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.

Joel Robinson

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

A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

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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Joanna Baillieu, a member of the Melbourne establishment family, has listed Bromelton House in south-east Queensland with expectations of more than $5 million.
The Beaudesert property has a four-bedroom home is set on 135 hectares of farming property in three titles, which earns income from a 2,880 plantation of pecan trees, turf production, lucerne hay production and horse agistment centre.
The home has two bathrooms and all bedrooms have French doors leading onto verandas with views over a 150-megalitre lagoon which has a water harvesting licence from the Logan River.
The property also includes a six-hectare irrigated polo field.
The property includes 28 horse paddocks, 28 day yards, a sand arena, a breaking yard, an eight-horse walker and a barn with eight stables.
The Bromelton House Road property also includes a three-bedroom manager’s house and a two-bedroom worker’s cottage.
It last sold at $2.1 million in 2001.
Danny Bukowski from Ray White Rural Beaudesert has the Bromelton House listing, which goes to auction on December 16.
Baillieu sold another Queensland property in 2010, when the 1,000-hectare North Toolburra farm at Warwick for about $10 million to the owners of Ascot Charolais stud farm. The property’s lagoon was also used for filming of The Thorn Birds.
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Joanna Baillieu lists rural Queensland holding at Beaudesert 

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november21bathampton]}
Bathampton Villa, an 1874 homestead designed by the colonial architect Edward Gell in Bathurst in regional NSW, has been sold. The seven-bedroom residence, which sits on a 317-hectare holding, sold shortly after its asking price was adjusted to $2.35 million.
The farm, which has been in the Gilmour family since 1856, had initial $2.5 million hopes last October.
John Newell Gilmour, who arrived in the colony from Ireland in 1832 aged 13, moved there from his Bulgandramine station at Bogan with his wife, Emma. Building the house cost £3000. The couple had 10 children, including Mary, who married James Rutherford, the eldest son of James Rutherford of Cobb &amp; Co at Bathampton in 1890.
The homestead comes with the original brick kitchen and strangers' room. There is also the 1870s coach house with cobblestone floor and an 1820 era convict-built brick barn.
It was listed through Meares &amp; Associates Rural agents Chris Meares and Sam Triggs in conjunction with Allan Aylward at Landmark.
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Bathurst rural property Bathampton sells for about $2.35 million

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UK rents will rise significantly more than house prices over the next five years, according to research by Savills.
The rise is pushed by rising demand from those unable to buy their own homes and those reluctant to commit in the current market.
“Competition among renters will drive rents higher, with growth in mainstream rents forecast to rise by 20.5% by the end of 2016. This growth significantly outpaces house price growth, which is expected to total just 6% over the same five years,” the report found.
“This differential in capital value growth and rental value growth will push out yields and will be the catalyst for renewed investment activity in the sector by corporates and institutions looking for income rather than individuals looking for capital growth,” says Yolande Barnes, director of Savills residential research.
Median gross yield on residential stock will rise from 5.4% to 6.1% across the five-year period according to the report, and in areas of low owner-occupier demand yields could average as much as 9% by 2016.
In London, capital prices will continue to grow and this growth will remain the major draw for investors.
 
 
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UK rents to outstrip house prices: Savills

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november21kdlang]}
Grammy award-winning singer K.D. Lang has listed her Los Angeles ranch-style house for US$1,975,000. 
The Craftsman-style house, which Lang bought in 1999 for an undisclosed sum, features three bedrooms, two bathrooms, stone fireplaces, exposed wooden beams and an earthy, rustic feel. Outside features include a pool, spa and landscaped gardens. 
The house was once owned by Old Hollywood hunk Rock Hudson, according to the <a target="_blank" href="https://realestalker.blogspot.com/search?updated-max=2011-11-15T14:42:00-08:00&amp;max-results=4">RealEstalker</a> blog.
Denny Kagasoff of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.dennykagasoff.com/8062-Woodrow-Wilson-Drive-a236323">Prudential California Realty</a> is marketing the property, which he describes in the marketing as a "perfect sanctuary for a celebrity client" and a "private zen retreat", which is apt considering Lang is a Buddhist. 
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K.D. Lang lists in LA

