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.

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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.

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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> 
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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>

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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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Rene Rivkin’s former Wiseman’s Ferry log cabin on the Hawkesbury River has been sold.
It’s been bought for $1.45 million by Bob and Wendy Lapointe, who own the picturesque Muskoka Farm property on the Hawkesbury down the road from Wiseman's Ferry. Bob Lapointe, who has owned in the district since 1969, is the man who altered the eating habits of Australians forever, introducing fast food into Australia, initially with Kentucky Fried Chicken, then Pizza Hut and later Sizzler. He was a Canadian student when he met "The Colonel" Harlan Sanders while working out his 1962 holidays in a restaurant chain in western Canada.
Click to enlarge
<a rel="shadowbox" href="/images/stories/rivkin1.jpg" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/rivkin1thumb.jpg"></a>
High-profile stockbroker Rene Rivkin, who died in 2005, bought the 3.8-hectare land in 1997 for $330,000. The massive handcrafted custom-designed cabin was completed in late 1998 using 350 cypress trees found at an Inverell mill.
Bruce Litchfield, an interior decorator, secured help from Dr Tracey Wakefield to oversee the design of the project. It's a three-bedrooom home with extensive verandas and a competition-style billiard room.
It was proudly built by Appalachian Log Homes, <a href="https://www.appalachianloghomes.com.au/rivpro" target="_blank">whose website has photos </a>taken by Eric Sierins of Max Dupain and Associates Pty Ltd. The riverfront facilities were big enough to moor Rivkin's 33-metre cruising yacht, Dajoshadita.
It’s been owned and sold by family members who’ve made little use of the property for several years.
Set in a secluded riverside location on the edge of national park, the property was Rivkin’s occasional getaway from the hustle and bustle of his hectic city life.
It’s about an hour’s drive to Hornsby via the F3.
There’s a nearby 16-hectare holding with road and river frontage listed at $430,000.
Wisemans Ferry Realty has 1252-square-metre hillside vacant blocks with water views listed at $80,000 plus.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

The late Rene Rivkin's log cabin on the Hawkesbury River sells: Title Tattle

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The transportation and shopping hub of Chatswood on the Sydney lower north shore registered 450 house and unit sales worth a combined $382 million in 2011, with its ranking on the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/mosman-heads-top-100-list-with-kew-paddington-and-castle-hill-climbing-the-ranks-and-hope-island-and-vaucluse-tumbling/2012021453376" target="_blank">RP Data Top 100 list of house and unit aggregate sales</a> soaring from 34th to 17th in the space of a year.
The year was dominated by unit sales, with 308 apartments sold during the year at a median price of $605,000. Off-the-plan sales, including the sell-out of Mirvac’s 42-storey Era tower, were not included.
There were 142 house sales over the year at almost double the unit median at $1.2 million.
RP Data research shows that <a target="_blank" href="/news">Chatswood</a> unit prices increased by 4.2% with a yield of 4.4% over the past year while house prices managed growth of 0.6%.
Chatswood has a predominantly Asian population and is well known for its Asian eateries and vibrant shopping culture centred along Victoria Avenue. Shopping centres include the Westfield Chatswood and Chatswood Chase Sydney.
It continues to attract Asian buyers and investors, both locally and offshore, according to local estate agents.
McGrath agent Jon Dundas-Smith notched up three big sales in Chatswood to Chinese buyers last year, telling the Sydney Morning Herald a lot of money was coming in from China.
The area has also benefited from the parents of Asian students picking up properties and putting them in their children’s names – the downside is they have to be sold when they leave the country.
The suburb is also the focus of a commercial property revival, with demand for office space picking up as Chatswood’s status as a sought-after fringe business location rises.
According to the most recent Property Council of Australia Office Report the vacancy rate in Chatswood offices decreased from 17% to 10.7% over the six-month period to December 2011.
Investment group FKP is currently developing a new alfresco restaurant, café and shopping hub as part of its refurbishment of 15-storey office building.
The Avenues will be developed outside 465 Victoria Avenue in the western precinct of Chatswood bordering Railway Street, Brown Street and Victoria Avenue and is due for completion in mid-2012.
According to property managers RUN Property, Chatswood experienced above inflation growth in rents from January 2011 to January 2012, with weekly rents increasing from $570 a week to $600 over this period.
<img src="/images/stories/chatswood1.jpg">
Daryl Katz from Shead Property Chatswood is currently selling a 65-square-metre two-bedroom renovated apartment (pictured above) on Hampden Road  in neighbouring Artarmon with offers sought in excess of $460,000.
It last sold in December 2005 for $352,500.
The property is currently rented at $450 per week, representing a yield of just over 5% at the listing price.
Katz describes the property as an “outstanding entry point for first-time investors, or to complement an existing investment portfolio”.
<img src="/images/stories/chatswood2.jpg">
Saesar Liu from Great Fortune Investment Chippendale is selling a one-bedroom apartment on Help Street that includes use of a cross-shaped swimming pool (pictured above), complete with palm trees. The apartment is up for sale in the mid- $400,000s.
It last sold in July 2006 for $305,000
It is currently rented at $450 per week. At a sales price of $450,000, this equates to an estimated yield of 5.2%.
Main photograph by Christopher Chan
 
