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>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

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

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A guide for imminent and future retirees on superannuation investments has been released by ASIC.
<a target="_blank" href="#super">Financial Decisions at Retirement</a> helps people make informed decisions about super funds and investments and the financial choices available to people at retirement.
“It will help people decide what to do with their retirement nest egg. It has been extensively user-tested to ensure it meets the needs of people on the verge of retirement,” says ASIC chairman Greg Medcraft.
It details the basics of super funds including the different types available and how and when they can be accessed and then provides in-depth advice on financial decisions.
The guide includes tools for judging the performance of retirement investments, which gives advice on how to assess whether a fund will perform well.
It says past performance is no guarantee of future returns; today’s top-performing funds tend to fall back to the average over time, but consistent poor performance can prove hard to turn around.
As part of this guide it provides a worksheet for comparing three investment funds based on benefits, fees, insurance, investment options and performance.
An alternative to super fund companies is to run a self-managed investment fund, for which the guide recommends a minimum starting base of $250,000 to be successful.
An overview of investment strategies is presented that defines growth, balanced, conservative and cash strategies and how they distribute investment. The guide says growth funds, with their high percentage of investment in property and stocks, have historically given the best returns, and cash funds are only slightly better than inflation.
Many people work several jobs in their lives and opt for the default super funds in each instance, leading to many super accounts. The guide explores how to merge many super accounts and discusses how to find lost super funds. It says 6.4 million accounts totalling $12.9 billion are lost or in inactive accounts.
There are certain circumstances where access to super funds is granted before preservation age, and the guide lists these conditions, which can include severe financial hardship.
Alongside this launch ASIC has updated its <a target="_blank" href="https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/tools-and-resources/calculators-and-tools/retirement-planner?gclid=COWm2r2NqKwCFURNpgodvlD-1g">MoneySmart Retirement Planner</a>, an online calculator that shows people how to boost their retirement savings.
“The MoneySmart Retirement Planner provides people with an estimate of how much they are likely to have in every year of retirement and even calculates the best way to make extra super contributions,” Medcraft says.
The calculator works out your super balance at retirement and then works out the impact of fees and additional contributions on that balance.
“People need reliable and trustworthy information to help them make confident and informed choices for their retirement money. The new tools are easy to use and empower people to get the most out their retirement income,” says Paul Clitheroe, chairman of the Australian Government Financial Literacy Board.
 
 
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ASIC releases super guide and compares SMSF with other funds

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NSW Fair Trading now believes somewhere between $500,000 and $1 million is unaccounted for after initial investigations into the LJ Hooker Surry Hills real estate agency.
Following allegations of trust account deficiencies, the Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe says his agency is investigating irregularities in the trust accounts operated by CBD Commercial Pty Ltd, trading as LJ Hooker Surry Hills.
The estimate was confirmed to Property Observer, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/office-of-fair-trading-investigating-lj-hooker-surry-hills-over-trust-account-deficiency-allegations/2011110752232" target="_blank">which published details on the matter on Monday</a>.
Fair Trading appointed an independent manager who went in to operate the agency on Friday, November 4.
The agency operates out of 437 Crown Street, Surry Hills, whose landlord claims he’s owed unpaid rent.
Stowe says any clients of the real estate agency – landlords or buyers and sellers – should contact the independent manager as matter of urgency.
“In particular, this applies to anyone who has purchased a property or entered into a lease using this agency.”
 
 
 
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Between $500,000 and $1 million unaccounted at LJ Hooker Surry Hills: NSW Fair Trading

