartment developers who have spent years navigating subdued investor confidence, the changes may ultimately become the catalyst that reactivates parts of the off the plan market.

While the broader property sector is still digesting the long-term implications of the Budget, one thing is already becoming clear.

The era of investors buying established apartments and houses primarily for tax advantages may be ending.

But for off the plan apartments, the investment story may just be beginning.

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Investors to flood off the plan apartment market?

Adding to Chatswood’s growing skyline, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-anderson-chatswood-54-56-anderson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">The Anderson</a> is grounded in a simple principle: apartment living in a major centre does not have to come at the expense of space and outlook.

Set on Anderson Street in the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a>, the new residential tower, a collaboration between developers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huirong-group">Huirong Group</a> with architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ajc-architects">AJC Architects</a>, will introduce 122 apartments that prioritise generous proportions, considered orientation, and a strong connection to the surrounding heritage precinct.

The design originated from a Design Excellence Competition, where AJC proposed a building that combines suburban-style apartment scale with the density expected in a transport-rich centre. The development will include more than 1,800 square metres of retail and commercial space at street level, landscaped communal roof terraces, and a ground-floor pocket park framed by canopy trees. Together these elements aim to create a building that integrates with Chatswood’s evolving streetscape while maintaining a strong residential focus.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353250]

A key driver behind the architecture was the desire to deliver family-sized apartments rarely seen in the Chatswood market. The Anderson includes a mix of one to four-bedroom apartments, with around 35 per cent of the residences configured as three or four-bedroom homes. At the top of the building, two double-storey penthouses span approximately 200 square metres each, reinforcing the project’s emphasis on scale and long-term liveability for both downsizers and intergenerational households.

Orientation and outlook were central to the planning of the building. The apartments are positioned to maximise views to the north and east across Chatswood’s heritage precinct, with upper levels capturing glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. South-facing apartments gain distant views toward the Sydney CBD and Harbour Bridge, while the building’s configuration intentionally reduces western exposure at lower levels to minimise overlooking toward the nearby railway corridor.

The external design references the character of the surrounding conservation area without replicating it directly. A brick podium anchors the building to the street and introduces a series of architectural portals that draw inspiration from the nearby Chatswood Presbyterian Church. Above this base, the tower shifts to a lighter, more open expression defined by horizontal lines and carefully detailed balconies that balance privacy with outward views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353254]

Toward the top of the tower, AJC introduces a distinctive lantern-like element formed by sliding screens. These screens provide both solar shading and privacy while also creating a visual marker for the building within the Chatswood skyline. The feature reinforces the architectural intent of the project, a structure that is visually refined while still responding to the practical requirements of apartment living.

Inside the residences, interior architecture focuses on clear spatial flow and practical everyday use. Open-plan living areas connect directly to large balconies, extending the internal living spaces outward and allowing natural light to move deeper into the apartments. Kitchens are designed as central working spaces with premium appliances and carefully selected materials, positioned to serve both daily living and entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353256]

Bathrooms follow a similarly restrained design language, using refined fixtures and materials to create calm, functional spaces, while wardrobe areas adopt a gallery-style layout with integrated lighting and generous storage. These elements reflect a broader design approach that prioritises clarity, functionality, and durability over decorative gestures.

Positioned just a short walk from Chatswood Interchange, residents will have direct access to rail, metro, retail, and dining. The Metro extension allows travel from Chatswood to Martin Place in approximately 11 minutes, placing the CBD within easy reach for residents while maintaining the convenience of a walkable North Shore neighbourhood.

One-bedroom apartments at The Anderson start from $1,022,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151353]

How AJC designed The Anderson to bring oversized apartment living to Chatswood

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bridgewell-development">Bridgewell Capital</a> has lodged plans for a major mixed-use apartment development in the heart of Maroubra, seeking a significant uplift in height and density controls to deliver 120 apartments and a 120-place childcare centre near Maroubra Junction.

The State Significant Development application, filed through the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway, covers a 3,270 sqm amalgamated site at 251-257 Maroubra Road and 133-135 Garden Street. The proposal includes a concurrent rezoning that would increase the maximum building height from 12 metres to 35.6 metres and lift the floor space ratio to 4.02:1.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the project would replace a mechanic’s workshop and several detached homes with a 10-storey residential building above four basement levels.

The scheme comprises 120 apartments, including 27 affordable housing units to be managed by a community housing provider for 15 years, alongside 203 basement car spaces and 92 bicycle spaces. A childcare centre occupying nearly 900 sqm of floor area would sit at ground level and be capable of accommodating 120 children and 22 staff.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="038a0639-f9e4-4303-8fcc-d43e73fa480f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20pers.png?VersionId=eGBElxmNqJW.YF3JFYgHTnPgAstdyXR3" />

According to the Design Report, the project has been conceived as a “gateway proposal” that responds to Maroubra’s evolving urban character and its proximity to the town centre.

