One of North Sydney's best-known commercial buildings could become hundreds of new homes, with insurance giant Zurich Australia lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) to transform 5 Blue Street into a mixed-use residential development above North Sydney Station.

Rather than demolishing the existing building and starting again, Zurich is proposing an adaptive reuse project that would convert the landmark office building into a 15-level residential development delivering 62 apartments, 86 affordable co-living dwellings, activated retail and significant upgrades to the Blue Street Plaza.

The proposal reflects a growing trend of commercial property owners repositioning ageing office assets into residential housing as Sydney grapples with housing supply shortages and changing workplace demand.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0bba7d12-06dc-4375-aad7-238c94b21ac5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.42.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=NJl5oLAEBDGuPmY3RnyliKODjMc8lvRh" />

Located directly above North Sydney Metro and train station, the 3,051 sqm site occupies one of the most strategically positioned parcels of land on Sydney's Lower North Shore.

Designed by fjcstudio, the proposal seeks to retain and adapt much of the existing structure while creating a contemporary residential address that better connects with the public domain surrounding North Sydney Station.

The application proposes two basement levels, ground floor retail, affordable co-living accommodation across the podium levels, and apartments above, while preserving and enhancing the publicly accessible Blue Street Plaza.

Rather than pursuing maximum apartment numbers, Zurich has opted for a housing mix heavily weighted towards larger owner-occupier residences.

The proposal includes 62 build-to-sell apartments comprising 12 one-bedroom, 19 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom apartments and two premium penthouses. It also incorporates 86 affordable co-living dwellings, which would be managed in perpetuity by a Community Housing Provider.

That balance between traditional apartments and affordable housing reflects the NSW Government's push to increase housing diversity around major transport infrastructure.

The proposal has been lodged concurrently with a rezoning application, with Zurich arguing the site is ideally positioned to support additional housing given its immediate proximity to public transport, employment and services.

"The proposal aims to respond to the housing challenges facing Sydney through the delivery of diverse housing types in a highly accessible location," the design report by fjcstudio states. It also seeks to improve pedestrian amenity through upgrades to Blue Street Plaza while creating a high-performing residential building that responds to the surrounding context.

<img alt="Zurich" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="36082e15-c636-4481-bb68-5a5f6443fe39" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%2010.41.36%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=5P6VD.fvmqjQfIG3TWWMRXxQWiQBjeFB" />

Rather than replacing the commercial building, fjcstudio has developed a design that works with the existing structural framework above the rail corridor, an approach that significantly reduces demolition while allowing the site to be repositioned as a mixed-use residential precinct.

The existing structural constraints have informed much of the building's design, including its relationship with Blue Street and surrounding public spaces.

The building has been designed as a slender tower rising above a clearly defined podium, with vertically expressed façades intended to reduce the perceived bulk while reinforcing North Sydney's emerging skyline.

According to fjcstudio, the architectural language responds directly to the surrounding commercial towers while maintaining a finer grain expression more closely aligned with the neighbouring Lavender Bay streetscape.

The tower incorporates articulated façade elements, landscaped podium edges and recessed upper levels to soften its appearance and improve pedestrian amenity below.

A significant component of the proposal is the revitalisation of Blue Street Plaza.

The existing public space has long served as one of the primary pedestrian connections between North Sydney Station, Greenwood Plaza and Blue Street, yet its role is expected to become even more important following the opening of Sydney Metro.

Zurich's proposal seeks to strengthen that role by improving landscaping, introducing new retail frontages, enhancing pedestrian permeability and creating more active edges throughout the day and evening.

Ground floor retail would wrap the plaza, while separate residential and co-living entries have been designed to improve wayfinding without reducing street activation.

Landscape design has been integrated throughout the podium and public realm, softening what is currently one of the most heavily urbanised parts of North Sydney.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

fjcstudio has carefully oriented apartments towards Sydney Harbour and the CBD while using privacy blades and articulated façades to minimise overlooking between neighbouring buildings.

Large framed openings along the western elevation maximise harbour outlooks, while the eastern apartments have been angled towards the south-east to improve privacy from neighbouring development.

The project forms part of the continuing transformation of North Sydney from a predominantly commercial CBD into a genuine mixed-use city centre.

Since the completion of Victoria Cross Metro Station, developers have increasingly shifted their attention towards residential projects capable of leveraging the area's unparalleled transport connectivity.

&nbsp;

FiveX recently lodged plans for a 61-storey, 490-apartment tower that would become one of the tallest residential buildings in North Sydney if approved.

