The new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/yarraville-green-42-stephen-street-yarraville-vic-3013">Yarraville Green</a> development in Melbourne's inner west is showing that landscaping can be just as influential as architecture, with buyers responding strongly to the garden-first approach adopted from the outset by developer Excelon Projects and the project's design team.

Excelon appointed Six Degrees Architects and landscape architects SBLA to work collaboratively on the development, with a brief to create "a sustainable, design-led building with a focus on community."

That approach has resonated with buyers. According to Next Chapter Director Tom Hirini, who is leading the sales campaign, the landscaped communal garden has become one of the project's defining features, alongside its boutique scale and European-inspired cluster housing concept.

Local downsizers, right-sizers and established families already living in Yarraville and surrounding suburbs have accounted for the majority of purchasers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297740]

Yarraville Green will comprise 53 homes, including apartments and townhomes, arranged around the shared central garden to maximise connections to the landscaped open space. Parking has been moved underground, allowing the ground plane to be dedicated to greenery, pedestrian movement and communal spaces.

The landscape extends well beyond passive planting. Productive garden beds, a pergola, communal gathering spaces, garden sheds and a pet wash have all been integrated into the masterplan, creating spaces designed to encourage everyday interaction between residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297741]

The interiors continue Excelon's focus on craftsmanship, incorporating bespoke elements by Melbourne artisans including leadlight detailing by Adadaz, hand-turned timber hardware by Auburn Woodturning and blown-glass lighting by Ruth Allen.

Sustainability has also been embedded throughout the project, with Yarraville Green targeting an average 7-star NatHERS energy rating through passive design principles, rooftop solar servicing common areas and rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297735]

Construction continues to progress at Yarraville Green, with structural works well underway and framing works approaching completion under builder Balmain &amp; Co. The project remains on track for completion in mid-2027.

Apartments at Yarraville Green are currently priced from $625,000, while townhomes start from $1.4 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144913]

Joel Robinson

Garden-led design drives buyer demand at Yarraville Green

National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 41-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 41-storey tower, which has 229 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

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?

A few months after the Waterloo Metro station opened, joint venture partners Mirvac and John Holland have submitted plans for two more stages in the Waterloo Metro Quarter.

The $960 million, State Significant Development, which goes through government planning rather than the local council, will&nbsp;replace the previously approved commercial office development with a vibrant mixed-use precinct comprising residential towers, retail spaces, and community facilities.

The original Concept SSDA, approved in 2019, envisioned a mixed-use development but was later amended in 2021 to primarily focus on office space.

However, the developers cite significant shifts in market demand following the COVID-19 pandemic, including a decline in demand for city fringe office space and an escalating need for residential housing in the Waterloo-Zetland area.

<img alt="Waterloo Metro Quarter site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="78cfb507-1f0a-4b4c-82ec-2e46230257b3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Waterloo%20site.png?VersionId=c9pMXppIhtDOh15tvcUx4MtSxg5i52cd" />

There are two sets of plans, for the Northern Precinct and the Central Over Station Development. The Northern Precinct will include two residential towers comprising a total of 336 apartments, 40 of which will be affordable housing. They will sit above a four-level&nbsp;podium with three levels of commercial office space and retail tenancies.

The precinct aligns with the original concept of high-density residential use, a shift from the previously approved 17-level commercial office building.&nbsp;

The maximum height of the proposed towers, 28 and 24 levels, remains compliant with local planning regulations.

<img alt="Waterloo Metro Quarter - Northern Precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8b3e4156-46b3-4c89-bf45-72cea009222f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Northern.png?VersionId=.cQvKeki4g2WFH5TJEOdH88Rp.eafrks" /> 
The build-to-sell apartments. Image credit: Woods Bagot

The Central Precinct, designed by Bates Smart, will focus on co-living accommodations, built above a podium with additional non-residential uses.

A childcare centre and other community facilities are planned for this part of the development, further diversifying the precinct's offerings.&nbsp;

Both precincts will maintain pedestrian connectivity through features like Raglan Walk, a through-site laneway.

<img alt="TOD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cbbe07e3-8990-45bb-882d-89b2e89ce5e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-01-20%20at%209.51.41%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=xfa9jtgDfP1NDV1QsN5j9HREDsGbL5gy" /> 
The co-living apartments. Image credit: Bates Smart

Upon completion, WMQ will deliver 655 apartments, including student accommodation, social housing, and market apartments, 32,300 sqm of office space, and 4,500 sqm of retail space.

