<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/broadbeach-qld-4218">Broadbeach</a> offers plenty of reasons to live vertically, but moving from a substantial family home into an apartment can expose the compromises of high-density living. Privacy, room for guests and usable living space tend to matter more when an apartment is intended as a permanent home rather than an occasional coastal base.

A typical residential floor at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-eveleigh-broadbeach-7-9-surf-parade-broadbeach-qld-4218">The Eveleigh</a>, on Surf Parade,&nbsp;contains just four apartments. The 94-residence development by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hirsch-faigen">Hirsch &amp; Faigen</a> is predominantly made up of expansive three-bedroom homes, with a limited collection of half-floor penthouses above.

Across the apartment floors, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> has used the relatively limited number of residences to give each home greater access to natural light and outlook. Living spaces extend towards full-height glazing, while a series of bay windows frame selected views across the Pacific Ocean, city and hinterland rather than treating the building edge as a continuous wall of glass.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360965]

“The apartment floors deliver a collection of homes that embrace controlled outlook via a series of bay windows deliberately framing moments of view,” Rothelowman Director Kim Lowman said.

From outside, those projecting forms contribute to the tower’s faceted profile. Strong horizontal and vertical elements establish its proportions, while the changing position of the sun alters the light, shadow and reflection across the façade throughout the day.

The same attention moves inside the apartments, where the material palette combines warm timber, natural stone, metallic detailing and softer curved forms. Kitchens sit within the main living zone, with stone island benches, integrated joinery and European appliances, before the living areas extend towards the glazing and the outlook.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360981]

Three genuine bedrooms provide room to accommodate family and guests, while two secure car spaces and storage address some of the practical considerations that can become more noticeable when moving from a larger home. Feedback from the display suite has centred on the warmth and restraint of the interiors, with buyers commenting that the residences feel like homes rather than conventional coastal apartments.

A limited collection of half-floor penthouses occupies the upper levels, increasing the scale of the living spaces and adding private balconies and elevated finishes. From this position, the outlook extends between the ocean and hinterland.

Outside the private residences, The Eveleigh separates its shared spaces between the podium and rooftop. The podium is centred on wellness, with subtropical landscaping surrounding a swimming pool and pool terrace, yoga garden, private gymnasium, sauna and hot and cold plunge facilities. Landscaped retreats and pavilions provide additional places to sit away from the main recreation areas.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360966]

Higher in the building, a rooftop pavilion and private dining suite sit alongside resident lounge, barbecue and outdoor dining areas, opening towards panoramic views across the ocean, city and hinterland.

“Buyers are no longer just looking for an apartment, but a lifestyle where they can relax, reset, and enjoy a balanced way of living,” Hirsch &amp; Faigen Director of Sales Matt George said.

Interest to date has come from established owner-occupiers and interstate lifestyle purchasers, including buyers planning a future move to the Gold Coast. Many are coming from larger homes and want to reduce ongoing maintenance without giving up space for family and guests, privacy, two car spaces or the ability to entertain at home.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360969]

Much of that daily life can also take place beyond the building without requiring a drive. Kurrawa Beach and Pratten Park are an easy walk from Surf Parade, while Pacific Fair, Oracle Boulevard, The Oasis, restaurants, cafés, entertainment and public transport are also within walking distance.

The Eveleigh is Hirsch &amp; Faigen's fourth Gold Coast development since entering the market in 2021, following The Hemingway at Palm Beach, The Emerson at Kirra and Yves at Mermaid Beach. Each of the preceding projects sold out before completion.

“Broadbeach had been on our radar throughout our time operating on the Gold Coast,” the developer said. “Following our projects in Palm Beach, Kirra and Mermaid Beach, Broadbeach represented the natural next step for the business.”

The Surf Parade site brought together proximity to the beach, protected coastal outlooks and walkability to dining, shopping and recreation. Hirsch &amp; Faigen also identified the street as an emerging premium residential address, with enough separation from Broadbeach's busier destinations to retain a quieter environment at home.

The Eveleigh is now under construction by Maxcon, with completion forecast for mid-2028. Three-bedroom residences are currently available from $2.87 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149670]

Joel Robinson

The Eveleigh brings house-like apartments to Broadbeach

A long-stalled Campbelltown development site is back in play, with new plans for 139 apartments set to supersede a mixed-use scheme approved almost a decade ago but never built.

