<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 steep decline in Perth house price until mid-2011 slowed noticeably in the second half of the year, and property analysts are in agreement that the market is bottoming out and close to rebounding.

Century 21’s Charles Tarbey says supply and demand in the Perth residential market are starting to meet.  

“Although there has been a large median price drop, this is not reflected in activity.  There are still many cashed-up investors looking for properties,” he says.

Louis Christopher describes Perth as being “on the verge of a recovery”.

“The market has changed a lot. Stock has peaked, vacancy rates are tightening, and things are fairly positive,” he says.

Property valuer WBP believes Perth is already beginning to turn around due to the supply of houses falling and an increase in demand from first-home buyers.
<img src="/images/stories/clockperthhouses.jpg">
Time: Six o'clock
“Investors are slowly returning to the market, and there has been a recent increase in the median rental price being achieved.

“Yields have continued to increase as prices fell in the December quarter,” says WBP.

Preliminary data from the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia’s February 2012 survey show the quarterly vacancy rate (for both houses and units) for the three months to February 2012 sits at 2.5%.
Population: 1.7 million
Median house price: $460,000
House price growth in February 2012: -1.8%
Annual house price growth to December 2011: -4.3%
Annual house price growth to July 2011: -7.1%
Rental yield: 4.2%
To find out where your capital city's house or unit market is on the property clock, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-autumn-2012-property-clock" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
 
 
 
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Perth house market bottoming out at six o'clock: Experts

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Darwin has been one of the more stable property markets in 2011, with modest price declines relative to the falls in Perth, Melbourne and Brisbane. The pace of house price depreciation slowed in the second half of 2011.
The housing market is likely to get a boost from the Japan energy giant Inpex’s decision to go ahead with its $33 billion Ichthys liquefied natural gas (LNG) project, which will pump gas up from offshore gas fields in Western Australia along a 889-kilometre pipeline to Darwin for processing. The project will require about 2,700 workers during peak construction (expected to begin later this year) and create a further 300 jobs once it is up and running, with speculation that it could push up property prices in Darwin and lead to an influx of people seeking work.
<img src="/images/stories/clockdarwin.jpg">
Time: Five o'clock
Century 21’s Charles Tarbey says Darwin is heavily influenced by such development and investment in the area.
“Darwin’s position on the clock could move from five o’clock to seven o’clock very quickly,” he says.
However, Louis Christopher says Darwin remains a really risky market. “There has been a bit of a peak in stock levels, and it’s not out of the woods yet.”
Population: 128,000
Median house price: $487,500
House price growth in February 2012: 6.2%
Annual house price growth to December 2011: -2.2%
Annual house price growth to July 2011: -3%
Rental yield: 5.8%
To find out where your capital city's house or unit market is on the property clock, <a target="_blank" href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-autumn-2012-property-clock">download our free eBook.</a>
 
 
 
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Darwin house market at five o'clock, with potential for quick movement: Experts

