Apartment buyers in New South Wales are set to gain a decade of insurance-backed protection against major building defects, after the NSW Parliament passed the Fair Trading and Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2026.&nbsp;

The Bill establishes decennial defect insurance, known in the market as Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), as an alternative to the existing two-year strata building bond. It cleared the Legislative Council with amendments on Tuesday evening (August 4, 2026), with the Legislative Assembly agreeing to those amendments shortly after.

Under the reform, eligible developers can satisfy their statutory bond obligation by taking out an approved decennial-style policy that gives owners 10 years of cover for major structural defects from completion, claimable directly, without first having to pursue developers or builders through costly legal action.&nbsp;

The change forms the final tranche of amendments arising from the 2021 statutory review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and related legislation.

Resilience Insurance, which originated the cover in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022, welcomed the passage and credited the NSW Government for delivering it.

“This is protection apartment buyers have needed for a long time, and the credit for delivering it belongs to the NSW Government,”&nbsp;said Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into. Reform like this is what good, evidence-based regulation looks like.”

Resilience has delivered LDI in NSW since 2022, protecting thousands of apartments, giving the State, and now the country, real-world evidence of how decade-long, no-fault protection works in practice.

The reform also places NSW within a wider national shift.

NSW is the third jurisdiction to put decennial cover into law. The ACT legislated for it in 2024, with the scheme taking effect in late 2025, and Victoria passed its own framework on 17 June. Between them, the three cover the majority of Australia's apartment market.

The reform commences once the legislation is proclaimed, which is expected in the coming weeks. From that point, developers of Class 2 residential apartment buildings can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial policy in place of the bond.

Buyers who purchased into projects that took out the cover early are among the first in the country to take keys to apartments carrying decade-long structural protection.

“With the legislation passed, the focus now turns to making it work for buyers,”&nbsp;Nugent said.

“There are already thousands of apartments in NSW covered by this insurance, bought by developers who moved early. The question every buyer should be asking in a display suite is a simple one: does this building come with 10-year defect cover, and who stands behind it?&nbsp;

“We look forward to working with the Government and the Building Commission in coming weeks as the framework moves to implementation, and to sharing what we have learned over the past four years so the protection reaches owners as smoothly and quickly as possible.”

Other states are working through their own reform programs. Western Australia has indicated that decennial cover is within consideration a later stage of its reform sequence, and Queensland has been examining the settings as it looks at the development pipeline ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Resilience Insurance acknowledges the NSW Government’s continued focus on strengthening consumer protection while supporting housing delivery across the State.

Fast Facts: What the reform means

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Proven at scale:&nbsp;Decennial cover has operated in NSW since 2022, protecting thousand of apartments.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">10 years of cover:&nbsp;Protection for major structural defects runs for a decade from completion, claimable directly and with no legal action required.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">An alternative to the bond:&nbsp;Eligible developers can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial-style policy in place of the 2% strata building bond.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Part of a national shift:&nbsp;The ACT has had decennial provisions in force since 2025 and Victoria passed its framework in June. NSW now joins them.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">No-fault, first resort:&nbsp;Owners corporations claim directly from the insurer without first having to establish who is liable for the defect.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost-competitive:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the 2% bond while offering broader, longer protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market position:&nbsp;Resilience originated LDI in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022.</li>
</ul>

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI):&nbsp;Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Consumer-first:&nbsp;Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost advantage:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market leader:&nbsp;&nbsp;Resilience Insurance originated LDI in Australia and is the national market leader.</li>
</ul>

Joel Robinson

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

Builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mcnab-developments">McNab</a> has wasted little time reshaping one of South Brisbane's most significant undeveloped apartment sites after acquiring the property earlier this year.&nbsp;

McNab has lodged plans to scrap an existing approval for two 30-storey towers and instead deliver a single 28-storey residential building, preserving part of the site for a future development opportunity.

The proposal, lodged over <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-peel-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">64 Peel Street and 9 Cordelia Street</a>, is for a residential-led mixed-use development comprising 124 apartments above a landscaped podium, alongside a boundary realignment that preserves part of the land for a future residential project.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="743bf564-3f8f-45fc-b8d3-bbf18f5b628f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20Peel%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=EhCxGrVn_VFH3qTbKnI4WppGwaMnOn0t" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>, the development will deliver 119 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom apartments across 23 residential levels. A five-level podium will accommodate 135 car spaces, while the ground floor will include a 66 sqm commercial tenancy, an activated residential lobby with work-from-home spaces, and a publicly accessible landscaped plaza linking Cordelia and Peel streets.&nbsp;

Communal amenities will span Level 6 and the rooftop, including indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, a swimming pool, barbecue facilities, kitchen and dining areas, lawn space, sauna, steam room and yoga facilities.

The application also proposes a boundary realignment to create a standalone 1,290 sqm development lot while retaining an adjacent parcel for future redevelopment, allowing the balance of the site to contribute additional housing over time.

Hayball said the architecture has been shaped by the site's elevated corner position at the intersection of Peel and Cordelia streets and Brisbane's subtropical climate.

The design incorporates generous landscaped setbacks, a masonry podium wrapped with planting, large north-facing balconies, and a slender tower profile intended to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and long-range views. The rooftop has been conceived as a wellness-focused retreat overlooking Brisbane, with amenities positioned to capture views towards Mount Coot-tha and the CBD.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f99e84-6ad8-4a87-82d1-869685b754d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20tower%20perspective.png?VersionId=Gw0IuJaSAlk.tvGBxInhZOcQAdIB..2b" />

The planning submission positions the proposal as a response to both changing market conditions and Brisbane's Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning reforms.

McNab acquired the site after the previous approval was granted, with the existing scheme no longer reflecting current residential market demands, economic conditions, construction challenges, construction efficiencies or the quality of development outcome now being pursued, the planning report noted.

McNab continues to expand its residential development pipeline across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The developer recently launched The Tannery in West End, securing more than 60 per cent of apartments before the project's public release. It is also delivering Elements Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise and Lucia Highgate Hill, an eight-apartment boutique development overlooking the Brisbane River.

McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower

A steeply sloping Bellevue Hill site is set to accommodate a new mid-rise apartment development, with plans lodged for 20 homes that respond to the site's dramatic topography.

The proposal for the consolidated land at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/138a-140-bellevue-road-bellevue-hill-nsw-2023">138A-140 Bellevue Road</a> has been designed by Sydney architecture practice Common Office, which has used the site’s substantial fall to distribute the building’s scale and unlock 20 apartments without presenting the full height to the street.&nbsp;

“The unique design strategy leverages the site’s substantial topographical fall to facilitate increased density, presenting a seven-storey profile to Bellevue Road while rising to 10 storeys at the rear,” Common Office said in its architectural design report.

The apartment mix spans one, two, three- and four-bedroom residences. Four two-bedroom apartments are designated as affordable housing, while the plans also include two adaptable dwellings. The mix is majority three-beds, with the typical three-bed apartment offering around 144 sqm internally, with balconies of around 15 sqm.

The affordable housing component represents 15 per cent of the residential floor area and allows the project to access additional height and floor space under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing provisions. The site also falls within the inner area of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy because it is within 400 metres walking distance of Double Bay Town Centre.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1230d0f-3bfa-4a11-abaf-0928c66ef345" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da.png?VersionId=dZeMK3P.OutGjN8ycjsxm8uNsj_QFWQv" />

Common Office has arranged the building around a masonry podium and a lighter upper volume, drawing on two recurring elements of Bellevue Hill’s established architecture: sandstone bases and the vertical proportions of local Inter-war Art Deco apartment buildings.

“The proposal is governed by a holistic design language that reconciles the solid horizontal masonry of the neighbourhood’s podiums with the elegant verticality of its Art Deco heritage,” the architect said.

“The building maintains a consistent rhythmic logic utilising deep recesses and a sophisticated material transition to break down the 10-storey scale into a series of articulated, human-scale volumes.”

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0147f503-1af1-4d51-97fb-c2f1cba63a9d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20bldg.png?VersionId=GoW7q3NlK67OpnePXhk7zvklrlKb72Qc" />

Large-format sandstone tiles will define the lower levels, establishing a robust base that negotiates the change in elevation from Bellevue Road. Above, red-tinted precast concrete frames, recessed balconies, anodised aluminium screens and expanded metal details will create a more vertically expressed façade. Integrated planter beds will introduce greenery across balcony edges and recessed sections of the building.

The elongated northern façade has been divided into three recessed vertical masses to reduce its perceived length. Triangular window elements and metal privacy screens reference the geometry of nearby Art Deco buildings while controlling overlooking toward surrounding homes. The southern elevation will incorporate further privacy screening, landscaped edges and deep balconies to maintain light and ventilation.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8679cf1-18bc-4447-8a0f-0052b94ab83c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da%20rooftop.png?VersionId=5SQqQqRFf76rvE2p1TbxJSweMN70AIbc" />

Private and communal landscaping is distributed throughout the development. A landscaped garden apartment is positioned within the lower portion of the site, while a communal terrace on Level 5 will include a central timber deck, barbecue facilities, resident planting plots and areas for outdoor dining and informal gatherings.

Common Office described the terrace as an elevated sanctuary designed to capture district views and sunlight. Its planting strategy incorporates endemic species associated with the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, extending the landscape vertically through the building and providing habitat for local flora and fauna.

A second communal outdoor area is proposed at roof level, with built-in seating, paved gathering areas and perimeter planting.

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction. Positive Investment Enterprise is delivering the 16-apartment Kew Palm House on Birriga Road, while Chanine Developments is also under construction at Florian, a 36-apartment project on Banksia Road.

&nbsp;

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction.

First Look: Apartment development pitched for Bellevue Hill, Double Bay fringe

South Brisbane's apartment pipeline continues to build momentum, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/trk-property-group">TRK Property Group</a> lodging plans for a 161-apartment tower on Montague Road as developers accelerate investment across the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

The proposal for 176–186 Montague Road would replace an existing office building with a 20-storey residential tower designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, adding to a growing pipeline of high-density projects reshaping one of Brisbane's fastest-evolving inner-city precincts.

The project has been conceived as a "living building", featuring a flowing tower form, extensive vertical landscaping, and generous communal spaces that respond to the evolving Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

TRK Property Group Development Director Matt Kan said the project reflected the confidence developers have in South Brisbane's long-term future.

"South Brisbane is entering an incredibly exciting period, and we see Montague Road sitting right at the heart of that evolution," Kan said.

"With the former Visy site directly opposite us and significant investment planned throughout the broader Kurilpa precinct, there is a real sense of momentum around this part of the city and what it will become over the coming years.

"For TRK, this is an opportunity to be part of that next chapter and deliver a project that responds to where the precinct is heading, while contributing to the continued evolution of Brisbane's river edge."

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="590fe1ad-f892-4446-a679-80e33a16d029" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20tower%20facade.png?VersionId=uOJStrcKpyHFcPE1w6_9SMAFzVMCcZll" />

The scheme includes a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, incorporating multi-purpose rooms in selected residences to provide additional flexibility for home offices or expanded living areas. The proposed mix comprises 15 one-bedroom, 13 one-bedroom plus MPR, 73 two-bedroom, 26 two-bedroom plus MPR, 30 three-bedroom, and four four-bedroom apartments.

Rather than adopting a conventional rectilinear tower, COX Architecture has developed a sculpted form inspired by the movement of the Brisbane River.

"The proposal has been designed by COX Architecture as a 'living building' that responds to the site's riverine setting, floodplain history and evolving urban context within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct," the planning report states.

"The architectural form draws from the fluid nature of the Brisbane River, with a curved and undulating tower form that creates a varied architectural edge and avoids a conventional rectilinear tower expression."