Aqualand continues to expand its Lower North Shore presence following the completion of AURA on Walker Street and its recent St Leonards and Roseville proposals.

Developers are also progressing projects throughout Walker Street, Miller Street and the Victoria Cross precinct as demand for well-located owner-occupier apartments continues to strengthen.

Joel Robinson

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Busy developer Aqualand Prestige has formally taken the next step in its expansion across Sydney's Lower North Shore, lodging a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for its long-held Archer Street site in Chatswood.

The application covers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/51-55-archer-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">51-55 Archer Street</a>, a 1,767 sqm amalgamated site on the eastern edge of the Chatswood CBD, where the developer is seeking approval for a 45-level mixed-use tower delivering 114 apartments, including a significant affordable housing component, alongside retail, commercial space and six basement levels of parking.

The SSDA marks the latest milestone for a project Aqualand has been quietly progressing over the past two years. The developer first secured the site for its Aqualand Prestige platform before undertaking an alternative design excellence process with PTW Architects, ultimately avoiding a formal design competition through the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The proposal has evolved considerably from Aqualand's original concept. The revised scheme has been designed around larger owner-occupier product, with an unusually high proportion of three and four-bedroom apartments, targeting the more affluent buyer profile, and downsizer, emerging across the North Shore.

<img alt="Archer St" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0171204c-5811-41b5-9b09-2335d1b7c3d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-22%20at%208.52.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6YTuxfq.puZo7k2wbfgemcO5K3QfXYGQ" />

The 114-apartment mix comprises six studios, 27 one-bedroom apartments, 18 two-bedroom apartments, 50 three-bedroom residences and 13 four-bedroom homes. A quarter of the building will be dedicated to affordable housing, well above the mandated 15 per cent&nbsp;

PTW has structured the building vertically, with affordable housing across levels one to six, premium apartments through levels seven to 31, duplex skyhomes on klevels 32 to 43, a penthouse on level 44, and a rooftop plant level above. Six basement levels will provide resident parking and servicing.

The tower is proposed to reach approximately 154 metres, placing it among a growing collection of residential high-rises transforming Chatswood's skyline.

Rather than competing purely on height, PTW says the design has been driven by creating a slimmer tower capable of delivering significantly larger apartments.

"The primary objective of this project was to create a distinctive building that stands out from the recently approved or built structures in the Chatswood area," the design report states, noting the structural efficiency allows greater investment into apartment quality and resident amenity.

Residents would have access to more than 450 sqm of communal open space including landscaped gardens, swimming pool, rooftop entertaining areas, fitness spaces, community gardens, children's play areas and barbecue facilities.

A major focus of the design has been the public domain.

The ground plane has been opened up through landscaped terraces inspired by Willoughby's sandstone ridges, with native planting, public seating, artwork, retail activation and a series of gathering spaces intended to soften what has traditionally been a hard commercial streetscape.

The landscape strategy references Blue Gum forests once common throughout the area, while incorporating Indigenous storytelling, public art and lighting installations to strengthen the connection to Country.

Chatswood has been one of Sydney's busiest apartment markets over the past 12 months, with a steady pipeline of both new project launches and fresh development applications.

Hyecorp recently launched Celine, a 122-apartment development just along Archer Street, while Changfa and Huirong Group are progressing The Anderson, an 84-apartment project on Anderson Street.

Develotek recently secured approval for a 101-apartment tower on Pacific Highway, while Tian An LFD received the green light for Hammond Greens, its apartment development on the edge of the Chatswood Bowling Club.

Commercial property developer FiveX is also making its move into the residential market. Last month it lodged plans for a 61-storey tower with 490 apartments, which, if approved, would become one of the tallest residential buildings in Chatswood.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-fivex-targets-chatswood-skyline-with-61-storey-tower-after-north-sydney-plans">First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans</a>

Aqualand is also expanding its development pipeline following the launch of its luxury residential brand, Aqualand Prestige. The developer has delivered a string of high-end apartment projects across Sydney's affluent suburbs over the past decade, most recently AURA by Aqualand on Walker Street in North Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=30959 project_image_fid=292863]

It has since quietly assembled its next wave of projects.

Earlier this year Aqualand launched Boronia in Roseville, a boutique 111-apartment development on Larkin Street. The project is one of the first significant apartment developments to launch in the suburb ahead of what is expected to become one of Sydney's most active new housing precincts under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms, which allow greater density around train stations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152095 project_image_fid=373685]

The developer has also lodged plans for a two-tower, 413-apartment development on Herbert Street in nearby St Leonards, further strengthening its presence across the Lower North Shore.