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The Australian Federal Police have charged developer Michael Issakidis with tax fraud and conspiring to deal in the proceeds of crime after dismantling what it claims is a multimillion-dollar tax evasion and money laundering scheme.
The 67-year-old company director and property developer came to public attention last year when he sued game show legend "Baby" John Burgess for rent he claimed Burgess owed him for living in his Gold Coast penthouse.
Issakidis was arrested on Tuesday following a seven month joint investigation between the AFP and Australian Tax Office under Project Wickenby in the largest tax fraud investigation identified since it was launched in 2006.
More than $40 million of Issakidis’ luxury assets have been seized under Commonwealth proceeds of crime legislation including a number of Rolls Royces, a Lamborghini, an Aston Martin, a Mercedes, a BMW, a number of yachts and “prime real estate” in Sydney and on the Gold Coast.
Issakidis is a former lawyer and listed as the managing director of Queensland-based NeuMedix Health Group, a group of 16 investment and technology companies.
The NeuMedix website describes Issakidis’ role as “work[ing] closely with the scientists and inventors to ensure the integrity of the technology is not compromised”.
“Through his network of professionals and colleagues he provides unprecedented exposure for our innovators to meet industry leaders and influencers.”
The AFP and ATO claim Issakidis used a complex unit trust structure to over inflate the prices of Australian patents once transferred offshore, claiming corresponding depreciation expenses to amass $63 million over a three year period.
The AFP and ATO allege these funds were then laundered through an account in the UK and numerous accounts in Hong Kong before being transferred back into Australia.
NeuMedix was contacted by SmartCompany for comment but did not respond prior to publication.
ATO Commissioner Michael D’Ascenzo says the operation uncovered a serious abuse of the integrity of the tax system.
"Parties who rely on tax driven deals to justify the commercial viability of business transactions are on notice that we will use our anti-avoidance rules to deal with such schemes,” D’Ascenzo says.
“The ATO will pursue all means available, including partnering with other law enforcement agencies, to respond firmly to these tax avoidance and evasion behaviours and protect the public revenue."
AFP Commissioner Tony Negus says the charges demonstrated the ongoing commitment by the police to disrupt serious criminal activity.
“Taking the profit out of crime is the aim of the Criminal Assets Confiscation Taskforce which is targeting organised crime’s deep pockets,” Commissioner Negus says.
The federal government congratulated the AFP on the seizure and Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Justice Jason Clare says the key was that organised crime is driven by money.
“Take away their money and assets and it reduces the incentive to commit crimes,” Clare says.
“Just like with Al Capone – you can catch criminals by following the money.”
This article originally appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
 
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Fast cars, tax schemes and tech patents: Developer charged over alleged $63 million tax fraud

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Demand for the $10,000 Queensland building boost has picked up strongly since the scheme was extended in January, but it could close with as much as half of the funding set aside for the scheme unclaimed by new home buyers and builders.
The scheme will close on April 30, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/queensland-government-to-extend-building-boost-until-april/2012011253029" target="_blank">having been extended</a> from the original closure date of January 31.
In the three-month period from January 11 to April 19, the Queensland Treasury has received more than 5,000 applications, taking the total to 8,929 applications.
As of April 19 the Queensland Treasury has approved 6,367 grants worth $63.6?million, according to figures obtained by the Australian Financial Review.
This is less than half of the $140 million originally set aside by the Bligh government when it was launched on August 1 as an incentive aimed at boosting the housing market in the wake of the January 2011 floods and GFC.
However, this figure could potentially rise above 50% should the remaining applications be approved and should the scheme receive more applications between now and September 1.
New home buyers and builders must sign a contract by April 30 but have until September 1 to submit their application to qualify for the $10,000 grant.
In August 2011, the first month of the scheme there were only 100 applications, and fewer than 600 in September.
The Newman government is set to announce new initiatives to help the struggling property market when it releases its budget on September 11.
These will include reinstating a $7,000 stamp duty discount for existing home owners who buy a new home from July 1, and the discount will cost the government $900 million. The scheme was scrapped by the Bligh government last year.
New Treasurer Tim Nicholls has called the building boost a botched scheme that provided no real benefit to the housing sector.
“The fact that under half of the $140 million originally allocated in the scheme has been paid out in grants is a clear indication it was a poorly targeted and designed scheme,” he says.
However, Property Council of Australia Queensland executive director Kathy MacDermott says the scheme had helped and was desperately needed.
MacDermott says the scheme had been affected by low consumer sentiment and cautious buyers.
In addition she says the Queensland housing market is being dragged down by lower property valuations by banks, which makes it harder to secure financing.
The building boost is one of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/resources/government-property-grants-and-stamp-duty-concessions-the-expiry-dates-you-need-to-know/2012041054208" target="_blank">six state housing incentive schemes</a> that will come to an end over the next few months.
According to a CommSec report, Queensland has the fastest economic growth rate in Australia of 9.8% but is being held back by a weak housing market.
 
