Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

Work is expected to resume later this year on the Nightcliff apartment complex Seabreeze in Darwin.

The project stopped construction in 2016 given the ailing Northern Territory economy and a downturn in the apartment market.

Sunbuild has reportedly lodged a reapplication permit for the site on the corner of Progress and Dick Ward drives.

Sunbuild owner Neil Sunners has begun the process of completing the five-storey, 92-apartment development.

About a third of the project had been completed, the NT News reported.

Sunners said it had taken until now for confidence in the economy to return.

“I believe the time is right in Darwin to get going again, as the economy is stronger than a few years ago and confidence is continuing to grow,” Sunners told the NT News.

He expects it will take about eight months to complete with works likely to begin around August.

The project was first mooted in 2009

Darwin, which is a small town and relies on big oil and mining projects, has seen a weak apartment market.

According to the latest data from real estate firm Raine & Horne, the number of properties hitting the market for sale in Darwin is about 75% higher than the capital city’s historical January average.

Glenn Grantham, at Raine & Horne, noted there had been a surge of vendors releasing their properties for sale in January, "after many recognised last year had been very good for capital growth.” 

In 2021, Darwin’s real estate values increased by almost 15%, its highest annual growth rate in many years.

"Many of the properties for sale are long-term rentals. 

“Given the transient nature of Darwin’s workforce, plenty of tenancy agreements end at this time of year and rather than seeking to find a new tenant, the owners are deciding to put the properties on the market for sale
.
“This decision makes plenty of sense as it is often more straightforward to show a vacant property to buyers than a home with a tenant.”

"Around 85% of buyers in Darwin are currently owner-occupiers seeking to a first home or to upgrade. 

"If there is a lease in place on a property, first home buyers and upgraders will look elsewhere.

“We’ve even seen an increase in off-market sales to tenants.

“These off-market sales not only take the tenant out of the rental market but also take the long-term investment properties out too.”

 “The silver lining is that a smaller pool of rental properties combined with strong tenant demand will push up investment yields in Darwin which is great news for investors.”

Sunbuild stopped construction at the site in 2016 

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Seabreeze, Darwin apartment block set for 2022 construction restart

Andrew Winter&#39;s Selling Houses Australia described the Darwin apartment offering&nbsp;on its initial appearance as&nbsp;like a remand centre with the&nbsp;roofed terrace of a prison exercise yard.

It was the unsold&nbsp;three bedroom Rapid Creek apartment of&nbsp;the boilermaker Robert Crispe.&nbsp;

After its makeover it will feature&nbsp;among the&nbsp;LifeStyle Channel&#39;s Selling Houses Australia offerings in the show&#39;s upcoming series.

The&nbsp;show selects&nbsp;properties&nbsp;struggling to sell&nbsp;and then gives the vendors practical advice for&nbsp;also doing some renovation work.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27783]

This one had four on-off marketing campaigns over the past two years.

The then&nbsp;vast, empty penthouse apartment had been on the market since December 2010 with its pre-Selling Houses Australia asking price falling from $790,000 to $599,000, despite Darwin being&nbsp;in the midst of a property boom.

Show presenter Andrew Winter said the penthouse&nbsp;was a 1970s time capsule before its five days of glamorous renovations.

However, it attracted no bids at the recently filmed auction and has been listed with a&nbsp;$699,000 asking price&nbsp;through&nbsp;Shun Hatton at O&#39;Donoghues First National.

The 151-square-metre, three-bedroom, two-bathroom 1979-built unit is being marketed as&nbsp;having<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nt-rapid+creek-112221983" target="_blank"> &quot;wow factor&quot;.</a>

&quot;With stunning views, this north-facing oversized penthouse is superbly located a stone&#39;s throw from the beautiful Nightcliff foreshore,&quot; it says.

&quot;This truly is a stunning apartment in a fantastic location. Its magnificent ocean views and convenient location to all amenities including beaches, quality schools, university and transport make this an ideal home or brilliant investment property.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5490 project_image_fid=78490]

O&#39;Donoghues&#39;s&nbsp;property managers estimate the rental to be $850 plus&nbsp;per week furnished.