The podium has also been designed as an architectural feature rather than a conventional parking structure, with cascading planting, screening and natural-toned materials softening its appearance. Resident parking is elevated above ground level to address the site's flood constraints, while habitable apartments sit above flood planning levels. Upper-level communal facilities are designed to accommodate shelter-in-place arrangements during major flood events.

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01fa15d0-90df-46c7-9555-7941fc45373c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20podium.png?VersionId=mHyua.w1pHGBt9qEdWzrlsv.leztUCwO" />

Communal amenity is a major focus of the proposal. Around 1,815 sqm of shared resident space is proposed across the ground floor, level 19 and the rooftop, including co-working areas, indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, wellness facilities, dining and gathering areas, lawn spaces, a rooftop pool and spa, and extensive landscaping. At street level, a landscaped forecourt and approximately 345 sqm of publicly accessible open space along Montague Road are intended to improve the pedestrian experience while activating the building's frontage.

The development will provide 163 car spaces, including 152 resident bays and 11 visitor spaces, together with 144 bicycle spaces incorporating resident storage, visitor parking, bicycle maintenance facilities and e-mobility charging infrastructure.

The site sits within one of Brisbane's fastest-changing inner-city precincts, less than two kilometres from the CBD and within easy reach of South Bank, West End, the Queensland Cultural Centre and extensive public transport connections. The Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning framework is encouraging higher-density residential development to help meet Brisbane's housing supply targets while supporting walkable, transit-oriented neighbourhoods.

TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans

Article summary

<ul data-end="785" data-start="311">
	<li data-end="459" data-section-id="5hbcyr" data-start="311">Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at Skye Kangaroo Point, headlined by a two-storey sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm.</li>
	<li data-end="561" data-section-id="1p7lq8n" data-start="460">Early buyer interest suggests the residences could set a new Queensland apartment price record.</li>
	<li data-end="667" data-section-id="1y70z0l" data-start="562">The collection includes four move-in ready penthouses and the highly customised Skye One residence.</li>
	<li data-end="785" data-section-id="yvm0y1" data-start="668">The release caps one of Bri​sbane's most ambitious luxury apartment developments overlooking the Brisbane River.</li>
</ul>

<hr data-end="790" data-start="787" />
Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye by Pikos</a> development in Kangaroo Point, with early buyer interest indicating the flagship residences could eclipse every apartment sale previously recorded in Queensland.

The collection crowns the luxury riverfront development with five residences, including four completed penthouses and Skye One, a two-level sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm that will be tailored to its eventual owner.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374075]

Wanting to offer a fully customisable home, Pikos is offering Skye One as a blank canvas, allowing the buyer to work alongside the developer's design team to customise the home's layout, finishes and internal spaces.

The residence will feature a 247 sqm private rooftop terrace with its own swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor kitchen and multiple entertaining areas overlooking the Brisbane River and CBD skyline.

The remaining four penthouses have been completed and are ready for immediate occupation, each offering four bedrooms, expansive open-plan living areas, soaring ceilings and private lift access.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374059]

One of the defining features throughout the project is its use of Roman Classic Travertine, with more than 20,000 sqm of the natural stone imported from Italy after being personally selected by Pikos Group Founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos, interior designer Julie Williamson and third-generation stone specialist Mario Caucci.

Pikos said the penthouse collection represented the culmination of the company's long-term vision for Skye.

"True legacy isn't measured by what we build today, but by what endures tomorrow," Pikos said.

"Our ambition is to create places that become more valuable with time, enrich the lives of generations, and stand as timeless landmarks long after we've stepped away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374060]

Williamson said the interiors were inspired by the natural character of Kangaroo Point and the Brisbane River rather than international design trends.

"Materiality tells the story of a place," Williamson said.

"We looked to the movement of the Brisbane River, the texture of the cliff face and the warmth of the surrounding landscape to create interiors that feel understated, enduring and unmistakably Brisbane."

Positioned above the Kangaroo Point cliffs, Skye places residents within walking distance of Howard Smith Wharves, South Bank and James Street while offering uninterrupted river and city views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=90059]

Brisbane's next apartment price record? Pikos unveils Skye's exclusive penthouse collection

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?

<ul>
	<li data-end="187" data-start="0">The Queensbridge Building, a 62-level mixed-use development, is under construction in the heart of Melbourne’s CBD, South Melbourne, and Arts Precinct, with completion expected in 2025.</li>
	<li data-end="361" data-start="188">The development includes 367 apartments, a 188-room hotel, co-working spaces, resident amenities, and a corner store, with a design philosophy based on ‘Modern Nostalgia.’</li>
	<li data-end="499" data-start="362">Interior design by David Flack focuses on natural light, customizable finishes, and spaces that encourage personalization by residents.</li>
	<li data-end="642" data-is-last-node="" data-start="500">Queensbridge will offer numerous facilities, including a gym, outdoor lap pool, wellness rooms, and a car share program with Tesla vehicles.</li>
</ul>

<hr />
The Queensbridge Building, at the nexus of the Melbourne CBD, South Melbourne, and the sought-after Arts Precinct, is continuing to achieve milestones in its construction.

The striking glass facade by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser &amp; Partners</a> is starting to shine from Queensbridge Street, with regarded builder Hickory in charge of the construction of the 62-level, mixed-use building which will be the&nbsp;only new apartment development to complete in <a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a> in 2025. The last completion of a new tower was in 2022.

Developer&nbsp;<a href="/developers/time-place">Time &amp; Place</a>&nbsp;is bringing a rounded lifestyle offering to its future residents. Alongside the 367&nbsp;one, two and three-bedroom apartments will be a 188-room Hannah St. Hotel, significant resident amenity, a two-level mezzanine lobby with co-working centre, and a convenient corner store.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1504 project_image_fid=272099]

The design&nbsp;philosophy, both in the apartments' interiors and the building's architecture, is guided by Time &amp; Place's new concept of ‘Modern Nostalgia,’ seeking to recreate the comfort and familiarity of home within a skyscraper setting.

Interior architect David Flack handled the design style of the apartments that are designed to optimse nature light with large picture windows and integrated study nooks.

