Construction is set to begin at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/orchard-mews-glen-iris-18-scott-grove-glen-iris-vic-3146">Orchard Mews</a> in Glen Iris, with&nbsp;PC Whitehall &amp; Sons&nbsp;now appointed as the townhome development moves into its next phase.

The development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/montcoeur">MontCoeur</a>,&nbsp;located at 18 Scott Grove, is now around 30 per cent sold, with completion targeted for late-2027.

Orchard Mews comprises a curated collection of three- and four-bedroom customisable townhomes, positioned within one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/glen-iris-vic-3146">Glen Iris</a>’ more tightly held residential streets. The low-density project has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>, bringing together a team known for high-end residential projects across Melbourne.

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The development is defined by its focus on flexible living and long-term usability. Each residence includes multiple living zones and a customisable multipurpose room, allowing buyers to tailor spaces to suit changing needs, whether as a home office, additional bedroom, wellness area or entertainment space.

Architecturally, the townhomes emphasise natural light and spatial volume, with dual-aspect layouts and double-height living areas incorporated into the design. Interiors feature natural stone benchtops, premium appliances, and a neutral material palette intended to support everyday functionality rather than statement-driven finishes.

All residences are all-electric and include private lifts and secure double garages, reflecting a broader shift toward sustainability and future-focused housing in Melbourne’s established suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150128 project_image_fid=366277]

Outdoor connections are also central to the offering, with a mix of private courtyards and terraces extending internal living spaces and integrating with the landscaped surrounds.

The Scott Grove address places Orchard Mews within close proximity to some of Melbourne’s key lifestyle and education amenities, including Scotch College, Sacré Cœur, Cabrini Hospital and the retail hub of Chadstone. Public transport access is also nearby, with trams and Gardiner Station providing connectivity to the CBD and surrounding suburbs.

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Joel Robinson

Construction to commence at luxury Glen Iris townhome project, Orchard Mews

A rare new apartment development has been proposed on the fringe of St Ives Village.

Developer Newquest Property has lodged plans for a low-rise apartment project designed by well-regarded architecture firm Warren &amp; Mahoney, which is best known for its work in the multi-residential sector in Melbourne.

The building, proposed for a 1,916 sqm site on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/st-ives-residences-3-5-memorial-avenue-nsw-2075">Memorial Avenue</a> opposite St Ives Village Green, has been designed to blend into the surrounding natural environment.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5c1c7437-2fba-4345-a6d7-05321714ad3e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.28.46%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=KrYyMaJvNqR7vbx0xbB3Ef8sJ6FuHpmn" />

“Drawing inspiration from the pale trunks and flowering canopies of the scribbly gums and blue gums prevalent in the area, a considered material palette was developed,” the architectural design report states.

“This palette references the established materiality of the suburb while elevating it through refined finishes to achieve a more luxurious architectural expression.”

Of the 33 apartments proposed, 21 will be three-bedroom residences. The remaining mix includes nine two-bedroom apartments, one one-bedroom apartment and two four-bedroom residences. The development will be supported by 62 car parking spaces and 33 secure bicycle spaces.

The proposal would replace two single-storey brick buildings currently on the site.

<img alt="St Ives" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21422eaf-09a9-4439-9278-b9bd9daf22a1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-04%20at%201.38.10%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=v.fXSgcUcEscvOZzqcjG5nk3gVqk_Amt" />

St Ives remains a relatively untapped market for new apartment development. North Shore developer WINIM has a number of projects in the area, while INCA is nearing completion of Ellis Residences.

More recently, Traders In Purple has lodged plans for one of the denser projects proposed in the suburb, a 75-apartment development on a 5,900 sqm site on Cowan Road.

NewQuest, a construction, design and development firm, has delivered over 24 projects across commercial, residential, industrial, and lad markets.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

First look: NewQuest Property proposes new St Ives apartment development

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/centa-property-group">Centa Property Group</a> has achieved two major milestones at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bilinga-house-107-golden-four-drive-bilinga-qld-4225">Bilinga House</a> apartment development in the sought-after southern Gold Coast.

They've almost sold 50 per cent of the Golden Four Drive building, while at the same time announcing the commencement of construction through reputable builder Greyburn Construction.

The boutique 10-storey building, with 47 two- and three-bedroom apartments, now has a mid-to-late 2028 completion date.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5333]

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed project is positioned just 200 metres from Bilinga Beach and brings a relatively rare apartment offering to a market that has seen limited new supply in recent years.

Residences have been designed to maximise natural light and ventilation, with open-plan interiors, generous glazing, and material palettes that reflect the surrounding coastal landscape.

Interiors incorporate engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, and custom joinery, with layouts designed to adapt to both permanent living and lock-and-leave use.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

Rothelowman Senior Project Leader Matthew Tencate said the design approach centres on liveability and community.

“Providing curated on-site amenities and communal spaces for residents that facilitate a sense of community, liveability, and wellness,” Tencate said.

Residents will have access to a suite of private amenities including a pool, gym, sauna, and communal alfresco areas, alongside practical features such as surfboard storage and bicycle facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5336]

Centa Property Group Director Jason Yuen said the project has been designed to appeal to a range of buyers seeking flexibility in how they use their property.

“Bilinga House is designed for those who want the best of both worlds – a modern beachside escape with the flexibility to generate income when you're not there,” Yuen said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150037 project_image_fid=5338]

Bilinga remains one of the quieter pockets of the Gold Coast, sitting between the more established hubs of Coolangatta and Palm Beach. Its appeal has strengthened in recent years, supported by proximity to the Gold Coast Airport and the Oceanway coastal path.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150037]

Bilinga House apartments snapped up as Greyburn commences construction

Breaking into the Sydney property market has long felt out of reach for many first home buyers, particularly as median house prices sit above $1.6 million and unit prices push beyond $900,000.

But entry points still exist in pockets of Greater Western Sydney, where pricing, government incentives, and product mix are aligning to make ownership more attainable.

Understanding where those opportunities sit, and how the numbers actually stack up, is becoming increasingly important for buyers weighing up their next move.

<h2>Work out what you can actually afford</h2>

Sydney is expensive, but it isn’t uniformly expensive. The Greater Parramatta region continues to offer comparatively accessible entry points, particularly for buyers open to alternative configurations like studios.

There's an assumption that a first home needs to be a certain size, that anything smaller than a one-bedder is a concession rather than a choice. That assumption doesn't hold up against what well-designed studios in the right location actually offer: immediate liveability, strong urban amenity, and a price point that makes the deposit target realistic rather than theoretical.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/mason-main-merrylands-249-259-merrylands-road-merrylands-nsw-2160">Mason &amp; Main</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/coronation-property">Coronation Property</a>'s multi-award winning precinct in Merrylands, studio apartments are unlike the typical studio configuration.

Starting from $498,000, the bedroom is fully enclosed, separated from the living area by a cavity sliding door, creating a genuinely private sleeping space that functions more like a one-bedroom apartment than a traditional open-plan studio.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=359814]

At 42 sqm internally, with an open-plan kitchen, built-in robes, modern bathroom, and separate laundry, the apartments are designed for everyday liveability rather than short-term use.

With a five per cent deposit under the Federal Government's First Home Guarantee, that equates to a deposit of around $24,200, achievable for many first home buyers without the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance.

<h2>Understand the real cost of renting versus buying</h2>

For buyers weighing up the shift from renting to owning, the numbers are closer than many expect.