The new proposal for 28 Cordeaux Street would deliver 116 market and 23 affordable apartments in a part 14-storey building, bringing a substantial new project into a Campbelltown market where new apartment supply remains limited.

Plans have been filed over the 3,092 sqm corner site at Moore-Oxley Street, around 600 metres from Campbelltown Railway Station and the city-centre retail core.

The site already carries a mixed-use residential approval dating to 2016. Doroch Architects has now been engaged on a larger replacement scheme, which is progressing as a State Significant Development Application following a Housing Delivery Authority determination in August 2025.

The apartment mix comprises 39 one-bedroom, 72 two-bedroom and 28 three-bedroom residences. Two-bedroom apartments make up just over half of the project, while three-bedroom homes account for 20 per cent.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="136dd5b9-3791-4da6-9e31-76f533f5b4de" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da2.png?VersionId=LgOSy9nwf5u.MGswBBwaGGxuX8QpHSl_" />

Of the 139 apartments, 23 will be delivered as affordable housing under the in-fill affordable housing provisions of the Housing SEPP. The affordable component represents 15 per cent of the residential gross floor area and will be managed by a registered Community Housing Provider.

Doroch has sought to break the scale of the building into two distinct elements, with a masonry podium of around four storeys establishing the street edge before the residential tower steps back above.

The corner position has shaped that approach. Cordeaux Street faces toward the commercial and civic centre, while Moore-Oxley Street leads into the lower-scale residential neighbourhood to the south, and the design verification report describes the site as "bridging the commercial core to the north and established residential areas to the south."

The podium will be expressed predominantly in face brick, while the upper levels shift to brushed and grooved concrete cladding with darker metal detailing. Recessed sections, deep balcony edges and landscaping break down the upper form, with an approximately 11.8-metre setback to the northern boundary addressing the adjoining St Peters Anglican School.

<img alt="First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c8b3d2d3-c561-4bfc-a5d9-a68c0c10dac1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Campbelltown%20da1.png?VersionId=AeAEyJU02Gk2k5noUj2StziCvdQ7fW4B" />

Campbelltown has been starved of new residential developments in the last decade.

The only other notable development set to come to market this year is ALAND's Queen Square, a mixed-use precinct on over two hectares that will comprise apartments above a vibrant ground-level retail and hospitality dining precinct.

First look: New 139-apartment plans revive long-stalled Campbelltown city centre site

First Look: Sherlock Construction pitches apartments for low-rise Deception Bay

Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

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Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
</main>

Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

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>

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Ellen Walker

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

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The outlook for property markets closely linked to tourism has brightened, with prices set to rise by between 3% and 6% in 2013, according to SQM Research’s Boom and Bust report.
The extent of the recovery is heavily dependent on the Australian dollar and further rate cuts.
The outlook is also brighter for the beleaguered tourism-dependent Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast property markets with both areas “showing signs of bottoming out”.
Under a base case scenario, property prices in holiday locations are expected to rise by between 3% and 6% – a brighter outlook than Canberra (1% to 4% rise), Hobart (2% to 5%) and Melbourne (2% to 5%) and almost on a par with Brisbane (3% to 7%).
This scenario is based on terms of trade falling and then stabilising, the cash rate being cut by 50 basis points and the Australian dollar hovering at parity to the US dollar.
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/">According to SQM</a>, the best case scenario for holiday locations would be a crash in the terms of trade, a 100-basis-point cut in the cash rate and the Australian dollar falling below 90 US cents.
If this were to occur, SQM forecasts holiday location property markets to rise by between 7% and 13% – outperforming all capital city markets.
In line with these healthier outlooks, SQM says its previous pessimistic opinion of Queensland’s Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast has begun to shift somewhat in recent months.
“Emerging from extended periods of oversupply and severe price corrections, these regions are now looked upon less negatively, and potentially the worst could be over for these localities.
“Nevertheless, there are still risks going forward, one of the main risks being that the Australian dollar could appreciate in value compared to the US dollar, which would have serious additional ramifications for the local economy.”
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher says while he has been “very bearish” on the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, there is now evidence of a pick-up, with stock-on-market levels coming down.
In February this year <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/hotspots/kochie-s-right-stay-away-from-the-gold-and-sunshine-coasts-sqm-director-louis-christopher/2012020153218">Christopher said he agreed with financial analyst and TV presenter David Koch'</a>s dire assessment of the Gold and Sunshine coast markets, pointing out at the time that three of the top four most discounted homes in Australia are in Queensland. Kochie came under fire from local estate agents and media for his gloomy assessment of the Queensland market last year. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/hotspots/kochie-s-right-stay-away-from-the-gold-and-sunshine-coasts-sqm-director-louis-christopher/2012020153218" target="_blank">Kochie refused to back down from his assessment</a> that the Sunshine and Gold coasts are “catastrophes” and says investors should not trust the views of local estate agents and journalists.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept26.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept26thumb.gif"></a>
Christopher says a falling Australian dollar would help these markets as fewer Aussies would take their holidays overseas, while the weaker dollar would attract more international tourists.
Further rate cuts would also help.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept261.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept261thumb.gif"></a>
But he warns that these holiday markets are not for the "novice investor", who should stick with properties in the suburbs and avoid holiday apartments.
The report also notes that a “gradual rebalancing away from mining and resources back to tourism and manufacturing would be very beneficial over the long term for this country”.
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SQM Research more positive on Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast property markets