It is being positioned as a transformative addition to the area, comparable to successful developments like <a href="/new-apartments/elevate-hume-place-crows-nest-25-hume-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Hume Place</a> above <a href="/developments/crows-nest-nsw-2065">Crows Nest</a> station.

Construction of the WMQ basement and the Southern Precinct began in early 2023, with the Waterloo Metro station opening in August 2024.&nbsp;

It is being positioned as a transformative addition to the area, comparable to successful developments like Hume Place above Crows Nest station

First Look: Mirvac, John Holland, submit $960m Waterloo Metro Quarter plans

Newcastle locals GWH is bringing its latest installment of new apartments to its native city, and their newest development, ERA, has been several years in the making.

<a href="/new-apartments/era-newcastle-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a>&nbsp;will comprises 281 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments across two striking towers a stone's throw from the best <a href="/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle</a> has to offer.

The acclaimed architecture studio, FK Australia, behind some of Melbourne’s most iconic buildings including the record-breaking Australia 108, led the design of the new project.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=309966]

“We brought in FK Australia to create something that Newcastle hasn’t seen before,” GWH Residential Sales Manager, Peter Kunov, said, adding that the development aims to place the city on the architectural map alongside Australia’s best-designed buildings.

We recently visited ERA's display suite to take a closer look as to what's on offer.

<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/f9PArf9R6YA?si=6ufGrOcS-HonP7ug" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

FK has designed the building so the living spaces are wrapped in floor-to-ceiling glass windows, windows that almost replace walls. They wanted to maximise views and also let in as much natural light as possible.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=309968]

Much like GWH’s past developments, there was a conscious effort to offer significant resident amenity.&nbsp;

Connected by a three-level podium, the two towers share 2,000 sqm of communal space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=309976]

Each tower will also feature a rooftop skygarden, offering all-weather function spaces and panoramic views of Newcastle’s harbor, beaches, and city centre.

<a href="/developers/gwh">GWH</a> is no stranger to delivering standout developments in Newcastle, with Sky Residences nearby serving as a testament to the convenience and lifestyle appeal of their projects.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=309977]

ERA’s location offers easy access to light rail, Honeysuckle’s waterfront dining and entertainment options, and Newcastle’s renowned beaches.

Construction on the Bull Street site is already underway, with completion anticipated by late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Construction on the Bull Street site is already underway, with completion anticipated by late 2027

GWH to usher in new ERA for Newcastle with latest apartment tower: Urban Display Suite Tour

Developer&nbsp;<a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia Group</a> and non-bank lender Metrics Credit Partners have teamed up to propose a new luxury mixed-use project in the increasingly evolving Sydney CBD.

The joint venture,&nbsp;Central Sydney Property Pty Ltd, has acquired a&nbsp;6,000 sqm site bordering Castlereagh, Pitt, and Liverpool streets from offshore developer Han's Holding Group and has revealed plans for two 80-level towers with around 600&nbsp;luxury apartments, a high-end hotel, retail spaces, and an enhanced public domain.&nbsp;

The towers will be amongst the tallest in the Sydney skyline once complete.

It represents Billbergia’s first foray in the Sydney CBD and comes on the back of 88 Walker, its award-winning mixed-use project in North Sydney, delivered in partnership with Metrics, who has $22 billion in&nbsp;assets under management, specialising in fixed income, private credit, equity and capital markets.

<img alt="JV Partners Pitt Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="87ba23d9-9306-41ed-a011-931771042eca" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/338%20Pitt%20Street%20-%20Aerial%20-%20Rev%20D%20-%20HR.jpg?VersionId=IKbcFRuNtLcmwERaag8aGIqgyBxG8Iv." />

“Our vision will transform this underutilised city block into a cutting-edge urban community with luxury residences supported by premium amenity, quality public domain and active placemaking,"&nbsp;said Saul Moran, Development Director at Billbergia.

"This mixed-use development is Billbergia’s first in the CBD and heralds the renewal of the Midtown district.