Here’s how the numbers stack up for a studio at Mason &amp; Main (based on a $498,000 purchase):

<ul>
	<li>Purchase price: $498,000</li>
	<li>Five per cent deposit (First Home Guarantee): ~$24,900</li>
	<li>Loan amount: ~$473,100</li>
	<li>Estimated mortgage repayment (6.29% variable, 30-year term): ~$675–$695/week*</li>
	<li>Estimated rental return: $590–$620/week*</li>
	<li>Rental yield: 6.16% - 6.47%</li>
</ul>

At this level, the gap between renting and owning is relatively narrow, particularly when factoring in long-term equity, with rental returns also making the apartments a viable option for investors.

The rental range reflects current asking rents for remaining studio stock in the development and, based on prevailing asking prices, equates to an indicative gross rental yield of up to 6.47 per cent.

For buyers seeking more internal space, Mason &amp; Main also offers a range of one-bedroom apartments from $629,000, alongside larger one-bedroom plus multipurpose room configurations priced from $680,000 - all priced under $800,000 and eligible for first home buyer incentives.

<ul>
	<li>Purchase price: $629,000</li>
	<li>20 per cent deposit: ~$125,800 (5% deposit on exchange: $31,450)</li>
	<li>Loan amount 80%: ~$503,200</li>
	<li>Estimated mortgage repayment: ~$720–$740/week*</li>
	<li>Estimated rental return: $650–$680/week*</li>
	<li>Rental yield:&nbsp;5.37% - 5.62%</li>
</ul>

One-bedroom apartments continue to present a balanced option for both owner-occupiers and investors, supported by steady rental demand across Western Sydney.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=359812]

<h2>Make sure you're across the government incentives</h2>

Government incentives continue to play a key role in reducing the upfront cost barrier.

At Mason &amp; Main, studio, one, and two-bedroom apartments are priced under $800,000, allowing eligible buyers to access a full stamp duty exemption under the NSW First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme.

On a $498,000 purchase, that represents a saving of roughly $17,900 that would otherwise need to be paid at settlement.

Combined with the First Home Guarantee, which enables purchases with as little as a five per cent deposit, the total capital required to secure a home is significantly reduced compared to traditional lending pathways.

<h2>No waiting, no uncertainty</h2>

For first home buyers who want to move sooner rather than later, Mason &amp; Main removes one of the more common pain points from the purchase process entirely. The development is already complete and move-in ready, meaning buyers can walk through the apartments, inspect the finishes, and have full certainty about what they're purchasing before signing anything.

Coronation brought in renowned architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> to design the development.&nbsp;

"The project's design drew inspiration from the area's rich heritage, in particular the nearby brickworks and aqueduct, infusing a contemporary perspective to seamlessly integrate historical influences into the design," Woods Bagot Principal Dom Alvaro says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31751 project_image_fid=736]

<h2>Factor in location and lifestyle</h2>

Beyond the apartment itself, the surrounding infrastructure matters, particularly for a first purchase. Merrylands Station sits 350 metres from the development, putting the Parramatta CBD a five-minute drive away and the Sydney CBD roughly 25 minutes via the Western Line. Directly across the road is Stockland <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/merrylands-nsw-2160">Merrylands</a>, one of Greater Western Sydney's major retail centres.

At street level, Mason &amp; Main's own retail and dining precinct has more than 30 tenants trading, including Iftar, Macelleria, Hayat, San Churro, Yuzu, and Fat Jaks. Residents also have access to a resort-style pool, a Technogym-equipped gym, private dining rooms, and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views across Parramatta, the Sydney CBD, and the Blue Mountains, all exclusive to the building.

Due to the mix of configurations, including studios which are rarely offered in today's new apartment market, first home buyers and investors have driven Mason &amp; Main to over 90 per cent sold.

Coronation Property Managing Director Joe Nahas says the development is driving a revitalisation of Merrylands, setting a high standard for future developments in the area.

Mason &amp; Main is move-in ready and is the latest in a series of award-winning mixed-use developments by Coronation Property.

Disclaimer: Mortgage repayment figures are estimates only, based on a 6.29 per cent variable rate over a 30-year term (Canstar, April 2026). Pricing and rental estimates are indicative and based on current listings and project information. Gross yield figures are indicative and derived from asking prices and estimated rental ranges. Stamp duty savings are indicative only. Buyers should seek independent financial and legal advice before proceeding.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=31751]

How first home buyers can enter the Sydney property market for under $500k

Australia’s housing debate has rarely been more urgent. The National Housing Supply and Affordability Council forecasts the country could fall around 262,000 homes short of housing needs by 2029, underscoring the scale of the challenge facing planners, governments and developers.

In response, much of the conversation has centred on high-density towers around transport corridors and strategic centres.

Diversified developer Coronation Property, while also focused on well-located, strategic sites, is incorporating an arguably underutilised typology, the terrace.

Difficult to integrate into true high-rise developments, terraces have become a defining feature of Coronation’s lower-rise portfolio, including projects in Ashbury and Erskineville. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/ashbury-terraces-165-171-milton-street-ashbury-nsw-2193">Ashbury Terraces</a> places a stronger emphasis on this housing type, forming part of a broader community mix.

At its Erskineville development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lillian-erskineville-9-metters-street-erskineville-nsw-2043">Lillian</a>, terraces are more limited, with just a handful&nbsp;included within the wider, predominantly apartment-led precinct, one of the first developments to launch in Erskineville in several years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135149 project_image_fid=368392]

Terrace residents at Lillian benefit from many of the same advantages as apartment owners, the lock-up-and-leave lifestyle and access to shared amenities like the rooftop wellness space, but with significantly more space.

Spanning multiple levels, the terraces also feature front and rear courtyards, providing direct access to the central landscaped gardens within the precinct.

<h3 data-end="212" data-section-id="1n97jye" data-start="191">The terrace model</h3>

Terrace housing has long been part of Australia’s urban fabric. From Paddington and Surry Hills to Glebe and Annandale, rows of terrace homes have shaped neighbourhood streets, offering a housing form that sits between detached houses and apartments.

The contemporary terrace, however, addresses many of the limitations of older designs, where narrow staircases and constrained layouts often compromised liveability.

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“Terraces represent one of the city’s most intelligent housing models,” says Joe Nahas, Managing Director of Coronation Property.

“They deliver density without losing the human scale that makes neighbourhoods liveable. In many ways, they provide a bridge between the Sydney we know and the Sydney we need to build. If Sydney is going to grow well, it can’t rely on towers alone.”

<hr data-end="1090" data-start="1087" />
<h3 data-end="1124" data-section-id="1a7l0gw" data-start="1092">The evolution of the terrace</h3>

That thinking has shaped Coronation’s approach at Ashbury Terraces, where the terrace typology has been reinterpreted for modern living.

Designed by SJB, the project recently received recognition at the 2026 Better Future World Design Awards, acknowledging its architectural clarity and response to the surrounding suburban context.

SJB Director Adam Haddow says the intent was to evolve a familiar housing form rather than reinvent it.

“The terrace is one of Sydney’s most familiar housing forms, so our approach at Ashbury was to reinterpret that typology in a contemporary way,” Haddow says.

“The homes are designed to sit comfortably within the existing neighbourhood while introducing more light, landscape and shared spaces that support modern living.”

Ashbury Terraces combines terraces, apartments and penthouses across a series of low-rise buildings, integrating contemporary architecture with landscaped communal spaces and resident amenity.

That same typology is now being carried into Coronation’s Lillian development in Erskineville, where a smaller number of terraces sit within a predominantly apartment-led precinct.