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Rise in demand for barely utilised Queensland building boost comes too late

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A Wategos Beach property on Byron Bay's outskirt has been sold for close to $10 million, five years after its initial listing.
It marks a return of the far north coast NSW location as one of the priciest beachfront residential locations on the east coast of Australia.
It's a Brisbane family who've bought Watermark at Wategos last week.
Watermark at Wategos consists of a residence, an apartment and two beach suites.
It sits on a 655-square-metre Marine Parade block directly opposite Wategos Beach.
The property last sold in late 2004 for $5.14 million and was listed in 2007 after its renovation.
On a small exclusive pocket beneath Cape Byron Lighthouse, the six-bedroom, six-bathroom contemporary house's modernisation was completed in early 2006. It was sold by publican Geoff Smith, whose tourism industry property portfolio includes Northey's at Cronulla and The Grand Hotel on the Gold Coast.
Watermark has four bedrooms upstairs and two self-contained one-bedroom suites on the ground floor that have been available for lease. It was listed with hopes of a sale in the double-digit millions.
The two-level property was bought in 2004 from the Stone family, who bought it in 1999 from the Dwyer family. Sydney property developer Danny Goldberg set a local record of $15.68 million in 2006 for what was a somewhat dated colonial-style house set back from the beach. The Watermark holding has a 37-metre beachfront reserve frontage.
Selling agent Graham Dunn from Byron Bay Property Sales told the local press that the luxury market in Byron Bay had picked up dramatically in the last six weeks.
"We have had six sales in this past week totalling $26 million, the cheapest of which was $1.5 million and the most expensive being Watermark at $10 million," he told the Northern Star.
Subsequent reports in the Gold Coast Bulletin cut the price range of the sales.
"The contracted deals, handled by Byron Bay Property Sales, range from $1.15 million to a $9 million-plus sum paid for Watermark at Wategos Beach, a premier residential address," it noted. of the sal
Sydney property developer Danny Goldberg set a local record a few doors along of $15.68 million in 2006 for what was a somewhat dated colonial-style house set back from the beach.
 
 
 
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Watermark at Wategos Beach sells five years after initial listing for just shy of $10 million

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Perth unit prices fell more rapidly during the second half of 2011 than during the first half, but most property analysts maintain a fairly bullish outlook for the sector.

Charles Tarbey believes Perth unit prices are close to bottoming out and believes the supply of Perth units is close to matching the demand for these properties.

Tarbey says sales activity remains strong, as does interest from “cashed-up investors” looking for apartments close to the city.
<img src="/images/stories/clockperthhouses.jpg">
Time: Six o'clock
Tarbey says stock levels in Perth have been significantly lower during the past couple of months as a result of properties being withdrawn from the market and of a backlog of properties being cleared. 

“I suspect the latter is more responsible – sales for the December quarter were high, and sales over January and February have been significantly higher.  And we are now on the cusp of entering the autumn season, which is traditionally a very busy time for real estate sales,” Tarbey says.

Tarbey says he has also noted a decline in vacancy rates across the properties that Century 21 manages in Perth.

Preliminary data from the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia’s February 2012 survey shows the quarterly vacancy rate (for both houses and units) for the three months to February sitting at 2.5%.
Population: 1.7 million
Median unit price: $390,000
Unit price growth in February 2012: -2%
Annual unit price growth to December 2011: -4.2%
Annual unit price growth to July 2011: -2.9%
Rental yield: 4.8%
To find out where your capital city's house or unit market is on the property clock, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-autumn-2012-property-clock" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
 
 
 
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Perth unit market at six o'clock, with experts fairly bullish

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Environmental scientist Professor Shelley Burgin has been appointed as the head of the Mirvac School of Sustainable Development at Bond University.
“I’m here to put the sustainability into sustainable development,” she has advised.
She has spent over three decades studying the environment, with particular emphasis on minimising the impact of urban development on native species.
Burgin joins Bond from the University of Western Sydney (UWS), where after 23 years, she was appointed as an emeritus professor on retirement.
While environmental science as a study area at Bond is relatively new, Burgin says she was attracted by the privilege of working in Australia’s first six-star green star-rated educational building, which was “huge for someone like me whose discipline area is the environment”.
As part of Bond’s Institute of Sustainable Development and Architecture, the Mirvac School of Sustainable Development sits alongside the Soheil Abedian School of Architecture, bringing architecture, development and environment under the one umbrella.
Burgin was formerly the president of the Royal Zoological Society of NSW.
 