Following an international design competition in 2018, the project will be designed by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/fjc-studio">fjcstudio</a>, in collaboration with Trias Studio, Aileen Sage and Polly Harbison Design.

According to fjcstudio, the towers will feature distinctive yet elegant architectural design reflecting Sydney’s geometry and urban character, with a network of through-site links and intimate public spaces activating the streetscape.

“Our design proposal has a distinctive and forward-looking form but is also restrained, elegant and reinforces the geometry, urban structure and maturity of Sydney,"&nbsp;said Richard Francis-Jones, Design Director at fjcstudio.

"Fundamental to the urban character of the design is the fine-grain orthogonal structure of the public domain and streetscape. The small footprint tower forms nestle into a network of throughsite links and intimate public spaces addressed and activated by a variety of low-scale buildings - a city in microcosm."

Apartments will be delivered in a range of one, two and three-bedroom configurations, alongside exclusive penthouses with unobstructed views, spanning from Hyde Park to the Harbour and over Sydney Heads to the East.&nbsp;

With the site’s acquisition now complete, subject to relevant approvals, demolition is expected to commence next year.&nbsp;

With the site’s acquisition now complete, subject to relevant approvals, demolition is expected to commence next year

Billbergia & Metrics propose two 80-level towers in Sydney's CBD

Multi-billion-dollar developer <a href="/developers/gurner">GURNER™</a>&nbsp;has been given the green light to develop its $800 million project on Kent Street in the Sydney CBD.

The site represents the final Freehold Land Title Site in the broader Barangaroo precinct, which is overwhelmingly occupied by Leasehold sites.&nbsp;

The planning modification from the previous approval was primarily designed to maximise the offering of each residence, providing more three-bedroom options and a reduction in total residences from 125 to 91.&nbsp;

The team has maintained a maximum of one to two residences per level throughout the project, to maximise resident privacy and create larger floorplates that will deliver on the level of service, amenity and design that has made GURNER™ one of the most successful developers in Australia.&nbsp;

The plans include two dual-level penthouses, which will deliver a new level of luxury to the inner Sydney market, alongside a sky pool and terrace, private dining, business lounge, valet and concierge, and expansive wellness area.&nbsp;

The Kent Street project will also bring together an ultra-luxe wellness area, which has fast become a signature of the GURNER™ offering.&nbsp;

<img alt="189 Kent St Gurner" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8ba0d578-5f43-4e28-8647-6eefa27109dc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/189%20Kent%20St%20%20-%20Hickson%20Road_Web%20res.jpg?VersionId=r4_afixNikBzJt4R2PmFx7nLkSyv1Hj." />

GURNER™ collaborator <a href="/architects/fjc-studio">FJC Studio</a> will be leading the architecture of 189 Kent Street, bringing together the developer’s signature aesthetic with the creative flair of the award-winning design practice.&nbsp;

With plans now approved, GURNER™ will look towards the public launch and commencement of works on-site, both of which are expected in 2025.&nbsp;

“This is our first project in Sydney and we are going to ensure it is something truly world-class, and that we are offering a level of 6-star luxury, amenity and service that has not been offered before in Sydney,"&nbsp;Tim Gurner said.

“With a maximum of two apartments per floor and numerous full-floor residences, the project has been created for Sydney’s astute homeowners that want to live their ultimate life in the heart of the city with our world-class services, amenity, and homes.&nbsp;

“We will be bringing our global leading wellness, service and luxury offering to one of Australia’s most important locations in Barangaroo."

Gurner says they have been "overwhelmed with the enquiry."

Gurner says they have been "overwhelmed with the enquiry."

Gurner gets go-ahead for luxury apartments on Sydney's Kent Street

Prominent Sydney developer Capio Property Group is bringing its first new apartment development to the western suburb of Carlingford, and the first in the suburb to be protected by the sought-after Latent Defects Insurance policy—one of the most comprehensive insurance options available to new apartment buyers.

The new policy by <a href="/news/resilience-latent-defects-insurance">Resilience Insurance</a>, which can only be taken out by the developer or builder and gives apartment owners coverage from any structural defect for 10 years post-completion, will apply to all 46 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments in Capio’s new parkside development, Blossom.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148093 project_image_fid=319997]

Designed by DKO, <a href="/new-apartments/blossom-carlingford-25-31-donald-street-carlingford-nsw-2118">Blossom</a> aims to offer more than just another apartment building; it’s envisioned as a new community. The development includes a 1,500 sqm private park, an on-site childcare centre, and a resident-only gym.