<hr data-end="2269" data-start="2266" />
<h3 data-end="2289" data-section-id="cazuws" data-start="2271">Buyer response</h3>

Coronation’s decision to include terraces at Lillian was informed by strong buyer feedback from Ashbury Terraces, where purchasers were drawn to the flexibility and scale the housing type offers.

One resident, Sweta Pursem, purchased a terrace as a single buyer, citing its long-term versatility.

“As a single buyer, it might seem surprising that I chose a terrace over an apartment, but I was thinking long term,” Pursem says.

“The terraces are incredibly versatile, catering to a range of lifestyles while still offering the space and privacy of a house.”

For Pursem, the multi-level layout provides a level of functionality not typically found in apartment living.

“Having a separate living area from the bedroom and home office makes everyday living feel both functional and comfortable. When friends and family come to visit, the layout gives a sense of privacy while still feeling open and spacious.”

Her terrace also supports a more connected, lifestyle-driven way of living.

“I love entertaining, and the courtyard is ideal for relaxed weekend drinks with friends. I tend to use each level differently throughout the day, it creates a natural rhythm between work, downtime and entertaining, which I didn’t have in apartment living.”

Ashbury Terraces is now complete and ready to move in, while Lillian in Erskineville is under construction and expected to welcome residents in mid-2027.

Coronation champions terraces as a key piece of Sydney’s housing mix

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?

Life in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/fitzroy-vic-3065">Fitzroy</a> moves at a distinctly local rhythm - a neighbourhood where cafés open early, parks fill steadily, and everything from art to groceries is found within walking distance.&nbsp;

At the centre of this tightly knit urban fabric, just 150 metres from Brunswick Street’s café's and retail spine, this new address offers direct access to the suburb’s defining amenities while maintaining a sense of residential calm.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/napier-235-fitzroy-235-napier-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">Napier 235</a>, a boutique development from <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/romano-property-group">Romano Property Group</a>, introduces 14 north-facing residences into one of Melbourne’s most walkable and richly layered enclaves. Surrounded by iconic eateries, leafy gardens, and essential daily services, it situates residents within the full spectrum of Fitzroy’s cultural, culinary, and lifestyle offerings - all just two kilometres from the CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144904 project_image_fid=3219]

The immediate surroundings read like a curated guide to Melbourne’s culinary highlights: Bentwood café and the Napier Hotel, both local institutions, are just metres from the doorstep. Some of the city’s most acclaimed eateries are within a five to ten minute radius - Marion, Cutler &amp; Co, Lune Croissanterie, Alimentari, and Bar Rosella, to name a few. These venues sit alongside celebrated casual options like Hector’s Deli and Archie’s All Day, offering residents a diverse and constantly evolving dining experience.

For food shopping and specialty retail, the area continues to deliver. Morning Market and Gertrude Grocer offer curated produce and pantry goods, while Meatsmith, The Source Bulk Foods, and Gram Sustainable cater to conscious consumers.&nbsp;

National retailers including Coles and Woolworths ensure grocery needs are met with ease, and boutique outlets like Aesop, Le Labo, and Glou Wine Bar &amp; Shop add texture to the local retail mix.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144904 project_image_fid=3216]

Public green space is one of Fitzroy’s defining attributes, and Napier 235 is perfectly positioned to take advantage of this. Carlton Gardens and Fitzroy Gardens provide expansive, historic parklands within walking distance.&nbsp;

Edinburgh Gardens, popular with locals for its open lawns and sporting facilities, is also easily accessible. Fitzroy Swimming Pool and the leafy surrounds of the Melbourne Museum further enrich the recreational landscape, while the Melbourne Cricket Ground offers a pedestrian-accessible connection to the city’s sporting calendar.

Transport connectivity is embedded into the daily rhythm of the suburb. Tram access on nearby Brunswick, Smith, and Nicholson Streets provides direct links to the CBD and broader inner-north. Meanwhile, major arterials such as Victoria Parade and Alexandra Parade support quick access by car or bicycle.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144904 project_image_fid=3217]

Despite this rich offering, Napier Street itself remains a quiet, tree-lined corridor within Fitzroy’s residential grain, providing a sense of retreat from the surrounding activity. This balance of vibrancy and seclusion underpins the appeal of Napier 235, designed by Ewert Leaf with landscape by Florian Wild.&nbsp;

Each residence offers large private terraces and generous internal layouts that connect with the outdoors, while sustainability credentials place the project in the top five per cent of Victorian developments under current planning policy benchmarks.

Construction at Napier 235 is set to commence in Q1 2026 with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/ag-constructions">AG Construct</a>. Two-bedroom residences are priced from $1,225,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144904]

Napier 235 taps into Fitzroy’s lifestyle fabric

Access to high-performing public schools remains one of the strongest, and most measurable, drivers of residential demand in Melbourne’s established suburbs.

As affordability pressures continue to reshape buying decisions, school zoning has increasingly shifted from a secondary preference to a strategic consideration for family buyers.

New 2025 research from Cotality quantifies just how much weight households place on this factor. Across Sydney and Melbourne, families are paying premiums of up to $1.3 million to secure houses within sought-after public school catchments compared with similar homes just outside the boundary. In Melbourne, price gaps in leading school zones have reached as much as $357,000, reinforcing the extent to which access to public education is being capitalised into property values.

This data is reflected in buyer behaviour on the ground. Recent analysis shows some Melbourne families are paying up to 35 per cent more for homes within well-performing public school zones, particularly in tightly held inner and middle-ring suburbs where supply is limited and boundaries are sharply defined.

While the strongest premiums have traditionally been associated with detached housing, the underlying demand drivers, certainty of school access, long-term lifestyle planning, and the rising cost of private education, are increasingly influencing apartment buyers as well.

In suburbs where new residential supply is scarce, apartments located within established school catchments are emerging as one of the few accessible entry points for families prioritising location over land.

Long regarded for its education network, Balwyn remains one of Melbourne’s most tightly-held residential areas, with limited opportunities for new housing, particularly projects that sit squarely within the Balwyn High School catchment, one of the best performing public schools in the area.

The new apartment development&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/white-weston-balwyn-village-259-281-whitehorse-road-balwyn-vic-3103">White &amp; Weston</a> sits within the sought-after catchment zone, as well as being close to the suburb’s village retail strip and Balwyn Park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136850 project_image_fid=343580]

Supermarket giant Coles has teamed up with developer Dimas Property Group to create White &amp; Weston, just 45 large-scale apartments designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>. The two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments, are proving popular with a wide variety of buyers, from young families to professional couples, as well as empty nesters.

While the median house price in Balwyn is touching $3 million, two-bedroom apartments at White &amp; Weston start from $1,325,000, and three-bedroom apartments start from $1,837,000.

On top its affordability relative to houses, buyers, depending on the configuration they choose, can save up to $360,000 by buying off the plan, an added cost which is applicable in the established housing market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136850 project_image_fid=343582]

White &amp; Weston apartments have been designed with sustainability at the forefront. They will achieve a&nbsp;minimum seven-star energy rating, through features like double-glazed windows, EV readiness, and whole-of-home energy optimisation aimed at reducing ongoing costs. There is also a 52-week defect liability period in place, and a six-year building guarantee for peace of mind.

Builder Aspekt has already commenced construction of the building, and will complete in early 2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136850 project_image_fid=343583]

Developments like White &amp; Weston highlight how school zoning is reshaping not just prices, but housing typologies within established suburbs. As demand to live inside high-performing public school catchments intensifies, apartments and townhome-style projects are increasingly filling the gap between aspiration and affordability.