The show will be aired at the end of March.

It last sold at $275,000 in 2003.

The block&#39;s last sale was $350,000 for a two-bedroom, one-bathroom 74-square-metre garden unit, which was recently available&nbsp;for $430 a week lease.&nbsp;

Andrew Winter has a go at selling transformed Rapid Creek, Darwin '70s ugly duckling

<html><body>
With a total year-on-year returns of 16.6% for houses and 9.6% for units and yields of 6% in the year to October, Darwin has solidified its reputation as very desirable location for property investors.
RP Data senior research analyst Cameron Kusher says much of this growth is being driven by the mining and resources sector as well as spending from the public sector.
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="99" valign="top"> </td>
<td width="78" valign="top">
MEDIAN HOUSE PRICE
</td>
<td width="99" valign="top">
QUARTERLY CHANGE
</td>
<td width="79" valign="top">
RENTAL YIELD
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="99" valign="top">
OCTOBER
</td>
<td width="78" valign="top">
$525,000
</td>
<td width="99" valign="top">
1.2%
</td>
<td width="79" valign="top">
5.9%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="99" valign="top">
SEPTEMBER
</td>
<td width="78" valign="top">
$534,000
</td>
<td width="99" valign="top">
3.6%
</td>
<td width="79" valign="top">
6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="99" valign="top">
AUGUST
</td>
<td width="78" valign="top">
$545,000
</td>
<td width="99" valign="top">
4.8%
</td>
<td width="79" valign="top">
5.7%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="99" valign="top">
JULY
</td>
<td width="78" valign="top">
$543,500
</td>
<td width="99" valign="top">
4%
</td>
<td width="79" valign="top">
5.7%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="86" valign="top">
 
</td>
<td width="86" valign="top">
MEDIAN UNIT PRICE
</td>
<td width="99" valign="top">
QUARTERLY CHANGE
</td>
<td width="75" valign="top">
RENTAL YIELD
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="86" valign="top">
OCTOBER
</td>
<td width="86" valign="top">
$427,000
</td>
<td width="99" valign="top">
2.7%
</td>
<td width="75" valign="top">
6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="86" valign="top">
SEPTEMBER
</td>
<td width="86" valign="top">
$423,000
</td>
<td width="99" valign="top">
5.5%
</td>
<td width="75" valign="top">
6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="86" valign="top">
AUGUST
</td>
<td width="86" valign="top">
$420,000
</td>
<td width="99" valign="top">
7.1%
</td>
<td width="75" valign="top">
5.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="86" valign="top">
JULY
</td>
<td width="86" valign="top">
$410,000
</td>
<td width="99" valign="top">
-0.2%
</td>
<td width="75" valign="top">
5.9%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 Source:<a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/"> RP Data</a>. Note the median price is the middle price of all settled sales over the three months to the end of the final month.
However, Kusher also notes that the recent rise in Darwin house values – up 10.6% for the year to date for houses and up 8.9% for units – has come following a “fairly significant correction in values through most of last year”.
“At one point last year Darwin values were down 15% on an annualised basis.
“Values have increased, but they can be volatile," Kusher says, pointing out that because Darwin is tied to the mining boom it is very dependent on demand from China.
Apart from the mining and resources sector boost and public sector investment, Kusher says there are also “significant incentives” from the Northern Territory government to encourage property purchases.
Currently the NT government continues to offer a $7,000 first-home owner grant for both existing and new homes (in contrast to NSW and Queensland, which offer $15,000 for first-home buyers buying a new home but nothing for existing homes) as well as a $10,000 'BuildBonus' for home buyers building or purchasing a new home until the end of 2012. In addition the NT government also offers a first-home owners stamp duty concession of up to $26,730 (the duty owned on the first $540,000 value of a property).
Kusher says the Darwin market is also appealing to investors because many people won’t live there long term.
“There are a lot of renters and people who don’t stay long. This means more opportunities for investors to negotiate the rent upwards when new tenants move in,” he says.
Kusher expects the Darwin property market to trend higher in the long term, but “perhaps not at same rate it is currently trending upwards”. 
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Darwin well-positioned as investor hotspot but dependent on mining and public sector: RP Data

