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“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into.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.

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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?

Local developer Sherpa Property Group looks set to break the <a href="/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a> apartment record at its newly released luxury development, Perspective Helm.

The 10 apartments, including four river residences and two two-level penthouses, ranging in price from $3.7 million to $10 million. A sale close to $10 million would surpass the island record, set in Chevon One where a penthouse sold for $9 million. That too set a record $25,000 per sqm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143018 project_image_fid=289075]

It is the Eastern Penthouse which is listed for just shy of $10 million. Spanning 917 sqm across two levels, the penthouse features four bedrooms, four bathrooms, a cinema, and an additional multipurpose room. There will also be a wine display cellar and a private rooftop with an outdoor kitchen, pool, pizza oven and firepit, as well as panoramic views of Surfers Paradise.

Eight of the 10 apartments in <a href="/new-apartments/perspective-helm">Perspective Helm</a> have already been snapped up by local and oversees buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143018 project_image_fid=289077]

<a href="/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa</a> General Manager Daniel Clarke says the swift uptake of Perspective Helm underscores the project’s exceptional design and prime location.

“Our commitment to delivering high-calibre projects in prime locations is clearly resonating with buyers," Clarke says.

"Perspective Helm sets a new benchmark for luxury living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=143018 project_image_fid=313575]

Perspective Helm, on a prime 1,711 sqm north-facing, riverfront site at 107 Stanhill Drive, has been designed in collaboration with HAL Architects and MAS Architectural Studio.

There are a handful of private marina berths with vessels up to 18 metres.

Local builder <a href="/builders/lps-group">LPS Group</a> is in charge of the build. Excavation is underway and the project is expected to complete by late 2025.

Elsewhere on the Gold Coast, Sherpa is currently delivering <a href="/new-apartments/perspective-nexus">Perspective Nexus</a>, another boutique apartment development in Palm Beach, and <a href="/new-apartments/flourish-on-sixth-ave-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach">Flourish on Sixth</a>, part of their new brand to offer more affordable apartments to the local market. That too is in <a href="/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=143018]

Eight of the 10 apartments in Perspective Helm have already been snapped up by local and oversees buyers

Sherpa’s Perspective Helm to challenge Chevron Island apartment record

Elevate Hume Place, the new apartment development above Crows Nest Metro by developer <a href="/developers/thirdi-group">Third.i</a> and joint venture partner Phoenix Property Investors, has secured enormous support from local and international buyers.

Elevate is one of the most popular&nbsp;transit-oriented developments in Sydney, above the newly opened metro that will connect future Elevate residents to the rest of Sydney in minutes.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/third-i-offer-10k-deposits-at-elevate-hume-place-apartments-above-crows-nest-metro">Third.I offer $10k deposits at Elevate Hume Place apartments above Crows Nest Metro</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142550 project_image_fid=309367]

Designed by Woods Bagot, <a href="/new-apartments/elevate-hume-place-crows-nest-25-hume-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Elevate Hume Place</a>&nbsp;comprises&nbsp;130 one, two, and three-bedroom apartments.

Third.i Co-Founder Luke Berry said the project has received over 6,000 leads with over 400 appointments to date, with this unprecedented demand and strong interest not only reflecting the quality of the apartments but also the increasing demand for convenient, transit-oriented living in Sydney's dynamic real estate market.

“We are thrilled with the strong sales results at launch for Elevate Hume Place, this achievement highlights the growing appetite for contemporary living that prioritises accessibility and connectivity,” Berry stated.

“The design, amenities, demographic, and prime location of Elevate Hume Place have attracted a diverse range of local and international buyers, from young professionals and first home buyers to investors and downsizers, all seeking the perfect blend of urban convenience and community charm.”

Freya Watson, JLL’s Head of Residential Project Sales Australia - the sales partner for Elevate Hume Place - shared insights into the diverse range of buyers the development has attracted.