“Designed to complement the character of Maroubra’s town centre, this gateway proposal features a building scale that matches its surroundings,” the report stated.

“It integrates residential units above a ground-level childcare centre, fulfilling the strategic objectives of the Randwick City Council Masterplan.”

The apartment mix is weighted toward larger residences aimed at families and downsizers, reflecting changing demographics in the Randwick LGA and increasing demand for medium-density housing close to transport and amenity.

BKA Architecture said the proposal seeks to reinforce Maroubra Road as a civic spine while improving the pedestrian experience around the site through landscaping and upgraded public interfaces.

“The design capitalises on the following site opportunities: reinforcement of Maroubra Road as a civic spine, enhancement of pedestrian pathways and the public interface via new landscaping, and strong market demand for two and three-bedroom apartments to support families and down-sizers,” the Design Report noted.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee509779-3c7e-4918-b03d-761c785459d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20site.png?VersionId=eZC4Ruyn.C7O.Qwfr1SVeP5.ds1c5.66" />

The building has been designed with setbacks and articulation intended to transition between the commercial intensity of Maroubra Junction and the surrounding lower-scale residential neighbourhoods. Communal open space is proposed on level one, while upper-level apartments would secure views towards Port Botany, Maroubra Beach and Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

The development sits around 200 metres east of the Maroubra Junction intersection of Anzac Parade and Maroubra Road, within one of Randwick’s identified strategic centres. The site is close to Pacific Square Shopping Centre, major bus routes, schools, parks and future cycling infrastructure proposed under the Maroubra Junction Masterplan.

The Maroubra proposal aligns with broader NSW Government initiatives encouraging higher-density housing near established centres and transport corridors, particularly where affordable housing is incorporated.

Bridgewell is also working on a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/goldfields-sets-the-stage-as-quartet-milton-launches">new 55-unit project in Killara</a>.

First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre

National diversified developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has launched its latest Brisbane apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet Milton</a>, marking its entry into the sought-after inner-city suburb just two kilometres from the CBD.

The circa $100 million development will rise 18 storeys and deliver 131 apartments, offering a mix of one, two-, and three-bedroom residences.

Ideally located on Manning Street, Quartet residents will be within 300 metres of Milton Station, 500 metres from the Milton Ferry Wharf, and a short walk to Milton Markets, the iconic Park Road, as well as a range of breweries and cafés.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

Designed by architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, the building features a simple, gridded façade paired with generous glazing to enhance views, maximise aspect, and capture both sunrises and sunsets from within the apartments and their generously sized balconies.

Residents will have access to a 1,000 sqm rooftop, curated to balance wellness and entertaining, in response to increasing demand for wellness-focused shared spaces.

"We've approached Quartet Milton as a complete lifestyle offering, not just apartments, but a place where the design, amenities, and location all work together in a meaningful way," says Goldfields Managing Director Lachlan Thompson.

"Buyers are looking for that sense of confidence, knowing the vision has been carefully thought through not just by us as developers, but by all our consultants appointed to bring this together, and that it will be delivered to the standard they expect."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Cera Stribley Co-Founder and Managing Principal Domenic Cerantonio said the rooftop is designed to feel like a place "you'd genuinely use every day."

"A 25-metre pool framed by city and mountain views, wellness areas, and private dining spaces for evenings with friends create a setting designed for year-round comfort and effortless Brisbane living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

In addition to the 25-metre pool, the rooftop will include a sauna, cold plunge, fully equipped gym, and zen gardens, all complemented by panoramic views of the city and river.

While the building is expected to appeal predominantly to owner-occupiers, Goldfields anticipates interest from investors seeking strong rental returns, driven by the project's design, location, and the city's projected capital growth in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367991]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>, widely regarded as one of Brisbane's most desirable inner-ring suburbs due to its lifestyle offering and proximity to the CBD, has experienced a shortage of new apartment supply in recent years.

Goldfields is already active in the Brisbane residential market through its Ripley Valley masterplanned community, Hayfield. The 109-hectare neighbourhood is already home to more than 300 families and features a large community park.

Plans for the precinct include a 4 km running track, future schools, and retail and commercial amenities, all within a 35-minute drive of the Brisbane CBD.