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Darwin is the safest real estate market in Australia according to Colliers, with nearby Palmerston catching up.
The city provides a virtual safe haven for investors, with strong sales figures and exceptionally high rental returns, according the Darwin residential research report for the third quarter of 2012.
The report finds Darwin has the highest rental rates in the nation, pushing up residential sales prices.
Darwin now has an average house rental of $700 per week and a median house price of $585,000.
In Darwin the $500,000 to $600,000 price bracket remains the most popular, accounting for 42% of all house sales.
The report found the sales volume for units in Darwin increased by 29% over the quarter, with the $400,000 to $500,000 price range the most popular.
In nearby Palmerston, prices are increasing as well, closing the gap on Darwin.
“Accommodation in Darwin continues to become out of the reach of young families and singles, and in turn this is increasing demand for more affordable property in all areas,” says research analyst Lianna Georges.
“Prices in the Palmerston market continue to strengthen, and for the fifth consecutive quarter the median house price has increased.
“Since September 2011, the median price in Palmerston has increased by approximately 13% to $532,500, a figure which is quickly closing in on the median prices in Darwin.”
Colliers predicts the rental rates will keep increasing over the next six to 12 months, bringing significant change in the social dynamics of Darwin.
“Clearly, lack of affordability will impact negatively on average workers and families,” the report finds.
<a href="/news">Leanyer</a>, <a href="/news">Wulagi</a> and <a href="/news">Anula </a>were the most popular suburbs in Darwin.
The median unit in Darwin is now $500 per week, giving yields of 6.1%.
While transaction levels in <a href="/news">Palmerston </a>have stayed level, the median house price has increased for the fifth consecutive quarter to $532,500, up 13% since September 2011.
<a href="/news">Woodroffe </a>was the most popular suburb in Palmerston, followed by <a href="/news">Durack</a>.
Median unit prices in Palmerston fell slightly over the quarter, dropping to $438,000.
All in all though, Colliers is pretty upbeat about Darwin and the future of Palmerston.
“As Darwin continues to blossom into a multi-faceted city, its residential housing market is expected to entice investors. The territory is able to offer abundant employment, modern infrastructure, quality schooling and amenities, in addition to new housing which provides an ideal environment for sustained economic growth,” Georges writes.
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awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Darwin a safe bet for residential investors: Colliers