 
 
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Hotspots: Brisk unit sales and commercial property revival in Chatswood  

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Actor Nicole Kidman has failed to sell the final piece of her beachfront holding on the NSW far south coast. 

Kidman purchased the Rosedale holding as part of a $4 million outlay on the coastal strip in 2004. She has already recouped $3 million, selling two of the properties to Canberrans.
Before the auction buyers were being told to expect to pay around $800,000, but when the last portion went to auction last weekend it did not sell.
<img src="/images/stories/kidmanland2.jpg">
The vacant 1,009-square-metre block had been for sale since 2008 at $1.2 million plus through Michael Skuse of LJ Hooker Batemans Bay. It has 21 metres of beach frontage on Knowlman Road. 

It was 2004 when Angus Hawley, Nicole's then brother-in-law, first swooped into town by helicopter to bid on the rare beachfront offering offered by the Knowlman farming family from Goulburn, who had paid £35 in 1929. Rosedale locals say Kidman has been there only a handful of times since 2004. 
 
 
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Nicole Kidman's south coast NSW beachfront land fails to sell at auction

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The NSW corruption watchdog will investigate allegations of corruption involving former boxer Lucky Gattellari, Ron Medich Developments and Narooma south coast land council.
The Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) will hold a public inquiry commencing on Monday, February 27, 2012 as part of an investigation it is conducting into allegations of corrupt conduct concerning former chairman of the Wagonga Local Aboriginal Land Council Ron Mason, former Wagonga Local Aboriginal Land Council coordinator Ken Foster, and former and current Wagonga Local Aboriginal Land Council CEO Vanessa Mason.
It is alleged that between March 2005 and April 2006, Mason and Foster received corrupt benefits from Fortunato (Lucky) Gattellari in return for facilitating negotiations between the Wagonga Local Aboriginal Land Council, Gattellari, Ron Medich Developments Pty Ltd and Waterview Developments Pty Ltd.
The Commission is also investigating an allegation that between January 2008 and April 2010, Mason received corrupt benefits from Gattellari in return for facilitating negotiations between the Wagonga Local Aboriginal Land Council, Gattellari and Waterview Developments Pty Ltd.
The public inquiry will be heard by ICAC assistant commissioner Theresa Hamilton, with expectations it will continue for between three and five days.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/tasmanian-tigers-keep-watch-over-the-point-piper-harbourfront-mansion-of-the-much-accused-ron-medich/2011112852588" target="_blank">Ron Medich </a>and Lucky Gattellari have both been charged over the September 2009 murder of Sydney businessman Michael McGurk.
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Ron Medich faces another ICAC inquiry - this one over Narooma land council dealings