Beyond that, Aqualand remains behind the final stage of Barangaroo, where plans will deliver a five-hectare mixed-use precinct comprising new homes, retail, hospitality and community facilities, alongside a new Metro entrance and more than two hectares of public open space, completing the Barangaroo precinct.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/central-barangaroo-development-takes-big-step-with-concept-proposal-approval">Central Barangaroo development takes big step with concept proposal approval</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-aqualand-joins-st-leonards-apartment-party">First look: Aqualand joins St Leonards apartment party</a> 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

First look: Aqualand pushes ahead with Chatswood apartment tower as SSDA lodged for Archer Street

Mass timber is becoming an increasingly popular construction material in apartment developments, but Adelaide developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/otello">Otello</a> is taking the approach a step further.

At its new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flowe-bowden-18-gibson-street-bowden-sa-5007">Flowe Bowden</a> development, the exposed cross-laminated timber (CLT) structure isn't just about reducing the building's environmental footprint. It also forms the foundation of a broader wellness strategy, influencing everything from indoor air quality and natural materials to the way residents move through and experience the building.

The 115-apartment mixed-use development, designed by Melbourne-based architecture practice Fieldwork, will occupy a prominent island site opposite Bowden Village Reserve, combining one, two and three-bedroom apartments with retail and a dedicated wellness destination.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375528]

Wellness isn't confined to a gym or shared resident facility at Flowe. Instead, Fieldwork embedded the concept into the building itself.

The development has been split into two residential wings connected by a naturally ventilated central breezeway, replacing traditional enclosed corridors with open-air walkways that improve natural light, encourage cross ventilation and create more opportunities for neighbourly interaction.

"Rather than treating wellness as something that only happens on the ground floor, our response integrates it throughout the building, which led us to ask what it really means to design a healthy building," Fieldwork Director Quino Holland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375531]

The building's architecture also reflects Bowden's industrial heritage. The lower podium references the area's historic brick and sandstone buildings, while the upper levels transition to exposed CLT, allowing the timber structure to become a defining feature throughout the apartments and shared spaces.

The use of mass timber sits alongside a range of sustainability initiatives, including a fully electric, gas-free design, rooftop solar and a targeted 5 Star Green Star rating.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375524]

Inside the residences, the focus remains on natural, durable materials. Blackbutt engineered timber flooring, exposed CLT ceilings, porcelain surfaces and warm timber joinery create a calming interior palette, while low-VOC finishes and responsibly sourced materials have been selected to improve indoor air quality.

Kitchens have been designed as the centrepiece of each apartment, featuring porcelain island benchtops, timber-look cabinetry and brushed steel tapware, with layouts that maximise natural light and ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152022 project_image_fid=375530]

The more traditional interpretation of wellness comes in the form of Level Eleven, a two-storey wellness club spanning the ground floor, mezzanine and first floor.

The facility will include a gym, yoga and reformer Pilates studios, Finnish and infrared saunas, magnesium hot and cold plunge pools, and dedicated recovery spaces. Unlike many residential wellness facilities, Level Eleven will also operate commercially, allowing the broader Bowden community to access the venue while giving residents exclusive membership benefits.

The ground floor has also been designed around everyday living. A café overlooking Bowden Village Reserve will activate the street frontage, while a bike workshop with tool storage, co-working space and dog wash has been incorporated to support daily routines and encourage interaction between residents.

"Flowe brings together my two biggest passions, creating places and creating healthier lives," Otello founder Daniel Harris said.

"We wanted to create something Adelaide hasn't seen before, a genuinely healthy building, where the way you live is lifted without even trying."

Flowe is positioned directly opposite Bowden Village Reserve and within walking distance of Bowden Railway Station and the Adelaide Entertainment Centre, placing future residents just minutes from the Adelaide CBD while remaining connected to one of the city's most established urban renewal precincts.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152022]

Otello launches wellness-focused Flowe Bowden with Adelaide-first mass timber apartment design

Not all apartment amenities are immediately visible.

Swimming pools, gyms, rooftop terraces and residents' lounges have long featured on buyers' wishlists, but as the way Australians live has changed, so too have the features that make apartment living more convenient.