The question for buyers is less about whether the school-zone premium exists, the data clearly shows it does, and more about how they choose to absorb it. Paying extra for education access can make sense when weighed against private schooling costs and long-term lifestyle goals.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136850]

While the median house price in Balwyn is touching $3 million, two-bedroom apartments at White & Weston start from $1,325,000, and three-bedroom apartments start from $1,837,000.

White & Weston in Balwyn reflects Melbourne's education-driven housing demand

All eyes are on the Brisbane apartment market in 2026, as the Queensland capital continues its bull run in the unit sector.

Buyer confidence remains at an all-time high, with Cotality data showing unit values surged more than 15 per cent in 2025, following 16.6 per cent growth in 2024.

It is becoming increasingly difficult to build in Brisbane, keeping supply constrained and placing further upward pressure on prices. Developers are keen to bring projects to market as quickly as possible, with the Olympics, albeit still six years away, looming large.

Next year promises to be another exciting one for the Brisbane apartment market. It will be another characterized by limited supply, heightened demand, and&nbsp;continued price growth as construction constraints and strong population growth keep competition for new stock intense.

We’ve wrapped up the 10 best apartment developments set to hit the market in 2026 that buyers should look out for.

<h3>Where: South Brisbane 
Who: Mosaic Property Group</h3>

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a> is preparing to launch its Montague Road, South Brisbane development in early 2026.

The owner-occupier focussed building will have 204 two- and three-bedroom apartments across its 37 storeys overlooking the Brisbane River, as well as over&nbsp;2,000 sqm of wellness and lifestyle amenity.&nbsp;

<img alt="Montague" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33256aa1-247f-43a1-8135-e8ae16c2d838" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-16%20at%201.54.14%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=LzP3Ytk4UTNDB8x_CE.x.gPbC.3yOtsL" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">bureau^proberts</a> and positioned on one of the last remaining large riverfront sites in South Brisbane, the development aligns with the area’s next phase of renewal as Montague Road transitions from light industrial uses to a high-quality mixed-use river precinct.

<h3>Where: Toowong 
Who: Immerse Projects</h3>

Gold Coast-based <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/immerse-projects">Immerse Projects</a> is making its Brisbane debut in Toowong. Pending approvals, they will launch their 15-storey mixed-use building on Sylvan Road in 2026.

There will be <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/22-24-sylvan-road-toowong-qld-4066">88 apartments</a> above activated ground-floor retail and hospitality.&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Immerse Projects reveals debut Brisbane apartment development in Toowong" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_3.png?VersionId=obHZvtKcoN9sil.chyU_YQrZ5iuAtjqQ" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, the project responds to a mid-rise urban context that has seen little new apartment supply in recent years, despite strong underlying demand driven by proximity to the University of Queensland, transport, and riverfront amenity.&nbsp;

The scheme is positioned as a contemporary addition to the Sylvan Road corridor, with landscaped communal spaces and a focus on connectivity rather than scale.

Read more: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-immerse-projects-reveals-debut-brisbane-apartment-development-in-toowong">First look: Immerse Projects reveals debut Brisbane apartment development in Toowong</a>

<h3>The Stanley 
Where: Woolloongabba 
Who: Sarazin</h3>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sarazin">Sarazin</a>&nbsp;is expected to launch its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-woolloongabba-825-stanley-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley</a>&nbsp;development in 2026, one of the most ambitious proposals set to contribute significantly to Woolloongabba’s transformation ahead of the 2032 Olympic Games.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151722 project_image_fid=356087]

Planned as a two-tower, mixed-use development of 53 and 36 storeys, the project will deliver 447 apartments alongside retail, commercial space, and a major public plaza connecting Stanley and Trafalgar Streets.&nbsp;

Located within the Woolloongabba Priority Development Area and adjacent to The Gabba and Cross River Rail, The Stanley is framed as a catalyst project, blending high-density living with cultural and civic infrastructure, including a proposed STEAMM gallery and garden.&nbsp;

<h3>The Tannery 
Where: West End 
Who: McNab</h3>

Another builder-developer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mcnab-developments">McNab</a>, will launch its unique West End project in 2026.&nbsp;The Tannery Residences will transform the former Dixon’s Tannery site on Montague Road into a 10-storey, wellness-led residential project that places heritage at its core.&nbsp;

The development will deliver 81 two, three, and four-bedroom apartments, centred around the preserved 19th-century tannery building, which will be repurposed as a communal retreat with extensive health and wellbeing facilities.&nbsp;

<img alt="McNab secures approval to transform West End's Dixon’s Tannery into The Tannery Residences" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/McNab%20The%20Tannery_Render_09.jpg?VersionId=Ucpd19J0ABOpzetZ.BsyYmS_x2N2QV_g" />

Designed with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/aspect-studios">Aspect Studios</a>, and Tom Mark Henry, the project reflects a broader buyer shift toward character-rich buildings that combine history, amenity, and long-term liveability in tightly held inner-Brisbane locations.

<h3>The Gallery by Graya 
Where: Hamilton 
Who: Graya</h3>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a>, yet another builder-developer,&nbsp;is expanding its presence along Hamilton’s Racecourse Road with The Gallery.

Pending approvals to go a little higher than what has been approved, Graya will bring 52 high-end apartments to the undersupplied Hamilton market, above&nbsp;a curated retail precinct.&nbsp;

Designed by bureau^proberts, the project draws on Queensland vernacular architecture, incorporating deep verandahs, landscaped courtyards, and an 800-square-metre rooftop retreat.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150283 project_image_fid=1821]

Positioned on a full-block site, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-gallery-by-graya-63-71-racecourse-road-hamilton-qld-4007">The Gallery</a> is intended to act as a local civic anchor, contributing to the ongoing revitalisation of Racecourse Road while catering to owner-occupiers seeking lower-density living close to the river and CBD.

Read more: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-graya-expands-hamilton-presence-with-the-gallery-apartments">First look exclusive: GRAYA expands Hamilton presence with The Gallery apartments</a>

<h3>Yeerongpilly Green 
Where: Yeerongpilly 
Who: Consolidated Properties Group</h3>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/consolidated-properties">Consolidated Properties Group</a> (CPG) will launch its 25-storey residential tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/yeerongpilly-green-21-queens-way-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Yeerongpilly Green</a>&nbsp;in the new year,&nbsp;marking the first high-rise within the evolving riverside precinct.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project will deliver 181 apartments, evenly balanced between two- and three-bedroom configurations, each with generous outdoor spaces ranging up to 87 sqm.

A key feature of the proposal is the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed former Animal Research Institute building, which will be restored and reimagined as a future community or retail venue.

<img alt="CPG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14342886-3be6-409b-bdae-506381832b24" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-16%20at%201.44.44%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=gVAO1co1J4NKYnbp0aIWQtwioATKTFdl" />

Over 2,000 sqm of landscaped communal gardens, along with resident amenities such as a pool, library, and private dining rooms, reflect the precinct’s broader focus on livability and green design.

The tower’s position within walking distance of the upgraded Yeerongpilly station and the 2032 Olympic tennis venue reinforces its appeal to both residents and investors.

<h3>Where: Newstead 
Who Consolidated Properties Group</h3>

CPG is also expected to launch its Newstead project, on one of the last direct riverfront sites in the suburb, next year. They are proposing 235 apartments across a 25-storey tower and an adjoining four-storey riverfront building of just 12 ultra-luxury residences.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and built by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a>, the project draws on classical Brisbane architecture with enduring materials such as brick and stone.

