The Gold Coast economy has grown by 25 per cent since 2020/21 to surpass $55 billion, but perhaps the more significant story is what sits behind the headline number.

For decades, the Gold Coast has been viewed through the lens of tourism, lifestyle and population growth. The latest State of the City Report suggests that perception is increasingly out of step with reality.

Released by Invest Gold Coast, the report ranks the Gold Coast as Australia's largest non-capital city economy and, perhaps more notably, second nationally behind Sydney for Economic Complexity, a measure that assesses the diversity and sophistication of an economy.

It's a result that places the Gold Coast ahead of Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, highlighting the extent to which the city's economic base has broadened beyond its traditional industries.

Today, the Gold Coast supports more than 350,000 jobs, is home to over 83,000 businesses and generates $19 billion in annual exports. Manufacturing now accounts for 62 per cent of international export growth, while sectors including health, education, advanced manufacturing, technology and professional services are becoming increasingly important contributors to the local economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the report confirmed the city's evolution into one of Australia's most significant economies.

"The Gold Coast economy continues to grow at an incredible pace. This is no surprise to those of us who have watched the evolution up close," Mayor Tate said.

"As one of the most entrepreneurial, investment driven and opportunity focused economies in the country our ambition has been realised and possibilities are endless.

"The Gold Coast has built a reputation as the city that says yes. We say yes to investment, yes to opportunity and yes to people who want to build something.

"It's this mindset helping us drive major growth across health, advanced manufacturing, screen production, marine, technology and the knowledge economy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360975]

While population growth has been one of the defining stories of the past decade, the report points to a broader economic transformation taking place.

The city's knowledge economy now contributes $7.9 billion annually and supports around 31,000 jobs, while the health and wellbeing sector contributes $5.2 billion and employs more than 42,000 people. Together, the six priority sectors identified in the report account for almost $24 billion in economic output and more than 145,000 jobs.

One of the strongest examples is the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct at Southport. The 200-hectare precinct now contains more than $5 billion worth of health, education, research and innovation infrastructure and supports over 16,000 jobs.

The report also highlights the growing role of advanced manufacturing, particularly in aerospace, defence and modular construction.

Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space Technologies recently became the first Australian commercial company to attempt an orbital launch, while companies including Modscape and ModnPods are helping establish the Yatala-Stapylton corridor as one of Australia's fastest-growing advanced manufacturing hubs.

The city's entrepreneurial culture is also translating into business growth.

Since 2019/20, the number of businesses operating on the Gold Coast has increased by 22 per cent, while firms employing more than 200 people have grown by 80 per cent. The report suggests the next challenge is converting more local start-ups and medium-sized businesses into nationally significant companies.

Development activity remains another key indicator of confidence.

There are currently more than $23 billion worth of major projects underway across the Gold Coast, supported by a record 75 active cranes, a figure that now exceeds Brisbane and represents a 150 per cent increase since 2016.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112024 project_image_fid=343235]

Importantly, the report notes the next phase of investment will need to extend beyond residential development.

While 93 per cent of crane activity is currently tied to housing, Invest Gold Coast argues future investment will increasingly need to focus on cultural, civic, infrastructure and industry-enabling projects that strengthen the city's long-term economic resilience.

Invest Gold Coast Chair Will Hodgman said the city was now benefiting from years of economic diversification.

"What is happening on the Gold Coast is the result of the city's economic base broadening, fuelled by industries with long-term, high-growth potential," Mr Hodgman said.

"This is no longer a secondary Australian economy, the Gold Coast is becoming a globally connected city with deeper capability across health, knowledge and creative industries, advanced manufacturing, technology and exports."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365786]

Looking ahead, the Gold Coast's population is projected to exceed one million residents by 2046.

For a city that was once largely defined by tourism and lifestyle, the latest figures suggest the Gold Coast is becoming something more significant, one of Australia's most diverse and economically sophisticated urban economies, and increasingly one that national and international investors can no longer afford to overlook.

Joel Robinson

75 cranes, $23 billion pipeline and a $55 billion economy: Inside the Gold Coast economic boom

Ron Bakir's Homecorp has sold more than 75 per cent of the apartments in its wellness-driven Florence Residences in Surfers Paradise following its first weekend release.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/florence-residences-24-monte-carlo-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">26-storey project on Monte Carlo Avenue</a>, which commenced construction earlier this year, has seen a flurry of buyers secure their slice of the Gold Coast's latest wellbeing-focused offering in one of the nation's most competitive property markets.

Since the pandemic, the Gold Coast's population has grown by more than 11 per cent, a rate approximately four times faster than Sydney's, driven largely by lifestyle changes and interstate migration. While buyer activity has moderated in some markets nationally, demand for newly built dwellings on the Gold Coast continues to gain momentum as purchasers increasingly prioritise lifestyle, amenity, wellbeing, liveability and long-term investment potential.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372743]

Homecorp CEO Ron Bakir says buyers today are looking for more than just a home.