“Elevate Hume Place sets a new standard for transit-oriented living, appealing to both owner-occupiers and investors. Properties near metro stations often achieve a 20-30 per cent price premium and attract high rental demand, which has contributed to the strong buyer interest. Buyers clearly recognise the long-term potential of this development.”

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/nsw/why-the-investment-potential-at-elevate-hume-place-above-crows-nest-metro-is-proving-too-good-to-miss">Why the investment potential at Elevate Hume Place above Crows Nest Metro is proving too good to miss</a>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142550 project_image_fid=309368]

A significant portion of the buyer interest has come from Asia.

Among these international buyers, 25% are seeking residences for their children studying in Sydney, while another 25% are Australian passport holders or permanent residents looking for personal stays. The remaining 50% are investment-driven buyers, primarily from Singapore and Hong Kong, attracted by the project’s strong rental return potential.

“The Metro is a huge draw for buyers, especially those who value or are accustomed to the convenience of public transport, with its prime location and quick access to the CBD," Watson added.

"The city views are also a major attraction, along with the abundance of schools and universities right on the doorstep."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142550 project_image_fid=297878]

Berry says Elevate Hume Place buyers will experience a perfect blend of connectivity, community, and the vibrant lifestyle that <a href="/developments/crows-nest-nsw-2065">Crows Nest</a> offers.

“Elevate features shared spaces that promote community interaction, iconic Sydney views, and sustainable design elements. The thoughtfully designed apartments foster a meaningful connection to the natural surroundings while honouring the site’s rich history. In addition to direct metro access, residents will benefit from being close to Crows Nest Village, which provides a variety of lifestyle amenities.”

Prices at Elevate start from $970,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=142550]

Unprecedented demand from local and international buyers for Third.i’s transit-oriented development

Third.i celebrate successful launch of Elevate, Hume Place apartments above Crows Nest Metro

Malaysian-Australian developer&nbsp;<a href="/developers/mrcb">MRCB</a>&nbsp;has won PropertyGuru's Best Apartment Architectural Design and the inaugural Sustainable Design Award for its 26 Vista apartment development in Surfers Paradise.

The accolades were announced during the 7th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia) ceremony held at the Grand Hyatt Melbourne, celebrating achievements in real estate across the country.

Located on Vista Street just one row back from the beach, <a href="/new-apartments/vista-surfers-paradise-26-vista-street-surfers-paradise">26 Vista</a> will rise 51 levels and home 280 apartments. 70 per cent have already sold, before construction commencement.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112730 project_image_fid=211252]

MRCB International CEO, Ravi Krishnan, said they believe 26 Vista will be the greenest tower on the Gold Coast.

"In designing 26 Vista, our aim was to mirror the dedication we bring to all our projects, carefully crafting a sustainable yet prestigious living experience for both current and future residents of <a href="/developments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Surfers Paradise</a>," Krishnan, said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112730 project_image_fid=211248]

MRCB has also employed a number of other green initiatives for 26 Vista, including adopting an all-electric solution and eliminating gas via SUPA Energy, Australia’s most progressive energy solution.

These initiatives align with the developer's emphasis on sustainable construction practices, supported by its proprietary MRCB Building System (MBS).&nbsp;

This modular construction technology allows for up to 85 per cent of the building process to be completed off-site, significantly reducing energy consumption, carbon emissions, and waste while enhancing overall build quality.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112730 project_image_fid=208885]

26 Vista will also offer EV car-sharing options in partnership with mobility company Outbound, making it one of the first residential buildings on the Gold Coast to provide this service.

"The project is a real showcase of what’s possible when developers prioritise convenience, luxury, and sustainability for the benefit of their residents," Outbound CEO Luke Rust said.

"Electric car sharing is an accelerating trend in buildings around the world and we’re excited to be pioneering the concept in Queensland.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112730 project_image_fid=221706]

Since launching to market in early 2023, over 70 per cent of the apartments at 26 Vista have sold.