The apartments will feature open-plan kitchen, living, and dining areas that flow out to balconies through floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Most floorplans are oriented to the north, capturing an abundance of natural light and views over the adjacent park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148093 project_image_fid=319995]

The location of Blossom is another major selling point. The building will be just 350m from Carlingford Court Shopping Centre and a little over 800m from the <a href="/developments/carlingford-nsw-2118">Carlingford</a> Light Rail Station, the starting point of the line to Parramatta.

Ray White Projects WS Managing Director, Mark Bernberg, believes Blossom is setting a new standard for apartment living in the region.

“With the design of Blossom and the added bonus of Latent Defects Insurance, Capio is bringing something to Carlingford that prospective apartment buyers haven’t seen before,” says Bernberg.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148093 project_image_fid=320000]

He believes Blossom will appeal to local downsizers as well as families who can take full advantage of the onsite childcare facilities, access to convenience, and several parks at their doorstep.

Construction on Blossom has already begun, with completion expected by mid-2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=148093]

Construction on Blossom has already begun, with completion expected by mid-2026.

Capio to bring new apartments with Latent Defects Insurance to Carlingford

The cooling down of Sydney's property market looks to be heading into 2025.

After a multi-year boom in both the house and unit markets across Greater Sydney, heightened interest rates throughout 2024 gave prospective home buyers a reason to sit on their hands.

The year started off positively, so the decline in markets hasn't been extensively felt. Units across Sydney, in fact, rose 1.8 percent over 2024, reaching a new median high of $859,000. Values declined by -0.3 percent in December.

CoreLogic Research Director Tim Lawless noted that the slowdown in Sydney aligns with affordability pressures and higher advertised supply levels.

He said it wasn't a surprise to see the CoreLogic National Home Value Index show a decline for the first time in two years.

“This result represents the housing market catching up with the reality of market dynamics,” Lawless said.

“Growth in housing values has been consistently weakening through the second half of the year, as affordability constraints weighed on buyer demand and advertised supply levels trended higher.”

<h2>What happened in Sydney’s off the plan apartment market in 2024?</h2>

Sydney’s off the plan apartment market saw significant activity in 2024, reflecting the shifting dynamics of the housing sector and a focus on key projects reshaping the city’s urban landscape.

It was the new development pipeline that piqued the interest of Urban readers in 2024, as well as new projects launching to the market, which have been few and far between in recent years. Data just released from the ABS showed dwellings approved in New South Wales were 42,109 over the 12 months until November 2024, 34,000 short of meeting the National Housing Accord quota for NSW.

No development application was more popular than JDH Capital's plans for the Sir Stamford Hotel in Circular Quay. JDH, fresh off completing the redevelopment of the iconic Sirius building in The Rocks, filed plans to demolish the 1988-built hotel, which will make way for a striking 150-level glass tower with commercial, retail, and luxury apartments.

The 69 apartments will be spread across 10 residential levels in the new structure. Part of the development of the 1,612 sqm site, which sits in the Macquarie Special Character area defined in the Sydney LEP 2012, will include the restoration of the heritage-listed Health Department Building that dates back to 1896.

Read more:&nbsp;First look exclusive: <a href="/news/nsw/first-look-exclusive-jdh-capital-plot-183-million-sir-stamford-hotel-redevelopment-on-sydneys-macquarie-street">JDH Capital plot $183 million Sir Stamford Hotel redevelopment on Sydney's Macquarie Street</a>

<img alt="Sir Stamford" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="623b494a-f8c5-4b59-bf8f-ec28e6cb0895" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-01-08%20at%209.39.48%E2%80%AFAM_0.png?VersionId=qBPqrLUIcxy7s0limVnw9MygsUqzqqlo" />

There was a similar level of interest in moves by builder-developer giant <a href="/developers/aland">ALAND</a>, who took over the Macquarie Street, Parramatta site from besieged developer Toplace,&nbsp;

The plans for the site include two 30-level towers with 425 apartments, along with significant communal, retail, and parking spaces.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-exclusive-aland-take-over-second-toplace-site-plot-two-30-level-apartment-towers">First look exclusive: ALAND take over second Toplace site, plot two 30-level apartment towers</a>

ALAND has also stepped in to take over the final three buildings in the besieged Castle Hill development by Toplace.