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Nearby mining activity, solid infrastructure, an airport and country living are some of the reasons the NSW country town of Orange is turning into a veritable river of residential property gold.
Orange, about 260 kilometres north west of Sydney, recorded 921 property sales over the course of 2011 worth $270 million, ranking 54th on <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/mosman-heads-top-100-list-with-kew-paddington-and-castle-hill-climbing-the-ranks-and-hope-island-and-vaucluse-tumbling/2012021453376" target="_blank">RP Data’s list of the top 100 suburbs with the highest aggregate of sales in 2011</a>. Orange ranked at number 144 in 2010.
The vast majority (781) of these sales were houses, with the median price of an Orange house now standing at $296,000. The median unit price is $217,000.
House prices in Orange have been booming, with the town experiencing about 4% house price growth for the year to September 2011, according to the latest ANZ Housing report, the strongest capital growth of all NSW regional areas.
According to RP Data, houses are selling at an average discount of 6.1%, with an average time on market of 110 days. However, RP Data says house prices remained flat over 2011, having experienced strong growth over the two preceding years.
Orange has also attracted its fair share of those seeking a lifestyle change and also taking advantage of the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/no-rush-yet-for-sydneysiders-to-move-to-the-sticks-despite-%247000-government-carrot/2011101151892" target="_blank">NSW government’s regional relocation grant</a>, which provides a one-off payment of $7,000 to assist home buyers with the cost of relocating from their metropolitan home to a regional home.
About 600 Sydneysiders relocated to Orange, according to James Treloar, former Tamworth mayor and spokesman for Evocities, a campaign comprising the cities of Albury, Armidale, Bathurst, Dubbo, Orange, Tamworth and Wagga Wagga aimed at encouraging capital city residents to move to and invest in one of these regional cities.
<img src="/images/stories/orangechart.gif">
Source: ANZ
Orange is one of the regional economies that is benefiting from mining activity, according to the February property market report from valuers Herron Todd White.
According to the valuation firm, the shortage of available rental property is so severe that motel occupancies are running at a 90%  – an extremely high number for a regional town.
“Orange is experiencing a rental housing shortage, with motel occupancies running at around 90%,” HTW says.
The boom in house sales and values in Orange is being partly driven by a number of nearby mining projects under construction.
“Construction of the Cadia East Gold Mine is nearing completion and will become the largest underground mine in Australia, at a cost of approximately $1.9 billion.
“The expansion will prolong mining in the valley for the next 30 years,” says Herron Todd White.
Construction of the mine will finish around April 2012, when an estimated 1,000 contract workers will be stood down.
“This should result in more normal market conditions with a permanent mine workforce of around 750 to 800 people. What impact the mine will have remains to unclear,” says Herron Todd White.
A November report by PRDnationwide noted that the Orange municipality was one of the strongest-performing NSW rental markets, with the mining activity in the Cadis Valley “responsible for much of the growth in rental prices”. 
“While the median rent price for a three bedroom house in the region increased 15.8%, rent for two-bedroom units rose 18.8% in the 12 months to September 2011 resulting in a median weekly rent of $238,” says PRDnationwide.
 
<img src="/images/stories/orangechart2.gif">
<img src="/images/stories/orangechart3.gif">
Orange is one of the hotspot picks of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/nsw-city-of-orange-offers-opportunities-for-investors/2011121952894">Sam Saggers from Positive Real Estate</a>.
He describes Orange as one of the new “boom” mining towns and recommends investors look at properties under $300,000.
He says the market is offering both high capital return and high capital growth – “that anomaly does not align itself all that often, so you have a great opportunity for both in Orange”.
In addition to the benefit of mining activity, Orange is also one of those regional markets with good infrastructure and transport connections to major capital cities.
Raine and Horne CEO Angus Raine says baby boomers will look to buy in towns like Orange (as well as Tamworth and Port Macquarie), because they have “airports that make it easier for friends and families to visit”.
Orange is one of Raine’s “breakout” markets to watch in 2012 because of its standing as a “transport hub town”.
Orange also has one of Australia’s best wine districts, with local wines regularly winning national and international awards and is considered a regional gourmet food capital.
In addition, Orange is home to Schools of Agriculture and Health of Charles Sturt University.
Peter Fisher from the Property Shop Orange is selling a three-bedroom house in Emily Place for $279,000, listed just before Christmas.
<img src="/images/stories/orangehouse.jpg">
He describes the property (pictured above) as a “great starter home or investment”. It is currently being rented at $330 per week, equating to a yield of 6.15% at the current asking price.
It last sold for $199,000 in June 2003.
However, investors should exercise a fair amount of caution in Orange.
Orange, along with Dubbo and Broken Hill in the state's far west, were some of the regional centres hard hit by foreclosures, according to Supreme Court writ figures released in January.
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Hotspot: Mining and transport links make Orange a sweet prospect for investors

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Les Flots Bleus, the clifftop Shelley Beach, Manly, property that set the suburb's then residential record in 2007, has been listed for sale by home economist Jane Fitton-Williams, the relatively low-key cookery expert and author of Foolproof Food.
It has been offered for March 10 auction through Jake Rowe from McGrath, who secured its $6.75 million sale in 2007.
Rowe says there has been an inspired “re-imagining” of the traditional three-storey period home since its sale.
He suggests the UK-bound Fitton-Williams has created a sumptuous world-class designer retreat.
It has four bedrooms and three bathrooms.
It stands with views over the Fairy Bower point surf break, Shelly Beach up towards Manly Beach and beyond to the Central Coast.
The 696-square-metre block comes with poolside entertainment space with kitchenette and bathroom.
Its deluxe kitchen comes with AGA stove, butler’s pantry and cool room.
Hailing from England, Fitton-Williams is a skilled AGA demonstrator who can be booked for one-on-one demonstrations of the iconic stove.
Its previous owner was InterStrat strategic marketing company founder Professor Linden Brown, who bought and built the house for $1.43 million in 1997 and then paid the leasehold renewal, which cost about $550,000.
Manly’s latest residential house record was set last year when haircare industry entrepreneur Susan Starling sold her house for $10 million to Craig Butcher, having initial $12 million expectations in 2008. The three-storey Addison Road harbourfront house sold through Elders agent Luke Newby, in conjunction with McGrath agent Jake Rowe.
 Jake Rowe has been telling buyers that he expects $7 million plus for his latest listing based on the last recent comparable sale of $8 million in June 2010.
"The house is ideal for a small family or a couple as the main home is now three bedrooms, and there is a separate granny flat beneath the garage which would be good for an older child or a guest," he advises'.
"The position on the cliff side is about as good as it gets in terms of the view."
 