26 Vista will also offer residents lush private rooftop gardens and sky-high residents' lounges, providing 360-degree views of South East Queensland, along with offering a hotel-styled wellness precinct featuring a state-of-the-art gym, outdoor yoga space, outdoor pool and spa, sauna, and a steam room.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112730]

MRCB International CEO, Ravi Krishnan, said they believe 26 Vista will be the greenest tower on the Gold Coast.

MRCB clinch Sustainable Design Award and Best Apartment Architectural Design for 26 Vista, Surfers Paradise apartments

BLVD, the latest tower in OSK Property's $3 billion Melbourne Square precinct in&nbsp;<a href="/developments/southbank-vic-3006">Southbank</a>, has taken out the Best Apartment Development (Australia) award at the 7th Property Guru Asia Property Awards.

The awards ceremony at the Grand Hyatt Melbourne celebrated achievements across the country’s property sector.&nbsp;

<a href="/new-apartments/blvd-at-melbourne-square-19-hoff-boulevard-southbank">BLVD</a> also earned Best Wellness Residential Development, Best Integrated Work from Home Development, and Best Apartment Interior Design.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The 74-level tower is among the first Australian residential projects registered to pursue WELL Certification, which assesses the built environment's impact on human health and well-being.&nbsp;

BLVD incorporates gas-free residences, carbon-neutral operation capabilities, and EV charging, reflecting a strong focus on sustainability.

Designed by <a href="/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> with interior design partners <a href="/interior-designers/carr-interiors">CARR</a>, the geometrically intricate residential building will be home to just over 600 apartments inspired by nature and offered in various colour palettes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=211870]

The Level 8 Podium Club will offer residents views across Melbourne, a state-of-the-art gym, a 25-metre indoor swimming pool, spa, and sauna. Two more levels of amenity will feature&nbsp;a cinema, karaoke room, and a golf simulator.

The podium level of BLVD features a zen garden with barbecue facilities, alfresco spaces, and shaded seating areas.

The owners of the premium residences in BLVD have exclusive access to the Level 55 Skye Club which is home to another gym, cocktail lounge, private dining rooms, and the best views from any amenity space within the tower.

For work, the Co-Quarter Business Facilities offer co-working spaces, private pods, and meeting facilities with views of the Royal Botanic Gardens.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=218317]

BLVD has been designed to be its own community, with curated community events aimed to bring residents together, from book clubs to personal training groups.

Construction of BLVD is being delivered by <a href="/builders/multiplex">Multiplex</a>, which also handled earlier stages of the Melbourne Square precinct. The project broke ground earlier this year and is expected to be completed by early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107714]

Construction of BLVD is being delivered by Multiplex, which also handled earlier stages of the Melbourne Square precinct.

OSK Property takes out Best Apartment Development for BLVD in Southbank

A decade-long vision to redefine Perth’s urban landscape has earned <a href="/developers/golden-sedayu">Golden Sedayu</a> the prestigious Best Mixed-Use Development award at the 7th PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards (Australia), recognising the transformative potential of its flagship project, Burswood Point.

<a href="/new-townhouses/burswood-point-saintly-entrance-burswood">Burswood Point</a> is a $3.8 billion redevelopment of a 38-hectare site around Belmont Racecourse, which includes 4,500 new dwellings, retail and commercial precincts, luxury hotels, and riverside parks.

The project is expected to contribute over $10 billion to the state economy while creating 25,700 jobs.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142314 project_image_fid=263304]

Developer Golden Sedayu, a partnership between Perth’s Golden Group and Indonesia's Agung Sedayu, has emphasised sustainability and livability in its masterplan, featuring 2.5 kilometres of Swan River foreshore and 110,000 sqm of public open space, including parklands, beaches, and playgrounds, as integral to the design.

Work on Burswood Point is already well underway, with $80 million spent on site preparation, including new infrastructure and roadworks.