Upon completion, the Skyview development is set to house approximately 2,500 residents across 964 apartments, with 532 units dedicated to build-to-rent.

Still in Castle Hill, a market which has proven strong for several years, custom home builder turned developer Kassis Homes submitted plans for a new suburb-shaping.

<img alt="Kassis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a71c263b-8e3c-4a62-84fc-f67a8b6a5983" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-01-08%20at%209.50.10%E2%80%AFAM_0.png?VersionId=rUCTL3RZo3zLkFLNv2HdeOxBw3yGUoj2" />

Under their new development arm Reve Group, Sam Kassis and business partner Romio Georges are planning a four-tower development on a sprawling 9,074 sqm site that cost about $80 million to amalgamate.

They're seeking to develop three residential towers, with 264 apartments, and a hotel tower.

"We've been building in the area for three decades, and we're passionate about delivering high-quality residential living to Castle Hill," Sam Kassis told Urban.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/reve-group-file-for-new-four-tower-development-in-castle-hill">Reve Group file for new four-tower development in Castle Hill</a>

The demand for new and off the plan apartments in <a href="/developments/north-sydney-nsw">North Sydney</a> has meant readers have been interested in the two new projects set to hit the market in 2025.

Earlier this year Urban revealed the plans by joint venture partners <a href="/developers/cbus-property">Cbus</a>, <a href="/developers/galileo-group">Gallileo</a> and Abadeen for East Walker Street 239 apartments across three buildings designed by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-exclusive-cbus-and-galileo-revise-plans-for-new-north-sydney-apartment-development-east-walker-street">First look exclusive: Cbus and Galileo revise plans for new North Sydney apartment development, East Walker Street</a>

East Walker Street will be one of two new apartment developments launching in the popular Walker Street pocket near the newly opened Sydney Metro Victoria Cross Station. Podia and its joint venture partner CASA will launch 71 apartments this year on McLaren Street, across the road from the recently completed AURA by Aqualand.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-podia-and-casa-lodge-bates-smart-plans-for-walker-st-north-sydney-mixed-use-tower">First look: Podia and CASA lodge Bates Smart plans for Walker St, North Sydney mixed-use tower</a>

The most indemand projects for new apartments buyers have been in close proximity to the recently expanded Sydney Metro, which opened in August.

The 130 one, two and three-bedroom apartments in <a href="/new-apartments/elevate-hume-place-crows-nest-25-hume-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Elevate Hume Place</a>, which is being developed by <a href="/developers/thirdi-group">Third.i</a> and Phoenix Property Investors, flew off the shelves. Over half of the apartments which are located directly above the <a href="/developments/crows-nest-nsw-2065">Crows Nest</a> Metro Station have been snapped up in a matter of months.

Elevate is the first Transit Oriented Development (TOD) to launch. The ToD is a government program which will accelarate planning, and offer different planning controls, around Sydney's extensive transport network.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142550 project_image_fid=297878]

Similarly strong interest was observed further along the Metro line in Castle Hill which has two metro stops, Hills Showground, and Castle Hill Metro Station.

<a href="/new-townhouses/larool-crescent-castle-hill-2-22-larool-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Larool Crescent</a>, one of the only new developments to launch to the market in Castle Hill in 2024, is just 850m from the Castle Hill Metro Station. The low-rise project has proven popular among first home buyers who are interested in the one-bed plus study at $650,000 and the two-beds at $925,000. There's also been strong demand from downsizers who are looking at the three and four-bedroom apartments and townhouses, a rarity in the&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135330 project_image_fid=289121]

Larool Crescent is also the only off the plan apartment development on the market in the area with the sought-after Latent Defects Insurance by Resilience Insurance. The policy, which can only be taken out by the developer as opposed to the purchaser, protects owners from any structural defects in the building for 10 years post-completion of the building.

CoreLogic Research Director Tim Lawless noted that the slowdown in Sydney aligns with affordability pressures and higher advertised supply levels

City Beat December 2024: Sydney unit market finishes 2024 up overall, but slowdown apparent

The monthly dwelling approval update by the Australian Bureau of Statistics again painted a grim outlook for Australia's new-build environment.

