Eddy Haddad's <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/level-33">Level 33</a> is levelling up its approved Wollongong development, as the coastal city south of Sydney continues to prove popular in the high-density development space.

Level 33, a longtime developer in the Wollongong area, has gone through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority to upsize its approved two-tower development on the corner of Crown Street and Gladstone Avenue, just 100 metres from Wollongong Station.

The developer currently has approval for 252 apartments across two buildings rising to 19 storeys. It is now seeking approval for 33 and 38-storey towers that would deliver 467 apartments, including 67 affordable homes.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the development would comprise apartments above a three-level podium with around 1,100 sqm of retail space, along with basement parking for 448 vehicles.

According to the Urban Design Report by BKA, the proposal has the capacity to "reinforce the precinct's identity by strengthening links between health, education, and transport services, while also contributing to Wollongong's ongoing evolution as a key regional centre."

Wollongong is somewhat in vogue. Between Level 33 and Urban Property Group, the two developers have several thousand apartments planned across the city.

Level 33 is currently delivering Easterly Wollongong, one of its most boutique projects to date with just 21 high-end apartments, as well as Atchison &amp; Kenny, a 329-apartment development due for completion later this year. The developer also plans to redevelop the 13,088 sqm WIN Grand megasite into a new $500 million precinct with nearly 600 apartments and has more than 900 apartments planned for the former Bunnings Warehouse site at the intersection of Gipps and Flinders streets.

Urban Property Group is also playing a major role in the city's transformation. Its five-tower Keira Place precinct will deliver more than 800 homes, and it has recently lodged plans for a further 300 apartments near Wollongong Station.

Joel Robinson

First look: Level 33 upsizes Wollongong apartment towers

Just a week after filing plans for the final stage of its major Keira Place masterplan, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has unveiled another significant housing proposal in Wollongong, this time targeting a prominent site opposite North Wollongong Station.

The developer has lodged a State Significant Development Application for a 38-storey mixed-use tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-4a-flinders-street-north-wollongong-nsw-2500">4-4A Flinders Street</a>, around one kilometre north of the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-wollongong-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place precinct</a> currently taking shape on the edge of the CBD.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2b6428f1-6405-4038-8476-897de440e90d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium.png?VersionId=QLqEvK0OuCEwRC47oHNftrw2B1YqaHF8" />

Designed by Studio.SC, the proposal comprises a 38-storey mixed-use development containing 303 apartments, including 45 affordable housing units, alongside 174 co-living residences. The scheme also includes ground-floor retail space, extensive landscaping and public domain improvements.

Studio.SC noted in the proposal it "outlines a vision for a landmark transit-oriented mixed-use development centred around North Wollongong Station, designed to support the city’s future growth while responding to the NSW Government’s housing and planning reforms."

The architecture firm said the proposal responds to the opportunities and constraints shaping future growth within the 400-metre catchment of the station and represents "a coordinated and future-focused approach to urban intensification, contributing to the long-term evolution of North Wollongong as a connected, walkable and high-density station precinct."

The site occupies a strategic corner bounded by Flinders Street, Station Street, Stafford Street and the Princes Highway, directly opposite North Wollongong Station.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group plans 38-storey North Wollongong tower as Keira Place expansion gathers pace" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7863adad-1f71-4022-b850-f44b252738fd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/flinders%20podium%20a.png?VersionId=WsU7av0g8_8R2tGHWxgHeFSlhu7yeY1V" />

The proposal follows Urban Property Group's recent submission for the second and final stage of Keira Place, which would deliver a further three buildings comprising 657 homes opposite Beaton Park. It builds on the first stage, which features 150 apartments across two towers and recently commenced construction.

Urban Property Group CEO Patrick Elias said breaking ground on the first stage marked a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected the developer's long-term commitment to regional cities.

"Today's groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong's city centre," Elias said.

"Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection."

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/urban-property-group-unveils-trio-of-towers-for-next-stage-of-new-wollongong-precinct-keira-place">Urban Property Group unveils trio of towers for next stage of new Wollongong precinct, Keira Place</a>

First look: Urban Property Group plans next major Wollongong tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/arada">Arada</a> has wasted little time expanding its ambitions in Campsie, lodging plans for a second major project in the rapidly transforming town centre just months after unveiling its three-tower One Campsie proposal on Beamish Street.

The UAE-backed developer has now taken aim at one of the suburb’s most strategically positioned sites, filing a State Significant Development Application for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/10-north-parade-campsie-nsw-2194">33-storey mixed-use tower</a> at 10 London Street and 43 North Parade, directly opposite the future Campsie Metro Station. The proposal is currently on public exhibition and represents another significant vote of confidence in Campsie's emergence as one of Sydney’s key transit-oriented growth centres.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a>, the development would deliver 156 apartments above a podium containing retail and commercial space, creating a new residential and commercial gateway to the town centre. The scheme also includes a four-level above-ground parking podium and a dedicated residential amenity floor featuring wellness and recreation facilities. At least 10 per cent of the apartments would be allocated as affordable housing for a period of 10 years.

The proposal occupies a 1,631 sqm site bounded by London Street, North Parade and Dispensary Lane, immediately adjoining the future Metro station precinct and just metres from Beamish Street’s retail and dining strip. According to the Urban Design Report, the project seeks to deliver "a great place that prioritises human-scaled experience and provides spatial improvements to the area."