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november16naringal]}
Historic Naringal Station in the Western District of Victoria has been sold after 170 years in the same family. The 1,328-hectare cropping and grazing property at Wallinduc, southeast of Ballarat, has been sold to a Melbourne businessman.
The price was undisclosed, but in June it was tipped to fetch $7.5 million plus, including crops.
Naringal Station was taken up by William Rowe in 1841 as part of Naringal Run. The seven-bedroom, 837-square-metre double-brick 1904 homestead was totally renovated in 1945 after a fire. It is set in 1950s Edna Walling-designed gardens and surrounded by its own woods.
It is located 45 kilometres from Ballarat – Victoria’s largest sheep saleyards – and 160 kilometres from Melbourne.
The Rowe family arrived in Australia in 1841 and took up the then 12,000-acre (4,856-hectare) run later that year. The pre-emptive right of 640 acres (260 hectares), upon which the homestead is built, was granted in 1857.
The original slab hut has been rebuilt and remains a landmark today. The family cemetery was first used in 1860s and will remain with the family.
The sale of Naringal represents the sale of one of Victoria’s longest-held rural holdings, its conjunctional agent Chris Meares of Meares and Associates notes.
Charles Stewart conjunctional selling agent Anthony McDonald describes the sale as a "very satisfactory result".
Naringal is estimated to carry about 13,100 dry sheep equivalents and has carried up to 14,000 fine wool sheep, including 4,000 breeding ewes on a self-replacing flock basis.
About 800 hectares is sown to winter crops this year on a share-farming basis, with the balance used for grazing.
About 80% of the property has also been cropped in the past.
The Melbourne businessman will employ a manager and continue to operate the property as a mixed farm operation.
 
 
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Historic Victorian Naringal Station sold after 170 years of family ownership

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<table border="0" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" width="466"><tbody>
<tr>
<td width="162" nowrap valign="bottom">
Suburb
</td>
<td width="162" valign="top">
Median unit price
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="162" nowrap valign="bottom">
CREMORNE
</td>
<td width="162" valign="top">
$820,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="162" nowrap valign="bottom">
ASHBURTON
</td>
<td width="162" valign="top">
$780,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="162" nowrap valign="bottom">
BRIGHTON
</td>
<td width="162" valign="top">
$760,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="162" nowrap valign="bottom">
BEAUMARIS
</td>
<td width="162" valign="top">
$760,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="162" nowrap valign="bottom">
MONT ALBERT NORTH
</td>
<td width="162" valign="top">
$725,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="162" nowrap valign="bottom">
TOORAK
</td>
<td width="162" valign="top">
$712,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="162" nowrap valign="bottom">
CANTERBURY
</td>
<td width="162" valign="top">
$710,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="162" nowrap valign="bottom">
BRIGHTON EAST
</td>
<td width="162" valign="top">
$690,000
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="162" nowrap valign="bottom">
CAULFIELD SOUTH
</td>
<td width="162" valign="top">
$675,500
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="162" nowrap valign="bottom">
MCKINNON
</td>
<td width="162" valign="top">
$675,000
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
Source: RP Data
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Top 10 most expensive Melbourne suburbs for units