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Darwin continues to be the standout market among the capital cities, with compelling statistics on vacancies, rents and prices. 
I tend to see Darwin more as a regional centre than a capital city. Its size and function mark it one of the regional boom towns – which is where the real estate action is now and, I believe, in the future. 
Our big cities are showing signs of stabilisation and gradual recovery, but the most dynamic of our regional centres are pumping strongly – and Darwin is part of that scenario. 
On Monday <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/hotspots/property-investors-will-thrive-in-areas-benefiting-from-lng-boom-terry-ryder/2012091856636">I wrote that the core of the resources revolution and consequent real estate growth is not iron ore or coal, but gas.</a> The growth in Darwin is exhibit A in my argument. 
The Northern Territory is evolving into a gas hub of international significance. It started with the establishment of the ConocoPhillips LNG plant six years ago and will take another stride with the Ichthys gas project. This $34 billion enterprise will extract gas off WA but process it in Darwin.
At the same time, the territory government has sought companies to build and operate a marine supply base in Darwin. The base will be developed next to East Arm Wharf, and many of the companies based at the site will serve the oil and gas industries in the Timor Sea.
The supply industry is already worth $150 million a year to territory business and is expected to grow strongly. The giant Bayu-Undan gas field is largely serviced from Darwin, and Woodside’s Sunrise floating platform will use the city for food, maintenance and transport. By the time Ichthys is operational in 2016, the supply industry in Darwin will be a multibillion-dollar business.
Paul Henderson, who was chief minister before being tipped out at the recent election, said: "The offshore gas industry is expected to be the biggest driver of NT's economy over the next 40 years."
As an aside, Charles Darwin University is spending $6 million on an oil-and-gas research and training centre at its Casuarina campus in Darwin. An agreement to set up mining academies in the territory was signed in March 2012. 
It’s estimated the territory will need 6,000 additional workers in the next five years to meet demand from mining and gas companies.
The Port of Darwin is rising in importance, due to the increased exploitation of petroleum in the Timor Sea, the evolution of the LNG industry and continued expansion in trade with Asia. Darwin’s proximity to Asia makes it a key Australian gateway to countries such as Indonesia.
We’re already seeing the impact of all this in the real estate figures. 
Darwin has very low vacancies. “With a current vacancy rate of 0.5% (total of 114 vacancies) it is fair to assume that the city is continuing to show all the symptoms of a severe rental crisis,” says SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher. 
The previous over-supply of apartments in Darwin has been soaked up by the market. 
This correlates with other data, such as the rental report from Australian Property Monitors, which finds Darwin is experiencing strong growth in rents for both houses and units, well ahead of other capital cities. The median house rent grew 18% in the 2012 financial year, giving Darwin by far the highest house rents (the median is $650 a week) among the state and territory capitals. It also has the highest median unit rent ($500 a week), after 11% growth in the 2012 financial year. Perth is the only other capital city producing strong rental growth at present. 
The latest RP Data-Rismark home value index report shows that the Darwin index for all dwellings has recorded an 8.4% rise so far this year, including 5.2% in the three months to the end of August. None of the other state and territory capitals comes remotely close to these growth numbers. 
The value index for houses has increased 7.7% so far this year, and the value index for units has risen 11.4%. 
As Darwin continues evolving towards a gas hub of global importance, led by Ichthys, demand for residential accommodation will continue to rise. Who knows what the numbers will be a year from now.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a> and can be <a href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">followed on Twitter</a>.
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Darwin a standout market for property investors: Terry Ryder

<html><body>
Crocodiles and snakes are not the only big things you’ll find in Darwin.
The Northern Territory’s capital city has also been delivering big returns for property investors, with Residex calculating that Darwin is the only capital city market to deliver average house and unit price growth in excess of 10% per annum over the last 10 years.
According to Residex’s July update, Darwin house prices have been rising by nearly 10.5% per annum since 2002 with a current median price of $519,000 while Darwin units have fared even better, up 10.8% per annum since 2002 to $408,000.
Recent houses to sell around the median value include this three-bedroom townhouse in Charlotte Street, Fannie Bay (pictured below), which sold for $555,000 in April through Karl Secondis from One Real Estate Darwin.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/08/charlotte.jpg">
It last sold for $260,000 in January 2004.
The property was listed with a rental guide of up to $550 per week, translating to an indicative yield of 5.15%.
A two-bedroom unit on Philip Street, also in Fannie Bay, sold for $445,000 in July through Mike Smith of Raine &amp; Horne Darwin, having last sold for $380,000 in October 2008.
It was listed at $464,000 in December last year.
Growth has slowed in the past year, with annual growth to July 2012 of 3.94% for Darwin houses and 4.27% for Darwin units.
Only Perth has come close to matching Darwin’s double-digit annual growth since 2002 rate, with 8.78% growth for houses (median price $476,000) and 9.49% for units (median price $430,500).
A lack of available rental accommodation has also pushed up Darwin rents, with weekly rentals for houses rising from $520 per week in July 2011 to $560 per week in July 2012, while unit rents have increased from $435 to $470 over the same time period.
The Real Estate Institute of the Northern Territory (REINT) reports that rents in inner-city Darwin have risen by 22% in the past year for three-bedroom units to $796 per week, while the median rent for a two-bedroom unit has risen by 13% to $504.  
REINT chief executive Quentin Killian warns that the Darwin property market is not keeping pace with rapid economic growth.
The Housing Industry Association expects the rental market to tighten, with only 1,270 new homes expected to be built in Darwin in 2012 below the 2,100 that it forecasts are needed to satisfy demand.
According to the latest July rental vacancy figures compiled by SQM Research, Darwin is showing signs of a “signals of a severe rental crisis” with a vacancy rate of just 0.4%, with just 94 properties available to rent, down from 105 properties in June and 261 a year ago.
RP Data figures for July show that Darwin has the highest gross rental yields for both capital city houses  (5.7%) and units (5.9%)
Colliers reported that 200 houses were sold in the June quarter in Darwin – a 35% increase on the previous quarter, with the most expensive home sold being a $2.25 million mansion on East Point Road, Fannie Bay.
Darwin photograph by Ken Hodge, courtesy of <a href="https://www.flickr.com/" target="_blank">Flickr</a>.
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Darwin delivers investors double-digit house and unit price growth for past decade: Residex