Approvals for the precinct plan and initial construction have been secured, with further development applications for additional towers in progress.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142314 project_image_fid=263312]

The first homes and apartments at its first stage, Somerset, launched to the market earlier this year. There has been a strong take-up for the 95 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments spread across two towers, known as Somerset East and Somerset West.

Also released has been a handful of&nbsp;three-level, green-title homes that will include luxury features such as elevators, making them particularly appealing to downsizers seeking long-term living solutions.

Residents will also have access to a range of amenities, including a 25-meter lap infinity pool, gym, sauna, and residents' dining areas.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=142314 project_image_fid=263320]

The first stage of Burswood Point will feature a mix of retail and commercial spaces like a café and grocery store.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=142314]

The first homes and apartments at its first stage, Somerset, launched to the market earlier this year

Perth’s Burswood Point wins prestigious Best Mixed-Use Development award

Due to unique circumstances surrounding the release of The Grand Residences Eastlakes apartments, there is now a rare opportunity for home buyers and investors to secure a foothold in Sydney’s coveted Eastern Suburbs property market.

Located above the Eastlakes Shopping Centre on Evans Avenue, these apartments were developed by the renowned Crown Group, which initially retained around one-third of the units following their off the plan and post-completion sales campaigns.

However, after a shareholder dispute led to Crown Group entering provisional liquidation in August 2023, the remaining apartments have been re-released to the market at a price point that is unmatched in the new apartment market of the Eastern Suburbs.

The final selection of apartments is available, offering one, two, and three-bedroom units ranging from $745,000 to $1,675,000.

<h2>Receiver Warranty Bonus</h2>

A key advantage for buyers is that, as part of the receiver sale, all apartments at The Grand Residences Eastlakes come with an extended warranty.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7652 project_image_fid=262583]

In a typical direct purchase from a developer, buyers usually have a 90-day window to identify any defects in the apartment. However, under the current arrangement with BDO, new buyers will receive an extended warranty that covers them from the settlement date through to June 30, 2025.

The warranty covers all internal fixtures and fittings, including light fittings, taps, carpets, joinery, and other details, for all available apartments, including those that have previously been rented.

<h2>Value Proposition</h2>

There are no true comparable apartments in Eastlakes, or even the surrounding suburbs, that match the quality, design, and finishes found at <a href="/buildings/the-grand-residences-eastlakes-16-evans-avenue-eastlakes">The Grand Residences</a>. Completed as Crown Group’s final development, these apartments set a new benchmark for luxury in the area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7652 project_image_fid=291043]

<a href="/developers/crown-group">Crown Group</a> has long been synonymous with exceptional quality, having delivered iconic projects such as Arc by Crown in the Sydney CBD, Infinity Square at Green Square, and Waterfall by Crown in Sydney—all of which have earned multiple industry awards over the years.

The Grand Residences feature spacious floorplans, floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open onto large balconies, and kitchens equipped with high-end SMEG appliances and sleek stone island benches in the larger apartments.

<h2>Location &amp; Amenities</h2>

In true Crown Group style, the amenities at The Grand Residences are a standout feature, with the 25-metre heated pool serving as the centrepiece. Additional highlights include a well-equipped gym, an impressive rooftop deck with alfresco dining areas, built-in barbecue facilities, and a TV zone. From the rooftop, residents can enjoy expansive views back towards the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7652 project_image_fid=262600]

Each apartment comes with secure parking, and select units feature separate studies, catering to the diverse needs of buyers. Strategically located for easy access to Sydney’s CBD, popular beaches, and key amenities, The Grand Residences is positioned at the edge of the city’s thriving inner-east, close to vibrant neighbourhoods like Rosebery and Alexandria. The surrounding area offers a dynamic mix of cultural attractions, including the renowned Cannery café and dining precinct, along with supermarkets, specialty stores, and essential services.

Since its launch, the development has attracted steady interest from first home buyers, downsizers, and investors, drawn to the area’s strong rental yields and growing property values.