<img alt="Don O'Rorke's Cons Prop unveils Newstead riverfront apartment plans" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/47Skyring_C1_v3.jpg?VersionId=27j60QR_NOCX1GSEXs5XneHQVZp4ty2k" />

CPG Chairman Don O’Rorke described the vision as a “modern classic” that will stand the test of time.

With panoramic north-facing views across the river to Hamilton Hill and more than 75 apartments capturing river vistas, the development cements Newstead’s reputation as one of Brisbane’s most coveted urban waterfront locations.

Read more: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/don-ororkes-cons-prop-unveils-newstead-riverfront-apartment-plans">Don O'Rorke's Cons Prop unveils Newstead riverfront apartment plans</a>

<h3>Where: Newstead 
Who: BPG Developments</h3>

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">BPG Developments</a>&nbsp;will launch&nbsp;its 18-level Newstead apartment tower on Maud Street early in the new year following its recent approval.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a>, the project will comprise 131 two- and three-bedroom apartments with a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a gym, sauna, plunge pools, and shaded lounging terraces.

A ground-level plaza and retail tenancy will contribute to the precinct’s growing lifestyle offering and activate the street edge.

<img alt="BPG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34ff5c87-b4fc-4005-a613-0008f8629170" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-16%20at%201.48.11%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=UQ4i3BRwPdbhJZDqewZKNWjms8j5UTLU" />

The tower’s material palette and form draw inspiration from the neighbouring heritage-listed Goldsworthy and Perkins Boot Factory, incorporating arched motifs and tactile brickwork that nod to Newstead’s industrial past.

BPG Co-Founder Glen Williams said the decision to focus on the area was driven by the ongoing shortage of new apartments and construction challenges limiting supply.

<h3>Where: New Farm 
Who: Fortis</h3>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/fortis">Fortis</a> is expected to launch its second Brisbane project, one of its largest to date not only in Brisbane but nationally. The New Farm development will deliver <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/424-bowen-terrace-new-farm-qld-4005">74 apartments and four standalone houses</a> across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a>.

The seven-level apartment building will front Moreton Street, while the four houses will address Bowen Terrace, taking advantage of elevated views and the suburb’s established leafy streetscape.

<img alt="Fortis files Bowen Terrace, New Farm apartment plans" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-07-02%20at%2012.45.43%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=kPUTnNlrz4NpkGVcUPyOs14G1nskILyi" />

The project’s architecture embraces subtropical design principles, drawing on the character of traditional Queensland homes through verandahs, bay windows, and deep balconies. A U-shaped configuration surrounds a north-facing courtyard with a pool and wellness zones.

Following three rounds of community consultation, the design was refined to include greater setbacks and deep planting, with heritage assessments confirming minimal impact on the neighbouring Fingal House.

<h3>Where: Newstead 
Who: Frasers Property Australia</h3>

Development giant Frasers will launch its updated Newstead development to the market in 2026, after tweaking the plans for it to be more upmarket.

They will now bring around 70 apartments to the market across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/19-chester-street-newstead-qld-4006">two 16-storey buildings</a> on a prime&nbsp;3,016 sqm site on the&nbsp;corner of Chester and Morse Street. There will also be three street-level terraces, a rarity so close to the popular James St retail precinct.

<img alt="Frasers" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="565ad08a-218d-4a82-849a-0c55d8cea473" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-16%20at%203.04.28%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=RwY2wOfqsXItXztL145VVKsWt9r8yPNQ" />

Frasers Property Development Director Jamisen Rivera said the upscale project felt like a natural progression following the delivery of luxury townhomes and apartments at Hamilton Reach.&nbsp;

“This rare site presented a unique opportunity to blend the blue-chip aspects of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/new-farm-qld-4005" target="">New Farm</a>&nbsp;with the urban excitement of Newstead’s thriving scene and is primely positioned to link two of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/brisbane-qld" target="">Brisbane</a>’s most iconic precincts, walkable to both James Street and The Gasworks,"&nbsp;Rivera said.

“Carefully curated by our experienced consultant team, the residences are as luxurious as they are diverse, with a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom apartments designed to maximise the 360-degree views to the CBD,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/new-farm-qld-4005" target="">New Farm</a>, North&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/brisbane-qld" target="">Brisbane</a>&nbsp;and Hamilton Northshore, enhancing the living experience from the inside out.”&nbsp;

Brisbane’s top 10 new apartment developments coming to market in 2026

With just a few units left in its luxury Palm Beach apartment development La Belle,&nbsp;Marquee Development Partners is planning its next.

They are moving down The Esplanade, filing plans for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/velare-444-448-the-esplanade-palm-beach-qld-4221">Velare</a>, 31 apartments on an amalgamated 1,236 sqm site at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/velare-444-448-the-esplanade-palm-beach-qld-4221">444–448 The Esplanade</a>, directly opposite the Palm Beach foreshore.

The family-owned developer, ran by Jacques Winterburn, has had&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ellivo-architects">Ellivo Architects</a>&nbsp;design the nine-storey building that will comprise 15 two-bedroom apartments, 15 three-beds, and a four-bedroom penthouse.

<img alt="First look: Marquee Development Partners plans 31-unit beachfront apartment tower in Palm Beach" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="83c0ffe7-28f1-4ab2-93d2-99ca28f45f15" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/palm%20beach%20da%20podium.png?VersionId=x9pY7kEFJFlZfYa4G4RKtrKQZZ7gPFmZ" />

&nbsp;

A residents' lounge with work from home pods will sit on the first level, as will a gym, an alfresco deck with outdoor kitchen, and a lap pool with adjoining spa.

The building will sit next door to Solmare by Chanine Developments, which is set to launch soon, as well as the Casablanca Palms on the Beach resort.

Marquee is on track to deliver its 11th Gold Coast project, with La Belle slated for completion in late 2026. Only four-bedroom apartments remain in the 75-unit development. Marquee has delivered several central Gold Coast projects around Surfers Paradise and Chevron Island, but in recent years has shifted its focus to the southern end of the coast, completing Palm Beach Residences, Northshore Palm Beach, and SOL and Monterey at Kirra.

&nbsp;

First look: Marquee plots latest Palm Beach apartment development, Velare

Veteran Gold Coast developer Raptis is fast approaching completion of The Sterling, its new Broadbeach apartment tower a stone's throw from the beach.

Ahead of its mid-2026 completion, Raptis has fast-tracked the completion of three fully-furnished apartments, a mix of two and three-bedroom plus study layouts on the 3rd&nbsp; level of the 24-storey building, the only new development on George Avenue.

Each of the open residences, one from the Seascape, Panorama and Cityscape collections, offers a distinct approach to scale and spatial flow.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=357478]

The Seascape apartment spans 190 sqm and sits within the sub-penthouse range, offering three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and sweeping 280-degree views across the coastline and hinterland.&nbsp;

The living and dining area is framed by full-height glazing and opens onto a large balcony, while a generous butler’s pantry and dedicated laundry space speak to the layout’s functionality.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=357480]

The two-bedroom Cityscape option focuses on a functional layout with views over the Gold Coast skyline. The collection comes with a separate multi-purpose room, designed to cater for a home office, media room, or guest room.&nbsp;Its open kitchen includes a walk-in butlers pantry and premium integrated European appliances.