"What we are seeing is a shift in how people define value in property," Bakir says.

"What attracts residents to new developments is a desire for more than just a residence. They are looking for a place that complements their lifestyle, supports their wellbeing and reflects the way they want to live into the future.

"Lifestyle, longevity, proactive health, wellbeing, connection and a sense of community are increasingly shaping purchasing decisions, particularly on the Gold Coast, where these factors continue to be a major drawcard."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372744]

Bakir says Homecorp is responding to this shift through an approach that places greater emphasis on design, amenity and experience working together to create places that feel considered, connected and enduring in value.

Inspired by Eastern European design, Florence Residences will comprise 120 apartments alongside a private residents-only wellness club featuring a resort-style rooftop pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a spa retreat, contemporary gymnasium, and a spacious yoga and Pilates studio.

The development will also feature a residents-only lounge with private dining facilities and a rooftop bar, premium outdoor entertaining areas, a hotel-style lobby lounge, generous bike parking, and pet-friendly amenities including a heated dog wash.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372742]

A limited number of apartments remain available, with an exclusive collection of four-bedroom sub-penthouses set to be released in the coming months.

Florence is one of the latest additions to Homecorp's expanding multi-billion-dollar property portfolio, which also includes plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/homecorp-lodges-plans-for-260-million-moroccan-bathhouse-inspired-tower-in-budds-beach">$260 million development in Budds Beach</a> tailored to the growing wellness market.

A development application has been lodged for a 27-storey, 156-residence tower at 8–10 Acacia Avenue and 25–27 Oak Avenue, featuring a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired sanctuary.

Apartments at Florence Residences are priced from $1,249,000, with construction expected to be completed by late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150414]

Buyers rush to Homecorp's Florence Residences as Gold Coast wellness trend gains momentum

The NSW Government has expanded its $1 billion Pre-sale Finance Guarantee program, broadening access for affordable housing providers and smaller residential developments as it seeks to accelerate housing delivery across the state.

The Minns Government says the program has already helped bring forward more than 600 homes across Sydney and regional NSW since launching in September 2025, with similar models now adopted in South Australia and Western Australia.

The latest changes, announced by Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, are designed to improve access to finance for projects that have planning approval but are struggling to secure funding.

Among the key changes is an expansion of support for community housing providers. The program will now support up to 100 per cent affordable housing projects valued at up to $30 million when delivered by not-for-profit providers, while support for larger affordable housing developments will increase for projects worth up to $80 million.

The government says the changes will help accelerate the delivery of housing for low-income workers, older people, people living with disability, and those at risk of homelessness, while reducing reliance on direct grants or subsidised loans to bridge funding gaps.

The eligibility criteria for smaller residential developments have also been broadened. The previous $5 million minimum project value threshold has been removed and replaced with a requirement that projects deliver at least four homes.

Support has also increased for projects delivering fewer than 20 homes, with the guarantee now able to cover up to 75 per cent of dwellings in a development, capped at $30 million per project.

The changes are expected to particularly benefit smaller-scale and regional developments, which often face greater challenges meeting pre-sale requirements imposed by lenders.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the scheme demonstrates how government can use its balance sheet to stimulate housing supply without relying solely on taxpayer-funded grants.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee shows how this Government is using its balance sheet to reduce risk and unlock private investment, enabling new homes to move from design to construction faster," Mookhey said.

"This landmark reform allows us to deliver homes for working families at a lower cost to taxpayers, while also maintaining strong financial discipline."

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the program had already proven effective in bringing stalled projects to market.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee has already proven it can unlock stalled projects and accelerate housing delivery by giving lenders the confidence they need to back good developments," Scully said.

"These changes will allow more affordable housing and smaller developments to access support so more homes can be built faster where communities need them most."

Housing Minister Rose Jackson said the expansion would help community housing providers overcome financing barriers that often delay projects.

"We know community housing providers are ready to build more homes, too often they're held back by barriers to finance," Jackson said.

"Expanding the Pre-sale Finance Guarantee helps remove those barriers so more affordable homes can get off the ground sooner."

The announcement was welcomed by the Property Council of Australia, which has long advocated for measures aimed at improving project feasibility and access to finance.

Property Council NSW Executive Director Katie Stevenson described the expansion as a practical intervention that addresses one of the most immediate constraints on housing delivery.

"This is exactly the kind of practical intervention we need right now, focused on getting projects out of the ground, not just approved," Stevenson said.

"It builds on a model the Property Council has worked closely with government to develop following calls for such a scheme ahead of last year's NSW Budget, so it's great to see it being expanded."