As the final apartments are sold, <a href="/project-marketer/mcgrath-projects">McGrath Projects</a> and Crown Property Agency are overseeing the sell-down process, with several fully furnished display units now available for viewing.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7652]

Under the current arrangement with BDO, new buyers will receive an extended warranty that covers them from the settlement date through to June 30, 2025

Receiver sale with extended warranty: The added benefits of buying at The Grand Residences Eastlakes

The luxury Gold Coast tower La Mer at Main Beach is set to relaunch, with a new developer and builder driving the project forward, offering rare full-floor beachside apartments on Main Beach Parade.

Developer ODUS is teaming up with builder Nazero to deliver the $140 million, 27-level development at 3580 Main Beach Parade. They started the build of the tower in July, and are expecting the tower to complete in late 2026.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=316687]

Designed by Plus Architecture, <a href="/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach">La Mer</a> will feature 22 premium three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments, each spanning 300 sqm and taking in views of the beach, Broadwater, and <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> skyline.

The two-level penthouse will have four bedrooms across 600 sqm.

Residents will have exclusive access to a resort-style pool, spa, gym, sauna, barbeque facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn, and an outdoor beach shower.

Prices will start from $3.9 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=316688]&nbsp;

The release comes after new research by Colliers which revealed a 30 per cent supply gap for ultra-luxury apartments on the Gold Coast.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said La Mer was the latest evolution of the exclusive, laid-back <a href="/developments/main-beach-qld-4217">Main Beach</a> village, one of the Gold Coast’s most highly sought-after addresses.

“Every apartment in La Mer has house-sized proportions and incredible views—not to mention a location in one of the city’s best postcodes,” Sakha said. 
 
“Demand continues to outstrip supply for ultra-luxury apartments on the Gold Coast, and the rare full-floor design will make these residences particularly prized."

Sakha said the team has "elevated every aspect of the development", reconfiguring layouts to make better use of the panoramic views and upgrading the finishes with&nbsp;natural stone and premium Gaggenau appliances.

“Additionally, we've reimagined the resident amenities, introducing a spa, sauna, an expanded gym, and a larger recreation deck, ensuring a level of sophistication and comfort that sets a new benchmark for coastal living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=316691]

Sakha said the partnership was quick to secure the site when the opportunity presented and had already secured funding, meaning construction is powering ahead.

Developer <a href="/developers/odus">ODUS</a> is directed by Sakha—who also runs one of Australasia's largest coaching institutes, Jarrod Younan and Sebastian Younan. The Younans also head builder Nazero.

Together, the trio have a track record of delivering more than $500 million of boutique apartments and luxury homes over two decades.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=316690]

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is managing the project’s sales, said La Mer would appeal to buyers from across the Eastern seaboard.

“We’re anticipating interest from Gold Coasters rightsizing from a large family home to an expansive, low maintenance apartment for the lifestyle—in easy reach of cafes, restaurants, the beach, Broadwater, and entertainment,” Elliot said said.

“We also see holidaymakers from <a href="/developments/brisbane-qld">Brisbane</a>, <a href="/developments/sydney-nsw">Sydney</a>, and Melbourne, who are seeking a permanent Gold Coast residence, and lifestyle purchasers buying now to relocate in future, among prospective buyers.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said La Mer was the latest evolution of the exclusive, laid-back Main Beach village, one of the Gold Coast’s most highly sought-after addresses.

La Mer, luxury Main Beach apartment development, comes back to the market

The Gold Coast new development space hasn't seen a project like <a href="/new-townhouses/capri-villas-81-salerno-street-isle-of-capri">Capri</a> in years.

While most developers are building upwards in response to the evolving <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> skyline, <a href="/developers/monaco-property-group">Monaco Property Group</a> has taken a different approach, opting to create a private, gated community featuring 48 villa-like townhouses.