The Panorama Collection spans 158 sqm and is designed for owners seeking defined private spaces alongside expansive living. Bedrooms are separated from the main entertaining zones, and the apartment is oriented to capture sunset views south toward Coolangatta and the hinterland.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=357481]

The residents of the 90 apartments will have private access to Club Sterling, located on level two offering amenities that includes a lap pool, gym, wellness studio, business suite with bookable dining and lounge spaces, plus sauna/seam/Pilates room.

<article data-scroll-anchor="true" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="bac51e24-ebbe-486c-bf3f-91cc0553d59e" dir="auto" tabindex="-1">
Raptis has nearly five decades of experience delivering some of the Gold Coast’s most iconic towers, including the Towers of Chevron Renaissance and the Hilton Hotel and Residences. Earlier this year, they completed Pearl Main Beach, an 84-apartment project on Main Beach Parade.
</article>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=101620]

Raptis tracks towards completion of The Sterling Broadbeach, unveils three fully-furnished display apartments

The Melbourne property market has turned a corner in 2025 after several years of stagnant growth. Cities including Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra&nbsp;overtook the Victorian capital in terms of median property prices, leaving Melbourne as the sixth most affordable capital city in Australia.

While that affordability gap remains, the market has now officially bottomed. Price growth has stabilised, and values have begun to rise, according to Cotality.

Interstate investment has surged and buyer confidence has returned, now they are not buying into a down market.

New projects are proving particularly popular with interstate purchasers. Over the past six months, 50 per cent of investor enquiry into Melbourne on Apartments.com.au has come from interstate. At the start of the year, that figure was closer to 10 per cent.

Some of the capital’s best developers are readying new projects for launch early next year, while others are waiting on approvals before hitting the go button.

We’ve wrapped up the most exciting projects set to launch in Melbourne in 2026. Off-the-plan buyers won’t want to wait too long into the year, with the Victorian Government’s extended stamp duty concessions—which completely abolish the tax for eligible buyers of new property, set to end in October.

<h2>Queensbury</h2>

<h3>Where: Melbourne</h3>

<h3>Who: Hirsch &amp; Faigen</h3>

National developer Hirsch &amp; Faigen are preparing to launch their new Queens Road development on the doorstep of Albert Park. Architecture firm Forum has designed the building, which will be known as <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/queensbery-71-queens-road-melbourne-vic-3004">Queensbury</a>, to frame the extensive views of the 225-hectare park.

<img alt="Queensbery" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="dcf1243b-ccfe-4552-b616-0b099186610e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Queensberry.jpg?VersionId=PH.cWH9ajID5fbD.yUb3ZveXMFM0i_SQ" />

Residents will have access to extensive ground-level amenity in the form of a fully-equipped gym, adjoining wellness centre with cold plunge pool and a sauna, and a residents’ lounge and dining room which opens to a pickleball court, one of the first of its kind in a new apartment development in Melbourne.&nbsp;

The 140 one-, two-, three-, and four-bedroom apartments will launch early in the new year through Matt George from Urban Activation.&nbsp;

<h3>The Wilmot</h3>

<h3>Where: Glen Iris</h3>

<h3>Who: Time &amp; Place</h3>

Fresh off completing The Queensbridge in Southbank and recently launching Park Modern in South Melbourne, growing national developer Time &amp; Place will launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-wilmot-173-burke-road-28-hope-street-glen-iris-vic-3146">The Wilmot</a>, its shoptop housing project in the heart of Glen Iris.

Designed by award-winning architects&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, the five-level project at 173 Burke Road will feature 60 apartments, including affordable homes, targeted at downsizers, young and multi-generational families, alongside a full-line Woolworths.

<img alt="Glen Iris" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ea54fcec-cc40-4ae2-b51d-bd819637d4e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-15%20at%201.02.39%E2%80%AFPM_0.png?VersionId=8a3k.2g5178bVHmFQKq9zR5mU4D.DLX0" />

The planning approval follows engagement over many years with the local community, the&nbsp;City of Stonnington, as well as the Department of Transport and Planning, together with the Office of the Victorian Government Architect, and reflects feedback received on urban design, local character and traffic and car park management.

<h2>Fitzroy Gasworks</h2>

<h3>Where: Fitzroy</h3>

<h3>Who: Milieu</h3>

Later in the year Milieu will launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/fitzroy-gasworks-433-smith-street-fitzroy">Fitzroy Gasworks</a> to the market, having won the tender to develop the prime Fitzroy site in collaboration with Development Victoria.

The developer, with projects currently underway in Elsternwick, Brunswick, and Collingwood, will deliver the build-to-sell component of the highly-anticipated project. It will be around 420 new homes, alongside extensive commercial and retail spaces.

<img alt="Fitzroy" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5b26b7e4-9fe2-4f89-bdc7-fdecfb45ba79" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-15%20at%203.00.10%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=o9u3P5douWw7GbsrwGx1kxu.ufjajYWM" /> 
The prime site borders Smith and George St as well as Alexandra and Queens Parade. The site already features the new Wurun Senior Campus and Bundha Sports Centre.

<h3>Where: Southbank</h3>

<h3>Who: LAS Group</h3>

LAS Group is looking to launch its new Southbank projects in 2026, following their recent approvals.

The two independent towers, designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia" target="">Fender Katsalidis</a>, will introduce around 700 new apartments across sites on Clarke Street and Clarendon Street.

The larger of the two towers,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/101-clarendon-street-southbank-vic-3006">101 Clarendon Street</a>, will have 509 apartments across a 52-level building that will also include a residents' lounge, private dining room, podcast room, golf simulator, co-working spaces, pet care facilities, and an outdoor terrace.

The smaller tower at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/36-42-clarke-street-southbank-vic-3006">38 Clarke Street</a>&nbsp;will be around half the size at 25 levels and home 188 apartments, a pool, gym, cold plunge, and sauna.

The taller tower is expected to complete in 2029, and the smaller tower a year earlier.

<h2>Moonee Valley Park (Stage 6)</h2>

<h3>Where: Moonee Ponds</h3>

<h3>Who: Hamton</h3>

Precinct-led developer Hamton is hoping to launch the sixth stage of its $3 billion Moonee Valley Park redevelopment they are creating alongside joint venture partner Hostplus.

The sixth stage will incorporate five more buildings in what is being called the Cox Plate Precinct, with around 1,100 new residences. There will be two build-to-sell apartment buildings, two build-to-rent buildings, and a hotel.

<img alt="Hamton" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6c9327d8-533b-4982-bb1d-48f5389d68a3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-15%20at%201.05.29%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=I0hjB0T1W5134HPMx6iJEasDkuWXBnD_" />

The buildings will range in height from 10 to 25 storeys, and 10 per cent of the dwellings will be allocated to affordable housing.

Complementing the residential offering is over 3,000 sqm of retail space, including a circa 800 sqm supermarket, and 4,100 sqm of commercial office space. The hotel will deliver 184 rooms with ground-floor activation via lobby and retail uses.

<h2>The Brightly</h2>

<h3>Where: Richmond</h3>

<h3>Who: Goldfields</h3>

Richmond will receive a rare injection of a new apartment offering in the new year with Goldfields approaching the launch of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-brightly-9-15-brighton-street-richmond-vic-3121">The Brightly</a> on Brighton Street.

The 12-storey, mixed-use building will bring another 125 apartments and townhouses to an area where new housing has been few and far between in recent years.