Total dwellings approved fell 3.6 per cent in November to 14,998.

There were most positives found in Victoria and Queensland where dwelling approvals remained stable and closer to their targets, although New South Wales is tracking well behind where they're forecasted to be.

The total number of dwellings approved in NSW was 42,109 over the 12 months until November 2024, 34,000 short of meeting the National Housing Accord quota for NSW.

"Despite a range of State and Federal programs designed to promote housing supply, dwelling approvals data from the last 12 months shows a chronic trend in the wrong direction," Urban Taskforce CEO Tom Forrest says, adding the new data shows there is a "mountain to climb".

"The data for NSW shows that Premier Minns is on the right track in looking to fast-track planning through the Housing Delivery Authority and through changes to the planning laws. The key to success will be through ensuring that new housing and employment remain the focus, and that planners don’t become distracted with other portfolio imperatives."

There has been a -10 per cent annual decline in approvals across all housing typologies in New South Wales. Apartment approvals declined a massive -26 per cent in the 12 months to November.

Stuart Ayres, CEO of the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) NSW, says the&nbsp;NSW Government has a lot of work to do in 2025 to turn around the housing supply crisis that continues to inflict more pain on future homeowners. 
 
"With&nbsp;approvals&nbsp;in the detached house market sitting at a 10-year low, it is important that the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) remains ambitious in supporting greenfield subdivisions," Ayres says. 
 
"The hope of the side at the moment is the Housing Delivery Authority. It is absolutely critical that it facilitates high demand and more feasible greenfield development and subdivisions, and not focus exclusively on less feasible infill projects."

&nbsp;

Multi-unit approvals in the three months to November 2024 climbed significantly in Western Australia (+207.5 per cent) compared to the corresponding period in the previous year. This was followed by Queensland (+16.0 per cent), Victoria (+9.4 per cent) and New South Wales (+1.6 per cent). The Northern Territory registered a flat result. Declines were recorded in Tasmania (-85.7 per cent), the Australian Capital Territory (-82.4 per cent), and South Australia (-15.1 per cent).

Apartment approvals in NSW declined a massive -26 per cent in the 12 months to November.

"Mountain to climb" as new home building activity falls

Deicorp’s latest Metro-connected project has been granted approval from the Independent Planning Commission (IPC), giving the burgeoning develop the green light to push on with 188 apartments in Crows Nest.&nbsp;

The 22-level building, which includes a three-storey podium with ground-floor retail and commercial space, will be built on the prominent Pacific Highway site known as The Five Ways.&nbsp;

The application for the project, known as <a href="/new-apartments/falcon-alexander-8-alexander-street-crows-nest">Falcon &amp; Alexander</a>, was lodged in April 2024 and assessed by the NSW Department of Planning, receiving a recommendation for approval in November. However, as the local council objected, the matter was required to be determined by the IPC.&nbsp;

The IPC invited submissions from the community as part of its determination, with 20 submissions received, including nine objections and 11 in support. &nbsp;

<img alt="Faclon &amp; Alexander" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="416f83c7-e10e-4de4-98a1-7269eee0dcce" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-01-07%20at%2012.29.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=el87Bo4ahmomkN2SNOhqiPWBBi3TxDVC" />

The Five Ways project is located around 350 metres from the new Crows Nest Metro Station, and with an active ground floor retail precinct, it will help revitalise the southern edge of the <a href="/developments/crows-nest-nsw-2065">Crows Nest</a> town centre.&nbsp;

<a href="/architects/turner-studio">Turner Studio</a> won the Design Excellence competition with their design being selected by the jury as the most desirable.&nbsp;

Deicorp’s founder Fouad Deiri said he was pleased with the outcome, and the work of the Department of Planning to support the application, despite opposition from North Sydney Council.&nbsp;

“We have been working for over five years to achieve approval on this site, including three separate planning proposals and a subsequent State Significant application,” Deiri said.&nbsp;

“The time it has taken to secure approval for this project highlights the difficulties the development industry faces in trying to build homes in Sydney. &nbsp;

“A community survey we undertook as part of the consultation process demonstrated a majority of residents in the area were either in favour of the project or neutral towards it.&nbsp;