"Often you walk into an apartment, and it’s immediately clear how the designer or architect wants you to live, but not here," Flack said.

"We want you to see yourself within these spaces, and make them your home."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1504 project_image_fid=272079]

Each of the apartments can be customised with multiple choices of finishes rarely available to any development.

Time &amp; Place use a unique custom lab software that also allows homeowners to view colour selections in the kitchen, bathrooms, and bedrooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1504 project_image_fid=272085]

A myriad of facilities will be accessible by Queensbridge residents, including but not limited to a co-working space, a resident dining room, gym, an outdoor lap pool, a hot house, and several wellness rooms.

Residents will also have access to an affordable car share program with Tesla vehicles

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1504 project_image_fid=272090]

The facilities will be complemented by more public spaces like a&nbsp;reinterpretation of the neighbourhood corner store.

Hickory is soaring past level 50 on its way to completing the 62-level structure, with the interior fitout to follow soon after completion of the building.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=1504]

Developer Time & Place is bringing a rounded lifestyle offering to its future residents

Hickory targets 2025 completion of The Queensbridge Building in Southbank

The latest stage of Collins Wharf by Lendlease presents an opportunity to buy into one of&nbsp;Melbourne’s world-class retail and dining precincts.

<a href="/new-apartments/ancora-at-collins-wharf-docklands-971-collins-street-docklands-vic-3008">Ancora</a>, designed by international architecture practice <a href="/architects/warren-and-mahoney">Warren and Mahoney</a>, will comprise just over 300 residences, a mix of waterfront apartments, townhomes and skyhomes, all just a stone's throw from the heart of Melbourne at the end of Collins Street.

We recently visited the onsite display suite at&nbsp;938 Collins St where Lendlease Senior Development Manager, Lorna Stewart-Thornton, gave us an insight into what Ancora offers its future residents.

<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/1mUhIrMz32I?si=Fad54SOS55rBSj-C" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"This is the opportunity to enjoy elegance on a grand scale in the most coveted location, where the serene beauty of the water meets the vibrant pulse of Melbourne city,"&nbsp;Stewart-Thornton said.

“Across the range of residences on offer, buyers will enjoy carefully designed and orientated floor plans which capture the best natural light across both single and dual waterfront views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9779 project_image_fid=314799]

The Waterfront Apartments feature one, two, and three-bedroom layouts with open-plan living areas, kitchens fitted with integrated Miele appliances, and stone benchtops. Buyers can choose between light or warm colour schemes.&nbsp;

The Premier Collection takes luxury further with larger residences, including townhomes and skyhomes, finished with Gaggenau appliances and natural stone benchtops.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9779 project_image_fid=318933]

Beyond the apartments, Ancora will deliver an extensive amenity offering.

"Lendlease's approach to placemaking puts lifestyle at the centre of our development,"&nbsp;Stewart-Thornton says.

"Our focus expands beyond apartments to the spaces and amenities that complement the home."

Ancora residents will have access to extensive wellness facilities, including an indoor pool, spa, sauna, steam room, and a fully equipped gym, as well as two open-air terraces which will take in city and waterfront views.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9779 project_image_fid=314808]

Ancora also integrates green space, with over 5,000 square metres of parkland planned for the ground-level, offering outdoor areas for relaxation, fitness, and social gatherings.&nbsp;

Located on the water’s edge, Ancora offers direct access to Victoria Harbour Promenade and is within walking distance of Collins Street, linking residents to Melbourne’s best retail and dining precincts.&nbsp;

Construction on Ancora is set to commence soon.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=9779]

Located on the water’s edge, Ancora offers direct access to Victoria Harbour Promenade and is within walking distance of Collins Street, linking residents to Melbourne’s best retail and dining precincts.

"Where the water meets the city": Inside Lendlease's Ancora at Collins Wharf

&nbsp;

Lower North Shore developer&nbsp;<a href="/developers/da-properties">DA Properties</a> has revealed its next apartment project.

DA Properties, led by David Allen, has sought to create a five-level building on Murdoch Street in Cremorne.

They're proposing 31 two and three-bedroom apartments in the $30 million block across an amalgamation of several sites between 45 and 51 Murdoch Street, toward the top of the street just off Military Road. It is strategically positioned next to Redlands Junior Campus.

<img alt="Murdoch Street, Cremorne DA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="30ecedfc-1d8f-4b24-bf76-79d4bb0a6602" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Murdoch%20Street%2C%20Cremorne.png?VersionId=ez5wZff0pMaJAtGtQTQLIXkt01FhoDzF" />

Designed by <a href="/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a>, the development responds to the site's irregular shape and triple street frontage with a contemporary, articulated form that mitigates visual bulk and integrates with the surrounding streetscape, the documents submitted to the North Sydney Council state.

The design also reflects <a href="/developments/cremorne-nsw-2090">Cremorne</a>’s leafy character while contributing to housing diversity, particularly through its mix of larger apartments and affordable housing. &nbsp;

The development will feature 776 sqm of communal open space and landscaping in the southwestern corner, along with 45 basement car spaces accessed via Education Lane. &nbsp;

DA Projects is hoping to start construction in August. The developer has previously created Porteno Manly, 41 luxury apartments on Whistler Street. They have another project in nearby McMahons Point.

First look: New apartments set for Cremorne's Murdoch Street

Bassar Group's penchant for Broadbeach development is set to continue with its latest apartment play.

Bassar, led by Leo Sarris and Simon Bassil, has filed plans with the Gold Coast City Council for a 33-level tower with 56 half-floor apartments on Anne Avenue, similar to their successful Infinity project which they completed around the corner in 2023 on Surf Parade.

The <a href="/new-apartments/avva-19-anne-avenue-broadbeach">new tower, Avva</a>, the Greek translation for Anne which reflects Sarris' heritage, will feature a range of amenities on the podium levels, from a lap pool with day beds to a wellness area with a gym, yoga deck, hot and cold plunge, and a sauna and steam room.

Leo Sarris, Bassar Group Director, said the conditions are right for their next installment of luxury in <a href="/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a>.