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The most confident property market in Australia is found in the Northern Territory. That was the finding of the Property Industry Confidence Survey published recently by the Property Council of Australia. 
It found that, nationwide, a strong engineering construction sector is generating greater confidence in the various property sectors. The overall outlook for the June quarter 2012 was six points higher than for the March quarter. 
Property Council chief executive Peter Verwer says more than half the quantifiable lift in sentiment was attributed to three regions: Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Queensland. The Northern Territory was the location to record the highest confidence level. 
At the same time, Deloitte Access Economics says the Northern Territory economy is “set to go from stagnant to starring”, with the second fastest growth rate in the nation over the next five years. 
NT has reason to be bullish. The $34 billion Ichthys gas project by Inpex of Japan and Total of France, plus the establishment of the Marine Supply Base to service major oil and gas companies such as Shell, ConocoPhillips and Inpex, will establish Darwin as a gas hub of global significance. 
The upcoming projects will build on the base created by ConocoPhillips, which completed a major LNG plant at Wickham Point in Darwin six years ago. 
Although the final investment decision has not been made officially, the Ichthys project is effectively under way. Ichthys contracts worth $700 million have gone to three big companies – Laing O'Rourke, Macmahon-John Holland and Leighton. The contracts cover the building of the workers' village at Howard Springs and the civil works for the LNG plant at Blaydin Point. 
GE has won a $1 billion supply deal of rotating equipment for Ichthys. GE will also supply subsea production systems for the offshore portion of the project, as well as subsea connectors from the gas field, in the Browse Basin off WA, to the LNG plant at Darwin. Inpex expects to start producing LNG at Ichthys by the end of 2016. 
By that time, the supply industry in Darwin will be “a huge business”, according to chief minister Paul Henderson, who says: "The offshore gas industry is expected to be the biggest driver of NT's economy over the next 40 years."
The territory government is seeking companies to build and operate the marine supply base next to Darwin’s East Arm Wharf.
The supply industry is already worth $150 million a year to territory business and is expected to grow strongly. The giant Bayu-Undan gas field is largely serviced from Darwin and the Sunrise floating platform will use the city for food, maintenance and transport. When the Ichthys project proceeds, the supply industry will be a multi-billion-dollar business.
There are other reasons to believe the territory economy is heading towards a sustained upturn. The military plays a major part in the economic life of the region and the decision announced in November by US President Barack Obama to significantly increase American military personnel in Darwin over the next five years will boost business and real estate. 
The first US Marines have already arrived. About 250 personnel arrived in Darwin in early April as part of a six-month training deployment. The US Marine presence will rise to 1,000 in 2014, reaching a full capacity of 2,500 troops by 2016. 
A number of mining ventures are emerging across the territory, with direct impact on Tennant Creek, Alice Spring and Katherine, as well as indirect benefits to Darwin. 
The territory's biggest mine is to double production. The $270 million plan for McArthur River will create 295 jobs, increase production by 2.5 million tonnes of ore per year to 5.5 million tonnes, and extend the life of the lead and zinc mine by nine years to 2036. 
It’s estimated the territory will need an extra 6,000 workers in the next five years to meet demand from mining and gas companies.
 
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/">hotspotting.com.au</a> and can be <a target="_blank" href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting">followed on Twitter</a>.
 