Stevenson said the reforms would help unlock projects that are ready to proceed but have been delayed by financing challenges. However, she noted that broader feasibility issues remain a significant barrier to increasing housing supply.

"The biggest challenge in NSW housing today is delivery. Too many projects have planning approval but are simply not financially viable to proceed under current settings," she said.

Speaking at the Property Council's NSW Housing Summit, Housing Minister Rose Jackson acknowledged that feasibility and financing pressures continue to constrain housing delivery, while reaffirming the government's commitment to work with industry on solutions.

Stevenson said the government's recognition of those challenges was encouraging ahead of next week's state budget.

"It's positive to see the government clearly recognising that feasibility pressures are now a binding constraint on supply," she said.

"With the Budget just days away, the focus must be on backing delivery, making sure projects stack up, finance can flow, and more homes can move from approval to construction."

The expanded Pre-sale Finance Guarantee forms part of the NSW Government's broader housing agenda, which also includes planning reforms, the NSW Housing Pattern Book, and a series of rezonings intended to increase housing capacity across the state.

NSW expands Pre-sale Finance Guarantee to unlock more affordable and regional housing

Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372212]

Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372227]

Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372225]

While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372222]

The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146717]

Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6395]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6399]

Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=353235]

A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6390]

“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

The Walden pairs house-scale living with North Sydney connectivity

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?

Apartments account for just 15 per cent of total dwelling stock in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/balwyn-vic-3103">Balwyn</a>, reinforcing the suburb’s long-standing identity as a low-density, detached housing area.

As a result, new apartment development has historically been limited in both volume and density. For homeowners considering a move out of larger family houses, options that maintain a residential setting while offering a genuine alternative to detached living have remained relatively scarce.

One of the most recent apartment developments completed in the suburb is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/threadneedle-balwyn-1-5-threadneedle-street-balwyn-vic-3103">Threadneedle</a>, a boutique project named after its location on the tree-lined Threadneedle Street. There are just 17 residences across two low-rise buildings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355605]

Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wulff-projects">Wulff Projects</a> in partnership with PGA Group, the project has been deliberately limited in scale, with just eight and nine residences per building, reflecting an approach more closely aligned with long-term owner-occupiers than higher-density apartment models.

At Threadneedle, the shift to apartment living has been approached as a recalibration rather than a compromise. The project is shaped around maintaining space, privacy and amenity while reducing the ongoing upkeep associated with a traditional family home, a balance that increasingly defines downsizing decisions in established suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355584]

Rather than maximising yield, the design prioritises spatial comfort and landscape, with more than one-third of the site dedicated to gardens by Ben Scott Garden Design.

This emphasis on greenery creates separation between buildings, reinforces privacy and establishes a sense of domestic calm that mirrors the garden settings many residents are accustomed to.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=197163]

That residential character continues through the architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, which draws directly from the surrounding neighbourhood where many homes date back to the interwar period. The buildings are conceived as traditional residences rather than a single apartment form, allowing them to sit comfortably within the existing streetscape.

“Given the quiet residential character of the street, we approached Threadneedle wanting it to appear less as a collection of apartments and more as a traditional residence,” said John Scaramuzzino, director at Bruce Henderson Architects. “That led to creating two buildings that could breathe, with larger garden-based apartments functioning more like small homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=197161]

Inside, the residences are defined by proportions and layouts more commonly associated with houses than apartments, reinforcing the project’s alignment with buyers transitioning from detached living. All homes are three-bedroom configurations, many incorporating dedicated studies designed as separate rooms rather than adapted corners. Living areas extend to generous terraces or courtyards, while three-metre-high ceilings, oversized internal doors and full-height glazing enhance openness and natural light without sacrificing privacy.

“The interior design evolved from the architecture and garden setting,” said Chantelle Sinnott of Bruce Henderson Interiors. “We wanted to create spaces that feel connected to nature, with flexibility and functionality that supports how people actually live.”

Each residence has been individually planned to maximise privacy and outlooks, with garden views prioritised across multiple aspects. Parking and storage are treated as essential components rather than secondary considerations, aligning with expectations shaped by years of living in detached homes and reinforcing the project’s house-like approach to apartment living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27816 project_image_fid=355565]

Together, these characteristics, generous internal space, private outdoor areas, low-density form and a strong connection to landscape, closely mirror the qualities many downsizers seek as they transition out of family homes, without requiring a departure from the neighbourhoods they know.

Leafy streets, village-scale retail and established community networks underpin daily life, while access to public transport along Whitehorse Road and nearby parklands supports walkability and convenience. For many residents, the ability to remain within a familiar suburb is central to the downsizing decision.