Increasingly, buyers are placing value on the practical aspects of day-to-day life. Fast internet, EV charging, secure bike storage, flexible workspaces and parcel management are becoming just as relevant as lifestyle amenities, reflecting changing habits and expectations.

Online shopping has been one of the biggest drivers of that shift.

Australians spent a record $82.6 billion shopping online in 2025, with almost one in every four retail dollars now spent digitally, making parcel deliveries a routine part of everyday life rather than an occasional convenience.

For apartment residents, however, receiving those deliveries isn't always straightforward.

Without someone home to accept a parcel, deliveries can be redirected to a nearby Post Office, left in building foyers or common areas, or require building management to temporarily store packages. As apartment living continues to grow across Australia's cities, parcel management has become an increasingly important consideration for both residents and developers.

Australia Post's Parcel Locker network is one response to that shift.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KPZ9j5FRdsQ?si=Qztc1dNP3ZvEIUhb" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Rather than relying on home delivery, eligible parcels can be directed to a nominated Parcel Locker, where they're securely stored until collected. Once a parcel arrives, residents receive a notification through the AusPost app or SMS and can retrieve it using a one-time code or QR code at a time that suits them.

The network has expanded to more than 1,500 locations nationwide, with Parcel Lockers positioned at Post Offices, shopping centres, supermarkets, transport hubs and, increasingly, within or alongside residential developments.

That growing presence reflects a broader change in how apartment buildings are being planned.

Developers are increasingly considering the operational side of apartment living alongside traditional lifestyle amenities. Just as secure mailrooms, bicycle storage and EV charging have become more common inclusions, parcel management is emerging as another feature that supports everyday convenience.

It also helps preserve the arrival experience within a building. Carefully designed lobbies and communal spaces can quickly become cluttered when deliveries accumulate, while secure parcel solutions reduce the likelihood of missed deliveries or parcels being left unattended.

For buyers comparing apartments, these everyday details are becoming part of the decision-making process.

Location, floorplans and finishes remain fundamental, but the features that simplify daily life are carrying greater weight than they once did. As online shopping continues to shape consumer behaviour, secure parcel delivery is increasingly becoming another amenity worth looking for.

Parcel delivery is joining the apartment amenity checklist

Inca Property Group has lodged a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) for Dawn, a 53-apartment oceanfront development overlooking Mona Vale Beach.

The proposal, at 35-39 Darley Street East, would replace an existing 18-apartment strata building with a new owner-occupier-focused development comprising 53 two and three-bedroom apartments, including nine affordable built-to-rent residences delivered under the State's infill affordable housing scheme.

Positioned on a 2,679 sqm elevated site around 280 metres from Mona Vale Beach, the development has been designed to maximise panoramic ocean views while responding to the site's sloping topography.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/inca-property-group">Inca Property Group</a> Managing Director Josh Thompson said the State Significant pathway provided greater certainty for projects of this scale.

"This State Significant pathway gives the team real certainty to progress <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/dawn-35-39-darley-street-east-mona-vale-nsw-2103">Dawn</a> through to completion," Thompson said.

"It allows us to acquire a one-off site, design it carefully and deliver the right offering for the suburb, assessed by the NSW Government's planning department."

The project is one of the first developments in the area to be assessed under the NSW Government's Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy, with the site sitting on the edge of the policy's designated inner area.

The proposal includes three basement levels providing 124 car spaces, alongside a range of resident amenities including a swimming pool, gym, sauna, wellness facilities and private plunge pools for selected ground-floor and penthouse apartments.

<img alt="Dawn" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fc1a1daf-0ce4-4f12-9076-b1fa553c7a91" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-21%20at%208.42.11%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4GZ9h.gpNkTljbxyAET8Jfhv51XUamDm" />

Thompson said Dawn had been designed specifically for owner-occupiers and downsizers, a buyer profile that has driven demand across Inca's recent Upper North Shore developments.

"The majority of buyers in our recent North Shore projects have been downsizers, and we are learning exactly what this market is looking for. Beyond the location itself, we have included resort-style amenities to deliver a genuine lifestyle offering," Thompson said.

Located within walking distance of Mona Vale Beach, the town centre, Mona Vale Golf Club and the Royal Motor Yacht Club, Dawn represents Inca's first Northern Beaches project following the sell-out of Tara on Park in Waitara and Ellis Residences, currently under construction in St Ives.

Construction will be undertaken by Inca's in-house construction arm, GOP Constructions.

Dawn is the latest major apartment proposal for Mona Vale, with the suburb emerging as one of the key beneficiaries of the NSW Government's new Low and Mid-Rise Housing policy.