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="175a8324-015b-4856-abe3-ce6f23199fa7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium%20campsie.png?VersionId=742UGwXFhFBX4GEl6wX4PYIWREAgn6il" />

Woods Bagot describes the tower as a key marker within Campsie's next phase of growth.

"Located directly opposite the new Campsie Metro Station on North Parade, 10 London Street is a thoughtfully composed 33-storey mixed-use tower that contributes to the ongoing transformation of the town centre," the Architectural Design Report states. The report says the project is intended to provide "high-quality homes within a vibrant, connected urban environment, while helping define Campsie's future skyline."

A strong emphasis has been placed on the public realm. The ground floor incorporates over 500 sqm of retail space and active frontages along both London Street and North Parade, while the podium is wrapped by extensive landscaped planting intended to soften the building's scale and strengthen the pedestrian experience. The development would also widen surrounding footpaths and improve connections between the Metro station and the broader town centre.

Above the podium, residents would have access to more than 1,400 sqm of communal amenities, including a pool, gym and landscaped recreation spaces. A distinctive green-wall treatment extending across four podium levels forms a major architectural feature, helping differentiate the project within the emerging high-density precinct.

The tower's design is closely tied to the broader Campsie Town Centre Master Plan and the arrival of Sydney Metro. The Urban Design Report notes the proposal "directly supports the Campsie Town Centre Master Plan by delivering new homes in a location explicitly identified for growth, improved accessibility, and high-quality urban renewal." It adds that the project contributes to the master plan's vision for a strengthened town centre supported by thousands of new homes around the future Metro station.

<img alt="First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bfd17654-253e-489a-bade-6278d63db412" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/base%20campsie.png?VersionId=3roJPMQGs36dazpkhvpvbDDP73Ld.Ica" />

The application follows Arada's recently lodged One Campsie project at 124–142 Beamish Street and 16–18 Ninth Avenue, where the developer is seeking approval for 346 apartments across three towers rising 24, 32 and 39 storeys. Together, the two proposals would cement Arada as one of the most influential developers shaping Campsie's future urban form.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-arada-files-for-trio-of-apartment-towers-in-campsie-town-centre">First Look: Arada files for trio of apartment towers in Campsie town centre</a>

Arada entered the Australian market in 2024 and has rapidly assembled a significant development pipeline across Sydney. Alongside its Campsie holdings, the developer is soon to launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wattle-green-2-fishburn-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Wattle Green</a> in Castle Hill, and has expanded its local operations following its acquisition of construction firm Roberts &amp; Co.

Located around 14 kilometres south-west of the Sydney CBD, the site sits at the centre of one of Sydney's fastest-changing middle-ring precincts. The Metro conversion of Campsie Station, combined with Canterbury-Bankstown Council's master planning framework, is driving significant residential intensification around Beamish Street and North Parade, with thousands of new homes expected over coming decades.

First look: Arada doubles down in Campsie with 33-storey Metro-front tower plans

For the first time in a long time, Australia's inflation story is starting to look more like a landing than a fight.

The latest Consumer Price Index figures from the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed annual inflation eased to four per cent in May, down from 4.2 per cent in April. On the surface, that might not seem like a major move. Inflation remains above the Reserve Bank's target range and some categories continue to record stubborn price growth.

But the significance of this result lies less in where inflation sits today and more in what it means for where interest rates are likely heading next.

The biggest takeaway is that inflation continues to move in the right direction.

Markets had been bracing for another sticky result after a period where progress appeared to stall. Instead, headline inflation came in softer than expected, helped by falling fuel prices and easing transport costs. Annual transport inflation halved from 6.6 per cent in April to 3.3 per cent in May, while automotive fuel prices fell 11.9 per cent during the month following lower oil prices and the impact of reduced fuel excise measures.

While petrol prices don't solve Australia's affordability challenges, they are one of the most visible and immediate costs for consumers. Falling fuel costs feed through the economy quickly, helping ease pressure on household budgets and business operating expenses.

The ABS data also showed headline inflation is now sitting at its lowest annual level in several months, reinforcing the broader trend that price growth is gradually moderating.

That trend is important because it aligns with what many economists and lenders have been saying for the last month.

Prior to this week's inflation data, ANZ, NAB and Commonwealth Bank had all shifted their forecasts, now believing the Reserve Bank had likely reached the peak of the interest rate cycle. Following the May inflation release, ANZ reaffirmed that view.

In its latest economic update, ANZ said it expects quarterly trimmed mean inflation to come in at 3.7 per cent for the June quarter, slightly below the Reserve Bank's forecast of 3.8 per cent. Importantly, the bank said that outcome, when combined with slowing economic activity, "supports our view that the cash rate has peaked".

The Reserve Bank has spent the better part of three years attempting to bring inflation under control through higher interest rates. If Australia's major banks are correct and rates have now peaked, the conversation shifts from how much higher rates could go to when they might begin coming down.

Westpac's caution comes from underlying inflation. The trimmed mean, the measure most closely watched by the Reserve Bank, increased from 3.4 per cent to 3.6 per cent annually. Housing inflation remains elevated at 6.5 per cent, reflecting ongoing increases in rents, electricity costs and new dwelling construction.

Electricity prices remain particularly problematic, rising 21.1 per cent over the past year following the removal of government rebates.