 
 
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Professor Shelley Burgin appointed head of Mirvac School of Sustainable Development at Bond University

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Academy Award-nominated actor Toni Collette and her musician husband, David Galafassi, are next back in the NSW Supreme Court on June 6 after being sued over the failure to settle on an alleged $6 million Paddington terrace purchase.
The initial directions hearing into the matter was scheduled in mid-March.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november8collette]}
Last October the couple were all set to buy a double-fronted Paddington terrace (pictured above) from Susie Kelly, the co-founder and owner of Industrie clothing with her husband Nick.
The Stewart Street house was snapped at an undisclosed price – but understood to be slightly more than $6 million.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november7toni]}
After struggling to find a buyer of their Bronte house (pictured above), <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/fickle-toni-collette-being-sued-over-property-change-of-heart-in-paddington/2012031353824">Collette and Galafassi are accused of changing their mind on the Paddington purchase</a> instead buying again at Bronte (pictured below) from the buyer of their own house.
{yoogallery src=[images/stories/april24collettenew]}
Their <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/actor-toni-collette-and-muso-david-galafassi-fall-for-the-charms-of-contemporary-inner-city-paddington/2011110752250">1885 Bronte weatherboard cottage that cost $4.4 million in mid-2009</a> had been tipped to sell for around $3.5 million through its McGrath Estate Agents listing agent Bethwyn Richards. The recent transfer indicates it did finally sell for $3.5 million on its March settlement. Their new Bronte home cost a bullish $5.5 million when settled last month with a NAB mortgage.
Property lawyers say the Supreme Court could find the Paddington contract binding and the entertainment industry couple could be forced to pay any shortfall if the Paddington terrace sells again at less than its last sale price.
 
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Toni Collette back to court in June over Paddo property deal as she settles Bronte house swap: Title Tattle 

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Canberra unit prices were one of the stronger-performing property markets in 2011, with only a small correction in prices.
Century 21 chairman Charles Tarbey and SQM Research director Louis Christopher say the Canberra unit market is heavily tied to the civil service and the government in power.
However, as units are generally more affordable than houses, the unit market outlook is fairly rosy.
According to Colliers, current building approval figures and the large number of projects expected to come onto the market over the next three years suggest an oversupply of apartments is looming.
“However, the requirement for developers to obtain high levels of pre-commitments in order to receive financing for new residential projects is expected to create a barrier to entry for many projects,” says Colliers.
<img src="/images/stories/clockcanberraunits.jpg">
Time: Six o'clock
Set within a framework of particularly low vacancy rates, increasing rents and greater-than-average population growth, Colliers says new stock can be adequately absorbed by the market.
“Colliers International anticipates the likelihood of the cash rate declining further in 2012, coupled with the low vacancy rate and higher-than-average wages, will result in demand for new apartments within Canberra remaining resilient.
“Although a gap in the median price between the inner-north and the inner-south precincts will remain, it is anticipated the price disparity between the markets will lessen as new projects settle.”
Population: 358,000
Median unit price: $430,000
Unit price growth in February 2012: 1%
Annual unit price growth to December 2011: -1.4%
Annual unit price growth to July 2011: -5.8%
Rental yield: 5.5%
To find out where your capital city's house or unit market is on the property clock, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-autumn-2012-property-clock" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
 
 
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Canberra unit market at six o'clock with strong demand for new stock: Experts

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Darwin’s unit market continues to offer investors the strongest rental yields of all capital city markets.
As with houses, demand for Darwin units could also pick as a result of the Inpex LNG project.
Darwin houses and units priced in the affordable $400,000 and $500,000 range continue to sell well, accounting for nearly a quarter of all sales in the city during 2011 – a higher proportion in than any other capital city except for Canberra.
<img src="/images/stories/clockdarwin.jpg">
Time: Five o'clock
According to SQM Research director Louis Christopher, Darwin recorded the largest decrease in residential stock on market of all Australian capital cities for the year, with listings falling by 11.7% in February 2012 compared with February 2011 to a total of 1,331.
Population: 128,000
Median unit prices: $380,000
Unit price growth in February 2012: 0.3%
Annual unit price growth to December 2011: -2.6%
Annual unit price growth to July 2011: -4.1%
Rental yield: 5.7%
To find out where your capital city's house or unit market is on the property clock, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-autumn-2012-property-clock" target="_blank">download our free eBook.</a>
 
 
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