What makes <a href="/">Capri</a> so rare is the land and the location. Indeed <a href="/new-townhouses/capri-villas-81-salerno-street-isle-of-capri">Capri</a> represents the first major-scale development on the <a href="/developments/isle-of-capri-qld-4217">Isle of Capri</a> in three decades.

While tower developers can typically build on plots of 1,000 sqm or less, <a href="/new-townhouses/capri-villas-81-salerno-street-isle-of-capri">Capri</a> spans around 12,000 sqm, an exceptionally rare landholding in the Gold Coast property market, especially in such a prime location near the best parts of the coast.

We recently spoke with the team delivering <a href="/new-townhouses/capri-villas-81-salerno-street-isle-of-capri">Capri</a> to find out more.

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“<a href="/developments/isle-of-capri-qld-4217">Isle of Capri</a> is extremely well located on the Gold Coast,” Monaco Property Group Managing Director, Jonathan Grasso, says.

“It offers all the benefits of connectivity but also has very good access points, whether heading to Surfers Paradise or the Bundall precinct.”&nbsp;

The gated community has been carefully designed with downsizers in mind, offering three-bedroom villas just 800 metres from the cafes, restaurants and shops at <a href="/new-townhouses/capri-villas-81-salerno-street-isle-of-capri">Capri</a> on Via Roma.

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<a href="/project-marketer/new-property-agent-qld-npa">NPA Projects</a>&nbsp;Director Andrew Erwin&nbsp;highlighted the community-centric amenities of <a href="/new-townhouses/capri-villas-81-salerno-street-isle-of-capri">Capri</a>, cleverly positioned at the heart of the community. The facilities will comprise a resort-style swimming pool,&nbsp;sun deck, covered entertaining area and BBQ pavilion and residents' lounge complete with built-in bar and fully equipped kitchen.

"Capri will have a strong community focus, whether it's through shared travel, local activities, or simply connecting with neighbors who share common interests," Erwin said.

“It suits people looking for a little bit more variation in their lifestyle."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139511 project_image_fid=298830]

<a href="/new-townhouses/capri-villas-81-salerno-street-isle-of-capri">Capri</a> is currently under construction under the watchful eye of reputable Gold Coast builder <a href="/builders/greyburn">Greyburn</a>.

Managing Director John Kearney said everything about the development is best in class.

“There wasn’t going to be one stone left unturned on this project,” Kearney said.

“From the best trades to the best supplies and supervision, every detail has been meticulously considered.”

<a href="/new-townhouses/capri-villas-81-salerno-street-isle-of-capri">Capri</a> is set to be completed in four stages, with the first residents expected to move in by mid-2025.

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Capri is set to be completed in four stages, with the first residents expected to move in by mid-2025

Inside the Capri villas: A development not seen in three decades, and likely never again

Design-led property developer Orchard Piper, together with partner, The Carter Group, has unveiled an exclusive collection of branded residences on St Kilda Road.

The 54 apartments form part of the partners’ landmark $300 million mixed-use development,&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/the-carter-building-st-kilda-road-448-st-kilda-road-melbourne-vic-3000">The Carter Building</a>, which will also feature a boutique 107-key hotel, pool, gym, and significant spa facility.

The project offers two expansive penthouses and a range of spacious one, two, and three-bedroom residences, with prices starting from $850,000. Residents will enjoy unparalleled access to on-site services and amenities through the integrated five-star hotel.

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Orchard Piper Director Luke McKie said the goal was to create a lifestyle that seamlessly blends the privacy of a premium residence with the convenience of a five-star hotel.

"Using insights from our existing customers, we’re providing a very deliverable service offering to include everything from concierge and valet parking to housekeeping and room service, so residents can experience a low maintenance lifestyle of complete convenience."

The building has been designed by internationally acclaimed Kerry Hill Architects (KHA) who are renowned for their work with Aman Hotels.

Residences feature floor-to-ceiling windows that provide panoramic views of the tree-lined St Kilda Road. Interiors are inspired by a natural palette, with tones and materials familiar to Melburnians.