Goldfields also plans to deliver a new mixed-use tower at 88 Robertson Street in Fortitude Valley, within the James Street precinct. The project will include 16,000 sqm of boutique commercial space, a level of wellness facilities, and a rooftop restaurant and event space, akin to Goldfields House in South Yarra, its flagship mixed-use development on Chapel Street, which is crowned by the Beverly Rooftop bar, one of Melbourne’s best-known venues.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Goldfields sets the stage as Quartet Milton launches

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

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Andy Ruwald, co-owner of the Bucket List bar eatery, has withdrawn a development application for a function centre on the front lawn of Juniper Hall, Paddington.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/commercial/distilling-entreprenuer-seeks-to-turn-juniper-hall-paddington-grounds-into-a-beer-garden/2013082863855?utm_source=po&amp;utm_medium=aida&amp;utm_campaign=jonathanchancellor'spropertyinsights" target="_blank">The landlord, the Moran family had plans to sub-let the garden to Mr Ruwald who sought permission for 350 patrons</a>.
“Due to the extent of the negativity of the neighbours with regards to Juniper Hall, I have stopped the DA,” Mr Ruwald told the Australian Financial Review.
“It was never my intention to disrupt the local area – I was merely trying to help bring Paddington back to life and my foresight for Juniper Hall was never to become a ‘beer garden’ in any sense.”
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Juniper Hall, Paddington "beer garden" application withdrawn

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The Alex Popov-designed Bellevue Hill home of the philanthropic art collector Ray Wilson has been snapped up before its September 9 auction.
Its listing, six years after the death of his partner, James Agapitos, was <a target="_blank" href="https://www.alisoncoopes.com/">through Alison Coopes</a>.
Title Tattle expects the house, which was designed to showcase the pair's substantial art collection, fetched $4 million plus.
Wilson and Agapitos bought the 930 square metre Bellevue Road property in 1994 for $1.06 million.
Popov designed a two-storey house with whole-floor guest retreat.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/08/PO_Strap_new.jpg" width="470" height="60" alt="PO_Strap_new">
Wilson is off to The Residence, the newly completed College Street, Sydney complex. 
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Alex Popov-designed Bellevue Hill mansion sells pre-auction through Alison Coopes

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I was almost tempted not to blog this week on the whole boom, bubble or bust debate. 
At best I think it sounds like a playground game for kids; at worst it could be a late night drinking game!
And like those games I’m not sure there is any real purpose or value to the debate other than to perhaps occupy or distract participants for a short period of time.
And to be perfectly honest I’m not sure that anyone, including myself, really knows exactly what is going on out there right now but the market has undeniably picked up.
So let’s have a look at the options:
At the current rate of exposure I’d suggest any bubble is being inflated as much by the hot air of over excited media and agents as the ongoing record low interest rates. 
However there is no doubt the market is being fuelled by a shortage of stock. Whether that makes a ‘bubble’ I’m not sure, but only a month ago we had fallen to record low stock levels. They’re now slowly starting to increase but I anticipate it could be a while before they return to traditional levels.
Does that mean the bubble will automatically deflate if we all stop talking about it? Or will the chatter continue to rise until the bubble inevitably pops?
In my view neither option is appealing.
A boom?  I’ve said it before -  I hope not. 
Just like a drinking game surely we have all learnt the hard way that after the euphoria of a boom comes the dreaded hangover.
Maybe it’s because I had to deal with the hangover last time that I know it isn’t pretty. 
Let’s drink responsibly this time.


<hr>
Ewan Morton is managing director of the Sydney based <a target="_blank" href="https://www.mortonandmorton.com.au/" rel="nofollow">Morton &amp; Morton</a>. 
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Sydney property market being fueled by shortage of stock: Ewan Morton