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Mike Quigley, boss of the federal government's national broadband network, has sold his Mosman mansion at an undisclosed price.
Kallista, the Federation home, sold pre-auction through Belle agent Sally Navra-Osborne, who had $3.7 million plus hopes given comparable recent sales.
Not much of a return, as Quigley paid $3.6 million with his wife, Vicki, for the five-bedroom Mosman property in early 2007.
They then spent $300,000 plus in renovations.
Kallista comes with wide verandas and sandstone walls framed by picturesque gardens.
It has views across Sirius Cove towards the eastern suburbs from its 936-square-metre corner location.
The house comes with a custom-fitted study and cellar.
The Quigleys are downsizing potentially to a city apartment while keeping their south coast retreat, a 1.2-hectare Berry property that cost $2,095,000 in 2010.
Another nearby property sold earlier this month at $3,675,000 under the hammer.
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NBN boss Mike Quigley sells, but for little return

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From October 1, the government’s crackdown on the living away from home allowance (LAFHA) will officially be in play. The reform will tighten LAFHA tax breaks and put new limits on accommodation and food benefits for employees working away from home.
At Lifestyle Property Agency, we specialise in leasing properties to corporate executives in the Sydney CBD and immediate surrounds; over the past few months, we have already begun to feel the sting of the legislation changes on executive rentals.
In the past, most corporate budgets for leased property would range from $750 to $3,000 per week, and a mix of both local and international executives ensured that the high-end city rental market was kept buoyant.
In 2012, international rental enquiries have all but fizzled out, and any property listed for over $1,200 per week has been leased to local Aussies.
Rohan Alexander, Lifestyle’s associate director, has leased over 100 corporate rentals this year and says he has experienced the following major changes:
1) Based on the uncertainty of the new changes, current tenants benefitting from the LAFHA are renewing their leases for only three months as opposed to 12 months.
2) Tenants are on the hunt for cheaper accommodation, reducing their weekly budgets by as much as $500.
3) All rental properties priced $1,000 – $3,000 per week have been leased to Australian residents.
4) International enquiries have taken a dramatic dive – from making up almost half of all enquiries prior to 2012 to virtually non-existent this year.
At this stage, the only positive outcome we can see is that properties ranged $500 to $750 per week will now be much more sought after, and demand has already surpassed supply.
However, as this trend continues, we will see a rise in vacancies for city properties in the higher end of the market which may in turn affect sales values.
It’s also sad to see a shift in the diversity of the inner-Sydney market, with many international executives currently being sent to other cities.
At Lifestyle, we aim to showcase properties that embody the ultimate in Sydney city living. Perhaps, moving forward, recruiters should also focus on selling the key desirables of our city lifestyle when securing international talent. This may help to build an intrinsic affiliation with our city that outweighs remuneration benefits.
In the long term, I am confident that the market will recover, but the decision couldn’t have come at a worse time.
Carlie Ziri is the director of <a href="https://www.lifestylepropertyagency.com/" target="_blank">Lifestyle Property Agency.</a>
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Sydney’s rental market feeling the sting of changes to living away from home allowance