Housing construction costs are also showing signs of renewed pressure. ANZ noted new dwelling costs rose 0.9 per cent in May and are now running at an annualised pace of 8.6 per cent over the past three months. Builders continue to face higher labour, fuel and material costs, a reminder that inflationary pressures have not completely disappeared.

Housing affordability has deteriorated largely because of higher interest rates rather than higher property prices alone. Even modest reductions in mortgage rates would improve borrowing capacity, increase buyer confidence and reduce repayment pressure on existing homeowners.

While August is far from a certainty, the latest inflation result has strengthened the view that the next move in rates is more likely to be down than up. For borrowers, buyers and the development sector, that alone represents a significant shift from the conversation that dominated much of the past two years.

The inflation result the property market was waiting for

Commercial property group FiveX is doubling down on its move into the residential space.

The group, founded by Joshua and Marko Berger more than five decades ago, has followed up its plans for a 39-storey tower on North Sydney's Alfred Street with a proposed 61-storey tower in Chatswood.

The new tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/815-pacific-highway-chatswood-nsw-2067">815 Pacific Highway</a>, which would be one of the tallest proposed in Chatswood in recent years, will comprise 490 apartments, 76 of which will be dedicated affordable housing and managed by Evolve Housing for a minimum of 15 years.

The project will replace the long-standing Panorama Building, originally known as the BMA Tower, a 14-storey office building completed in 1972 and designed by Hungarian-born architect Hugo Stossel. At the time of its completion, the building was the tallest structure in Chatswood and became a local landmark due to its distinctive curved form and external glass lift.

<img alt="FiveX" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="956bd299-3864-47a0-8ea6-162b5524c5d8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-24%20at%201.02.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=EWx7teUr7RcYrI9mgRytwppwt5AdUDtb" />

fjcstudio is behind the designs. Its Architectural Design Report argues the ageing commercial building no longer reflects Chatswood's role as one of Sydney's key strategic centres and that the site is ideally positioned to support significantly higher residential density.

"The site is located at the heart of Chatswood, within the TOD accelerated rezoning area that supports higher density development around the new Metro station," the report states.

"The site's role within a walkable 400-metre radius catchment is where housing, employment, retail and community uses are encouraged to cluster in support of transit-oriented living."

<img alt="fjc" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8d198f5e-cc71-4175-9357-be6ec7207473" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-24%20at%201.18.27%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=5WUFc3IYBPvhQMBUYLCsjJhzdcVeYodE" />

The proposal has undergone two rounds of review by the NSW State Design Review Panel, with the design evolving through an extensive assessment process focused on design excellence, public realm outcomes, residential amenity and the integration of affordable housing.

fjcstudio says the residential component provides a diverse mix of apartment typologies, supporting a broad demographic and contributing to housing supply in a highly accessible location close to major transport, employment and retail infrastructure.

The application follows FiveX's plans for a 39-storey tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/275-alfred-street-north-north-sydney-nsw-2060">275 Alfred Street</a>, which it <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/275-alfred-street-north-north-sydney-nsw-2060">submitted through the same NSW Government pathway</a> in December. That's for 184 apartments.

Recent activity in Chatswood includes Hyecorp launching its Archer Street project, Celine, and Develotek securing approval for a 34-storey tower.

First look: FiveX targets Chatswood skyline with 61-storey tower after North Sydney plans

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?

The availability of apartments, in quiet pockets in Bayside, is dwindling.

Despite Hampton East's population rising above 5,000 from the 2016 census to the most recently collected census in 2021, the percentage share of apartments declined.

Apartments accounted for over 22 per cent of dwellings in the <a href="/new-apartments/hampton-east-vic-3188">small 1.4-kilometre squared suburb</a> in 2016. That number has dropped to just over 20 per cent, with the data suggesting just nine extra apartments added over five years.

The lack of apartment supply, especially ones located on a quiet street, makes <a href="/new-apartments/casa-tranquila-hampton-east-15-19-king-street-hampton-east">Casa Tranquila</a>, a rare find.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113441 project_image_fid=208735]

The project is ideally located to take advantage of local amenities. With its postcode being 3188, the same as Hampton, Casa Tranquila sits on a quiet, leafy corner, but close to a retail precinct and just 300 metres to the closest train station.

"It's a hidden gem in Bayside," Chad Arbid says.

"Hampton East is an affordable Bayside suburb known for parks, the beach, the best schools, shopping strips – like Hampton St, Bay St and Church St, restaurants and cafes, gyms, golf courses and medical centres - all within easy reach. It’s no wonder that the Channel 9 TV show The Block 2023 chose Charming Street - just around the corner from Casa Tranquila - and sold all five houses with record prices."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113441 project_image_fid=256593]

With this strategic location on King Street, conveniently but quietly set a street back from the South Road thoroughfare, comes a vibrant selection of local retail outlets, cafes, restaurants, and bars, including station-side establishments like Wilbury &amp; Sons, Uncles, Comma Food &amp; Wine, TOAST IT!, 4 Seasons Laksa, and Everwell Medical Centre.

The location of Casa Tranquila also places it within reach of Victoria's premier golf clubs, such as Kingston Heath, Brighton and Royal Melbourne Golf Clubs, all a short drive away.