New developer One Living, led by industry veteran Joseph Scuderi, recently secured a site on Mona Vale Road, on the border of Mona Vale and Pymble, where it is planning around 140 apartments.

IPM is also planning its third project in Mona Vale, significantly increasing the scale of its previous developments with an 82-apartment proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/159-167-darley-street-west-mona-vale-nsw-2103">159-167 Darley Street West</a>, opposite Bayview Golf Course and less than 800 metres from Mona Vale town centre.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/one-living-enters-sydneys-new-apartment-market-with-northern-beaches-site-acquisition">One Living enters Sydney's new apartment market with Northern Beaches site acquisition</a>

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-ipm-plans-third-mona-vale-project">First look: IPM plans third Mona Vale project</a>

First look: Inca eyes Mona Vale with State Significant DA for Dawn apartments

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

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

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

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?

<html><body>
Persistance has yielded the resale of the striking two-storey riverfront home, designed by Sydney-based architect Alex Popov, that sits on Cronin Island with 50-metre frontage onto the Nerang River.

It has been on and off the market since 2011, with its last auction on-sale not proceeding to settlement.
It's the much-marketed "Mark McIvor house", which was listed by Fulton Transport boss Gary Fulton, who paid $6.75 million just one year ago.
The former luxury abode of the Equititrust founder Mark McIvor had gone to<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/former-equititrust-boss-mark-mcivor-lists-popov-designed-gold-coast-home/2011081651176" target="_blank">September 2011 auction</a>, but did not <a href="/news">sell until early January 2012</a> when the price was undisclosed.
At its September 2011 auction Stacey McIvor, the wife of merchant banker and property investor Mark McIvor, wept when the five-bedroom riverfront home drew a top bid of $4.55 million.
At the time a disappointed Mark McIvor said the home  had been valued at $6.5 million and that the auction was "a demonstration of a very hard market".
Observers were then highly surprised at the strength of the very bullish $6.75 million price stated in the official DERM land registry paperwork after its January 2012 sale by then marketing agent Michael Kollosche.
The 1,736-square-metre block initially cost $1 million when McIvor bought it in 1994.
McIvor had founded the Gold Coast's own merchant bank, Equititrust, in 1993.
Equititrust, which became known for using a Roman voussoir arch as its marketing logo to suggest structural stability, was among the many unlisted mortgage funds to take a battering following the 2008 financial crisis.
In April 2011 Equititrust confirmed it had stopped paying income distributions to unit holders in two funds housing more than $300 million worth of assets as it accelerated its debt repayments.
Gary Fulton is a freight-traffic operative based in Kemps Creek, NSW.
He initially tried to sell in in August 2012 after just six months ownership.
As it failed to sell at August 2012 auction – passed in on a $5.5 million vendor bid by Coldwell Banker agent Alex Caraco – it was then scheduled for November 3 auction.
After the August auction Alex Caraco suggested interested parties were using the controversy attached to the property to try to get a bargain.
It then sold on a conditional contract in November to Sydney buyers at $5.5 million, with the finance condition being the trigger for the subsequent contract collapse.
So in January the Southern Cross Drive property was back on the market through Coldwell Banker at $5.5 million – "make an offer" is the owner's instructions.
The asking price was reduced more recently to $4.5 million...and its been sold at a yet to be disclosed price through Alex Caraco. Its sold unconditionally to ocal buyers, Property Observer understands.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Alex Popov-designed McIvor home on Cronin Island house finally resells