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The NSW National Trust has secured a $4,551,000 sale of Paddington's Juniper Hall to the well-known Moran healthcare family, who own a portfolio of heritage properties.
They plan to turn the historic Oxford Street premises into an art gallery. "We are delighted that Juniper Hall will be restored by the Moran family, a family who have a dedicated passion for heritage and the arts,'' Brian Scarsbrick CEO of the National Trust of Australia (NSW) said. "Their track record for restoring heritage properties is impeccable," The Wentworth Courier reported. Family matriarch Greta Moran is a distant relative of Sarah Cooper, who was the wife of the entrepreneur Robert Cooper, who built the two-storey Georgian house Juniper Hall. The Oxford Street premises dates back to 1824, believed to be the oldest surviving mansion from the days of Governor Lachlan Macquarie. The Moran family are renowned for restoring historic homes across Sydney, including Redleaf in Wahroonga, Blandford in Leura, the Gothic home Swifts at Darling Point and the more contemporary Liner House in Bridge Street, Sydney.
The family intend to turn the ground floor into a gallery to house the Moran Prizes, which are sponsored and administered by the Moran Arts Foundation. The original four rooms on this level would be permanently opened to the general public. They are likely to have the first floor and attic converted into a private residence for one of the family members. Local controversy surrounded the sale local residents petitioning to keep the National Trust property in public hands. But the sale was of a<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/national-trust-list-problematic-juniper-hall-paddington-property-for-auction/2012082456229"> 99-year leasehold title, </a>with the family assuming the responsibility for its restoration.
“The marketing campaign succeeded in generating a significant response from a broad variety of uses,” said Tony Anderson of Cushman &amp; Wakefield.
“As such, the property was the subject of competitive bidding and the price achieved represents fair market value,” he said.
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Sydney's Moran family takes the prize as National Trust offloads Juniper Hall for $4.5 million

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The historic Lewis Anchorage site, located on Mangrove Street, Taren’s Point, in Sydney’s South, has been listed for sale with $6 million expectations.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/lew.jpg">
The property is situated in the southern shores of Botany Bay in close proximity to the entrance of the Georges River.
The property, which is currently occupied by boat repair and maintenance businesses, has a land area of 8,704 square metres and a <a href="https://dictionary.nwc.gov.au/water_dictionary/item.cfm?id=707&amp;xref=1" target="_blank">water lease</a> of 6,025 square metres. The sale is being conducted through Brett Cooper of Cooper Wilson, who says comparable opportunities have been few.
The site has been in the current owner’s family since 1935 commencing with a long commercial association with Botany Bay oyster farming from the early 1900s. In 1956 the Lewis family successfully dredged providing better access to Botany Bay for many vessels.
 In 1978, following the demise of the Georges River oyster industry, Lewis Anchorage shifted focus from oyster farming to the marine business. With over two acres of land, large compounds were initially sectioned off to store small boats and trailers. A boat launching ramp was constructed so that it could launch three boats at the one time.
 To provide maintenance and repairs to boats, the construction of the 70-tonne capacity <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ship_lift" target="_blank">ship-lift</a> was completed in 1986, to lift boats out of the water. Since then, the site has lifted and housed huge cruisers both private and commercial for maintenance. Both Riviera and Maritimo vessels are sent to the site for packing prior to being exported. The marine repair facility has catered for many essential service vessels and a wide variety of private crafts, including Water Police, Coast Guard, Sydney Port Pilots, the Navy and the Army.
Current outgoing rates that are associated with the anchorage include Council rates ($13,348.80 plus GST per annum), water rates ($684.28 plus GST per annum) and a land tax of $35,897.30 plus GST per annum.
The property is situated in the southern shores of Botany Bay and is in close proximity to the entrance of the Georges River. <a target="_blank" href="/news">Taren Point</a> is only six kilometres to Cronulla and 25 kilometres to the Sydney CBD.
Expressions of interest in the property close on October 11 unless sold prior.
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Historic Lewis Anchorage site fishing for $6 million new owner

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“Ongoing consolidation of household balance sheets would be desirable from a financial stability perspective, as it would make indebted households better able to cope with any future income shock or fall in housing prices,” the RBA says in its September Financial Stability Review.
<a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/RBAInfo"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/rbatweet1.jpg"></a>
The review notes that households continue to save around 9.5% of their disposable income “well above its level of five to 10 years ago … partly been motivated by a desire to rebuild wealth following the falls in asset prices over recent years”.
The RBA says household and business sectors have continued to display a “relatively prudent approach towards their finances in recent quarters”.
“Many households continue to prefer saving and paying down their existing debt more quickly than required, which has contributed to household credit growth being more in line with income growth in recent years.
“Although there are some isolated pockets of weakness, aggregate measures of financial stress remain low,” says <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au/publications/fsr/2012/sep/pdf/house-bus-bal-sheet.pdf">the RBA</a>.
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RBA says eschewing debt helps handle house price falls: Tweet of the day