Nature enthusiasts can explore the nearby green spaces, with Dendy Park and Brighton Beach offering idyllic settings for outdoor activities and relaxation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113441 project_image_fid=256602]

Families considering Casa Tranquila will also find themselves in proximity to esteemed educational institutions in Melbourne. Hampton Primary School, St Agnes' School, St Paul's School, Our Lady of the Sacred Heart College, St Leonards and Haileybury are all within a convenient short drive from the development.

Designed by Chandler Architecture, Casa Tranquila comprises one, two, and three-bedroom residences. The massive onsite display suite presents a clear indication of the high-end fittings and fixtures that Chandler Architecture envisioned.

Every apartment at Casa Tranquila comes with a car park and storage cage, the three bedroom residences come with two car spaces. Casa Tranquila also offers a shared car parking facility, enabling residents to conveniently access on-site rental car services for various durations, from short hourly rentals to full-day usage.&nbsp;

The development has low body corporate fees with no car-stackers and welcomes residents into a resort-style lobby, evoking a sense of tranquillity and sophistication. Featuring concierge services, and amenities such as a cocktail resident’s lounge with fireplace and bar and a covered BBQ area with a central garden,&nbsp;

Casa Tranquila is selling fast with 60% of sales achieved so far. Construction is commencing soon with expected completion to be in the first quarter of 2026.&nbsp;

The lack of apartment supply, especially ones located on a quiet street, makes Casa Tranquila, a rare find

How Casa Tranquila in Hampton East takes advantage of the whole of Bayside's amenities

Developer CCIG Capital Pty Ltd's (CCIG) <a href="/developments/caulfield-north-vic-3161">Caulfield North</a> apartment development Reverie kicked off its launch with 30 per cent of its apartments snapped up on its launch.

<a href="/new-apartments/reverie-caulfield-79-89-hawthorn-road-caulfield-north">Reverie</a>, comprising 34 two and three-bedroom apartments across seven levels, is the first new apartment launch in the <a href="/developments/caulfield-north-vic-3161">Caulfield North</a> in 2024.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144513 project_image_fid=269497]

Award-winning <a href="/architects/bg-architecture">BG Architecture</a> have teamed with acclaimed interior design firm, Hecker Guthrie, to design what CCIG believes a "sensitively considered built environment [that] can inspire us and open the door to reverie."

The architectural design of Reverie is characterised by soft arches and organic curves, divided into three levels; The Penthouse Level, The Sanctuary Levels, and The Podium — offering panoramic bay and city views in the Penthouse Level to spacious balconies overlooking Caulfield Park and the city skyline in the Sanctuary Levels.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144513 project_image_fid=269502]

The apartments, priced from $895,000 to $4,635,000, boast generous living and dining spaces, well-appointed kitchens with natural stone benchtops and premium Miele appliances, and customisable colour schemes.&nbsp;

Reverie is targeting a 7-Star Energy Rating and is expected to be completed by February 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144513]

Reverie is targeting a 7-Star Energy Rating and is expected to be completed by February 2026

Reverie Caulfield North races to 30% sold

Local developer ITUM has chosen a leafy quiet street as a strategic location for their aptly named Carnegie apartment development, Mimosa Row, an address in between convenience and quiet.

The positioning of Mimosa Row,&nbsp;on Mimosa Road, ensures residents are just a stone's throw away from Carnegie's Koornang Road dining precinct, known for its wide range of shops, multicultural restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Among these, Spilt Milk, Shyun, a Japanese restaurant known for its fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients, the nearby Shyun Ramen Bar, and Left Field stand out as some of the local favourites.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139888 project_image_fid=212587]

<a href="/new-apartments/mimosa-row-carnegie-100-104-mimosa-road-carnegie">Mimosa Row</a>, just&nbsp;40-apartments in a low-rise series of buildings, is also conveniently located just over 10 kilometres from <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a>'s CBD, just under three kilometres from Chadstone Shopping Centre, and a host of local amenities including parks, health clubs, and educational institutions.&nbsp;

The <a href="/developments/carnegie-vic-3163">Carnegie</a> train station is 600 metres away, located near Carnegie Central, a mixed-used shopping mall featuring grocery stores, medical and health services, cafes, takeaways, and restaurants.

Residents are also only a five-minute drive to Caulfield Racecourse Reserve, home to a lake, picnic areas, grandstand, and horse training tracks. The venue is open every day apart from race days and major events.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139888 project_image_fid=212597]

Education options are also abundant in the vicinity of Mimosa Row, with Carnegie Primary School a short eight-minute walk away, alongside St Anthony's School, Glen Eira College, and Monash University, all within a radius of 850 metres.

<a href="/developers/itum">ITUM</a> appointed <a href="/builders/platinum-construction-0">Platinum Construction</a> as the builder of the <a href="/architects/bg-architecture">BG Architecture</a>-designed Mimosa Row. It is expected to complete in late 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139888]

ITUM appointed Platinum Construction as the builder of the BG Architecture-designed Mimosa Row. It is expected to complete in late 2025

Leafy and convenient: How Mimosa Row takes in the best of Carnegie

Billbergia has topped out Peake Tower, part of the second stage of its $2.5 billion Rhodes Central masterplan.

The 48-level Peake Tower is the tallest building in <a href="/new-apartments/rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes</a>, one of five in <a href="/new-apartments/rhodes-central-oasis-39-marquet-street-rhodes">Rhodes Central</a> that will deliver 3,500 new homes to Sydney's critically undersupplied housing market.