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The Iowa farm that featured in the 1989 movie Field of Dreams has been sold, according to The New York Times.
Hundreds of thousands of fans have since come to the property to run the bases, walk in the cornfields and soak up the feel of the place, which the <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/30/sports/baseball/field-of-dreams-setting-tourist-magnet-in-iowa-is-to-be-sold?pagewanted=all" target="_blank">NYT </a>notes looks much as it did in the film starring Kevin Costner. Costner stars as Iowa farmer Ray Kinsella, who hears the mysterious words "If you build it, he will come," and is compelled to build a baseball diamond in the middle of his cornfield.
<img src="/images/stories/fieldofdreams.jpg">
The farm property was listed in May 2010 for $5.4 million, with the vendors, the Lansing family, wanting to sell only to someone who would preserve the authenticity of the field, which has been free to visitors. After considering many offers and even inviting Costner to bid on the property, the Lansings after 105 years ownership have sold to Mike and Denise Stillman, who assembled a group called Go the Distance Baseball L.L.C., borrowing a line from the movie. The parties did not disclose the sale price. The new owners say they plan to develop the site as a baseball and softball complex, with multiple fields and an indoor training facility. The Stillmans plan to leave the field much as it was when Ray Liotta portrayed Shoeless Joe Jackson there.
<img src="/images/stories/fieldofdreamsposter.jpg">
The bleachers erected by Ray Kinsella, Costner’s character, will continue to stand near first base. The white house with the wraparound porch and the white picket fence will still overlook the field. It was all built by the movie studio in a few days for a film based on a fictional story about players from 70 years earlier. Farms prices near the 78-hectare farm near Dyersville Iowa have ranged, according to the Dubuque Telegraph Herald, for anywhere from $19,165 per hectare to as much as $85,604 per hectare for an improved property.
<img src="/images/stories/fieldofdreamssign.jpg">
The Des Moines Register reported recently the Realtors Land Institute estimated the average value of high-quality cropland in northeast Iowa at about $17,297 per hectare which would have put the value of the property as farmland at about $1.35 million. The asking price reflected its status as a tourist attraction. The Lansings sold souvenirs but never charged admission.
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If you list it: Iowa Field of Dreams property sold to baseball fans

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The Federal Court in Brisbane has imposed penalties against three Queensland construction companies for engaging in illegal price controlling conduct known in the construction industry as cover pricing.
The conduct related to tenders for three state government construction projects in Queensland and one local government project. The projects were Rockhampton Airport, the Jilalan Inspection Shed, the Callemondah project, and the West Pacific Pines Project.
Justice John Logan imposed penalties against each company to be paid in instalments over 24 months – JM Kelly (Project Builders) Pty Ltd – $600,000; TF Woollam and Son Pty Ltd – $450,000; and Carmichael Builders Pty Ltd – $250,000.
“The conduct here is aptly described as price-controlling behaviour,” Logan noted.
“It is a form of collusive tendering and an unlawful civil conspiracy.”
Cover pricing involves discussions between two potential suppliers (in this case builders) in a tender process.
Company A does not want to win the contract for reasons identified above and so asks company B (which intends to make a genuine tender) to provide them with a “cover price”.
Both companies understand that this “cover price” will be higher than company B’s tender price.
Once the cover price has been received from company B, company A (should it choose to tender) then submits its tender to the client at a price, which is at or above the cover price. This gives the client the impression that both companies are tendering competitively, but the exchange of the cover price actually ensures that company A's tender price is higher than that of company B and therefore makes it unlikely that company A will be the successful tenderer.
This type of conduct sends to those in, materially, the state government or a local government sectors false signals about price or about a range of prices for a particular building works.
“It creates an illusion both as to range of prices and as to the existence of a particular level of competition," the judge said.
"In the particular context in which the conduct occurred in relation to the state government projects, the conduct also involved a betrayal of trust,” Logan found.
ACCC chairman Rod Sims says the decision shows that cover pricing is illegal and building companies that continue with the practice can expect the ACCC to ensure that the law was enforced.
“The penalties imposed here should be a wake-up call for the construction industry that cover pricing is not a legitimate business strategy,” Sims says.
It was alleged by the ACCC to have been used in situations where a construction company might not have the time, resources or inclination to prepare an accurate tender, but still wanted to be seen as tendering for that project.
The penalties follow earlier findings made by the court in August 2011 that between 2004 and 2007, TF Woollam and Son Pty Ltd, JM Kelly (Project Builders) Pty Ltd and Carmichael Builders Pty Ltd engaged in “cover pricing” in relation to the tenders for four government construction projects.
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Three Queensland construction companies nailed for illegal collusion