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<img src="/images/stories/stafford.jpg">
<img style="float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">Peter Hall, from Hunter Hall, has decided he’s staying in London for the time being, and won’t take up residence in his 1860 Customs House, Double Bay purchase (pictured above). It cost him $5.65 million when it was bought in 2010 from the director of Trent Nathan, Shane Barr, and his wife, Catherine, who had paid $2.1 million in 1998. No doubt the savvy but realistic investor has told Ray White Double Bay agent Ashley Bierman to get as close as possible to the 2010 purchase price at its December 5 auction, and Hall would then content himself with some successful currency play. Hall, the chairman of an Australian investment management company, is part-owner of Prospect and Monocle magazines. He was once a cadet journalist with The Canberra Times. It seems his family have decided it's not quite the right time to return to Australia.
<img src="/images/stories/kenley.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;">Buyers' agent David Morrell isn’t saying. But he’s behind the $12 million plus purchase of Toorak’s latest pricey deal. Set on over 1 ,858 square metres, the Georgian- inspired Michael Munckton classic (pictured above) sits in gardens, designed by John Patrick and Andre Girjoff from the Perennial Garden. The four-bedroom house with traditional period details comes with cellar, pool and spa, large underground water-tank, and five car garage. It was sold by Stephen and Kate Shelmerdine. He’s the grandson of Sidney Myer and the former president of the Wine Makers' Federation of Australia. The listing agent was Michael Gibson at Kay and Burton. Title Tattle well recalls it $3.475 million sale in 1999 after an earlier offer on the home fell through at the last minute. It initial 1999 buyer had identified himself as Rafael Certi Meritt. But the deal fell through when Interpol swooped on Carlos Cabal Peniche, the fugitive Mexican banker wanted over a $2 billion fraud.  Long known as Heathfield, the property stands on part of a larger estate once owned by the Baillieu and Murdoch families.
<img src="/images/stories/calder.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;">Author Brendan Gullifer and wife Robyn, a stylist, are selling their two-bedroom Smeaton cottage (pictured above) just outside of Daylesford in Victoria. Gullifer is well known among estate agents having written the 2009 published novel SOLD, which lifted the lid on life in a Melbourne estate agency. Apparently it’s been optioned for television by Cabbage Films, the team behind Wilfred (SBS) and Lowdown (ABC Television.) His current writing project, a novel about a move to the country, has just been signed up by Melbourne publishers Sleepers. “People keep asking me if it’s set here in Smeaton, but they will have to wait until the book comes out to find out,” Gullifer tells Title Tattle. Robyn has worked at Lyn Gardener’s Empire Vintage in Albert Park and has helped manage The White House in Daylesford. The restored two-bedroom cottage is set in half an acre of flower beds, lawns and fruit trees. The property used to be a permaculture farm, so the soil is amazing. The couple is moving to Sydney to be closer to family. The two-bedroom Calder Street cottage is for sale through Hocking Stuart Daylesford agent Glenda Rozen with $370,000 hopes.
<img src="/images/stories/thornton.jpg">
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">At Darling Point, the Retford Hall penthouse (pictured above) of the late arts philanthropist Mollie Gowing was passed in without bid at its recent auction through Peter Blacket of Blacket and Glasgow. Occupying the entire 18th level of the Thornton Street high-rise tower, the four-bedroom penthouse had been expected to fetch more than $7 million. On the market for the first time in 30 years, it has about 260 square metres of indoor-outdoor living space with harbour views.
<img src="/images/stories/nicholsonst.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;">Things of Stone and Wood frontman Greg Arnold and wife Helen Durham, the inspiration for the band's 1992 hit song Happy Birthday Helen, have sold their 1920s cottage in Carlton North (pictured above). The couple’s two-bedroom Art Deco house comes with a European-style extension designed and built by Hamish Knox. It features "Eltham" mudbrick rendering and exposed wood beams. Ben Williams at Hocking Stuart was quoting the Nicholson Street property at $680,000 plus.
<img src="/images/stories/tulloch.jpg">
<img src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;">On the NSW south coast, Ian Barker, QC, and his wife, Penny, have yet to sell their 14-hectare retreat (pictured above). It was listed for auction last weekend through Adam Guthrie at Adam Guthrie Lifestyle Property with expectations of $1.8 million plus. The property has sweeping coastal views stretching from Seven Mile Beach to Pigeon House Mountain near Ulladulla. Since the property last traded for $750,000 in June 1999, the Barkers have renovated the two-level timber house. It has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a library, office and open-plan living and dining areas opening to a deck. In the quiet precinct of Broughton Vale, the Tullouch Road property is five minutes' drive from Berry. The Barkers are returning to Sydney.
<img src="/images/stories/beswick.jpg">
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">Marshall White agent auctioneer Justin Long drilled his five bidders sufficiently to secure a $5.22 million sale when Beswicke (pictured above pre-renovation), a grand Toorak Victorian boom era mansion designed by John Beswicke went under the hammer last weekend. It had been listed with $5 million plus hopes after architects Jackson Clements Burrows had restored and modernised the 1880s building into a stunning family house (pictured below, post-renovation)for the Ebsworth family.
<img src="/images/stories/toorakreno.jpg">
The interiors come with American oak floors, ornate ceilings and marble fireplaces. The main bedroom has city views from its private balcony and parking won’t be a problem given its five-car basement garage. For almost five decades until 2008 it was the Australian Dental Association headquarters. Set on a 735-square-metre Mathoura Road block, it was briefly owned by developer Walton Property Developments, which sold in 2009 at $3.1 million to Rod and Andrea Ebsworth. The association moved to 10 Yarra Street in nearby South Yarra, to an office building developed by Craig Walton. Marshall White's James Redfern has been the marketing agent for its past two sales.
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">Title Tattle likes to tell readers of interesting property deals as soon as they happen – if not before – so the words from Paradise Point on the Gold Coast is that Clive Palmer has spent $1.75 million for another house in his portfolio. The seller, who wanted $4.5 million in 2009, was Fred Taplin, who headed Gold Coast Galaxy's tilt at an A-League franchise, which lost out to Palmer's Gold Coast United.
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; float: left; margin: 5px;" src="/images/stories/flagtitletat.jpg">And don’t say that Title Tattle told you, but Eileen Bond really wanted to buy her neighbouring Gladswood Gardens, Double Bay apartment, which came up for the first time in almost three decades. She didn't secure it, and although some considerable mystery surrounds the sale of the two-level 450-square-metre apartment in a 1930s Art Deco block, it went to an expat, who no doubt will shortly introduce himself to the effervescent owner in the block. It was being sold under instructions of The Trust Company through McGrath agent Peter Starr in conjunction with Harriet France. Title Tattle gathers it fetched close to $4.7 million, but we are not sure to whom. It last sold for $780,000 in 1982. Eileen “Red” Bond paid $1.22 million in 1986 for the top floor and then paid $675,000 in 1987 for the middle apartment in the triplex.
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Global ethical investor Peter Hall decides to stay in London and lists Double Bay's historic Customs House: Title Tattle