Stage two comprises a combined total of 674 apartments across two high-rise buildings, Peake Tower and Oasis. It will also see the delivery of $70 million in new community infrastructure - including a 9,100 sqm multipurpose community recreation and childcare centre - built in the precinct’s three-level podium through a planning agreement with City of Canada Bay.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112691 project_image_fid=196872]

“We are delighted to have reached this exciting milestone on Peake Tower, a critical step towards the completion of this new waterfront precinct at Rhodes," Rick Graf, <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> Development Director, said

"Our vision of creating a highly-connected new community is fast becoming a reality,” said Rick Graf, Development Director at Billbergia."

Located at 34 Walker Street, Peake Tower and Oasis were designed by high-profile architects <a href="/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>.&nbsp;

Rhodes Central’s Stage One comprises a total of 568 apartments across two buildings of 25 and 39 storeys. The towers sit above the award-winning, 13,000 sqm Rhodes Central super neighbourhood shopping centre, delivered by Billbergia in 2021.&nbsp;&nbsp;

A significant employment generator, some 10,000 direct and indirect jobs have been created to date by the construction of Rhodes Central, with at least a further 450 permanent jobs within the completed precinct.&nbsp;

Progressive completion of Peake Tower is due in Q3 2024.&nbsp;&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112691]

Billbergia top out Rhodes tallest tower as Rhodes Central approaches completion

Indooroopilly in Brisbane's south-west has a little bit of everything.

A riverside suburb, Indooroopilly has the largest shopping centre in Brisbane's western suburbs, it's home to a number of parks including Witton Barracks Park, and its proximity to the Brisbane River makes for a nature-fuelled lifestyle with all the conveniences of living near the city.

The area is well known for excellent schools, which has often drawn families to the suburb.

While a sought-after place to live, it's not often there's an opportunity to buy brand new.

We've had a look at the best projects currently on the market in <a href="/developments/indooroopilly-qld-4068">Indooroopilly</a>.

<h2>Project: Natura</h2>

<h2>Location: 55 York Street, Indooroopilly QLD 4068</h2>

<h2>Developer: Opalyn Property Group</h2>

<a href="/developers/opalyn-property-group">Opalyn Property Group</a> is in the works of bringing a boutique apartment development in <a href="/developments/indooroopilly-qld-4068">Indooroopilly</a>, strategically positioned just 800 metres away from Taringa Train Station and Indooroopilly Shopping Centre.

<a href="/new-apartments/natura-indooroopilly-55-york-street-indooroopilly-qld-4068">Natura</a> comprises 35 two and three-bedroom apartments spread over five levels, accompanied by two undercover secure car parks with intercom security access.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94606 project_image_fid=213600]

Designed by <a href="/architects/vsa-designs">VSA Designs</a>, Natura residences feature a neutral palette inspired by nature, accentuated by high-quality finishes and fixtures sourced from renowned brands.

Each residence features two generous and usable balconies, extending the living areas and offering residents a connection to the outdoors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94606 project_image_fid=160863]

Residents of Natura will also have exclusive access to a rooftop terrace complete with BBQ facilities, a separate dining area, and break-out zones enveloped by lush manicured gardens.&nbsp;

Natura has already reached its pre-sales milestones, with anticipation that the remaining apartments will be quickly snapped up once construction commences. Prices for a two-bedroom unit at Natura start at $749,000.

<h2>Project: Long Pocket</h2>

<h2>Location: 75 Jacaranda Place, Indooroopilly QLD 4068</h2>

<h2>Developer: Shayher Group</h2>

Indooroopilly's townhouses are a rare find, comprising only eight per cent of the area's private dwellings and particularly unique when nestled between two prestigious golf clubs.

Developed by <a href="/new-apartments/brisbane-qld">Brisbane</a>-based <a href="/developers/shayher-group">Shayher Group</a>, Long Pocket stands out as a highly sought-after townhouse development, drawing significant interest from locals including downsizers, young professionals with children, and families alike.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95798 project_image_fid=156480]

<a href="/buildings/long-pocket-75-jacaranda-place-indooroopilly">Long Pocket</a> features 45 four-level, four-bedroom townhouses grouped into two distinct collections: the Rainforest Collection adjacent to Jacaranda Place Reserve and the Riverview Collection offering stunning views of the Brisbane River, with the latter being the preferred choice among buyers.

Each townhouse at Long Pocket boasts a meticulously planned layout, with a dual garage with storage and a spacious entry lobby on the ground level, open-plan living and dining areas, a galley kitchen on the middle level, and master suites and bedrooms on the top levels.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95798 project_image_fid=198389]

The centrepiece of Long Pocket is its exclusive 22-metre resort-style pool, complete with a sauna and steam room, offering residents a luxurious retreat right at their doorstep.

Moreover, residents enjoy easy access to two 18-hole golf courses, St Lucia Golf Links, and Indooroopilly Golf Club, making Long Pocket an ideal choice for those seeking a lifestyle of convenience and leisure.