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november9kiloren]}
Kiloren, the six-hectare Crookwell property with a mostly intact Edna Walling garden, has been listed for sale. It has been in the care of gardening author Jennie Churchill and her husband, vet Rob Churchill, for almost three decades. It was installed by Walling in 1951 around the three-bedroom, three-bathroom house designed by architect John Mansfield for the Broadbent family. Its classic Walling features include basalt walls and pathways softened by relaxed planting.
Walling described it as one of her less formal designs. She believed that landscape architects should be involved from the earliest stage of the project. She worked around the house under construction on a bare hillside with just one tree. Bringing plants from her own nursery at Bickleigh Vale, near Melbourne, Walling was familiar with the climate and the district given her Markdale, Binda commission for the Ashton family in the late 1940s.
Following its 1982 purchase, Kiloren became the impetus for Jennie's gardening career, including co-authoring two books on Walling.
Offers of about $1.5 million are being sought by Tronn Alstergren of Tronn Alstergren Real Estate Goulburn or at $1.25 million without the cottage that sits on the border of the grounds.
“The top of the property overlooks the township of Crookwell to the hills and slopes of the Southern Tablelands beyond, while the lovely home nestles into the hillside, sheltered and hidden by its magnificent garden,” Alstergren says.
“A visit to Kiloren is essential to appreciate the property's extraordinarily peaceful and private atmosphere, the feeling that you have entered a different, gentler world,” he adds.
The Churchills plan to spend spare time in Tasmania. Churchill published the 1998 book The Vision of Edna Walling: Garden Plans 1920-1951 with Trisha Dixon.
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Southern Tablelands property with Edna Walling garden listed 

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<img src="/images/stories/village1.jpg">
A picturesque village that dates back to the Domesday Book has been listed for sale. Askham Richard has been put up for sale by its landlord through Jasper Feilding, head of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.carterjonas.co.uk/properties-for-sale/yorkshire/MAY110047?search=farmsAndEstates">Carter Jonas's London country department</a>.
<img src="/images/stories/village2.jpg">
It has been instructed to sell all of the farms and residential properties that make up the North Yorkshire estate, complete with shooting rights to its 324 hectares. It’s priced at £6.5 million.
<img src="/images/stories/village3.jpg">
It comes with two let farms, 22 hectares of woodland and 14 let residential properties with a current gross rental income of £155,000 a year, comprising £99,900 in residential rents and £51,800 in agricultural rents. The 324-hectare estate was built up in the late 19th century by Sir Andrew Fairbairn, a Liberal MP who died in 1901. 
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English village put up for sale

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november8trincomalee]}
Trincomalee, an 1890s stone and timber house on 4,300 square metres at Lovett Bay, Pittwater, has been listed for sale with price hopes of more than $3 million. It was owned for many decades by the Foy retailing family.
On Rocky Point between Elvina and Lovett bays, Trincomalee was once often visited by Juanita Nielsen, the Kings Cross newspaper proprietor who disappeared in the 1970s during the fight to save Victoria Street, Potts Point. It’s been listed for sale by the Macorison family through Mary Rowley of Belle Property Mona Vale-Bayview.
It last traded when the Macorisons paid $135,000 in 1978 to the executors of the estate of the late Neil Smith, the father of Juanita Nielsen. It comes with a self-contained cottage, studio, boatshed, jetty, sandy beach and rock pool, all in a pristine bushland setting.
In the 1880s the area was a prolific orchard of figs, lemons, oranges, grapes and olives. Pittwater was popular with Sydney's early retailers.
Maritana, another 1920s Pittwater retreat at Elvina Bay, was built using jarrah, kauri and spotted gum by the Gibsons of retailers Foy &amp; Gibson. Set on about a 240-square-metre holding with 52-metre waterfront, boatshed, jetty and beach, the Vogue Living-featured residence traded in 1992 at $1 million when bought by recruitment executive Chris Aston James and his wife, Angela, from furniture maker Antony Loneragan and his wife, Elaine, who engaged local architect Dermer Bennett after it was traded at $324,000 in 1983.
It was built 1891 by the Stefani family. As one member was a pianist it came with elevated music room. It was bought by the Mark Foy family in 1926, who changed its name from the Red House to Trincomalee – meaning a view from three points – after they holidayed in Ceylon.
 
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Juanita Nielsen's former Pittwater holiday home, with Foy retailing links, listed for sale

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Lonely Planet has named Darwin as one of the top 10 cities in the world to visit, suggesting the tourism and hotel industry could be set for a boost in the Northern Territory capital. 