With construction now complete, a limited number of residences remain available, including a top-floor penthouse offering single-level living with three bedrooms, a dedicated study and expansive terraces.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=27816]

Why downsizers are choosing Threadneedle, Balwyn's newest apartment development

Twelve multimillion-dollar homes on one of Mosman's last large consolidated residential blocks are set to make way for The Oswald, a 103-apartment development that puts the suburb's Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms to their most visible test yet.

The site at 42A-52 Rangers Avenue and 21-31 Brierley Street was assembled last year for a reported $86 million by entities linked to Arissa Group and its director Frank Scarf.

The consolidated 5,638 sqm block, bounded by Rangers Avenue to the north and Brierley Street to the south, with Cartreff Lane running along its eastern edge, gives the project an unusual three-street presence and a site footprint that is rare for the Lower North Shore.

<img alt="First Look: The Oswald rises from Mosman's $86 million supersite" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="19dd6171-74ed-4e39-83a2-6c4f45057c7c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mosman%20a.png?VersionId=F.7cdgrjPHdF8VdabP2m3g9NPIcdFRe5" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> has designed a six and seven-storey building that steps across the sloping site in a U-shaped form, with the gap between the two arms of the building opening inward toward a central communal space that includes a pool and landscaped garden.&nbsp;

The form is explicitly drawn from the material language of the surrounding streets: a brick base articulated into finer-grain bays that roughly match the width of the bungalows being replaced, stepping up and down with the natural fall of the land rather than imposing a uniform datum.&nbsp;

Upper levels set back further from the street edge, keeping the building's presence lower and more domestic at the perimeter while the bulk consolidates toward the centre of the site.

The 103 apartments span a mix of 14 one-bedroom, 58 two-bedroom, 29 three-bedroom and two four-bedroom homes, spread across three basement levels that also accommodate 198 car spaces accessed from Cartreff Lane.

<img alt="First Look: The Oswald rises from Mosman's $86 million supersite" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1e5e5ea1-96d3-4d3f-a872-ab202450bf4e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Mosman%20b.png?VersionId=L43LKdPuoUiKYTtIdtaefVivyTrvlcVo" />

The site sits within easy walking distance of Cremorne town centre to the west, where the Spofforth Street strip offers cafes, grocers and everyday retail.&nbsp;

The Cremorne Point ferry wharf puts the CBD roughly 20 minutes away by water, with bus services along Military Road providing additional links across the Lower North Shore.&nbsp;

Mosman is going through a wave of new apartment projects, with the likes of Abadeen, WINIM, DARE, and Toohey Miller with apartment developments underway and in planning.

The Oswald apartments pitched as Mosman density-push continues

High-rise developer Level 33 is continuing to venture out of its Wollongong heartland.

The developer, which has several projects completed, underway, and planned in the third-largest city in New South Wales, is heading to Homebush, where it plans to develop more than 300 apartments across two towers.

Like most developers, it has sought approval through the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority, filing a State Significant Development Application for the $127.6 million project.

The DKO-designed towers, 27 and 35 storeys in height, will replace seven detached homes. The apartments will sit above a four-storey podium, which will be crowned with a pool, dining areas, and landscaped spaces.

<img alt="17-24 Loftus Cr, Homebush" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="28be85ce-0e00-495d-9528-b9ca3f85e583" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/perspective_4.png?VersionId=N6zmNAUwvZOElnX6IgLOEeON7yaoBx0p" />

According to the Urban Design Report prepared by DKO Architecture, the proposal “supports residential growth with housing diversity” and is designed to “create inviting, safe public spaces with strong environmental amenity that encourage social interaction and pedestrian movement”.

Level 33, founded by Eddy Haddad, has thousands of apartments in the pipeline. They have their 500-plus-unit WIN Grand redevelopment, and another 900 units to be developed in replace of the old Bunnings Warehouse on the corner of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/60-74-flinders-street-wollongong">Gipps and Flinders Streets</a>.

They are soon to launch their second stage of their Kogarah development, and will also hope to&nbsp;launch Summit Wollongong, later this year, pending approvals to upsize the development to have over 330 apartments. Also set to hit the market is their boutique Kiama development, Elan.

Level 33 adds to 2,000-unit pipeline with new two-tower Homebush plans

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/consolidated-properties">Consolidated Properties Group</a> (CPG) has unveiled Gloriette, its new 25-storey luxury residential tower set to rise within its Yeerongpilly Green (YG) precinct in Brisbane’s inner south.&nbsp;

Designed by award winning architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gloriette-30-bedivere-street-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Gloriette</a> will deliver 181 luxury two- and three bedroom apartments on King Arthur Terrace, offering uninterrupted views across the Brisbane River, Indooroopilly Golf Course and the Brisbane CBD.&nbsp;

The reveal of the project follows its development approval by Brisbane City Council within the evolving <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/yeerongpilly-green-21-queens-way-yeerongpilly-qld-4105">Yeerongpilly Green</a> masterplanned community late last year.&nbsp;

The formal market launch will be later this year.