"We're excited to announce the next Bassar tower following on from Infinity which sold out before construction completion," Sarris says. They've kept the same design team, with BDA again on board.

"Avva is an edgier and more contemporary cousin to Infinity."

<img alt="Bassar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="022a60d0-d41f-4bb6-a1d2-b5fa874fe134" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-02-28%20at%202.04.28%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=mbXzqdPl9Imy2oiTpptYLOiby5RCbSod" />

Sarris says it's all about finding that sweet spot for both the developer and purchasers.

"We're targeting to provide a product that ticks boxes for location and local amenity to suit our buyers, but also being as simple as possible when it comes to design. If we simplify the design process, and give buyers what they need and not overdo it with unnecessary additional costs, we can then offer a competitive price point.

"We'll still be having large 166 sqm internal floorplans with three bedrooms, with just two apartments per floor. We know that's what our type of buyer wants after delivering Infinity."

When comparing to the COVID boom which Bassar benefitted from when they were marketing Infinity, Sarris says the landscape on the Gold Coast is now very different.

"Buyers are more savvy now," Sarris says.

"There was a time when buyers would pay anything to get into the Gold Coast market. Now, with the cost of living and increased interest rates, it's not as easy, so you really need to hit the sweet spot in terms of design which then informs the price you can sell the apartment for."

<img alt="Bassar" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa2656d9-19db-4677-9d44-9c06f9042ee1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-02-28%20at%202.28.01%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=BZmL26GBIFeWWs8SCC_e7Zf4SD4Lhkrh" />

Sarris still expects some interest from the southern states, however acknowledging that demographic won't be as prevalent as it was several years ago. Local buyers are likely to dominate sales.

BDA Architecture, who designed Infinity, has been in charge of the architecture for the new project.

They said the new "modernist-inspired tower&nbsp;adopts an angular expression to its form."

<img alt="BDA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8cc038c-7cff-4adb-8827-dc4fc9bfc1f9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-02-28%20at%202.32.06%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=CR58MXSiw4UE2OsET8AH2l0FAPb1DhCd" />

"The tower floor plan is shaped to create striking oblique spatial expression. The tower form offers visually interesting angles to passers-by. The movement and angles reflect the subtle angles of the coastal context."

The new tower at 19 Anne Avenue will replace the 1970s MaxMar apartment block.

GV Property Group's Luke Reaby put the 1,032 sqm site together, amalgamating eight individual owners in the original two-level walk-up.

Leo Sarris, Bassar Group Director, said the conditions are right for their next instalment of luxury in Broadbeach

First look: Bassar Group plot next Broadbeach tower

Summary:

<ul>
	<li>Victoria sets housing targets to accommodate 2.24 million new homes by 2051</li>
	<li>70 per cent of Melbourne’s growth directed to established areas, with 30 per cent in outer suburbs</li>
	<li>New planning reforms aim to fast-track approvals and cut delays by 60 per cent</li>
	<li>Property Council supports targets but calls for tax incentives to boost investment</li>
</ul>

<hr />
&nbsp;

The Victorian government has finalised housing targets for councils across the state, outlining where and how many new homes will be built to accommodate an expected 2.24 million additional homes by 2051.

The targets prioritise development in established areas close to jobs, transport, and services, reversing previous trends that saw expansion largely concentrated in outer suburbs.

Under the new plan, 70 per cent of Melbourne’s growth is directed towards established areas, with the remaining 30 per cent allocated to outer suburbs. Regional Victoria is set to account for 25 per cent of all new homes.

The government has ranked council areas based on projected housing growth, with Greater Melbourne councils seeing the most significant increases.

Greater Melbourne’s housing targets are led by the City of Melbourne, expected to grow from 110,100 homes to 229,600 by 2051, an increase of 119,500 homes.

Melton follows closely, with an addition of 109,000 homes, bringing its total to 178,300 by 2051.

Wyndham is set to expand from 109,300 to 208,300 homes, while the City of Casey is projected to add 87,000 homes, taking its total to 218,000.

Other growth areas in Metropolitan Melbourne include:

<ul>
	<li>Whittlesea: 88,100 to 160,100 (+72,000)</li>
	<li>Mitchell Shire Council: 9,700 to 75,700 (+66,000)</li>
	<li>Cardinia: 46,400 to 76,400 (+30,000)</li>
</ul>

In regional Victoria, Greater Geelong is set to accommodate 128,600 new homes, followed by Ballarat with 46,900 and Greater Bendigo with 37,000.

On the lower end of the spectrum, some councils saw reductions from initial projections, with Nillumbik’s target cut from 12,000 to 6,500 additional homes.

Premier Jacinta Allan stated that the revised targets are designed to distribute growth more evenly and ensure affordability across the state.

Councils will be required to demonstrate how they will meet these targets or risk government intervention in planning decisions.

<h2>Planning Reforms to Support Growth</h2>

To support the delivery of housing targets, the government has introduced a Townhouse and Low-Rise Code to fast-track approvals for homes up to three levels.

If a project meets the new code, which sets out criteria such as setbacks, tree coverage, and minimum room sizes, it will be “deemed to comply” and fast-tracked through the system, avoiding lengthy planning delays and third-party appeals at VCAT.

The government expects the new code to significantly reduce planning permit assessment times, cutting delays by at least 60 per cent.

Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny said the reforms aim to streamline approvals for well-designed, sustainable homes that integrate into existing neighbourhoods.

A broader overhaul of the state’s planning system is also underway, with the government pledging to rewrite the Planning and Environment Act 1987 to simplify the process for new housing developments.

Premier Jacinta Allan reinforced the government’s commitment to tackling the housing crisis, stating, “Homes don’t get built when they’re lost in the snakes and ladders of the planning system – so we’re fixing it.”

With Victoria’s housing targets now locked in and planning reforms set to accelerate approvals, the Property Council of Victoria has welcomed the new targets but emphasised the need for tax incentives to encourage investment and ensure housing targets can be met.