<h2>Project: The Audrey</h2>

<h2>Location:&nbsp;109 Clarence Road, Indooroopilly QLD 4068</h2>

<h2>Developer: Savve Developments &amp; Construction</h2>

&nbsp;

Construction is well underway at the latest Brisbane development by SAVVE Developments &amp; Construction.&nbsp;

SAVVE secured a 1610 sqm site at 107 Clarence Road and crafted The&nbsp;<a href="/new-apartments/audrey-st-leonards-13-19-canberra-avenue-st-leonards">Audrey</a>, a mix of 35 two, three and four-bedroom apartments, as well as a five-bedroom penthouses.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=94824 project_image_fid=209991]

Commercial tenancies will take up shop across the ground floor of the site, with the two-storey addition set to include space for offices and food and beverage retailers.&nbsp;

Designed by Prospect Architects, with interiors by Merge, the development will take inspiration from the tree-lined streets of its locale, which is situated just moments from world-class cafes, restaurants, shopping and golf courses.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Indooroopilly's top three new developments selling in 2024

When it comes to apartment investing, there are two key criteria to look at; the vacancy rate trends and current rate in the area, and the price per square metre.

Local developer Robert Laybutt was well aware of what's important to investors and went against the grain on the island of producing apartments that were solely for the downsizer. What he's produced lends itself perfectly to the investor or first home buyer market.

The result is <a href="/new-townhouses/andiamo-apartments-hope-island-38-42-broadwater-avenue-hope-island">Andiamo Apartments</a>, the most affordable apartment development Hope Island has seen in years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139743 project_image_fid=270230]

The first metric is the vacancy rate. There are just over a dozen rental properties currently available on <a href="/developments/hope-island-qld-4212">Hope Island</a>, 90 per cent of which have three bedrooms.

"The rental market in areas such as Hope Island and its surrounds have experienced some of the most significant price hikes in the country," Bernice Cooper, of Mercer &amp; Cooper said.

Locals buyers agency firm By The Coast Property says that with constrained supply and continued demand from interstate and overseas migration, strong demand for apartments and increased construction costs, property prices and weekly rents on the Gold Coast will continue to rise through 2024.&nbsp;

They believe that weekly rents will continue to rise in 2024 fuelled by migration and a continued shift into more affordable apartments from free-standing houses offering property investors the opportunity for increased yields, particularly if interest rates fall later in the year.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139743 project_image_fid=262913]

The other key element investors look at when purchasing is the price per square metre.

The Light Rail Spine experienced the most uptick in new apartment prices in 2020, rising by 9.5 per cent to an indicative value of $11,500 per sqm. It ranged from $8,800 sqm to $14,3000.

Andiamo's starting price per sqm of $7,500 isn't even close to the range.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139743 project_image_fid=270210]

The two-bedroom apartments at Andiamo begin at $630,000, which is luring first home buyers given the Gold Coast median unit price according to property data analytics firm CoreLogic is $721,000.

The majority of apartments left fall under the $750,000 First Home Owner Grant cap, so first home buyers at Andiamo don't have to pay a penny on stamp duty.

Both first home buyers and investors have also been drawn to the low body corp, just $70 a week. That's despite amenity in the form of a reosrt-style swimming pool, barbecue area, multi-purpose room and access to lifts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139743 project_image_fid=262912]

Located on Broadwater Avenue, Andiamo comprises 76 apartments designed by&nbsp;<a href="/architects/david-gallez-architect">David Gallez Architect</a>.

Investors know the location is an important factor in securing a tenant. Andiamo is ideally located just 100 metres from&nbsp;Broadwater Plaza where there's a Godfather Pizza and a handful of retailers within. Just a few hundred metres the other way is the more abundant Hope Island Marketplace, the shopping hub of the whole of Hope Island.

Hope Island is also home to some of South East Queensland's best golf courses, 16 in total across Hope Island and the nearby Sanctuary Cove.

Andiamo Apartments is currently under construction by SEQ builder <a href="/builders/bryant-building-contractors">Bryant Construction</a> and is expected to be completed in early 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139743]

Why every apartment investor metric stacks up at Andiamo Hope Island

Diversified investment group and property developer Salter Brothers is set for its first development play in the Queensland capital.

While they own and operate a handful of retreats across the Gold Coast and outer Brisbane through their Spicers Retreats brand which they acquired in late 2022, their new project, exclusively revealed by Apartments.com.au, is their first within the City of Brisbane.

Salter Brothers, who is based in Melbourne but has several hotels and commercial assets nationally, is seeking to demolish the Mercure Brisbane Garden City Hotel in Upper Mount Gravatt and develop a new 17-level apartment building at 18 Macgregor Street, Upper Mount Gravatt.

They've had Bates Smart, who has worked more in Sydney and Melbourne since it was founded in the mid-1850s, create the plans for the mixed-use building that will have 101 apartments above a four-level podium. That will home a 90-space childcare centre and parking for 107 cars.

<img alt="salter Mt Gravatt" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c4dec6fa-570c-4013-839c-62b39b4f9104" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-23%20at%201.25.21%20pm.png?VersionId=7_hXoO1RkzCAYSX0V_05iv_vT4kAgzO5" />

The residential apartments will start from level six and run through to level 17. The apartments are expressed as "gently undulating petals," Bates Smart wrote in their submission to the Brisbane City Council.

"The tower form and floorplate have been inspired by the native indigenous Tea Tree Flower and Wallum Banksia, two species of flora endemic to the region. This resulted in each apartment being expressed as an individual 'petal' with a curved edge, spatially and visually separated from the apartment adjacent."