“A significant majority of residents surveyed supported the substantial Affordable Housing within &nbsp;the project and the new retail precinct being provided.”&nbsp;

<img alt="Falcon" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eebd8543-6452-4930-a340-201b84a448e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-01-07%20at%2012.29.38%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=R6KFfA6Vxa7EFra5k9JHDXXrBe.Rpqi5" />

Findings by the research and engagement firm Notting Hill Advisory revealed a significant portion of households polled in four key development hubs across Sydney, including the North Sydney local government area (LGA), were favourable to new housing located close to public transport and delivered with good amenity outcomes.&nbsp;

In the North Sydney LGA, where the Crows Nest development is located, 64 per cent of the residents surveyed also agreed the provision of affordable housing would benefit the community. There are 48 affordable housing units in Falcon &amp; Alexander.

The Five Ways approval adds to another recent significant project consent <a href="/developers/deicorp">Deicorp</a> received in December, with their <a href="/news/nsw/first-look-exclusive-deicorp-submit-plans-for-joynton-square-mixed-use-zetland-precinct">Joynton Ave Zetland site</a> being signed off by the Central Sydney Planning Committee. Joynton Ave includes 574 apartments across nine buildings and a contribution of $28 million for Affordable Housing.

Deicorp expects to start construction on over 3,000 apartments in 2025.

The Five Ways project is located around 350 metres from the new Crows Nest Metro Station, and with an active ground floor retail precinct, it will help revitalise the southern edge of the Crows Nest town centre

Deicorp approved for Falcon & Alexander, Crows Nest new apartment development

<a href="/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a>&nbsp;has been granted development approval for Dawn, its fifth stage in its new urban renewal project in Melrose Park.

It will be the first stage which is a joint venture, with&nbsp;Hankyu Hanshin Properties becoming part of the development.

<a href="/new-apartments/dawn-melrose-park-bundil-boulevard-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Dawn</a> will&nbsp;comprise six low-rise buildings ranging from six to 10 levels, built around a large central courtyard spanning almost two hectares. It will include 368 one, two and three-bedroom apartments.

Positioned less than 150 metres from <a href="/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> Town Centre, Dawn promotes walkability and maximises direct access to green spaces, lifestyle assets and future transport connections, including the Parramatta Light Rail Stage 2.

Melrose Park Town Centre is set to open at the end of 2026, aligning with when residents of Dawn will begin moving in to provide immediate access to essential services and amenities.

<img alt="Dawn, Stage 5 in Melrose Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d2ac6e67-74e9-497a-a6c4-a06c560c9ed8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/compressed%20SEKISUI_MELROSE%20PARK_VIEW01_FINAL_REV03.jpg?VersionId=M0PX1Lnej70Wanlhr0G1NBoDIUbfkXoj" />

Alex Grujovski, Project Director, Apartment &amp; Mixed-Use Developments, Sekisui House Australia, said Dawn is&nbsp;a high-quality development that sets the tone for future stages of Melrose Park and reflects Sekisui House’s philosophies of sustainability, community and thoughtful design."

"Dawn represents our unwavering commitment to creating communities that coexist harmoniously with nature, while fostering interactions between people and place,"&nbsp;Grujovski says.

Designed by <a href="/architects/group-gsa">GroupGSA</a>, Dawn will integrate with its surroundings, featuring precinct views of Central Park and the Western Parklands. It will have secluded rooftop amenities, an internal central courtyard garden, shading devices and link bridges.

Alister Eden, Principal, GroupGSA said Dawn is designed with timeless elegance, sustainability and functionality at its core.

"The materials and layout create a seamless connection between urban living and the surrounding natural environment, offering residents a lifestyle that balances modern convenience with green tranquillity. The architectural design features intricately detailed brickwork at its base, creating a strong visual foundation that reflects the character and domestic qualities of the nearby residential suburbs of Melrose Park and Ermington," Eden says.

“Communal open spaces will offer a diverse range of amenity, from quiet areas for contemplation to open lawns for enjoying the winter sun or safe play spaces for young children. Elevated areas also provide unique perspectives and scenic views of district parks."