Where Melbourne's new homes are going to be built to meet housing targets

Local developer&nbsp;<a href="/developers/monaco-property-group">Monaco Property Group</a> has launched the final residences at Capri Villas, the exclusive development on the Isle of Capri, a few months before its expected completion.

Renowned Gold Coast builder Greyburn is well advanced in construction of the <a href="/new-townhouses/capri-villas-81-salerno-street-isle-of-capri">48 architecturally designed villas</a> in the private, gated community which is the largest new development on the <a href="/developments/isle-of-capri-qld-4217">Isle of Capri</a> in over three decades.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139511 project_image_fid=324090]

Offering something different to the new development market on the Gold Coast, Capri Villas offer low maintenance living while retaining that feeling of living in a house.

The three and four-bedroom villas are spread across a 12,000 sqm community behind a secure gate only accessible by residents and its guests. Once inside the gates, it feels like an American country club, with private roads leading to the villas.

Central to the development, inkeeping with the country club vibe, is a resort-style swimming pools set in extensively landscaped gardens, underneath towering palms. The pool has submerged lounges in the wate and a sundeck.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139511 project_image_fid=324093]

Accompanying the central pool will be an outdoor dining terrace with a barbecue pavilion and an indoor residents' lounge, equipped with a built-in bar and kitchen.&nbsp;

The way the homes have been designed, and the level of facilities which were included to foster a sense of community, has seen local downsizer make up the majority of purchases.

The villas feature&nbsp;spacious, open-plan layouts that integrate indoor and outdoor living with high-end finishes such as natural stone benchtops and Gaggenau appliances. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139511 project_image_fid=324097]

Capri Villas are strategically located just&nbsp;800 metres from the dining and retail precinct of Capri on Via Roma.

The first residents are expected to move into Capri Villas in mid-2025.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/qld/from-mosman-to-isle-of-capri-why-sydney-buyers-are-heading-to-the-gold-coast">From Mosman to Isle of Capri: Why Sydney buyers are heading to the Gold Coast</a>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139511]

Offering something different to the new development market on the Gold Coast, Capri Villas offer low maintenance living while retaining that feeling of living in a house

Final release at Capri Villas as construction speeds toward mid-2025 completion

As a developer who has been one of the biggest contributors to the Sydney housing market for over two decades, it would be easy for ALAND Founder Andrew Hrsto to rest on his laurels.

Founded in 2002 by Hrsto from his kitchen table, <a href="/developers/aland">ALAND</a> has delivered over 4,000 apartments in the last 22 years, predominantly focused around Sydney’s west, with a further 1,300 currently under construction.

But there’s no slowing down for Hrsto, who remains as hands-on in the business as he was two decades ago when it was just him and a small team of two — who are still part of ALAND today. Now, with over 6,000 apartments in planning and 200 employees across the development and construction sectors, ALAND’s workforce is only expected to grow as the company looks to venture into different market segments.

“First and foremost, our whole company ethos is to look after people,” Hrsto says, referring to both his staff and the buyers of ALAND apartments.

“The obligation is to the buyers, and that has been the foundation of our business from day one. We knew if we did that, then every other element would fall into place.”

Catching up with Andrew recently, he shared a story of a founder who isn’t just “on the tools” metaphorically, but literally. His daily routine involves speaking with local councils, engaging with the community, interacting with apartment buyers, and occasionally donning a hard hat on site.

“We’re a community-focused developer,” Andrew says.

“It was never in our DNA to be anything different. It wouldn’t make sense to us to build something that wasn’t in line with what the community wanted.”

After five years in planning and project management, Hrsto decided to take the leap.

“It was in the late 2000s that we went full end-to-end, handling both development and construction,” Andrew says.

They soon expanded their scope, bringing building management into the fold.

“When we develop, we’re in that building for life,” Andrew adds.

ALAND is well known for delivering more than just buildings — it creates precinct-style communities.

“We started developing multi-stage projects just before COVID, and that allowed us to really plan the whole process. It gave us more room to work with, considering the size of the development site. It enabled us to look beyond just a building and create a community that serves not only our future residents but the whole local area.”

This approach is evident in their multi-stage masterplan for <a href="/buildings/amber-the-gladstone-village-stage-2-228-pitt-st-merrylands">Gladstone Village</a>, where ALAND is delivering over 1,000 apartments to <a href="/developments/merrylands-nsw-2160">Merrylands</a>, just outside Parramatta.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7642 project_image_fid=283649]

In addition to three buildings offering a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, Gladstone Village features significant public amenities: a large grass park, an outdoor gym, a kids’ playground with a water play zone, a games area with table tennis tables, a life-sized chess board, and barbecue and alfresco facilities. Residents will also have private access to a rooftop pool, yoga lawns, outdoor cinemas, and a private forest walkway with a dedicated pet zone.

“Gladstone Village really typifies what we want to achieve and are continuing to execute in 2025,” Andrew says.

“While we’re building homes for Western Sydney, there’s more to development nowadays. You have to contribute to the wider public, and that’s what we try to do with every masterplan we put our name to.”

Nearby, ALAND will soon launch Queen Square, on its prime&nbsp;gateway site in&nbsp;<a href="/developments/campbelltown-nsw-2560">Campbelltown</a>.

The abandoned Brands on Sale outlet at 22-32 Queen Street will become a new community with around 558 apartments across five buildings. The two-hectare site will also comprise an Eat Street with retail and hospitality spaces and over 4,000 sqm of publicly accessible space, including a two-level community building with an auditorium, kiosk, and multi-purpose spaces.

<img alt="Queen Square, ALAND" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ca46834e-3f49-4be7-b851-4e1135c0c53b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-01-21%20at%2010.27.09%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=I8Lyc1N5NcWg2vLLZp3yeZaGDQ6EmHv2" />

Many developers stick to what they know, sticking to safer, more familiar paths. Hrsto, however, has a different approach.