There will be eight apartments per floor, six two-beds and two three-bedders. Living rooms and balconies are oriented to achieve maximum amenity through view outlook and solar access.

<img alt="Salter" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eb15e66d-6ece-43de-b33b-7d832cc94911" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-23%20at%201.32.50%20pm.png?VersionId=Pyl1YkGAsejRI6Q3jL5b6hz5Nuy6t.a5" />

A rooftop communal terrace will span the entirety of level 18. It's been conceived as an extension of the nearby Toohey Forest Park which is known for its ecological significance and native flora and fauna. The rooftop will have&nbsp; a pool, mineral spa, and a landscaped seating area oriented to the north where they enjoy primary view outlook towards Mount Gravatt.

A resident gym and separate amenity room are located east and west of the core, while to the south there will be a landscaped barbecue area.

<img alt="Upper Grav" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="098f0bfc-085f-4f7f-83d6-da8e00d8cb32" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-23%20at%201.32.55%20pm.png?VersionId=RI9wF8PPHdGo8JbBQQH8ADFNpRbpwNqc" />

Bates Smart said&nbsp;Mount Gravatt was known by the local Turrbal and Jagera Peoples as 'kaggur-madul', meaning the 'Place of the Echidna', or 'Where Echidnas Rest'.

They said they when they designed the external shading system, they took inspiration from the delicate fine grain repetition of echidna spikes and their use in traditional indigenous jewellery making, where the quills were dried, treated with emu oil, and then assembled into beautiful strings of necklaces which express a strong linear repetition that enhances the legibility of curved surfaces they adorn.

The 5,356 sqm site is ideally located a five-minute walk from Garden City Westfield, one of Brisbane's largest shopping centres.

&nbsp;

Down in its native Melbourne, Salter is currently developing <a href="/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe">Candela Ivanhoe</a>, 62 one, two three and four-bedroom apartments in Melbourne's north east.

The 5,356 sqm site is ideally located a five-minute walk from Garden City Westfield in Upper Mount Gravatt, one of Brisbane's largest shopping centres.

First look exclusive: Salter Brothers plot new Brisbane apartments

Pipis Bilinga is the newest beachfront apartment development on Bilinga's dress circle Golden Four Drive, in the sought-after pocket at the southern end of the Gold Coast.

It's the second <a href="/new-apartments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a>&nbsp;development by Brent Thompson's Siera Group, which is also developing Tapestry on Chevron Island.

<a href="/new-apartments/pipis-bilinga-303-golden-four-drive-bilinga-qld-4225">Pipis</a>&nbsp;will comprise 17 half-floor, three-bedroom beachfront apartments and two two-level penthouses with four bedrooms which are yet to be released to the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138311 project_image_fid=264310]

Since Pipis launched in October, it’s been popular with interstate buyers, particularly those from New South Wales looking for a slice of the Gold Coast beachfront.

Data from Apartments.com.au's new data product MatterFact shows that around a third of the enquiry for Pipis month on month since launch has come from New South Wales and Victoria.

New South Wales accounts for the majority of interstate interest, at around a quarter of total enquiries. Queensland buyers have represented over half of the enquiries.&nbsp;

During the autumn and winter months, MatterFact data from last year shows enquiry from New South Wales overtook that in Queensland in Bilinga, a suburb that is often overlooked for Coolangatta to the immediate south and Palm Beach to the north.&nbsp;

But Thompson says Bilinga is benefitting from everything that's happening in both Palm Beach and the Coolangatta/ Kirra area, all while maintaining its own laid-back, Gold Coast beach lifestyle.

"Despite being just a few kilometres down the coast, <a href="/developments/bilinga-qld-4225">Bilinga</a> is so different to Coolangatta, and that's what people love about the area," Thompson says.

"Future residents at Pipis will have direct access to one of the quietest stretches of sand in the southern Gold Coast, while they will be just minutes from the new Kirra retail and hotel precinct. They can decide what type of day they want, quiet and relaxed, or active and social. Bilinga offers the best of both worlds."

There's also the added bonus of the extension of the light rail which will run down Coolangatta Road, adjacent to Golden Four Drive.

That will drastically enhance the liveability of residents at Pipis. The new light rail will run up to Surfers in the north, through Palm Beach, Burleigh Heads, Mermaid Beach and Broadbeach, while also connecting to Coolangatta, ending its journey on Musgrave Street.

The new light rail stop will be just 300 metres away from Pipis at Boyd Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138311 project_image_fid=264300]

Designed by <a href="/architects/ellivo-architects">Ellivo Architecture</a>, Pipis apartments boast spacious open floor plans spanning from 233 sqm to 314 sqm, with the kitchen, living, and dining areas flowing onto balconies overlooking the beach.

The feedback from the Urban Community suggests the best thing about the project&nbsp;is the quality of finishes, with both the project team experience and location being the second best features of Pipis.

Each apartment will be finished and furnished with high-quality materials, including Natural Italian stone as countertops, European oak timber as flooring, New Zealand wool carpet, and European SMEG appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138311 project_image_fid=264304]

Residents at Pipis will also have access to a host of private ground-floor amenities with a 15 metres heated lap pool and sun lounge deck area, a fully equipped gymnasium with rowing, biking and reformer Pilates and an outdoor rain head shower and a dog wash.