The name “Gloriette” is drawn from classical European architecture, referring to a garden pavilion traditionally set within palace landscapes.&nbsp;

CPG says its choice reflects Gloriette’s strong connection to landscape, outlook and amenity, with refined architecture complemented by lush gardens, exceptional rooftop facilities and an emphasis on light, views and liveability.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=359985]

Set on a 4,323 sqm site, Gloriette has been designed to integrate with its surroundings, prioritising green space and community connection with more than 2,000 sqm of landscaped gardens to surround the tower, creating privately owned, publicly accessible parkland. Located within one of Brisbane’s 2032 Olympic Games precincts, the development is literally minutes’ walk of the future Olympic tennis venue and the upgraded Yeerongpilly Cross River Rail station.&nbsp;

CPG Head of Residential James MacGinley says Gloriette represents a defining addition to the Yeerongpilly Green precinct.&nbsp;

Gloriette is a natural evolution of Yeerongpilly Green and our commitment to creating places where people genuinely love to live,” MacGinley said.&nbsp;

“The views from Gloriette will be unlike anything else in Brisbane. Elevated northern aspects taking in two reaches of the Brisbane River, Indooroopilly and Brisbane golf courses, the city skyline and Mt Coot-tha are exceptionally rare. We expect buyers will immediately recognise the uniqueness of this opportunity.&nbsp;

“The generous apartment sizes will appeal to people looking to downsize without compromise, offering luxury, spacious, light filled apartment living without the intensity of inner-city congestion.

“Developments like Gloriette also play an important role in addressing Brisbane’s housing needs, with the potential to free up 181 houses for local families.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150713 project_image_fid=359988]

Gloriette will complement the award-winning YG Riverside Village, home to Woolworths, Goodlife Health Clubs, new Doctors surgery and a growing dining precinct that continues to attract locals and visitors alike.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> has been appointed as builder, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a> International confirmed as sales agent. A dedicated display suite is scheduled to open for the public launch in the second half of 2026 in a heritage-listed Queenslander opposite the site.&nbsp;

Andrew Scriven, Director of Residential at Colliers International, says buyer interest is already building.&nbsp;

“Gloriette offers a rare opportunity to secure a high-end riverside home within a major lifestyle precinct,” Scriven said.&nbsp;

“We’re inviting buyers to sign up to the VIP list today to receive exclusive updates, early information and priority access ahead of the formal launch.”

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150713]

Consolidated Properties Group unveils Gloriette in Yeerongpilly Green precinct

Develotek has secured State Significant Development approval for its 34-storey mixed-use tower on the Pacific Highway in Chatswood.

The developer pumped up the height under the in-fill affordable housing uplift to create a 101-unit building with 27 apartments dedicated as affordable. It was previously approved for 89 apartments across a 27-storey tower.

In granting consent, the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure cited the project’s alignment with state and regional planning objectives, including the National Housing Accord and the Chatswood CBD Strategy. It will also pump over $107 million of capital investment into the state, as well as 180 operational jobs and 182 construction jobs.

The site, across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/691-699-pacific-highway-chatswood-nsw-2067">691-699 Pacific Highway</a>, sits around 500 metres from the Chatswood Transport Interchange and within walking distance of the retail core.

<img alt="Develotek secures approval for 34-storey mixed-use tower on Pacific Highway, Chatswood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="65261a56-ef10-479b-941a-d4e3f22cd973" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29%20%281%29_1.png?VersionId=PFN5_svoAwQgHPM1K9XJFlg9BJSfArm0" />

Designed by Squillace Architects, the tower will rise to 117 metres and sit above a two-storey podium and eight basement levels of parking. The residential mix includes one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with affordable housing to be managed by a registered community housing provider for a minimum of 15 years.

The tower’s built form is characterised by a slender, articulated residential element set above a more robust podium, with commercial uses activating the street edge. Communal amenities are located within the podium and upper levels, including landscaped open space, a pool, gym, and shared facilities, contributing to resident amenity while reinforcing the mixed-use nature of the precinct.

<img alt="Develotek secures approval for 34-storey mixed-use tower on Pacific Highway, Chatswood" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2672fcb7-aa48-4f99-a6e5-aedf9d506973" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium_1.png?VersionId=mP29SWoVfCvI_hMODNx6QJ00VT435B33" />

&nbsp;

The approval represents one of the larger residential-led developments to proceed under the NSW Government’s infill affordable housing pathway, reinforcing Chatswood’s role as a high-density employment and residential centre on Sydney’s North Shore.