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Home economist lists record-setting Fairy Bower Manly property: Title Tattle

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The former Palm Beach home of Tony Morris, ex-principal of GP Noble, one of Britain's largest pension schemes, has been listed for March 20 sale by his bankruptcy trustee Andrew Wily.
Morris, who was extradited from Sydney last April to face charges of defrauding the fund, paid $7.45 million in 2006 for the clifftop property he named Aman.
Peter Gosnell’s Sydney Insolvency News reported last October that Wily had been appointed trustee in bankruptcy to the estate of Tony Morris after Morris failed to pay $50,000 in legal fees owed to his lawyers, HWL Ebsworth. Morris’s insurance policy indicated jewellery with a replacement value of $5 million was kept on the Palm Beach premises.
Wily subsequently took possession of the safe's contents, which included a platinum ladies’ ring with a seven-carat diamond, diamond earrings valued at $200,000 and other high-end pieces from Phillip Street jewellers.
A man's ring with a replacement value of $2 million was missing, and Morris has since said he lost the ring while working on a farm in New Zealand.
The mortgage, currently running at $25,000 a month, has the National Australia Bank owed about $5.2 million and accumulating penalty interest.
Valuations for the property mentioned in court last year ranged from $6.2 million to $6.5 million, a fair way shy of the $7.4 million Morris paid in 2006.
David Egan of Raine &amp; Horne <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-palm+beach-109585431">is marketing the property</a>.
Morris was initially under investigation for a £52 million ($86 million) fraud with creditors and British police searching for missing funds, but investigators have subsequently recovered $50 million of the funds.
In a 2010 interview with Channel Seven at his clifftop home Morris has said he was innocent and would return to England to speak to police to clear his name.
"I've got a lot to lose, a lot to lose. I'm confident I won't be charged but that's what terrifies me," he said.
The Australian Federal Police, as Interpol's representatives, had been asked to assist the Serious Fraud Office with inquiries into Morris.
The central allegation made at the hearing was that GP Noble and a trustee firm identified only as BDC paid money that had been held in the trusts of 29 pension schemes into investments that were not within the trustees' investment powers.
It was alleged that two directors of GP Noble and BDC, Mr Pitcher and Mr Cordell, were "dishonest" and that Morris was a "dishonest accomplice".
The north-facing property, which is situated on the top of a cliff at the northern end of Whale Beach, had been the subject of a “soft sell” marketing campaign late last year after Wily and Morris’s wife, Vanessa Jackson, found common ground over inspection times that suited the nap times of the couple’s two-year-old child.
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Bankruptcy trustee lists ex-GP Noble boss Tony Morris’ former Palm Beach home as Morris faces fraud charges 

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With interiors designed to evoke the feeling of being at a league match – complete with stadium-style seating, goal posts and carpet with football field markings – Rugby League Central, the new home of Rugby League, has been officially opened.
The newly completed building on Driver Avenue, Moore Park, is adjacent to the Sydney Football Stadium and the Sydney Cricket Ground.
Rugby League Central was designed by HBO+EMTB who did both the building architecture and the interior design. The 3,600-square-metre space comprises three storeys plus a rooftop entertaining terrace and basement parking.
<img src="/images/stories/rugbyleague1.jpg">
HBO+EMTB managing director Kevin Fitzgerald says Rugby League Central has been designed to bring together five separate rugby league organisations: NRL, ARL, NSWRL, NSW Country League and ARL Development.
“The challenge was to successfully bring together five organisations from one code with, nonetheless, differing cultures and histories. The interior layout is designed to facilitate cooperation, interaction and commonality of purpose while recognising and celebrating individual histories and achievements.
<img src="/images/stories/rugbyleague2.jpg">
“At the forefront of our design has been a theme of ‘One Home - One Community’.
“The focal point of the building is a dramatic oval shaped core that forms a three-storey atrium/lobby, symbolising a rugby league football. This core structure rises above the main envelope of the building to enunciate the building’s function,” Fitzgerald says.
“The workspaces are largely open plan but each member organisation has its own regional cluster with graphic cues, including team colours and large-scale images of their respective players in action.
<img src="/images/rugbyleague3.jpg">
“Another unifying design feature is the liberal use of the chevron, the one symbol consistent throughout all bodies in rugby league. It is prominent in the foyer in several timber feature walls, in glazed areas on different floors and on the exterior fin of the building,” he says.
 