In 2022, Andrew and the team stepped out of their comfort zone, acquiring a prime development site in <a href="/developments/gosford-nsw-2250">Gosford</a>, the gateway suburb to the Central Coast. For a developer that had exclusively focused on Sydney’s western suburbs, this was a significant jump—not just geographically, but also in the execution of a new type of development.

“We were probably biting off more than we could chew,” Andrew jokes.

It’s with tenacity and a willingness to learn that ALAND continues to go from strength to strength.

Andrew explained that they approached the Gosford project somewhat blindly, as the approved plans included a hotel component—an area ALAND hadn’t previously ventured into. But Andrew and his team returned to the company’s core values: if they did right by the buyer and the community, the rest would fall into place.

“Gosford proved to be a really interesting test for us as a business, pushing us to branch out and take on something we hadn’t done before, in a region we hadn’t developed in,” Andrew says.

Fast forward two years from site acquisition, and the two-tower development, <a href="/new-apartments/archibald-by-aland-gosford-108-donnison-street-gosford-nsw-2250">Archibald by ALAND</a>, is nearing completion. With 99 per cent of the apartments already sold, the project is one of the best-selling apartment developments the Central Coast has ever seen.

“We didn’t quite realise how important this building and this site were to the local community,” Andrew says.

“We’ve had locals, who haven’t bought in the building, come up to us and say how transformative this development is for the area and how important it is to the wider community. It’s that kind of feedback that makes you keep going.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134670 project_image_fid=215487]

Archibald by ALAND includes 327 apartments and a 130-room hotel to be run by IHG VOCO, as well as ground-floor hospitality and a rooftop area. During the development and construction phase, Hrsto has also established another new capability for ALAND: an internal hotel management arm.

“A mixed-use hotel and apartment development is now very much something we can run end-to-end, and manage both components of the development well into the future,” Andrew says.

Having seen such success in their first Gosford project, they are now moving ahead with their second: <a href="/new-apartments/amalfi-by-aland-gosford-50-70-mann-street-gosford-nsw-2250">Amalfi by ALAND</a>, on Mann Street, which will feature 506 apartments and 9,530 sqm of retail space.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/first-look-aland-reveals-latest-gosford-mixed-use-development-amalfi-by-aland">First look: ALAND reveals latest Gosford mixed-use development, Amalfi by ALAND</a>

ALAND is also venturing into the build-to-rent sector. They have acquired the final three buildings in Skyview, the five-tower <a href="/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a> development that had been partially completed by the troubled developer, Top Place.

ALAND will now focus on the most advanced building, which is around 80 per cent complete, undertaking remediation works before offering the apartments for rent. They will then shift their attention to the final two buildings, which were little more than holes in the ground at the time of acquisition.

ALAND’s 2025 development pipeline is as robust as ever, with diversified developer planning projects across traditional build-to-sell, build-to-rent, co-living, student accommodation, hotel, and hospitality sectors.

“2025 is shaping up to be a massive year for us,” Andrew says.

“We’re taking on new challenges, pushing the boundaries, diversifying our offering, and delivering projects that set a new standard in the industry. I’m excited to see the hard work of our team come to life, and to continue contributing to the communities we serve.”

ALAND is well known for delivering more than just buildings — it creates precinct-style communities

The story behind ALAND, one of Sydney’s most prolific apartment developers

Developer Golden Age has started to welcome buyers to its recently completed Glen Waverley townhouse development, Floret.

<a href="/buildings/floret-glen-waverley-583-ferntree-gully-road-glen-waverley">Floret</a>, 77 townhouse designed by Rothelowman, is Glen Waverley's largest townhouse community. The majority of two and three-level townhouses are spoken for.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104680 project_image_fid=207725]

<a href="/developers/golden-age-group">Golden&nbsp;Age</a>&nbsp;Development Director,&nbsp;Damien Hehir, highlighted the strong market response, noting that Floret delivers what Glen Waverley buyers are looking for.

“These luxury townhomes are in demand as we are catering to what the market and neighbourhood needs," Hehir says.

"Glen Waverley is dominated by family homes, and the success from our completed <a href="/developments/glen-waverley-vic-3150">Glen Waverley</a> project,&nbsp;Sky Garden, lends to our track record with Floret in providing the neighbourhood with architecturally designed residences, curated for several buyer demographics.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104680 project_image_fid=207713]

Designed by&nbsp;Rothelowman and Aspect Studios, the two and three-level townhomes provide flexible, multi-generational living.&nbsp; Some&nbsp;of&nbsp;the townhomes come with ground-level ensuite bedrooms offering private courtyard access, while the upper floors create a seamless blend&nbsp;of&nbsp;communal and private spaces.

The 1,000 sqm landscaped central park, featuring a walking track, fitness station, children’s play area, and barbecue facilities, is anticipated to be completed by&nbsp;April 2025.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=104680 project_image_fid=207730]

With an entry price&nbsp;of&nbsp;$1.36 million for a four-bedroom townhome, Floret has attracted young families, downsizers, and first-home buyers looking for a premium lifestyle in a prime location. Positioned near Monash University, The Glen Shopping Centre and in close proximity to the upcoming SRL Monash train station, the development offers both convenience and connectivity.

Construction at&nbsp;583 Ferntree Gully Road&nbsp;remains on track, with&nbsp;final completion scheduled for Q2 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=104680]

Construction at 583 Ferntree Gully Road remains on track, with final completion scheduled for Q2 2025

Golden Age welcomes buyers to first stage of Floret, Glen Waverley townhouses

The Allan Labor Government is introducing a ‘townhouse code’ that will rapidly approve new home buildings up to three storeys tall, so long as they are appropriate for the community that surrounds them and the residents that will live in them.

Premier Jacinta Allan joined Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny in Brunswick to release the new code, which is all about turbocharging the approval of more duplexes, townhouses and low-rise apartments for workers and young people – especially in established suburbs close to transport, jobs and services.

If a project ticks all the boxes in the townhouse code, it gets a green light and speeds past a complex planning system – with no costly delays, no VCAT limbo, and no unnecessary bureaucracy – delivering more homes, faster.