Chatswood is going through another growth phase, with the likes of Changfa Group, Billbergia, Coronation, Tian An LFD, Bridgestone, and Hyecorp all planning projects in the suburb. The NSW Gov is also proposing a further <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/nsw-gov-landcom-plan-1-500-new-apartments-in-chatswood-cbd">1,500 new homes on the former contruction site of the Sydney Metro</a>.

Develotek secures approval for 34-storey Chatswood tower

Off the plan apartments buyers have started to move into <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/louise-melbourne-8-louise-street-melbourne-vic-3004">Louise</a>, the flagship Albert Park apartment development by local developer Samuel Property.

Construction firm Hamilton Marino has recently completed the two-year build of the 16-storey Louise Street tower, just off St Kilda Road.

Developer Illan Samuel says the project’s strong sales result, with around 90 per cent of apartments sold ahead of its construction completion, is a “good news story for Melbourne”.

“Melbourne hasn’t had the easiest time in the off the plan development space in recent years,” Samuel says, pointing to rising taxes and limited growth in the established property market. However, there are signs of improvement, with build costs having normalised and now “only moving modestly”, and improving sentiment among buyers both local and interstate that Melbourne is the city of opportunity.

Samuel attributes the success of Louise to a combination of the project team, design, location and apartment mix, noting strong investor interest driven by high rental yields and comparatively low body corporate fees.

While only about 20 apartments are currently being leased, they are achieving yields of between 5.5 and 6 per cent.

“The maths show investors are receiving neutral or even positive cash flow on a city-fringe residential asset that has grown by around 5 per cent year on year for the past three years&nbsp;based on our pricing strategy on&nbsp;incremental price rises during construction and sales milestones, while much of the broader market has remained relatively flat,” he says.

<img alt="Samuel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="79b97c26-6fc6-4887-984a-8de45f0e1e6d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/8-Louise-St-33.jpg?VersionId=Egjy9IyMg5Y9M3X1WTEQU0riRCDAdLVG" />

A handful of apartments remain, with one-beds starting from $595,000, two's from $779,000, and three-beds from $2,445,000. All but one sub penthouses have been sold, and that is priced from just shy of $14 million. It has four bedrooms and five bathrooms across its 600 sqm, and parking for five cars.

Darren Blair from Blair Property Group has handled the sales campaign.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> designed the 89-unit building, on the fringe of St Kilda Road and Albert Park, to respond directly to its heritage-rich context, where historic mansions and retained period buildings continue to shape the streetscape.&nbsp;

The completed building reflects this influence through its brick façade and art-deco detailing, drawing cues from neighbouring heritage structures while delivering a contemporary residential format suited to modern inner-city living.

<img alt="Cera Stribley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c6067811-6d0d-4057-b77c-2b5fde0a5602" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/8-Louise-St-36.jpg?VersionId=YfEOR_L10AI4JgGDtD_ZjaxeT0DL4PRe" />

Amenities were conceived as an extension of daily life rather than a checklist of inclusions. Residents now have access to a ground-floor pool illuminated by a central skylight, a fully equipped gym, steam room, private dining room, lounge, and a landscaped outdoor terrace that wraps the communal spaces.&nbsp;

The amenity offering reflects a biophilic design approach, with water and greenery used to soften the building’s urban setting and support wellbeing.

<img alt="Louise" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="531e3e37-5e48-4af6-8b9c-49fa91504175" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/8-Louise-St-184.jpg?VersionId=KA.jqRLlSggTvJ.FWLtU47IOwDI9LF61" />

Samuel now shifts its focus to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/hali-dromana-105-111-point-nepean-road-dromana-vic-3936">Hali</a>, its beachside townhouse development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/dromana-vic-3936">Dromana</a>, which has been popular among city dwellers looking for a low-maintenance bolthole on the Mornington Peninsula.

Samuel recently began the construction phase of the&nbsp;73-townhome community, one of the most unique developments the Mornington Peninsula has seen in decades.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112174]

Samuel Property’s Louise reaches completion, nears sell-out on Albert Park’s edge

Sydney’s Transport Oriented Development applications continue to flood into the NSW Government, as developers seek to trigger the uplift encouraged by the government around the city’s key transport hubs.

The latest State Significant Development application, which is assessed by the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority, is in Carlingford, where a consortium known as the Carlingford Unit Trust has proposed a trio of buildings delivering 136 apartments, 25 of which will be dedicated to affordable housing and managed by Link Wentworth.

The corner site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/241-245-pennant-hills-road-carlingford-nsw-2118">241–245 Pennant Hills Road</a>, near the junction of Pennant Hills and Jenkins roads, is located just 250 metres from the new Carlingford Light Rail station.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/kennedy-associates-architects">Kennedy Associates Architects</a> has designed the three buildings, which will sit above a 98-place childcare centre, six commercial tenancies and a gym. Residents will have access to 2,680 sqm of communal open space across rooftop and podium levels.