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The Sydney property market dipped below recorded a 79% auction clearance rate on Saturday, after recording six straight weeks at above 80%, according to Australian Property Monitors.
One auction clearance result at such an elevated level may or may not represent an anomaly, but that’s now seven consecutive weekends where the rate has been at or beyond the so-called ‘boomtime levels’ delineated by the 80% barrier.
I’ve predicted  for the last 18 months that the Sydney property market will be the prime beneficiary of the overriding weakness of many of Australia’s other property markets.
RP Data shows that prices in <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/south-australia/the-adelaide-property-market-is-stagnating-while-other-capitals-flourish-pete-wargent/2013081564244" target="_blank">Adelaide have waned badly in the last quarter</a> are now lower than they were 12 months ago, despite generational lows in interest rates. Prices have also fallen slightly year-on-year in Hobart.
Brisbane has fared no better than Adelaide over the past half-decade with median prices below levels seen in 2008, and many regional markets have been in a steady decline for several years now.
The same data provider reported back in May this year that house prices in real terms (i.e. when adjusted for inflation) were in the region of 10-20% lower than at their peak across every capital city.
Any lingering doubt that strong price growth would follow increased activity in the hot sectors of the Sydney market (inner west, lower north shore, city and east) has been eliminated.
This week has seen properties in my neck of the woods (Pyrmont, the inner west, city and east) selling at astonishing prices, with full asking prices often being met and <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/sydney-auctions-selling-well-above-price-guides/2013081964121" target="_blank">auction results comfortably clearing reserves</a>.
In fact, ask market participants and they will tell you that in favoured suburbs and market sectors price growth over the past 12 months has been comfortably higher than the reported median gains. Sydney’s median dwelling price now sits comfortably above its previous all-time peak, but the apartment market actually broke through to record highs way back in May 2012.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/home-value-increases-currently-driven-by-broad-middle-priced-market-cameron-kusher/2013041060282">RP Data has reported</a> that it is the broad middle-priced market which is racing ahead, likely due to the exaggerated levels of investor activity.
There are a number of common explanations of why markets move in cycles:
-It’s been said that monetary policy, particularly the tightening of interest rates, has been effective in the past at stifling undesirable levels price growth
-Governing bodies have been blamed at times for becoming addicted to the ‘feelgood factor’ or ‘wealth effect’ associated with rising dwelling prices; and
-Construction activity can increase rapidly during a house price boom (and be quelled during times of falling prices) leading to a temporary oversupply (or undersupply) thus exaggerating market downturns (and upturns).
The most compelling factor, in my opinion, however, is the human psychology element. Not only does each new generation see an influx of new market participants who have never experienced a housing bust, humans are emotional creatures: we tend to extrapolate the present into the future in an irrational manner.
 