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november18cunana]}
Cunana, the iconic property situated on the Mornington Peninsula in Merricks, has been listed with $12 million plus hopes.
It was completed in 2007, after four years of planning and construction, to a design by architect Alfred de Bruyne of SJB Architects, with SJB Interiors completing the interior design.
Its deluxe design was no doubt influenced by the vendor, who held a senior position at a leading luxury hotel and resort group for many years.
Tom Ormerod from Knight Frank says extensive use of glass had created an intimate relationship between the house and its surroundings. The three glass sides offer three different views of the ocean, vineyards and rolling hills.
Rammed earth bricks, which were made on site using Victorian earth and clay, have been juxtaposed with glass to create clean lines and an original design. Grey ironbark has been used throughout the house, including the flooring timber, bookshelves and pool surround.
The highly skilled art of Venetian stucco work has been applied to the internal walls to give the plaster a marble-like sheen. The property sleeps 14 people, including a master suite with dressing room and two self-contained apartments, which would be suitable for families, long-term guests or live-in staff.
Five kitchens and two large terraces offer entertaining opportunities. There’s an indoor pool, gym, and games room complete with arcade machines and a private cinema. The house sits in 11 hectares of land on one of the highest points of the peninsula and includes two hectares of landscaped gardens, orchards and a vegetable garden. There is also croquet lawn and a boule court.
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Iconic Alfred de Bruyne-designed Mornington Peninsula property on the market