The status quo system is plagued with delay and uncertainty

Too many people trying to build a home in Victoria face a system that seems designed to say no. The ‘snakes and ladders’ game of obtaining a planning permit is one of the reasons why Victoria still doesn’t have enough homes – with those who do manage to finish the game often spending too much money absorbing its delays.

The average assessment time for a planning permit is 145 days – well over the statutory deadline. There can be constant requests for ‘more information’ throughout the process, plus notice periods. Then there’s appeals: the average time frame at VCAT from lodgement to hearing is 175 days.

This may be appropriate for a large development. But it’s stifling the kind of new, low-rise, good-quality home building that will fit in with all communities and won’t detract from local character.

The townhouse code

The townhouse code sets basic but important standards for good development, like enough setback and tree coverage so a building suits the neighbourhood, and well-sized bedrooms and decent sunlight so it’s a nice place to live. The standards include, but are not limited to:

<ul>
	<li>Neighbourhood character rules like six metre setbacks at the front, and setbacks at the side and rear</li>
	<li>Tree canopy and open space requirements, including protecting trees that are a certain size</li>
	<li>A mix of 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom apartments in projects of a certain size, to support families</li>
	<li>Protection for neighbours from overlooking and overshadowing</li>
	<li>Enough sunlight, storage, room size, ventilation and private open space for residents</li>
	<li>Buildings that are sustainable and energy efficient</li>
</ul>

A planning permit application will have to include all the evidence it meets the code – which is formally called the Townhouse and Low-Rise Code. When an application is submitted, councils will assess if it meets the code.

If the code is met, the application is ‘deemed to comply’. No more assessment is required. It is fast-tracked. Affected neighbours will be notified and can have their say – but there are no third-party appeals at VCAT.

If the code is not met – for example, because of an issue that affects neighbours – then a normal planning process will then apply. The project may still get the green light at the end of that process, but it won’t be on the ‘deemed to comply’ fast-track and third-party appeal rights will be maintained.

If there are additional permit triggers locally such as heritage or flood overlays – or if there’s a two-storey height limit in a zone – an application will have to comply with these rules as well as meeting the code. But the application won’t have to comply with rules that are already standardised by the code, such as setbacks, design and tree cover.

The code will support significant housing supply across Melbourne and regional Victoria. There are some 1.45 million lots in the key residential zones in Melbourne alone.

The code was developed in conjunction with 148 stakeholders and 61 submissions from Victorian councils. It builds on the 14 ResCode standards introduced in 2023. The Government is also developing a code for buildings between four and six storeys – and hasn’t ruled anything in or out for how that code will work.

Until then, the Government is also updating the standards for four-storey apartments to align with those in the new 1- to 3- storey code – however, ‘deemed to comply’ provisions will not apply through this technical update.

The Townhouse and Low-Rise Code will come into effect via an amendment to all planning schemes, subject to gazettal. You’ll be able to lodge an application through this code in April.&nbsp;

A Planning Act from the 80s needs to enter the 2020s

The 606-page Planning and Environment Act 1987 has been criticised as complex, inconsistent and old-fashioned. It is the definition of the status quo. The Government will rewrite it so good homes aren’t blocked by bad process.

The Government pledged to review the Act as part of its landmark Housing Statement. Now the rewrite can begin around clear goals that will get young people and workers into homes, faster – and we will consult with all 79 councils on it. As part of the rewrite, the Government confirms it will look at:

The time and costs associated with structure plans and rezoning, with possible legislative change to replace the current one-size-fits-all planning scheme amendment process

Focusing on further reducing planning permit delays and blockages, including different assessment and approval processes for projects that have a lesser impact.

Premier Jacinta Allan said the townhouse code is "about a system that says yes."

“Homes don’t get built when they’re lost in the snakes and ladders of the planning system – so we’re fixing it," Allan says.

"The status quo isn’t cutting it, and people trying to build homes for young people keep hearing the word ‘no’. The townhouse code is about a system that says yes."

Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny said the code can&nbsp;reduce planning permit assessment times by at least 60 per cent, in addition to the time saved at VCAT.

“We believe in good, comfortable, well-designed homes – that’s why we’re codifying them.”

Minister for Planning Sonya Kilkenny said the code can reduce planning permit assessment times by at least 60 per cent, in addition to the time saved at VCAT

‘Automatic’ approvals to deliver townhouse revolution across Melbourne

After nearly a decade of transforming the former Peter's Ice Cream Factory site in Brisbane's West End, Sekisui House Australia has&nbsp;unveiled the final opportunity to buy into the thriving West Village community.

They've just finished the display suite for Callista on Park, the last tower to rise in the precinct which has won nearly 60 awards both locally and globally for its dedication to design and lifestyle.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134800 project_image_fid=330239]

<a href="/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has designed <a href="/new-apartments/callista-on-park-west-end-49-mollison-street-west-end">Callista on Park</a>, a mix of two, three and four-bedroom apartments across a 14-level building. The plans were rejigged to shift the majority of the building amenity to the roof, giving future Callista residents a rooftop retreat with extensive views of the Brisbane CBD skyline.

The name Callista on Park has European origins. "Callista," meaning "most beautiful" in Greek, honors the West End area's strong Greek community from the 1980s. It signifies "most beautiful" because it represents West Village’s most premium offering. "On Park" reflects its prime location, fronting Mollison Park, a central green space that hosts events such as the annual Brisbane Ice Cream Festival, pizza and pinot evenings, gardening workshops, and fashion events. It is also situated next to the historic Peters Ice Cream building, home to West Village’s popular farmers market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134800 project_image_fid=330220]

West Village sets the standard and provides a blueprint for developing an urban community in an inner-city area. They started developing the nine-tower project&nbsp;back in 2016.

One of its most prestigious awards since then has been the&nbsp;internationally renowned ULI APAC Award for Excellence which it scooped up in 2022.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134800 project_image_fid=330244]

Renowned builder Hutchisons has commenced early works on the Mollison Street site, around the corner from the display suite at 97 Boundary Street.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134800]

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