<html><body>
Unrenovated properties are proving to be the star performers at recent Sydney auctions with buyers purchasing for location rather than investment, according to Cooley Auctions.
The trend comes as an <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-vaucluse-113349631" target="_blank">original fisherman’s cottage</a> on Davies Avenue in Vaucluse sold at auction for $1.21 million after a bidding dual between 15 bidders.
It was the first time the three-bedroom property was offered in 54 years and it sold for 34% - $310,000 – over its reserve price.
Martin Maskin of Raine &amp; Horne Double Bay listed the cottage.
A free standing <a href="https://www.hartestateagents.com.au/762959/" target="_blank">federation cottage</a> on Campbell Street in Waverley sold at auction for 28% over its reserve, securing a $1.41 million price tag.
The three-bedroom property includes period features of high patterned ceilings, timber floors and a period fireplace.
It was the first time the property was offered in 40 years and was listed through Alex Hart of Hart Estate Agents.
Meanwhile in Surry Hills, a <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/House/NSW/Surry-Hills/?adid=2010321857&amp;topspot=1" target="_blank">circa 1865 terrace</a> sold at auction for $1,355,000.
The war between seven bidders saw the property tip 28% over its reserve of $295,000.
Charles Touma of Belle Property Surry Hills listed the property.
Damien Cooley of Cooley Auctions says these un-renovated properties are not being bought for investment purposes but more for their locality and the long term.
The trend is expected to continue for a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-erskineville-113445419" target="_blank">three-bedroom home on John Street in Erskinville</a> as it goes under the hammer on April 27 with a price guide of $600,000.
The 180-square-metre property offers a 6.05-metre frontage and a large rear yard.
It last sold in 1989 for $165,000 and is currently listed by Braden Walters of True Property.
Walters has given out 62 contracts to date for the Saturday auction and had over 190 groups through in the four weeks its been on the market.
"The opportunity value is what makes it so attractive to buyers, the fact that people can just completely redo something withought having to keep anything," says Walters.
Walters says the Erskinville property has been empty for eight years and has tree roots pushing the floorboards up.
"The sale will absolutely smash the reserve," says Walters.
Walters says a minimum of $100,000 will need to be spent on doing a basic renovation.
</body></html>

ntrotman-Et3xWpamVh

Unrenovated properties a popular trend in Sydney Autumn auctions

<html><body>
Melbourne house price growth outperformed Sydney in the March quarter, according to Australian Property Monitors.
Melbourne’s median house price grew 3.6% over the quarter to $538,922 while Sydney’s grew 1.6% to $673,681.
Andrew Wilson, APM’s senior economist, says, “Melbourne was the standout performer."
Year on year, Sydney price growth is still outperforming Melbourne though, growing 4.2% compared to 3.7% in Melbourne.
"Sydney has now posted consecutive quarters of record level median house prices to clearly move from the recovery phase that commenced early in 2012 into a solid expansionary phase of cyclical house price growth," Wilson says. 
Sydney’s median house price is at a record high.
In Sydney, the median apartment price dropped 1.6% over the quarter after a 3.6% rise in December. In Melbourne median apartment prices rose 2.6% over the quarter, the third consecutive rise.
<div title="Page 3" class="page">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
"This is the best performance by the Melbourne housing market since the March quarter of 2010.
"Melbourne’s median house price has now risen by 3.7% over the past year but remains 4.2% below its previous peak level," Wilson says.
</div>
</div>
</div>
Across the nation, house prices grew 1.7% over the quarter and 3.2% over the year. Apartments dropped 0.7% though they are still 0.7% up for the year.
Wilson says this is the best start to the year for country since strong conditions in 2010. He says there is little sign of this changing.
“Buyer activity is set to increase through the remainder of 2013 driven by growing optimism and record low interest rates that have likely bottomed out," he says.
But he says the extent of continued growth will depend on the performance of both the national and local economies.
The national median house price has now risen solidly for two quarters in a row, up by 1.7 % over the March quarter.
Brisbane house prices increase for the third quarter in a row for the first time in three years.
Adelaide and Canberra buck the national trend with median house prices falling over the March quarter.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/04/apmapril24one.gif" width="470" height="275" alt="apmapril24one">
</body></html>

awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Melbourne house price growth outperforms Sydney in March quarter: APM

<html><body>
There are 1,556 auctions are scheduled across the nation’s capital cities for this week, with Melbourne leading the way with 788 scheduled auctions, according to RP Data. 
Sydney has 480 scheduled auctions for the week ending April 28.
Auctions slightly slowed across the capital cities last week with 1,387-recorded auctions, a slight drop from 1,410 auctions the week prior, according to RP Data.
This time last year there were 1,159 recorded auctions.
Meanwhile, the national auction clearance rate for last week was 63.7%, an increase from the previous week of 61.8%.
It is a vast improvement from the same time last year where it was 53.2%.
Sydney recorded the strongest auction clearance rate last week of 72.2%, up from 67.2% the week before.
However the number of auctions in Sydney declined from 529 the week prior to 427 last week.
The same time last year Sydney recorded 363 auctions and a clearance rate of 54%.
Melbourne recorded an impressive 712 auctions last week and experienced a clearance rate of 67.7% - an increase from the recorded 66.5% for the previous week.
The same time last year Melbourne recorded a clearance rate of 58.3%.
</body></html>