<img src="/images/stories/rugbyleague4.jpg">
A special purpose-built judiciary room also doubles as a conference and media room, and the rooftop area features an open terrace with park and city views.
It was opened by the Federal Minister for Infrastructure and Transport Anthony Albanese and NSW Minister for Sport and Recreation Graham Annesley.
The event also marked the launch of the Australian Rugby League Commission and was presided over by the commission’s new chairman, John Grant, and ARLC chief executive David Gallop.
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Rugby League scores new Sydney headquarters that captures the feel of the game 

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The Darling Point home of the late Roddy Meagher, who was perhaps the most loquacious of latter-day judges, has been listed for sale with price hopes of $3 million plus.
It was his home for 40 years, starting some 10 years after he’d married his late wife, Penny.
The three-level Darling Point Road terrace with overgrown facade sits on a 322-square-metre block. His art collection was cleared out several years ago. It’s been listed by LJ Hooker Double Bay agents Alain Waitsman and Emma Barbour.
Meagher, was called to the bar in 1960, was renowned for his many forthright pronouncements, which his obituaries noted turned into occasions of public outrage or amusement.
He certainly didn’t let up in private, as Title Tattle can attest, dining with Meagher – who dominated the conversation at his mate Charles Lloyd Jones’s place.
Roderick Pitt "Roddy" Meagher, AO QC – named one of Sydney's most adroit QCs on intellectual property matters in 1988 – served as a justice of the NSW Supreme Court and Court of Appeal from 1989 until 2004.
He died aged 79 last July.
He was a cousin of Patrick White and his family owned country stores, which provided the wealth to fund of his Jesuit education, and then his University of Sydney law degree.
Meagher’s art collection of 2,000 paintings and drawings, dozens of sculptures, ceramics and antiquities was bequeathed to Sydney University two years ago.
As well as his house in Darling Point, he had a farm in Bowral. He left most of his estate to his only daughter, Amy.
A $3.75 million sale was recorded two doors away last year.
 
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Darling Point terrace of the late forthright judge Roddy Meagher on the market: Title Tattle

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They say bad things come in threes, so perhaps not surprisingly Sydney’s third record-setting penthouse sale has floundered.
<a href="https://afr.com/p/business/property/penthouse_fetches_record_price_KJOWqeDDfQUMe6OaDtqQtJ" target="_blank">It was reported last December in the Australian Financial Review</a> that the penthouse in the Hyde Park tower The Residence had been sold by the developer Galileo Group for around $20 million.
<img src="/images/stories/afr.jpg">
But no exchanged contract was ever signed and buyers are now being invited to inspect the soon-to-be furnished apartment 88 from next month.
It’s listed by CBRE agent Ben Stewart, who repeatedly and accurately maintained no sale had taken place, but this was ignored in all the media reports barring Title Tattle.
The Title Tattle column noted the sale of the penthouse of The Residence had become akin to pulling a rabbit out of a hat as there had also been an initial premature AFR September sale report that suggested a very bullish $25 million. Then December's updated sales advisory had it at $20 million plus. But Title Tattle reported suggestions that no official exchange had actually occurred, although there was definite buyer interest.
Sydney's bad luck run with record penthouse price-setting sales not transpiring included developer Andrew Richardson, who in 2009 lost his record $20.1 million off-the-plan penthouse buyer in The Elizabeth, which also overlooks Hyde Park. Richardson had accepted a $100 deposit for the proposed three-storey penthouse from the now-bankrupted businessman, Rodney Price.
Ashington's former $70 million Wylde Street, Potts Point project was the location of the earlier other abandoned record setting deal.
Ashington had sold the penthouse atop its proposed six-floor 10-unit complex designed by Tzannes Associates. But the buyer Duncan Hardie who was willing to continue with his intended $20 million purchase, didnt really get a choice as the Ashtington project never proceeded following the collapse of the Ashington company.
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