&nbsp;

<img alt="241-245 Pennant Hills Road, Carlingford" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d515b5a6-2844-40cb-95da-1e613b49c945" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Carlingford%20Central%20da%203.png?VersionId=..LzSSX12YvB4zX69bBYOJG5gNvk5xN5" />

“The development...will deliver a significant addition to the wider Parramatta region,” Kennedy Associates noted in their Design Report, adding that the project aims to “enrich the street environment and local character of Carlingford”.

The tallest element of the proposal is an 18-storey tower to the northeast of the site (Building A), flanked by two smaller 4–5 storey buildings (Buildings B and C) along the western edge. Basement levels will accommodate 263 car spaces, allocated across residential, commercial, childcare, gym, and visitor use.

Sustainability features include passive solar design, cross ventilation, deep soil zones, and compliance with BASIX and NatHERS benchmarks. Communal open spaces have been designed to enhance residential amenity, with spaces positioned to benefit from solar access and outlooks over the broader district, including potential views to Parramatta and Sydney CBDs.

<img alt="241-245 Pennant Hills Road, Carlingford" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2f638af3-17fd-4e12-aaa2-263a342c01ac" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Carlingford%20Central%20da%202.png?VersionId=UXFl9I0rBSHfNj7QX6ubCsZsPvKJiMxk" />

The development takes advantage of in-fill affordable housing incentives under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Housing) 2021, enabling a 30% uplift in height and floor space in exchange for dedicating at least 15 per cent of GFA to affordable rental housing managed by a registered community housing provider.

Carlingford Unit Trust is backed by Triple Eight Corporation, which owns the consolidated 6,331 sqm site. While the eastern edge of the site is earmarked for partial acquisition by Transport NSW for road widening, the project has been designed around the residual 5,765 sqm parcel.

New apartments in Carlingford have been in short supply. The only recent new development in the area is Blossom, just 41 apartments by Capio Property closer to the town centre.&nbsp;

First look: 18-storey housing project pitched near Carlingford Light Rail Station

Highgroves bathroom founder Linsday Sinclair looks set to be moving into a life of apartment devleopment.

Having last year filed plans for 51 apartments on Sunset Boulevarde in Surfers Paradise, Sinclair's investment vehicle, Sinclair Projects, is seeking to develop a similar-scale tower in Southport.

Sinclair paid $9 million for the 6,067 sqm vacant site across 28-40 Spendelove Avenue late last year. The site was carved off from the Southport Private Hospital in 2023.

The plans are for 52 apartments across a 15-storey building designed by&nbsp;Studio Workshop Architects. The slender tower will front Eugaree Street, and at just over 57 metres high, will be among the tallest at the eastern end of the street.

&nbsp;

<img alt="First Look: Sinclair Projects targets Southport CBD fringe with 52-apartment high-rise" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1334a99e-10e5-46da-81ac-1770446ae780" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Southport%20front.png?VersionId=32tSToioYYVbPTDbFYPSpeDhx400DrKH" />

The architecture draws on a coastal-urban palette: curved glazing, feature brick cladding, fluted vertical screens, and subtropical hanging gardens spilling over the podium edges. North and south-facing balconies are positioned to capture views of the Gold Coast skyline and hinterland, while the western circulation core acts as a thermal buffer, keeping internal spaces cooler through summer.

The 52 apartments are split across two distinct bands. Levels three to six deliver 24 affordable housing units across a mix of one- and two-bedroom configurations, sized between 55 and 80 sqm internally. These are intentionally compact, with car parking unbundled to reduce construction costs and keep rents accessible to low-to-moderate income households.&nbsp;

Levels seven to thirteen hold 28 market-rate apartments, all two-bedroom, running between 105 and 109 sqm with balconies up to 13 sqm. Residents on both bands get private balconies off the main living area, and everyone has access to a 265 sqm communal rooftop terrace with a BBQ and planting.

<img alt="First Look: Sinclair Projects targets Southport CBD fringe with 52-apartment high-rise" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3e3bcc4d-ce84-4866-8f49-cb1dce739abb" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Southport%20site%20a.png?VersionId=ExPoN1IFMwf6q1MNmeFhEpepKoizwZq0" />

The site sits within walking distance of Australia Fair shopping centre, the G:link tram on Nerang Street, Ellis Family Park, Southport State School, and St Hilda's. The Southport Private Hospital remains immediately to the north.

This is the first of three towers Sinclair intends to build across the full site. The larger northern portion, fronting Spendelove Avenue, is earmarked for two further towers ranging between 41 and 71 metres. There will be 338 apartments in total across the site. The sequencing Sinclair has outlined suggests this tower is as much about establishing the pattern of development as it is about delivering housing on its own.