 
 
 
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Confidence in NT property market growing as economy ‘to go from stagnant to starring’: Terry Ryder

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Vendors in Darwin are able to secure sales without having to offer deep discounts needed in other states, research from RP Data and SQM Research has found.
The average discount offered by vendors in the Northern Territory is 5.6%, according to RP Data, compared with an average discount of 8.1% in New South Wales, 7.4% in Queensland and an average discount of 7.1% in Victoria.
This is borne out by SQM Research's list of the top 10 most discounted properties in NT. The most discounted property on the list, 31 Chinner Road, Lake Bennett, is offered at a 21% discount to its original price hopes of $369,000. In November 2011, the last time SQM compiled a list of the most discounted properties in Darwin, 35<a target="_blank" style="font-size: 14px; text-align: left;" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106984366"> </a>Flinders Drive, Stuart Park was the number-one property, with a discount of 20%. Its vendors have neither budged on price nor sold, as the property is now number two on the list and is still offered with a 20% discount.
On SQM's recent list of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/treasure-island-avenue-home-heads-list-of-most-discounted-properties-in-queensland-sqm-research/2012032754036">most discounted properties in Queensland</a>, the number-one property, 121 Treasure Island Avenue, Karragarra Island, is offered at a 40% discount on its original price hopes of $335,000.
The <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/most-discounted-properties-in-victoria-all-in-melbourne-sqm/2012031353814">most discounted property in Victoria</a>, according to SQM, is 1365 Ballan Road, and is offered at a 25% discount on its original price hopes.
And <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/central-coast-still-heavily-represented-on-sqm-s-most-discounted-properties-in-nsw-list/2012022853607">SQM's report on the most discounted properties in NSW</a> shows that the number-one property, 1302 Birkdale Place, Magenta, is currently offered with its price hopes 36% reduced.
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">1</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D109520391">31 Chinner Road, Lake Bennett, NT, 0822</a>
On the market since: February 11, 2012
Initial asking price: $369,000
Current asking price: $290,000
Reduction: 21%
Days on market: 56
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;"></h2>
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;"></h2>
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">2</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106984366">35 Flinders Drive, Stuart Park, NT, 0820</a>
On the market since: November 13, 2010
Initial asking price: $1.15 million
Current asking price: $925,000
Reduction: 20%
Days on market: 511
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;"></h2>
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">3</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D107302548">29 Bayview Boulevard, Bayview, NT, 0820</a>
On the market since: April 9, 2011
Initial asking price: $1.9 million
Current asking price: $1.6 million
Reduction: 16%
Days on market: 203
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">4</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D7361321">890 Chinner Road, Lake Bennett, NT, 0822</a>
On the market since: October 29, 2011
Initial asking price: $579,000
Current asking price: $495,000
Reduction: 15%
Days on market: 161
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">5</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D107365884">2916/485 Dundee Road, Dundee Beach, NT, 0840</a>
On the market since: May 7. 2011
Initial asking price: $519,000
Current asking price: $450,000
Reduction: 13%
Days on market: 336
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">6</h2>
<a target="_parent" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106295188">273/8 Gardiner Darwin, NT, 0800</a> (pictured)
On the market since: February 6, 2010
Initial asking price: $1.25 million
Current asking price: $1,086,195
Reduction: 13%
Days on market: 791
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">7</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D107457564">4100 (l2943) Fog Bay Road, Dundee Beach, NT, 0840</a>
On the market since: June 11, 2011
Initial asking price: $400,000
Current asking price: $350,000
Reduction: 13%
Days on market: 301
 
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">8</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2008770053">86/9 Carey Street, Darwin, NT, 0800</a>
On the market since: January 15, 2011
Initial asking price: $639,000
Current asking price: $559,500
Reduction: 12%
Days on market: 322
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">9</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.domain.com.au%2FPublic%2FPropertyDetails.aspx%3Fadid%3D2009000850">22/68 Ryland Road, Millner, 0810</a>
On the market since: May 21, 2011
Initial asking price: $410,000
Current asking price: $359,000
Reduction: 12%
Days on market: 322
 
<h2 style="font-size: 18px; line-height: 21px;">10</h2>
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/homediscounts/redir.php?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.realestate.com.au%2Fcgi-bin%2Frsearch%3Fa%3Do%26id%3D106273202">40 Lot 3760 Launceston Road, Dundee Beach, NT, 0840</a>
On the market since: January 30, 2010
Initial asking price: $495,000
Current asking price: $439,000
Reduction: 11%
Days on market: 798
 
SQM Research also offers a list of the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/top100bargains.php" title="SQM Research">Top 100 Biggest Bargains in Australia </a>for sale.
 