It was the only Australian city to rate a mention in the Best in Travel publication’s top 10. 
Darwin came in last behind big names like London, Muscat, Bangalore, Cadiz, Stockholm, Guimaraes, Santiago, Hong Kong and Orlando. 
Lonely Planet described Darwin as a “hip city to visit” with a “pumping nocturnal scene, magical markets and world-class wilderness down the road”. 
As tourism operators struggle to cope with the high Australian dollar and the growing appeal of cheap Asian holidays, perhaps Darwin represents some hope for the leisure sector.
This article originally appeared on<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.startupsmart.com.au/business-ideas/darwin-tourism-just-dandy/201111074455"> StartupSmart.</a>
 
 
 
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Darwin named one of top 10 cities for tourists

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/november7raeburn]}
Descendants of the pioneer Chisholm family have listed South Raeburn, their 632-hectare NSW farm.
The Breadalbane property has had the single family ownership since colonial settlement.
The Chisholm family opened up the Goulburn district and once commanded a grazing run that extended over 100,000 acres (about 40,470 hectares). Their family ownership commenced with the original selection at Kippilaw at Goulburn in the 1830s when James Chisholm and his wife, Elizabeth, moved to the Goulburn district, taking up a grant of 1,280 acres (518 hectares) given to her as a marriage portion from Governor Ralph Darling , a custom begun by Governor Lachlan Macquarie for settlers on their marriage.
Carrying a 6,500 dry sheep equivalent producing prime lambs, wool and beef, and with a history of growing high-yielding cereals, canola and forage crops, South Raeburn has been listed for December 15 auction through Tronn Alstergren of Tronn Alstergren Real Estate inc onjunction with  Col Medway from Landmark Copeland Medway.
It is located 20 minutes from Goulburn,  40 minutes to Canberra and two hours 15 minutes to Sydney.
The agents sold North Raeburn last year for $2.4 million, also on behalf of Chisholm family descendants. It too was an original land grant and had been in the Chisholm family since the early 1800s. The 770-hectare North Raeburn was reluctantly offered by descendants of James Chisholm only to finalise family succession plans. It was bought by the Newby family.
The historic Goulburn district homestead Kippilaw, set on 160 hectares, has only had the three owners. Until 1989 it was owned by the descendants of James and Eizabeth Chisholm. In 1989 it was bought from James Triggs, who had inherited it from the last of the Chisholms, Tom Chisholm.
Chris Meares, of Meares &amp; Associates, secured $2.6 million  in 1997 for the colonial mansion that dates back to the 1830s when James and Elizabeth Chisholm took up a 1,280 acre (517 hectare) grant.
Kippilaw was named by Elizabeth after her birthplace in Scotland, Kippilaw, near Melrose Abbey. Its meaning comes from “Kippi” which is Pictish for "little" and "law" which is Saxon for "hill".
Set at the end of an avenue of oak trees, the house looks over Italian-style gardens and the Wollondilly River.
The property also features a seven-bedroom shearers' quarters, a two-bedroom schoolhouse, a two-bedroom guest cottage and a 20-pew private church, St James, which contains a cairn built of stones said to include some from the cave that sheltered Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1745.
At the back of the Kippilaw property is an 1840s coach house that could hold four coaches.
Mary Durack, in her seminal Australian pioneering history Kings in Grass Castles, devotes pages to the generosity of the Chisholms at Kippilaw.
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Chisholm descendants list Goulburn district property after 180 years of family ownership

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NSW Fair Trading is investigating a Surry Hills real estate franchise following allegations of trust account deficiencies.
Fair Trading Commissioner Rod Stowe says his agency is investigating irregularities in the trust accounts operated by CBD Commercial Pty Ltd, trading as LJ Hooker Surry Hills.
The agency operates out of 437 Crown Street, Surry Hills.
Fair Trading has appointed an independent manager who went into operate the agency on Friday November 4.
Stowe says clients of the real estate agency should contact the independent manager as matter of urgency.
“In particular, this applies to anyone who has purchased a property or entered into a lease using this agency.”
Stowe says Fair Trading had responsibilities under the Property, Stock and Business Agents Act and associated legislation, such as the Residential Tenancies Act, to protect property buyers, sellers, tenants and landlords.
<img style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial;" src="/images/stories/ljsurry2.jpg">
The internet page of the office licensee is offline, although the agency office website is still operative.
For more information about Fair Trading visit the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au">department's website</a>.
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