Sinclair Projects targets Southport CBD fringe with 52-apartment high-rise

An 18-storey residential tower is planned for a landlocked car park in Bundall's employment precinct, one of a growing number of proposals testing how far the suburb can push past its own height limits.

The development seeks approval for 150 apartments and a ground-floor food and drink outlet at 8 Frigo Court, Bundall.&nbsp;

The 2,429 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/8-frigo-court-bundall-qld-4217">8 Frigo Court</a> sits within a pocket of Innovation Zone land off Bundall Road, hemmed in on all sides by commercial and office uses, with access via a narrow 10-metre handle to Frigo Court.

<img alt="First look: 18-storey tower proposed for Bundall car park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0c3da65c-c0aa-484c-ae75-f37ba05f6253" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bundall%20site.png?VersionId=mHtrP.s2.EqM6_kGnooPEAUP1Lf661p2" />

Architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl</a> has organised the tower around a four-petal plan form, generating 12 distinct apartment layouts per level and orienting the building to capture ocean, hinterland, and urban views across different aspects.&nbsp;

The 150 apartments break down to 22 one-bedroom units, 74 two-bedroom units across varying bathroom configurations, and 54 two-bedroom apartments with multipurpose rooms.&nbsp;

Each apartment opens to a private balcony directly off the living area, with a number of units also carrying secondary balconies adjoining master bedrooms.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to communal amenities spread across three levels, with a pool, landscaped terraces and recreation rooms.&nbsp;

On the ground level, a 218sqm commercial tenancy is designed to function as a café or food and drink outlet, with the zone code permitting flexible conversion to office, retail, or health care uses if the market shifts.

<img alt="First look: 18-storey tower proposed for Bundall car park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9ba055d7-23d9-472c-8c6c-9b250f405177" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bundall%20b.png?VersionId=brFuU.6XiNnJTq1h9ejSftHSPb7kBUl6" />

Frigo Court sits within Bundall's Innovation Zone and the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct, a pocket of the suburb anchored by the Home of the Arts (HOTA) complex and the Gold Coast Turf Club, with the city's light rail corridor accessible to the east and Council's own offices a short walk north. The surrounding built form is a mix of low-to-mid-rise office buildings, parking podiums, and the eclectic structures of the HOTA campus itself, with little residential presence at present.

The development joins a growing queue of Bundall applications seeking to push above local planning controls. A 21-townhouse project at 16-26 Mercedes Place in the same suburb has also sought approval above both height and density limits, a pattern that suggests developers are increasingly looking inland for viable density sites as the Gold Coast's beachfront land runs thin.

18-storey apartment tower proposed for Bundall car park

Construction has commenced&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kew-palm-house-bellevue-hill-88-birriga-road-bellevue-hill-nsw-2023">Kew Palm House</a>, marking a significant milestone for the boutique Bellevue Hill apartment project on one of the suburb's best streets.

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/kew">KEW</a> recently hosted the traditional ground-breaking ceremony, joined by key project partners, officially turning the soil on what will become one of Bellevue Hill's most impressive new developments in one of&nbsp;Sydney’s most tightly held residential markets.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=133966 project_image_fid=352214]

Set across two low-rise buildings on the dress circle Birriga Road, Kew Palm House will deliver a mix of 16 two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, including whole-floor homes and penthouses, responding to sustained demand from downsizers and owner-occupiers seeking high-quality apartment living without leaving the suburb.

The project occupies an amalgamated 3,000 sqm site bordering the Royal Sydney Golf Club, a rarity for new apartment development in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/bellevue-hill-nsw-2023">Bellevue Hill</a>.

Architecture by Woods Bagot takes a townhome-inspired approach, with finely detailed façades and layered massing designed to sit comfortably within the established streetscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=133966 project_image_fid=352216]

The buildings are surrounded by landscaped gardens by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/dangar-barin-smith">Dangar Barin Smith</a>, with communal pathways leading to a pool house and shared alfresco spaces intended to support a quieter, more residential form of apartment living.

Interiors will feature natural materials including travertine, stone and engineered timber, alongside V-ZUG kitchen appliances, with layouts prioritising generous proportions, privacy and indoor-outdoor connection.

Each residence has been designed to maximise natural light while maintaining separation from neighbouring homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=133966 project_image_fid=352222]

Kew Palm House forms part of KEW’s growing Eastern Suburbs portfolio under the Positive Investment Enterprise group. It follows the completion of Kew Bondi on Bondi Road, with Kew Hillcrest in Rose Bay also currently under construction. Palm House reflects the developer’s longer-term commitment to Bellevue Hill, where opportunities for new, design-led apartment projects remain limited.

Kew Palm House is targeting completion in late 2027, with construction to be delivered by Harvestland Construction. KEW also has Kew Hillcrest in Rose Bay under construction, just six luxury apartments near the beach.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=133966]

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