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The central western NSW town of Mudgee, a hotspot for mining, agriculture and tourism, has been the top-performing NSW housing market over the past year, according to the latest Residex regional market update.
Mudgee district house prices are up 7.44% for the year to August, with a median house price of $272,500 following a gain of less than 1% in the previous 12-month period.
Residex reported a 16% jump in sales in Mudgee over this period, with 548 properties selling.
The median Mudgee rent is up 30% for the year to $410 per week, equating to an average yield of around 7.8%.
Mudgee ranked just above the Hunter Valley, where houses appreciated 7.18% over the year to August with a median price of $324,000.
Other strong performers were Riverina houses (4.27%), Penrith Windsor houses (3.95%) in Sydney’s West, Bathurst Orange Houses (3.43%) and south-west Sydney units (3.47%).
The worst-performing markets was upmarket Neutral Bay/Spit houses (-8.16%  to a median of $2.02 million) followed by north coast houses (Port Macquarie, Coffs Harbour, Foster), with prices down 5.53% to a median of $348,000.
<table border="1" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" style="width: 470px;"><tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Area
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Median price
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Annual capital growth to August 2012
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Median rent
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Yield
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Mudgee District houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$272,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
7.44%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$410
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
7.8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Hunter Valley houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$324,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
7.18%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$405
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
6.5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Riverina houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$236,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
4.27%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$270
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Penrith Windsor houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$391,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
3.95%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$420
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
5.6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
South West units
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$411,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
3.47%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$445
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
5.6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Bathurst Orange Houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$280,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
3.43%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$320
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
South units
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$611,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
3.24%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$645
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
5.5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Campbelltown houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$363,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
3.13%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$420
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
Newcastle houses
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$403,500
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
3.08%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$415
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
5.4%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="123">
North West units
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$444,000
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
2.89%
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
$475
</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">
5.7%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
 The historic country town of Mudgee lies 270 kilometres north-west of Sydney in the fertile Cudgegong River valley and benefits from both agriculture, tourism and nearby mining activity.


<hr class="system-pagebreak">
It was included on Smart Property Investment magazine’s Fast 50 report due to nearby mining activity and expectations of strong population growth.
Luke Berry of property investment advisory firm nexthotspot.com.au says there are a possible six resources projects opening up in the next three to five years in the Mid-Western Shire, which will create an additional 2,000 new jobs.
Berry expects the Mudgee population to grow by 25%, or 6,000 people, over the next five years.
Mudgee also benefits from a very tight rental market, with realestate.com.au reporting just 56 properties available for rent.
Recent property sales in Mudgee include <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-mudgee-110637257" target="_blank">this five-bedroom Victorian-era home (pictured below) – Kia-Ora – on Gladstone Street</a>, which sold through Damian Kearns of The Property Shop – Mudgee for $665,000. It dates back to 1898 and has previously operated as a bed and breakfast. It had a land value of $33,300 in 1995, according to RP Data records.
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/09/kiaora.jpg">
Mudgee's first property boom occured around 1851, when gold was discovered nearby by Edward Hargreaves leading to prospectors flocking to the town, with the population soaring from just 200 to reach around 20,000. Following the petering out of the gold rush towards the end of the 19th century, Mudgee was sustained by the wool and wine industries as well as the opening of a railway extension in 1884.
<img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/09/mudge.jpg">
Closer to the Mudgee median price, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-mudgee-111330771">this renovated three-bedroom house</a> (pictured above) on a 1,110-square-metre block on Lewis Street sold through Lucas Sheppard, also of the Property Shop, for $350,000 in August. The unrenovated property sold for $295,000 in February last year, having sold for $110,000 in 2000.
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Mudgee leads list of 10 top-performing NSW housing markets with prices up 7.44%: Residex