 
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Darwin vendors still discounting less than vendors in other capitals: SQM Research

<html><body>
Darwin has been one of the more stable property markets in 2011, with modest price declines relative to the falls in Perth, Melbourne and Brisbane. The pace of house price depreciation slowed in the second half of 2011.
The housing market is likely to get a boost from the Japan energy giant Inpex’s decision to go ahead with its $33 billion Ichthys liquefied natural gas (LNG) project, which will pump gas up from offshore gas fields in Western Australia along a 889-kilometre pipeline to Darwin for processing. The project will require about 2,700 workers during peak construction (expected to begin later this year) and create a further 300 jobs once it is up and running, with speculation that it could push up property prices in Darwin and lead to an influx of people seeking work.
<img src="/images/stories/clockdarwin.jpg">
Time: Five o'clock
Century 21’s Charles Tarbey says Darwin is heavily influenced by such development and investment in the area.
“Darwin’s position on the clock could move from five o’clock to seven o’clock very quickly,” he says.
However, Louis Christopher says Darwin remains a really risky market. “There has been a bit of a peak in stock levels, and it’s not out of the woods yet.”
Population: 128,000
Median house price: $487,500
House price growth in February 2012: 6.2%
Annual house price growth to December 2011: -2.2%
Annual house price growth to July 2011: -3%
Rental yield: 5.8%
To find out where your capital city's house or unit market is on the property clock, <a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-autumn-2012-property-clock">download our free eBook.</a>
 
 
 
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Darwin house market at five o'clock, with potential for quick movement: Experts

<html><body>
Darwin’s unit market continues to offer investors the strongest rental yields of all capital city markets.
As with houses, demand for Darwin units could also pick as a result of the Inpex LNG project.
Darwin houses and units priced in the affordable $400,000 and $500,000 range continue to sell well, accounting for nearly a quarter of all sales in the city during 2011 – a higher proportion in than any other capital city except for Canberra.
<img src="/images/stories/clockdarwin.jpg">
Time: Five o'clock
According to SQM Research director Louis Christopher, Darwin recorded the largest decrease in residential stock on market of all Australian capital cities for the year, with listings falling by 11.7% in February 2012 compared with February 2011 to a total of 1,331.
Population: 128,000
Median unit prices: $380,000
Unit price growth in February 2012: 0.3%
Annual unit price growth to December 2011: -2.6%
Annual unit price growth to July 2011: -4.1%
Rental yield: 5.7%
To find out where your capital city's house or unit market is on the property clock, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-autumn-2012-property-clock" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
 
 
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Darwin unit market at five o'clock, but could pick up: Experts

<html><body>
Houses in the Darwin suburb of Nakara took just 24 days to sell last year, according to RP Data. This was closely followed by Larapinta in Alice Spring’s West at 25 days and neighbouring Araluen at 28. There were 22 sales in Nakara last year.
<table style="width: 201px;" border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="99">
Locality
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="103">
Days on Market
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="99">
Nakara
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="103">
24
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="99">
Larapinta
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="103">
25
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="99">
Araluen
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="103">
28
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="99">
Tiwi
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="103">
37
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="99">
Gillen
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="103">
42
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="99">
Sadadeen
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="103">
52
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="99">
Tennant Creek
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="103">
52
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="99">
Katherine
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="103">
54
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="99">
Millner
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="103">
54
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="99">
Braitling
</td>
<td valign="bottom" nowrap width="103">
56
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: RP Data
</body></html>

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