<img alt="Dawn, Stage 5 in Melrose Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="689edf1d-8f01-4365-b2ab-c7d8930c309e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/MP%20-%20Courtyard%20BBQ%20Wide%20-%20Rev%20B-min.jpg?VersionId=kuq96WjaRGXLVG7Nrnjboz2_csD66piP" />

Pitched as one of the best inclusions in the fifth stage is Central Park which will feature&nbsp;open spaces, BBQ and picnic areas, children’s play facilities and kilometres of walking tracks. Complimenting these are rooftop community facilities including BBQ areas, seating nooks and relaxation zones, encouraging interactions and a connected community.

Dawn incorporates a range of sustainability initiatives. A dedicated energy network enhances energy efficiency, while rooftop gardens provide green spaces for residents. The masterplan will also see 1,500 mature drought-tolerant native trees planted, along with permanent wetlands to boost biodiversity and rain gardens for on-site water treatment.&nbsp;

App-based energy management systems will be implemented, enabling resource efficiency and sustainable living. The project’s construction will prioritise environmental stewardship, with strategies to reuse excavated materials, capture water for irrigation and minimise reliance on external natural resources.

Construction of Dawn will commence in 2025, with completion anticipated in mid-2027.

Sekisui’s $5 billion Melrose Park project is set to transform into a thriving new community upon completion, significantly enhancing the housing supply in the north-west of Sydney with 5,500 homes, a commercial and retail town centre and extensive parklands.&nbsp;

Sekisui’s $5 billion Melrose Park project is set to transform into a thriving new community upon completion, significantly enhancing the housing supply in the north-west of Sydney with 5,500 homes

Sekisui House Australia approved for Dawn, the latest stage at $5 billion Melrose Park masterplan

Following the success of Archibald by ALAND, developer <a href="/developers/aland">ALAND</a>&nbsp;has unveiled its latest Gosford project.

Amalfi by ALAND – a mixed-use project with 506 apartments and 9,530 sqm of retail space will rise from 50-70 Mann Street, formerly the home of&nbsp;Frogys roller-skating. Frogys was demolished in 2017, and the site has been vacant since that time.

ALAND plans to bring a vibrant Mediterranean-style development to <a href="/developments/gosford-nsw-2250">Gosford</a> CBD with Amalfi by ALAND – a cluster of three oval-shaped glass towers that will feature a mixture of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, plus an exclusive collection of four-bedroom ‘Sky Homes’.

The residential component of Amalfi By ALAND will sit atop a commercial podium that will contain a supermarket, a café and a destination restaurant. Each of the towers will feature a residents-only rooftop swimming pool.

ALAND CEO George Tadrosse says that Amalfi by ALAND builds on the success at Archibald By ALAND, a major residential, hospitality and lifestyle development nearing completion on nearby Donnison Street. Nearly all of the 327 apartments at Archibald by ALAND are sold.

“The response to our Archibald development from the Gosford community has been quite overwhelming,” Tadrosse said.

“Demand for the apartments was so strong that many people missed out, so those buyers now have a further opportunity to secure a high-quality brand-new ALAND apartment just around the corner.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134670 project_image_fid=215487]

Tadrosse says that Amalfi By ALAND underscores ALAND’s ongoing commitment to Gosford, an attractive, well-located regional city that is poised for significant economic growth over the next few years.

“We’ve already demonstrated our strong belief in Gosford and the Central Coast by completing the iconic Archibald precinct, which contains 327 apartments, six hospitality venues and 130 voco® hotel rooms.

“Amalfi By ALAND is the next chapter in the story of Gosford’s transformation, offering superior open-plan apartments and a number of special features such as glass-screened balconies and rooftop swimming pools.”

Today’s announcement was welcomed by the Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch MP, who says that Amalfi by ALAND will help reinforce Gosford’s reputation as the “vibrant and thriving” capital of the Central Coast.

“Thank you to ALAND, who are so committed to investing in Gosford’s future,” she said. “The future of Gosford is being built today, and I cannot wait to see what ALAND’s Amalfi project has in store.”

Gosford is earmarked for significant public and private investment over the next decade, with several major projects recently completed, such as the $348 million Gosford Hospital redevelopment, and several new ones, including the $63.8 million University of Newcastle Gosford Campus, in the pipeline.

By 2041 the population of the Central Coast is expected to grow by 100,000, while the local economy will generate 55,000 new jobs over the same period.

Latest New South Wales Property News

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Editor's Picks

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest New South Wales Property News

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News