Melbourne leads the way with 788 scheduled auctions this week

<html><body>
Ricky Ponting, the retired Australian cricket captain, has listed his Sutherland Shire home as he prepares to move to Melbourne's Brighton.
Just weeks after reputedly paying close to $10 million, Ponting and wife, Rianna have McGrath Estate Agents selling their five-bedroom Burraneer Bay house.
It has been listed with unconfirmed $4.75 million plus expectations.
Overlooking Port Hacking, the tri-level house (pictured below) comes with infinity pool and private jetty, boatshed and pontoon.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/2013/04/april23burraneer]}
Listing agent Sean Egan says its has "world class views" over the Port Hacking and Royal National Park.
It also features a wet bar, sauna, guest accommodation and a home cinema. Offers are due by May 20.
The house has been renovated since Ponting and his wife, Rianna, bought it for $3.8 million in 2006.
The Shandford Estate, a 1913 Edwardian seven-bedroom house on 1890 square metres of land in Brighton, has a billiard room, library, tennis court and a private laneway to the nearby beach.
It was bought on March 6 having last sold at $2.7 million in 1999 when the Hunter family bought it from Tasman United Coal.
When last sold 14 years ago the Brighton residence had a sunroom with bay views and six bedrooms, the main one with an en suite bathroom, spa and its own balcony.
Downstairs were the enormous reception foyer, formal living and dining rooms, the kitchen and informal areas.
A stunning Waterford crystal chandeliers and a custom-made, pure-wool carpet with borders complemented the gracious interiors in the late 1990s.
<div class="page" title="Page 90">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
It was designed by Klingender &amp; Alsop in 1913, described by architectural historian Jon Clare as being a mix of American and British elements in an early and substantial example of the bungalow style, retaining transitional Edwardian elements such as the steeply pitched gabled roofs, and incorporating bungalow style features such as the heavy verandah piers and roughcast rendered finish.
It features in the work by Jon Clare, The post-Federation House in Melbourne, Bungalow and Vernacular Revival styles 1900-1930. 
</div>
</div>
</div>
It was sold by private treaty through JP Dixon in March with reported $12 million expectations held by Jeffrey Hunter, whose company Hunter Products supplies toys, sporting and leisure equipment to Australian retailers. 
Sydney Confidential in the Daily Telegraph suggests the Ponting couple are seeking a "lifestyle" change.
</body></html>

Ricky Ponting lists Burraneer Bay home as he heads to Brighton

<html><body>
A Point Piper harbourfront mansion - nicknamed the Bank and Olufsen house - has sold for about $34 million, reputedly to a Chinese buyer.
The McWilliam family had bought the property for $24 million in 2006.
The three-level residence was built in the mid-1980s by Brian Johnson of Pennant Properties.
Singer Elton John nicknamed the house the Bang and Olufsen house due to its distinctive tinted glass stereo speaker design spotting it while sailing Sydney Harbour.
After an unsolicited $11 million offer from Elton John which didn't progress preceded Brian Johnson's sale of the property for $11.25 million to the Taechaubol family in 1990. They then sold it to the McWilliam's.
</body></html>

Point Piper mansion sells for about $34 million

<html><body>
Demand for apartments could slow in favour of houses as the 20 to 34-year-old segment of the population move onto the next stage of their lives, according to new research by BIS Shrapnel.
The age bracket, which it labels the echo baby boomers, has been driving apartment occupancy for the last 10 years, according to its Emerging Trends in Residential Market Demand report.
At the same time, it found there has not been any major evidence of an increase in the rate of downsizing by those aged 65 and over.
The age-bracket has been over-represented in demographic make-up of Australia as the children of the baby boomer generation grow up while overseas migration is strong in that age bracket.
“The growth in the 20-to-34 year old group has fuelled occupancy of units and apartments in the inner and middle suburbs of the capital cities over the past decade, mainly as renters,” says BIS Shrapnel senior manager Angie Zigomanis.
“However, as this group increasingly moves into their late 30s and early 40s in the coming decade and enters their next life stage, the question is whether they will still live in medium and high density dwellings.”
According to the 2011 Census, around 63% of households with a household head aged 20 to 34 years old lived in detached houses, but this figure is 80% for households where the household head is aged 35 to 49.
And 71% of households among 35 to 49 year olds were families with children, compared with only 39% of 20 to 34-year-old households.
“Assuming the current 20 to 34 year olds in multi unit dwellings move on to separate houses, as has already been evident among 35 to 49-year-old households, then this will translate to higher demand for new detached houses,” says Zigomanis.
“This would provide some relief for land developers, builders and building materials suppliers who mainly service the detached house market and have found the going tough in recent years – although the challenge will be for all stakeholders to ensure that the greenfield land market will be able to meet this potential increase in demand.”
<img alt="bisshrapnelapril22one" height="320" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/bisshrapnelapril22one.jpg">
But BIS Shrapnel does propose an alternative future where apartment dwellers grow to like living in apartments and don’t move on to houses, thereby increasing the average age of those living in apartments.
This would drive demand for apartments appropriate for family with young and growing children, offering more space, both indoor and some outdoor, or located adjacent to public outdoor spaces.
“It could also trigger greater renovation activity as the emerging 35 to 49 year olds who still want a house purchase in established areas and tailor the house to their needs,” Zigomanis says.
BIS Shrapnel says this alternative theory is currently online likely in New South Wales where households have much a higher propensity to live in townhouses, units and apartments.
In Queensland, Western Australia, and South Australia the demand for apartments won’t be as strong, while the jury is still out on Victoria.
</body></html>