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Nearly 50% of China's top 1,000 wealthiest citizens have faced financial losses this year, with the average wealth falling 9% to $US860 million, according to China's rich list by the Hurun Report.
Some 37 of China's richest have lost as much as half of their wealth. The fallout of Beijing's efforts to curb real-estate speculation knocked out property as the largest source for wealth for China's richest, replaced by manufacturing, a first since Hurun's records began in 1999.
The number of dollar billionaires dropped from 271 to 251, according to the Shanghai-based group that follows wealth trends in the country as reported in the Wall Street Journal.
The threshold to make the top 1,000 fell by 9% to $290 million as stock-price declines and shifts in the solar, textile and retail sectors contributed to the decline.
The softening economy overall is making booming growth more difficult in China, said Rupert Hoogewerf, Hurun's chairman and chief researcher.
China's newly crowned richest man is Zong Qinghou, last year's No. 2, who garnered $12.6 billion by building closely held beverage empire Hangzhou Wahaha Group.
Zong's wealth increase from $10.7 billion to gain the top spot from Sany Heavy Industry Co. owner Liang Wengen, who ranked fifth at $7.3 billion.
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Chinese property tycoons lose their top billing as manufacturing billioniares dominate rich list

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Brownlow medalist Jobe Watson's investment property play hasn't been as stellar as his 2012 onfield performance.
His three-bedroom Albert Park investment cottage lingers unsold on the market, having been initially listed in early August and passed in on a vendor bid of $970,000 at its September 1 auction.
The Richardson Street was purchased for $930,000 in December 2007, having previously traded at $880,000 in mid-2007.
Recent inspectees were told there was a flexible $980,000 asking price on the attractive freestanding double-fronted Edwardian brick residence.
"It has exquisite period features is ideally positioned to enjoy the desirable Albert Park lifestyle," says the Cayzer Real Estate Albert Park marketing details.
No asking price has been officially given on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestateview.com.au/Real-Estate/75a-richardson-street-albert-park/Property-Details-buy-residential-4276135">websites</a>. 
Watson lives elsewhere in Albert Park, where he paid $780,000 in 2009.
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Jobe Watson takes home Brownlow but can't unload Albert Park investment cottage

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Former rugby league star and once high-flying Queensland property developer Jarrod McCracken, who appeared on the BRW Young Rich List in 2009 worth an estimated $34 million, is considering appealing a federal magistrate decision to place him in bankruptcy.
McCracken was officially declared bankrupt on September 17, according to the Insolvency and Trustee Services of Australia, the government department that oversees bankruptcies.
“As far as I am concerned I can’t see how anyone could go bankrupt with an unquantifiable order against them,” McCracken told The Australian Financial Review.
McCracken has until Friday next week to make his appeal.
The bankruptcy ruling followed just three days after a Federal Magistrates Court ruled he was liable for a $2 million debt to a Townsville construction company, Phoenix Constructions Pty Ltd, following a six-year legal battle.
In June 2011 the Brisbane Supreme Court awarded damages in favour of Phoenix Constructions in the amount of $1.9 million.
The Townsville Bulletin reported on September 15 that McCracken’s assets had been seized to pay costs in the long-running case over the construction of the Watermark complex on the Townsville waterfront.
McCracken told the paper the judgment would be suspended as soon as an appeal was lodged.
"I'm seeking advice next week," he said.
His financial problems reportedly stemmed from a $6.25 million “handshake” loan made to fellow property developer Harry Kakavas, who says he lost the money gambling in Las Vegas and on bets for the AFL and NRL grand finals.
McCracken told a court hearing that he had borrowed the money from "some people in Sydney who are very heavy" and on-loaned it to Kakavas, the Daily Telegraph reported.
McCracken, who hails from New Zealand and is the son of  former New Zealand rugby league international Ken McCracken, played for the Canterbury Bulldogs, the Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers before a spear tackle ended his career 12 years ago.
He turned his attention property development in 2001, starting off on the Gold Coast before undertaking a number of redevelopment projects in the Townsville CBD.
He first made the BRW Young Rich List in 2005 with a personal fortune of $15 million. He was aged 35 at the time and made his last appearance in 2009.
BRW reported that McCracken had made a string of “canny property purchases” including the local shopping centre, a hotel and the $30 million Waterside Apartments.
In 2009, when BRW estimated his fortune at $42 million the magazine reported that it had been a rough year for McCracken, after he pleaded guilty to “assaulting an ex-business partner on the Gold Coast on his wedding day after a multimillion-dollar deal went sour”.
McCracken and his wife also faced courts after they directed contractors to clear 13 hectares of waterfront rainforest for a house and horse paddock at their large property holding on the Whitsundays just north of Airlie Beach.
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