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Perhaps unconsciously, we tend to believe that when times are good they will always remain so, and when times are hard we fear they will never improve.
We find it harder than we should to bet against the crowd ("what if everyone else is right and I’m wrong?”) and, most damningly of all, we cannot abide the idea of others profiting when we do not.
It was frequently observed back in the 1930s by George Orwell and others that while unemployment was frequently a devastating or humiliating prospect for millions, the impact was sometimes lessened where every household in the street was enduring the same experience. It seems to be human nature that our happiness and level of contentment is impacted by the successes or tribulations of our immediate peers.
The FOMO rally or the ‘fear of missing out’ is the human psychology most evident during a market price boom: prices which have been rising solidly can suddenly accelerate as the herd mentality kicks in.
George Soros noted in his <a target="_blank" href="https://petewargent.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/soros-theory-of-reflexivity-applied-to">Theory of Reflexivity</a> that expectations of future price growth can lead to a positive feedback loop and further, perhaps even stronger, price gains. The underlying thought processes are not dissimilar to those involved when I played the UK National Lottery when I left school as a teenager. This phenomenon is more typically associated with pure investment asset classes such as in the equities markets, and yet increasingly residential property is being treated by many as an investment asset as well as being seen as a place for shelter, particularly in the face of unnerving share market volatility.
Of the 49 lads and one lass in the factory I worked in, 48 of them were signed into a Lotto syndicate. I never really thought we had much chance of winning (the odds of an individual ticket taking out the jackpot prize were an outlandish 14 million to one).
Moreover, I simply couldn’t abide the thought of turning up on another freezing winter Monday morning, only to discover that 48 chortling ex-machinists had retired to sun themselves and drink cold cans of Red Stripe by the pool in Barbados (thereby leaving me with the tedious task of grinding tools for 10 hours a day).
Classic human psychology: even at the likely risk of losing, I wasn’t prepared to risk missing out where there was a chance of others gaining significantly.
It’s the fear of missing out which is now driving Sydney’s property markets way past previous peaks. Even those who have previously not shown a remote interest in real estate as an asset class reluctantly begin to consider clambering aboard the bandwagon.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
I’ll admit I didn’t rate the description of the Sydney’s property market experiencing a “mini-cycle” through the financial crisis and beyond. After all, prices can only really go in three directions – they can go up, down or track sideways.
While mini-cycles may always appear to be taking place, the true nature of a cycle only really becomes clear as it recedes in the rear-view mirror.
And yet, at the distance of a few years, it does appear that Sydney’s market responded rapidly to stimulatory policies with a burst of activity through 2009 and 2010, before quickly levelling off.
<img height="319" width="400" src="https://www.rba.gov.au/chart-pack/images/5-6-household-sector/6bl-dwelpri-small.gif?accessed=2013-08-04-11-51-02" alt="Dwelling Prices graph" class="aligncenter" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; border: 4px solid #eeeeee; padding: 1px; max-width: 570px;">
In fact, it was a compressed version of a textbook market cycle. First there were the predictions of a 40% market crash. Then, commentary subtly shifted towards “prices falling in real terms”.
And finally, with conflicting market data sporadically suggesting possible strong price growth, it was concluded by bearish commentators that “we should judge on the ABS data”.
And as at June 2010, so we did, when the ABS showed detached dwellings in Sydney as having jumped by 21.4% in 12 months.
And here we are again: rinse and repeat. Since 2010, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/those-who-called-a-property-crash-got-its-hopelessly-wrong-pete-wargent/2013072963654" target="_blank">there have been countless Sydney housing bust predictions, but to date, they could hardly have been more wrong</a>.
As the market bottomed out with moderate falls through to around May 2012, the predictions once again gradually shifted towards “price falls in real terms”, and finally news articles are now surfacing by the week belatedly predicting new record market highs.
RP Data shows that Sydney dwelling prices have increased since their trough by around 10% in nominal terms. Due to the high levels of leverage involved in residential property, this has resulted in an increase in equity on a median priced dwelling of more than $60,000. That’s a troubling figure which the average Sydneysider might take half a working lifetime to save in today’s consumer-focused world.
On closer examination, RP Data’s oft-maligned Daily Home Value Index now shows Sydney’s solid median dwelling price gains as having accelerated rapidly of late, increasing by 5.32% in less than 60 days.
<img height="211" width="470" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LXQB8zRy4LY/Uf4tbXUGgsI/AAAAAAAAJ9U/zofEaLJn1MI/s1600/RPData+12+month.jpg" class="aligncenter" style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; border: 4px solid #eeeeee; padding: 1px; max-width: 570px;">
Traditionally, this is the shortest phase of the market cycle as the crowd joins the party late and quickly pushes prices to previously unthinkable levels – the fear of missing out for many simply becomes too great, despite the associated risk of losing.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
It’s easy enough to sit out of the market when all the talk is of a “huge, market-wide crash” or “an inevitable housing bust”, and even moderate gains don’t tend to create too much fuss.
When homebuyers begin to talk about their house having “gone up by 10%”, this can become mildly worrying.
But what really grates is when the smug, highly-leveraged property speculator with half a dozen investment units to his name starts to crow confidently about how he is seeing accelerating 25-30% gains right across his entire portfolio since 2009, while savings account and term deposits look set to continue delivering woeful yields.
Remember, this property market recovery has largely been an investor-led rather than a homebuyer story, and this is particularly the case in Sydney.
Housing finance data shows that around half of housing finance activity in the city is related to investors.
Wary of high transaction costs, and armed with their trusty ‘buy-and-hold’ mindset, a proliferation of investors discourages frequent turnover of stock, clogging up the middle-priced and medium-density sector of the market, thereby potentially exacerbating any potential shortage of appropriate dwellings in desirable locations.
Of course, investment risk increases together with prevailing market prices. The entry price is a key input when calculating the absolute returns on any property investment – entry price and investment risk cannot be decoupled.
Thus the market is de-risked when prices are lower, but correspondingly becomes riskier as prices increase.
Throw into the mix lagging construction of appropriate and well-located dwellings together with a city population increasing at ~60,000 persons per annum, and I expect to see a further interest rate cut send Sydney’s property markets into a relatively short-lived but nevertheless rampant speculation phase.
This phase of the cycle must necessarily be short for price growth surely cannot continue at such a furious pace for too long, but new entrants are now being lured into the market at ever-higher prices.

<hr>
Pete Wargent is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>.  
His new book '<a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>' is released on 1 September 2013.
 