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The liquidators and insurers of collapsed NSW building firm Cosmopolitan Constructions yesterday met the home owners of properties it was contracted to build.
An estimated 130 homes were affected by the collapse of the 47-year-old company, according to insurer’s estimates, and 150 people turned up to the meeting, which ran for more than two hours.
The NSW Fair Trading Department and the Home Warranty Insurance Fund organised the meeting after the collapse two weeks ago, to provide home owners with information on the effect of the liquidation on their home building projects.
After meeting creditors on Wednesday, Nicholas Malanos and Christopher Darin of Worrells Accountants met owners at Ridges Hotel in Rosehill.
In a statement on its website, Cosmopolitan said that during the last year it had remained profitable, but recently it has been slammed with “significant margin erosion” in its projects division.
At the creditors meeting legal representatives reiterated this, attributing the collapse to erosion of profit margin due to the company’s involvement with larger projects.
While most home owners were understandably concerned about the collapse there was a generally positive response to the work and activism of the insurance fund and agents, who advised those affected to file their insurance claims as soon as possible.
The homes affected were in various states of completion, with many now stranded midway through construction.
More than 90% of the people at the meeting were home owners affected by the collapse, the rest being sub-contractors and tradesmen keen to complete work on the projects and to get paid.
The liquidation will only affect Cosmopolitan’s NSW operations, according to Cosmopolitan website.
 
 
 
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Liquidators of collapsed Cosmopolitan Construction meet with home owners

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Secretive tactics by the POSCO Korean coal mining enterprise have shocked businessman Michael Ball, the vendor of a Southern Highlands property who thought he was selling his land to an agricultural company.
Ball found out the farm sold to shelf company Aurelius Rural Pty Ltd, which actually wanted to establish itself on the beef cattle farm for mining purposes. Wongonbra was marketed by estate agents as arguably the best available large rural landholding in the Southern Highlands.
"Well, clearly it's deceitful because they pretended all the way through the negotiations that they were solely interested in farming – cattle farming," Ball says.
"I expected them to be farmers with the long-term view to cutting it up into hundred-acre blocks as they said they would do," he told <a target="_blank" href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/today-tonight/celebrity/article/-/11767177/quest-for-coal">Channel 7 reporter Bryan Seymour</a>.
"Because this is our legacy, this is Australia, That's what we must pass on. Australia's long-term future is as a food bowl and as a place for visitors and for residents all of which have been endangered by this type of activity," Ball says. He has given support to the local Southern Highland Coal Action Group.
The retired advertising legend and Liberal Party stalwart thinks Australian politicians have gone “mining mad”.
The blue-ribbon conservative, who chairs the Bradman Foundation, suggests he’s become a radical activist.
Quentin Dempster on the ABC 7.30 Report noted the secretive practice had made the small community “more determined than ever to stop mining”.
The highlands coal sits underneath a water aquifer.
"No one has a clue of the geology of aquifers,” Ball told The Australian.
“Once fractured, there's no possibility for them to be fixed. You can't mine without fracturing the aquifer."
Peter Martin, a neighbour and the convener of the Southern Highland Coal Action Group, says governments are allowing miners to come into some of the best parts of Australia and “ruin them".
It's the latest action in a nationwide public fight against the coal mining industry.
"They're [the coal companies] not going to get there, they think they are and I'm saying to these people you might have a license, it's not worth two bob ‘cause you're going to have to run over the public first," 2GB broadcaster Alan Jones says. He has a home in the highlands, so will lead a weekend rally against the mining encroach.
"If this is the devious way these people are going about things, then the game is up.
“Overseas interests, a stack of them, Korean in particular and Chinese interests, Shen Wah and those companies, are buying prime agricultural land they will desecrate and despoil that land and at the end of thirty years when the license expires we'll be left, or our children will be left with the residue," Jones says.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/rural/coal-protesters-await-nicole-kidman-and-keith-urban-joining-their-fight/2011111652388">Property owners fighting coal seam gas mining exploration around precious aquifers of the Southern Highlands have been hoping – to no avail so far – that local rural estate owners Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban will soon join their battle.</a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/rural/wingecarribee-council-voices-opposition-to-coal-seam-gas-mining/2011111752417">Wingecarribee Shire Council also opposes the potential expansion of coal seam gas and new coal mining in the shire.</a>
 
 
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