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The Carter Building amenities include a mezzanine restaurant and bar, café and state-of-the-art wellness facilities with a pool, sauna and fully equipped gym.

The project reflects Orchard Piper and The Carter Group’s confidence in the revitalisation of St Kilda Road, following the post-COVID shift away from the office market. With the anticipated opening of the Anzac Station, the area is experiencing renewed interest, positioning it as a thriving residential and lifestyle destination.

“Partnering with The Carter Group has allowed us to realise our long-term vision for this iconic site," Orchard Piper Director Rick Gronow said.

"The Carter Building will play a key role in the revitalisation of St Kilda Road, bringing renewed vibrancy to this iconic boulevard and building upon its status as a premier residential precinct."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113206 project_image_fid=316875]

KHA Director Patrick Kosky said the design for The Carter Building responds to the greater urban fabric and scale of the city, featuring deep facades to manage solar exposure while still allowing natural light and warmth to penetrate the interiors.

The building's&nbsp;saw-cut bluestone façade pays homage to nearby landmarks, including the National Gallery of Victoria, the Victoria Barracks and Melbourne Grammar School.

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Construction of The Carter Building is set to commence in mid-2025, bringing Orchard Piper's development portfolio to over $1.1 billion.

The company is in advanced negotiations with international five-star operators for both the hotel and day spa, with formal announcements pending.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113206]

Orchard Piper Director Luke McKie said the goal was to create a lifestyle that seamlessly blends the privacy of a premium residence with the convenience of a five-star hotel

Orchard Piper unveils St Kilda Road apartment-hotel tower, The Carter Building

<a href="/developers/m3-group">M3 Group</a> is building a reputation as one of the premier, boutique, townhouse developers in the northern areas of Melbourne.

Following on from its successful completion of a trio of townhouse developments in Reservoir, the all-in-one developer, builder and designer has moved south to <a href="/developments/preston-vic-3072">Preston</a>, where it is <a href="/new-apartments/23-sussex-st-by-m3-group-preston-23-sussex-preston-vic-3072">creating another four townhouses</a> with a distinct architectural design.

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Location has always been paramount for M3 Group given the demographic of either downsizers or young families they develop for. They settled on a site on<a href="/new-apartments/23-sussex-st-by-m3-group-preston-23-sussex-preston-vic-3072">&nbsp;Sussex Street</a>, just off Dundas Street and near the Preston Activity Centre.

High Street, just a short walk away, is a lively hub featuring an eclectic mix of cafes, restaurants, and boutique shops, making it a popular destination for locals.&nbsp;

Preston Market, another nearby attraction, is well-regarded for its wide selection of fresh produce and specialty foods, serving as a convenient spot for weekend grocery shopping or a casual lunch.

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For those who enjoy outdoor activities, the townhouses are close to several green spaces including the Darebin Creek Trail and Sir Douglas Bader Park, offering scenic routes for walking, cycling, and enjoying nature.&nbsp;

The nearby Northcote Aquatic and Recreation Centre and local golf courses further enhance the area's appeal for sports and fitness enthusiasts.

Families who intend to call 23 Sussex Street home will also benefit from nearby educational institutions including Preston South Primary School, Preston High School, and La Trobe University, providing quality education options for children of all ages.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145878 project_image_fid=289259]

Preston is well-connected by public transport, with multiple tram and train routes offering easy access to Melbourne's CBD and other parts of the city.

23 Sussex Street is located between Bell and Thornbury Station, 15 minutes away by bus.

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M3 Group, founded three decades ago by the Mancuso family and still operated by them today, will start construction at 23 Sussex Street soon.

23 Sussex presents a rare opportunity to secure a townhouse in a suburb predominantly characterised by single dwellings. Only 25 per cent of houses in Preston are townhouses, according to the latest census.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145878]

Location has always been paramount for M3 Group given the demographic of either downsizers or young families they develop for

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