Ageing echo baby boomers may temper apartment demand: BIS Shrapnel

<html><body>
Champion surfer Tom Carroll has listed his hillside Newport property on Sydney's northern beaches.
With sweeping beach views, the contemporary house has three-levels.
It's expected to fetch about $2 million at its May 2 auction through Lachlan Elder of LJ Hooker <a target="_blank" href="/news">Mona Vale</a>.
"If a home could be referred to as "sexy" this would be the one," <a target="_blank" href="https://monavale.ljhooker.com.au/1089F6K">his marketing says</a>.
Carroll bought the Hillside Road property for $350,000 in 1988 when he was competing on the world professional surfing circuit where he won two world surfing titles (1983 and 1984) and three Pipe Masters (1987, 1990 and 1991) in Hawaii.
In 1999 Carroll and his wife Lisa rebuilt the five bedroom house with sheets of glass, curved walls, high ceilings and polished timber on its 920-square-metre block.
</body></html>

Champion surfer Tom Carroll lists Newport abode

<html><body>
British media entrepreneur and multi-millionaire Baron Waheed Alli, has purchased an apartment in the Dominion development at Darlinghurst, which is due for completion next month.
He is the co-founder of Planet 24, one of Britain’s largest TV production companies, responsible for hit shows such as Survivor.
Dominion – developed by Cbus Property – <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/darlinghurst-s-newest-residential-development-dominion-revealed/2013012358921">will consist of 108 apartments</a> split across three buildings, each seven levels high close to Oxford Street.

“I have been coming to Sydney for more than 10 years and I love the city; in particular the Darlinghurst area. I’m here at least four times a year on business and pleasure, and I’d much rather have a base with my own creature comforts than staying in an impersonal hotel room,” he said.

Lord Alli (pictured below) plans to use his interior designer, Jonathan Adler from New York, to help with the finishing touches of his fifth floor apartment.
<img height="326" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/lordapril19one.jpg" alt="lordapril19one">

“I bought my apartment in Dominion off-the-plan at least two years ago, and it’s been worth the wait,” he said. 
“I’m impressed how the building has turned out. It has blended into the landscape.”

The $150 million development with asking prices of $1.2 million through Colliers International for two-bedroom apartments and $1.79 million for three-bedroom apartments, was reported to have had about 15% of buyers from overseas, including several expats.
</body></html>

gdwyer-vyxhMDDW5L

Designer Jonathan Adler heading down under as Lord Alli buys into Darlinghurst's Dominion

<html><body>
The $2 billion Central Park development in Sydney has achieved another major milestone with its 1000th apartment being sold.
The team behind the development, Frasers Property Australia and Sekisui House, noted it on their Facebook page (pictured below).
<img height="459" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/frasersapril19one.jpg" alt="frasersapril19one">
The buyers were dubbed a "visionary group".
Located in Sydney’s inner southern suburb <a target="_blank" href="/news">Chippendale</a>, the development is scheduled to take between eight and 10 years to complete.
It will have the first residents of <a target="_blank" href="/news">One Central Park</a> West by July.
Sales of apartments since its August 2010 launch have ranged between $460,000 and $2.135 million.
Its selling agents say buying interest and demand for the offerings has grown as the architecture has been revealed during construction.
</body></html>

Latest New South Wales Property News

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest New South Wales Property News

First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News