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

The market psychology behind the Sydney property boom: Pete Wargent 

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Western Sydney has been firmly in the spotlight throughout this federal election campaign.
From the candidates who can’t remember their party’s plan to “stop the boats” to those who are <a target="_blank" href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2013/aug/13/tony-abbott-candidate-sex-appeal">“feisty and have sex appeal”</a>, it seems western Sydney’s voters and candidates have once again captured the hearts and minds of political junkies across the nation.
Traditionally a Labor stronghold, western Sydney is an incredibly culturally diverse region of over two million people. Their votes are critically important to determining who will be able to form government after the election. No-one wants to upset the voters here, and this political sensitivity is perfectly illustrated by the delay in deciding where to build a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/federal-election-2013/both-parties-have-second-sydney-airport-in-the-pipeline-advocate-says-20130812-2rrg7">second airport in Sydney</a>.
The ALP <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smh.com.au/federal-politics/federal-election-2013/labors-second-airport-to-take-off-20130725-2qnf5">has pledged</a> to start building the airport within three years if it wins government, but has declined to nominate a site. That the government is currently undertaking geographical analysis at a site in Wilton, despite all the best evidence suggesting Badgery’s Creek is the best option, demonstrates how politics continues to trump policy on this issue.
For the Coalition’s part, shadow treasurer Joe Hockey <a target="_blank" href="https://blogs.crikey.com.au/planetalking/2013/01/01/a-hockey-government-will-build-sydney-a-badgerys-creek-airport/">has declared his support</a> for Badgery’s Creek as the preferred site, but opposition leader Tony Abbott has not committed either way. To further confuse the issue, NSW premier Barry O’Farrell opposes a second airport in Sydney, arguing for <a target="_blank" href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/premier-barry-ofarrell-decides-second-sydney-airport-wont-fly/story-fn7q4q9f-1226320109398">high-speed rail link</a> to Canberra Airport. It seems everyone is pulling in different directions on the issue while saying nothing at all.
Sydney’s current airport is creaking under the strain of ever increasing passenger numbers. Unlike many other major airports around the world, Sydney Airport is located only eight kilometres from the city centre. In 2011, Sydney Airport’s operators, Sydney Airport Corporation (SAC), <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sydneyairport.com.au/corporate/about-us.aspx">reported that</a> there were almost 280,000 plane movements with over 36 million passengers annually.
A recent redevelopment <a target="_blank" href="https://centreforaviation.com/analysis/sydney-airport-sticks-with-plans-for-dual-use-terminals-to-handle-forecast-doubling-in-demand-112779">“master plan”</a> by SAC forecasts the numbers of passengers to more than double to 74 million per year by 2033. While SAC argues that the capacity of Sydney Airport is currently at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smh.com.au/travel/travel-news/sydney-airport-now-ranks-as-nations-worst-20130430-2ir2c">about 60%</a>, traffic management around the airport, its location away from the majority of Sydney residents, noise pollution, price gouging and declining services led the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to dub it the <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/travel/travel-news/sydney-airport-now-ranks-as-nations-worst-20130430-2ir2c" target="_blank">worst and most expensive airport</a> in Australia, despite bringing in solid profits for shareholders. The ACCC made it clear there either needs to be a massive increase in infrastructure, or that the decision be finally made to build a second airport.
Both the ALP and the Liberals, along with most commentators, have agreed Sydney needs a second airport. However, the problem is that the political battleground of western Sydney is the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Parliamentary_Departments/Parliamentary_Library/pubs/BN/2012-2013/SecondSydAirport">most likely location</a> for this airport, and placing it smack bang in the middle of a clutch of marginal seats would be extremely problematic.
The more than two million people living in greater western Sydney are split on the issue. If you live anywhere west or northwest of Parramatta and need to be on a plane before 11am, you are better off spending the night at an airport hotel, or a friend’s couch who lives closer to the Sydney CBD.
Students of mine have shared horror stories of spending two hours trying to get to the airport in time for their flight, only for a car accident to stop traffic and force them to give up and book other flights. It’s clear western Sydney is desperate for a new airport, and the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.news.com.au/business/aviation/badgerys-creek-airport-to-create-28k-jobs-says-study/story-e6frg95x-1226696182713">much-needed jobs</a> it would provide for the area.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
But for all the benefits a second airport would bring the region, those living closest to it may not be so happy. Western Sydney has seen its population expand considerably over the past two decades, meaning the most likely locations for the airport – Badgery’s Creek or Wilton – could be incredibly unpopular with local residents concerned with noise pollution and increased traffic.
The political ramifications of bedding down a second airport become apparent when you view the electoral map of the area. Badgery’s Creek and Wilton are located on the edge of a clutch of very marginal electorates, including Lindsay, Macarthur, Greenway and Chifley. These are seats the Coalition and the ALP are both hoping to win on election night.
So while there seems to be general support for a second airport from both the ALP and Liberals, no-one is willing to make an out-and-out call because of the very real possibility of a long and enduring local backlash. Both Labor’s Ed Husic, whose seat of Chifley backs on to the Badgery’s Creek site, and Liberal member for Macarthur, Russell Matheson, have been <a target="_blank" href="(http:/www.smh.com.au/nsw/mp-wields-people-power-in-fight-against-airport-at-badgerys-creek-20130101-2c45n">vocal in raising their concerns</a> after the prospect of a second airport again emerged.
Like two gunslingers eyeing each other off, no-one is willing to blink or flinch because if someone takes a false step, the swinging electorate will shift very quickly.
A new <a target="_blank" href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/locals-want-a-second-airport-at-badgerys-creek/story-fni0cx12-1226703806797">Galaxy poll</a>, released today, might go some way to altering the thoughts of federal politicians preying on “not in my backyard” sentiments to secure a few more votes on election day. Given the front page treatment in the Daily Telegraph under the headline “All Clear For The West”, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/locals-want-a-second-airport-at-badgerys-creek/story-fni0cx12-1226703806797">the poll of local residents in marginal electorates</a> in the region found an average of 65% of residents polled were in favour of a second airport, with Badgery’s Creek the most popular location.
Yet despite the Daily Telegraph trumpeting this as a clear vindication of a second airport at Badgery’s Creek, the numbers may not be strong enough for nervous politicians. Only around 40 to 50% of voters clearly support this option. The fact remains that there are still a host of undecided voters who are opposed or uncommitted to the project. Considering the ultra marginal status of these electorates, this doubt might just present enough opportunity for the politicians to continue to play on local fears.
So while policy nuts argue the move to Badgery’s Creek is a no-brainer and have moved on to more weighty issues such as a new tax summit, school funding models and the need to transition to a post-carbon economy, it is likely the micro-battles – such as the battle over a second airport in Sydney – could still determine the outcome of the election.
 