Cera Stribley is behind the designs for the building that will also incorporate retail and commercial spaces on its lower levels.<img alt="goldfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1f31642f-38c2-416f-ae56-fa9726514e9c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-15%20at%201.09.46%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ktESZLAkpvzmEIDsCferE8FLsErnRU0l" />

Rob Granger, Goldfields General Manager – Built Form, said the new project will bring another high-quality residential development to Richmond.

“Goldfields has a strong track record of delivery and we believe our experience in residential development and product marketing will be key to ensuring this project’s success,” Granger said.&nbsp;

<h3>Where: St Kilda</h3>

<h3>Who: Fortis</h3>

National developer Fortis is expected to launch its St Kilda project in 2026. They are planning around 40 Woods Bagot-designed apartments on a prime Fitzroy Street site that will include around 950 sqm of&nbsp;hand-selected retailers, likely to be a providore, a bakery, or a signature food and beverage venture.

When they submitted plans to the local council, Fortis Director Charles Mellick told Apartments.com.au that the developer has long&nbsp;been interested in St Kilda, and in particular Fitzroy Street.

<img alt="Fortis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="202d027a-4fb6-4d02-a049-002c74f73077" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-15%20at%201.28.18%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=aUVoHXLp_vBeKEKBjELeL2WrYLoTKjKg" />

"St Kilda has a colourful history, character and charm and a unique position within Melbourne, immediate proximity to the CBD, parks and unrivalled amenity, yet distinctly coastal featuring one of Australia’s most well-known beaches," Mellick said.

"Fitzroy Street is one of Melbourne’s most historic grand boulevards which has admittedly seen better days, but here lies the challenge and opportunity to breathe new life into the precinct."

<h2>Camberwell House</h2>

<h3>Where: Camberwell</h3>

<h3>Who: Above Zero</h3>

Developer Above Zero will take on its largest project to date, 60 apartments across a 12-storey building in Camberwell.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/camberwell-house-699-burke-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Burke Road project</a>&nbsp;has been designed&nbsp;by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>&nbsp;and will also incorporate office and retail space on the ground floor.

<img alt="Camberwell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f7b0c18d-1c98-4150-a852-f2a297405495" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-15%20at%201.35.18%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=q1Qspd6BrhqtoLr0hhcG7gKOwkIsCD7s" />

Jellis Craig Projects Director Stephen Bowtell will handle the sales for Above Zero on the project.

<h2>Pavilion</h2>

<h3>Where: Armadale</h3>

<h3>Who: Capax Group</h3>

One of the most boutique projects on this list is Pavilion, a luxury new development in one of Melbourne's premier suburbs.

Pavilion, on Wattletree Road in Armadale, has been designed by Life Architecture with interiors by Sora. They were inspired&nbsp;by the design of the Barcelona Pavilion by Ludwig Mies Van De Rohe.

"The Pavilion is renowned for its minimalist aesthetic, use of luxurious materials, and harmonious spatial flow," Sora said. "The concept evokes a sense of modern elegance, refinement, and timeless sophistication,"&nbsp;

The design is reflective of Armadale’s historic architecture, leafy streets, and mix of luxurious classic and contemporary homes, with&nbsp;marble and warm timbers used throughout.

<img alt="Manningtree" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3a2e9eb8-f8ec-4eac-9018-3fb9324a985a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-09%20at%209.26.27%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Oq2W5PJ4Cv8LBJR9huh7PlAGi4UBYt4r" />

There will be just eight homes on offer, one a full-floor penthouse with&nbsp;three bedrooms, one a master with its own sitting room with a fireplace, home office, walk-in wardrobe with dressing room, and ensuite with double vanity and freestanding tub.&nbsp;

Marshall White Projects Director Leonard Teplin says it is one of the most architecturally striking buildings he's worked on in recent years.

<h2>Bella Rosa</h2>

<h3>Where: Rosanna</h3>

<h3>Who: Sinclair Brook</h3>

Sinclair Brook will launch <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/bella-rose-61-71-banyule-road-rosanna-vic-3084">Bella Rosa</a>, a collection of high-end townhouses in Melbourne's north-east, early next year.

There will be just 27 three- and four-bedroom townhouses designed by Via Architects. Many are freestanding or only have one shared wall. Every townhouse will have private gardens, landscaped by John Patrick Landscape Architects, and a two-car garage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106718 project_image_fid=354647]

They will be located on a quiet block on Banyule Road, near Rosanna Primary School.

Jellis Craig Projects Director Stephen Bowtell is handling the sales.

Melbourne's top 10 new apartment developments to launch in 2026

Leading <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> developer, Sherpa Group, has officially launched the $68 million Flourish Oasis, marking the group’s next chapter in the Flourish story, as they drive the transformation of Palm Beach.

Situated on an 810 sqm site on Sixth Avenue, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-oasis-palm-beach-7-9-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Oasis</a> will continue the brand’s legacy, delivering more residential options to a region where demand is quickly outpacing supply.

Flourish Oasis will deliver 47 corner apartments, in two- and three-bedroom layouts filled with natural light, catering to local downsizers and families. Apartments start from $990,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357459]

“We are thrilled to have launched Flourish Oasis, marking the launch of our second Flourish project in Palm Beach,” said Christie Leet, founder of Sherpa Group.

“Oasis will be a more boutique building with protected ocean views to the north, which is extremely rare in Palm Beach. It’s amazing to see Oasis resonate with so many, having already received a strong pre-launch inquiry, with 600 people already on the waitlist.”

Palm Beach is undergoing a period of transformation, where a flood of lifestyle buyers and a shortage of new projects have made it one of the most undersupplied markets in the city, with the suburb needing more than triple its supply to meet the growing demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357460]

A recent report from Urbis highlighted that the Palm Beach catchment will require 382 new dwellings each year to cater to the population growth but estimates that only 119 new apartments are currently available across the southern coastal area, with just eight per cent of them located at Palm Beach, pushing prices up to an average weighted sale price of $2.25 million.

Leading the charge to deliver more attainable residential options is Sherpa Group, which has quickly become the most active developer in Palm Beach, with more than $42 million invested into four sites over the past 12 months under the Flourish brand, including Amargo, Ovana, and the just-launched Oasis.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357463]

“Our Flourish brand has been created to deliver design-led lifestyle-focused apartments, catered to locals who have struggled to enter or stay in the Palm Beach market,” added Leet.

“Oasis will continue the strong momentum of Amargo, delivering new energy into Palm Beach, providing homes that seamlessly blend comfort and sophistication, whilst building a community that can thrive.”

Residents will have access to premium roof-top amenities with sweeping beach views, including a pool, gym, barbecue facilities, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunges and spa.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151449 project_image_fid=357467]

Sherpa Group have undertaken 16 projects on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/gold-coast-qld">Gold Coast</a> since 2018, with the launch of Oasis, following closely behind the group’s successful debut in Brisbane with Symphony, which has sold 73 per cent of its units&nbsp;within one week of launching.

Construction is expected to commence on Oasis in January 2026 by LPS Group, with completion slated for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151449]

Sherpa launches Flourish Oasis apartments in Palm Beach

Queensland-based builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">BPG Developments</a> has secured its second approval in South East Queensland in the space of a week.

Fresh off securing the green light from the Brisbane City Council for their <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/bpg-developments-secures-development-approval-for-250-million-newstead-project">103-unit Newstead tower</a>, now BPG, led by Nick Parr and Glen Williams, can start their latest project in Palm Beach.

The new $165 million project, Palmiere, will rise on the dress circle Jefferson Lane and will feature 58 apartments, three townhouses, and eight penthouses.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/li-rre-66-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Liérre</a>&nbsp;will launch early next year.