SIERA’s approach has never been about the bells and whistles, it has always been about well-designed projects, project location and understanding the desired lifestyle requirements of its future residents.&nbsp;

"The design intent met the needs of our future occupants.Thompson says.

"We wanted to understand who those occupants were likely to be and what was going to be important to them and you'll see that that really translates to the team that we've chosen to work with as well for the project being Ellivo."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138311 project_image_fid=264308]

Thompson says Bilinga has everything on its doorstep, but is partially removed from the action which caters to the quieter lifestyle.

"Being able to have access to all of that amenity on your doorstep while still being set back away from it so you're not right in the middle of all of the hustle and bustle but you can enter and leave when it suits."

Construction commenced on Pipis in November, with <a href="/builders/lps-group">LPS Group</a> already making strides with significant progress. In February, LPS Group completed the basement 2 raft slab, which serves as the structural foundation for the entire project.

&nbsp;

<img alt="Pipis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c47d1ba9-b868-493e-a542-a72d6eca30ae" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screen%20Shot%202024-04-24%20at%2010.55.54%20am.png?VersionId=C47jlO2HkWb5FqvMdKegiZrkhJh3ywhO" />

The completed raft slab also accommodates the crane base, providing structural support for the assembly of the SIERA tower crane.&nbsp;Energex civil works to the Golden Four Drive verge were finalised in February, preparing for the permanent undergrounding of power lines.

Pipis is slated for completion in Q1 of 2025.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138311]

Why Pipis in Bilinga is seeing strong interstate demand

Not many project marketers cover as much of the country as Urban Activation.

The Melbourne-based company is currently marketing projects in Newcastle and Orange in New South Wales, as well as Vista in <a href="/new-apartments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Surfers Paradise</a> on the Gold Coast.&nbsp;

They've recently sold down all of <a href="/new-apartments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a> developer Hirsch &amp; Faigen's Gold Coast projects; Hemingway at <a href="/new-apartments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>, <a href="/new-apartments/yves-mermaid-beach-7-9-mermaid-avenue-mermaid-beach">Yves</a> at <a href="/new-apartments/mermaid-beach-qld-4218">Mermaid Beach</a>, and Emerson at Kirra, the latter of which has just the $10 million penthouse remaining.

With everything going on at <a href="/project-marketer/urban-activation">Urban Activation</a>, we caught up with director Matt George to talk about the off the plan apartment market nationally.

<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/1Os4416EVtM?si=v1SSnOqiUrIOqyjV" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

George says the key to successful sales at the moment is confidence in the builder and developer.

Talking about the <a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a>, George suggest buyers don't want to be sitting on their hands if they're looking.

"Every single project we're working on up there we're doing sales every single day out of each project," George says.

"[In the Gold Coast] you're dealing on a national basis, so there's a lot of competition from people who are investing, downsizing, or upsizing."

George says there's regular price increases due to the amount of demand that's coming through.

"We find that buyers really take a backward step when they come back three or four months later and realise that due to the cost of construction and the sales volume that's come through, the price has increased. I can assure you, up there at the moment, the initial offering of pricing is very very competitive and it will keep going north."

George suggests buyers need to understand the broad range of products in the Gold Coast and find out what their needs are, what their budget is, and move very quickly.

He says the demand is equally strong in Newcastle, however that's a more insular market.

"Of course you get interest from Sydney, but there's not the same interstate investment like on the Gold Coast. It's a local market, it's a lot of upsizers and upgraders from what they've previously purchased."

Talking about the Gold Coast, George suggest buyers don't want to be sitting on their hands if they're looking

Michael Bird

How the Newcastle and Gold Coast off the plan apartment markets are performing: Five minutes with Urban Activation's Matt George

In late 2023, developer Wickton quietly announced themselves to the Bayside market, launching two apartment projects in Hampton.

First they launched <a href="/new-apartments/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton">Linacre Rise</a>, a collection of 27 apartments on Linacre Road, and then a week later followed up with <a href="/new-apartments/58-beach-hampton-58-beach-road-hampton">58 Beach</a>, just six apartments around 750 metres away.

Wickton is founded and run by architect Will Leaf and project manager Blanco Norton, who have brought their expertise together to create a development company that they believe brings the two most important parts of project delivery together in-house.

With everything going on at <a href="/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>, we went down to the Beach Road display suite to catch up with the two founders to talk a little bit more about their approach to property development.

<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/o5O-fAA1vJk?si=G5f425qRXn7fxCqH" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

Norton says the interesting&nbsp;part about the collaboration is that it allows them to bring the best of both worlds together,&nbsp;both Will being able to draw on his experience from VCAT and planning and himself handling the early feasibility modelling having done so previously with a range of other developers.

Leaf, who grew up in <a href="/new-apartments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>, is also a founder of architecture firm <a href="/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a>. He's designed around&nbsp;50 projects in Bayside, from townhouses and single homes to apartment projects.

"We have&nbsp;a strong relationship with council and we see these buyers that are like us and that have family like us, and we've been tailoring the product to that demographic for a long time," Leaf says.

Leaf believes his and Norton's skillset bring the two most important disciplines in the project, being the architect and project manager.

"We really see this as providing assurances to buyers, in the sense that they're not being outsourced these two roles and it's about us being at the coal face and being responsible for the product."

To find out more about Wickton, visit their Urban profile <a href="/developers/wickton">here</a>.

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