<hr>
James Arvanitakis  is a lecturer in cultural and cocial analysis at the <a href="https://www.uws.edu.au/" target="_blank">University of Western Sydney</a><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-western-sydney"></a><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-western-sydney"></a><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-western-sydney"></a><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-western-sydney"></a><a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-western-sydney"></a>
James Arvanitakis receives funding from Australian Research Council and Office of Learning and Teaching.<img width="1" src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/16994/count.gif" height="1" alt="The Conversation">
This article was originally published at <a target="_blank" href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a>. 
 
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Not much chance of a second Sydney airport anytime soon: James Arvanitakis

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A four-bedroom residence in the leafy suburb of Canterbury, known as St Magnus, sold on Saturday for $2.125 million after auction.
Owned by Dr. Tom Eggers and his wife Kate for the past 16 years, St Magnus was listed with a price guide around $2 million.
There were two bidders at the auction, but the residence subsequently passed in and then sold.
The European-inspired home was designed by Peter Martin of FMSA Architects and features a dome entrance, hand painted by Peta Laurisen. 
St Magnus boasts an entertainer’s kitchen with a glass ceilinged dining zone, three bedrooms plus a warehouse-style fourth bedroom with its own kitchenette and access to a rooftop deck.
The property also includes an indoor jet pool and a steam room.
St Magnus was listed with Tim Pickens and Rebecca Edwards of <a href="https://www.kayburton.com.au/property/7-the-ridge-canterbury" target="_blank">Kay &amp; Burton</a>.
The median house price in <a href="/news">Canterbury</a> is $1.7 million, a 5.1% change in the past five years, according to RP Data.
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Dr Tom Eggers sells St Magnus, the Canterbury trophy home

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Despite slightly fewer sales, the Albury/Wodonga median house price remains static – probably because vendors are not being forced to discount heavily and are not under pressure to sell.
The latest Herron Todd White residential market update shows there has been no increase in the numbers of mortgagee – or distressed – sales.
‘’Purchasers seem to be accepting that the asking prices are fair and reasonable and are not negotiating cheaper prices,’’ the update says, with ‘’many active buyers’’ in the marketplace. The update says this is particularly so in the popular areas of west Wodonga, Lavington, east Albury and central Albury.
The Albury median is $370,000 – similar to that reached before the 20007-2008 GFC. The Wodonga median of $250,000 has followed an identical pattern, the update says.
Herron Todd White says a ‘unique’ sales program held in the old Charles Sturt University consists of a number of large, old houses previously used for offices and teaching rooms. The 1930s buildings have nearly all sold with prices ranging from $500,000 to $550,000.
‘’They require considerable expense to convert back to dwellings but, once complete, will be quite desirable due to their location and character. Also on offer are vacant lots which are selling well and for higher than average prices.’’
The region is stable in terms of population, industry growth and climate/environment change, the update says. It appears to be well balanced. ‘’This should provide confidence and reliability for investors to project returns without a large range of risk factors.’’
With the railway line diversion the Wodonga CBD is undergoing a multimillion dollar redevelopment with focus shifting to a modern regional shopping and office location.
‘’It’s a pleasant region to work and play. Shopping, schooling and sporting options abound. Why would you want to work anywhere else?’’ the update asks.
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Prices remain static amid Albury/Wodonga sellers under no pressure: HTW