Future <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/li-rre-66-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Liérre</a> residents will have access to extensive wellness facilities, including a state of-the-art gym, a custom-designed sauna, luxurious spa and outdoor shower, surrounding an expansive amenities deck that will boast a pool, cabanas, sunbeds, and landscaping throughout.&nbsp;

BPG currently has five completed or planned projects across Brisbane and Gold Coast within its portfolio, totalling around $500 million end value.&nbsp;

<img alt="Palmiere" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bd0b3762-d462-4a64-86a1-403afb07adee" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-15%20at%209.42.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=1QEGxnUEI8OfuCiXrz_j48gKw9Q9pDoW" />

BPG Co-founder Nick Parr said <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/li-rre-66-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Liérre</a> reflects the next phase in Palm Beach’s evolution as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after residential markets.

"Our vision was to deliver a project of enduring quality - one that responds to its beachfront location through thoughtful design and functionality. As a builder-developer, we have full oversight of every stage of delivery, which gives us greater control over quality, timelines and outcomes, and provides purchasers with confidence in both the process and the final product.”&nbsp;

BPG Co-founder Glen Williams said Palm Beach embodies the core principles of their approach.

“Each project we undertake is considered and deliberate, with a focus on long-term value and design integrity rather than volume.”&nbsp;

MOTIV Founder Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to sell <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/li-rre-66-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Liérre</a>, said Palm Beach is consistently one of the top most searched suburbs in the Gold Coast for property, and it's not hard to see why.

“Palm Beach has a tight-knit community feel and offers proximity to some of the area’s best restaurants and beaches," Cottam said.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/li-rre-66-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Liérre</a> will appeal to a large section of the market seeking a luxury address in an attainable price point, just one block back from the beach.&nbsp;A site like this is incredibly rare and we expect the market to react positively and swiftly when we launch early next year.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149551]

BPG Developments secures approval for Liérre in Palm Beach

St Lucia's best street is set for a striking new apartment development, with Bottega Group filing plans for a riverfront building on the dress circle Macquarie Street.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bottega-property-group">Bottega Group</a>, led by Louis Mendes, wants to develop 47 apartments across a 15-storey building at 178-180 Macquarie Street, the second-to-last site on the exclusive riverfront strip. It will likely retain view lines to the east given the neighbouring building is a childcare and then after that it's a x high school. I

Positioned along the Brisbane River, the site enjoys approximately 30 metres of frontage to both the river and Macquarie Street. The existing single dwellings on site would be demolished to make way for the new building, which has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a>.

<img alt="First look: Bottega Group plans 15-storey riverfront apartments at St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77288e8f-d97b-4e48-97e3-ecd8cc60583a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_7.png?VersionId=QIdQMBNTyuuKJRduWgTSJzXJAH2uZYqu" />

The design incorporates a sculptural tower form that steps and curves to respond to river views, neighbouring buildings, and prevailing breezes.

According to the Design Report by Plus Studio, the vision is for “a crafted urban retreat, riverside amenity, connected to the inner city,” with the architecture described as “considered, timeless and sophisticated”.&nbsp;

The tower is organised into three distinct zones: lower residential, upper residential, and penthouse levels, with recreational amenity distributed across the lower and upper podiums.

<img alt="First look: Bottega Group plans 15-storey riverfront apartments at St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b19e9225-a505-4d77-a50a-44b5cab818ee" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/front.png?VersionId=YzjuaHh6cePm4c9syIZwdDOFH8TzKS3w" />

The development includes a rooftop garden and substantial ground-level landscaping, delivering arpound 559 sqm (37 per cent of the site) to landscape areas. Communal open space is provided on both the ground level and rooftop, including indoor lounges and outdoor terraces designed to maximise views and sun access.

Urbis, the town planning consultant, states in the report that “the proposed development responds to site constraints, such as flooding and vegetation, to present a balanced and well considered built form”.&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Bottega Group plans 15-storey riverfront apartments at St Lucia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a0428800-8ed7-4091-8aca-6230a1065835" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenities_0.png?VersionId=JKO86XicGv7gFoXkhVRj5IjqB1ikYZPh" />

The design has been tailored to manage flooding risk and to retain key vegetation where feasible, with a large existing gum tree in the southwest corner of the site highlighted in the landscape intent.

Macquarie Street's last building was completed recently, just a few doors down from Bottega's new building. The project, 160 Macquarie Street, was delivered in 2024 by QM Properties and comprises 33 apartments by Rothelowman.&nbsp;

Bottega Group are also active in the Gold Coast market, developing Faro Broadbeach in partnership with 5Point Projects.

First look: Bottega Group plans 15-storey riverfront apartments at St Lucia

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pitard-group">Pitard Group</a> has officially opened the doors at EVA Elsternwick Village Apartments, delivering a collection of move-in ready residences in one of Melbourne’s most tightly held neighbourhoods.

With only a limited number of residences remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/eva-elsternwick-village-apartments-241-glen-huntly-road-elsternwick-vic-3185">EVA</a> presents a rare opportunity to secure a completed apartment in the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick</a>, situated on the coveted Glen Huntly Road.

Comprising 101 residences across a mid-rise building, EVA offers a mix of spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments. Community feedback on Apartments.com.au consistently highlights the project’s quality finishes and well-resolved floorplan design.

Created in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/via-architects">VIA Architects</a>, the project reflects a design ethos centred on resident experience and contextual sensitivity. Each apartment has been crafted with an emphasis on natural light, practical functionality, and acoustic performance.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93073 project_image_fid=357527]

Interiors channel a subtle Hamptons aesthetic, with engineered timber flooring, high ceilings, and soft, neutral finishes. Kitchens are appointed with ILVE European appliances, shaker-profile cabinetry, and stone benchtops, while bathrooms continue the same refined, understated palette.

Pitard Group, who also delivered the construction through their in-house team, has prioritised acoustic insulation through double glazing and noise-reducing materials - a quality noted by early residents and buyers alike.&nbsp;

Private outdoor space is a hallmark of each apartment, whether in the form of a balcony or sun-filled terrace. Many residences enjoy bay or city views, with floorplans that prioritise indoor-outdoor flow and functional layouts. Thoughtful inclusions such as Euro laundries, study zones, and abundant storage ensure the apartments are equally suited to downsizers and professionals seeking quality and low-maintenance living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93073 project_image_fid=357526]

EVA’s amenity offering extends beyond the apartments. A rooftop terrace, complete with in-built BBQs and panoramic views across Port Phillip Bay and the Melbourne skyline, invites residents to relax or entertain in style.&nbsp;

A fifth-floor residents lounge, with north-eastern orientation and floor-to-ceiling glazing, offers an ambient retreat enhanced by kitchen and bathroom facilities.&nbsp;

Ground-floor retail and dual lifts add further convenience, while basement car parking with secure storage rounds out the amenity offering.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93073 project_image_fid=357529]

As a move-in ready address, EVA also benefits from its exceptional location. Just 130 metres from Elsternwick Station and within walking distance of tram and bus links, it places residents minutes from the CBD and the bay.&nbsp;

The surrounding neighbourhood is a cultural and culinary hub, with institutions like Attica and Bang Bang nearby, as well as daily essentials within easy reach.&nbsp;

Green spaces including Elsternwick Park and Rippon Lea Estate offer a sense of retreat, while top-tier schools and health services add to the suburb’s appeal.&nbsp;

Completed and ready to move in, EVA Elsternwick Village Apartments offers two-bedroom residences from $899,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=93073]

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