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If you can’t afford a house in Baulkham Hills, ranks among Sydney’s most popular suburbs, it's suggested you consider travelling just eight kilometres down the road to Seven Hills where the average house price is 34% cheaper.
Westpac has compiled a list of ten Sydney suburbs where it’s cheaper to buy than in their more popular neighbouring suburbs.
Click to enlarge
<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/2013/08/sydney-houses-aug-27-big.gif" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2013/08/sydney-houses-aug-27-small.gif"></a>
The hidden gem suburbs are close to the popular suburb but have a lower cost median house or unit price.
“Buyers who want to truly own their home sooner can find real value by simply considering a suburb which is just a stone’s throw away from their first preference,” said Westpac’s Gai McGrath.
If Mosman is out of your budget then Cammeray is a suitable alternative, according to Westpac. With a median house price of $972,674 it is 43.2% cheaper than Mosman. For units though, Neutral Bay is the better alternative but only marginally – it’s just 1.7% cheaper than Mosman.
Manly Vale house prices are 47.1% cheaper than in the ever popular Manly while the units are 35.4% cheaper.
If you wanted to buy a unit in Baulkham Hills, you could consider travelling just four kilometres down the road to Northmead where the average house price is 16% cheaper. You could own your home 10 years, 9 months sooner and save $81,165 in purchase price and $130,520 in interest repayments over time, according to Westpac.
Click to enlarge
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Sydney's 10 hidden gem suburbs priced up to 47% cheaper than their expensive neighbours

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Mandolong House, one of Mosman's most coveted heritage estates, has just got a bit larger.
Its $18 million buyer Markus Kahlbetzer has spent $3 million on an adjoining 700 square metre property from the Corbett family. It was once the orchard block of the heritage home.
The main house acquisition set a suburb record price for a non-waterfront residential property in early 2012.
Although set high on the slopes of Balmoral, Mandolong House had limited views which will possibly be improved with redevelopment plans likely to be sought by the pastoral family.
The house previously sat on 2,900 square metres of grounds with a north-south tennis court and pool.
The 1885 residence was transformed four years ago by architect William Smart of Smart Design Studio.
The five-bedroom, six-bathroom mansion features a grand entrance hall, formal reception rooms, a state-of-the-art kitchen and entertainment areas that open to wide terraces. There's also a self-contained pavilion for guests.
Markus Kahlbetzer's former home - the penthouse in the 1970s Stuart Murray-designed Elizabeth Bay apartment block Deepdene - remains for sale.
Set on the Elizabeth Bay Road loop, Deepdene stands between the waterfront properties of Oceana and historic Tresco. The architecturally iconic apartment complex was constructed by the builders A.F Little as five separate apartments.
Markus's pastoralist father, John Kahlbetzer acquired the penthouse in 1980, then finished his consolidation in 2006 with the purchase of two units costing $6.6 million from Fay Parker of Parker's Wines. The penthouse outdoor entertainment area was remodelled by landscaper William Dangar with a structure designed by architect Richard Goodwin.
Mandolong House was sold by Barry Roberts-Thomson, deputy chairman of Hutchison Telecommunications, and his wife, Victoria, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/mandalong-house-listing-set-to-test-mosman-market-after-banking-bonuses-dry-up/2012022753564" target="_blank">and had initial $20 million hopes</a>. It previously lasted traded for $3,375,000 in 1989 from the Damon family, who had owned it for about 50 years. The house has had only four owners.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/08/mosman-aug-26-satellite-new.gif" alt="mosman-aug-26-satellite-new" width="470" height="295" style="font-size: 0.8em;">
Mandolong House (left) tennis court (centre) and new house purchase (right)
Source: Google 
Buying up the neighbours is nothing new in Mosman. Last December Property Observer wrote the high-flying recently retired Australian expat hedge fund trader Greg Coffey had consolidated <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/greg-coffey-gets-his-balmoral-residential-compound-title-tattle/2012120658334" target="_blank">a 4,400 square metre Balmoral compound</a> at a $17.8 million cost.
Mosman's biggest inland holding for many decades was Tregoyd. The seven-bedroom 1890s mansion was where Sir Tristan and Lady Antico raised their seven children on the 1.1-hectare consolidation, which included five separate houses, two tennis courts and a private rainforest. Tregoyd was built for Sir William Cullen, who was Chief Justice from 1910 to 1925. It was subdivided off in the late 1990s.
Easterly, a Federation house in Mosman, that sold for $8.75 million in 2003, is considered one of Mosman's most significant non-waterfront residential properties. The six-bedroom sandstone house stands on 2000 square metres. The Upper Spit Road residence comes with tennis court.
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Kahlbetzer's Mandolong House in Mosman expands to 3,600 square metres 

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from 333 auctions in Sydney for the weekend of August 24. The clearance rate was 79%. <a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" style="font-size: 14px;">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

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