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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As we look to what's ahead for 2012, Property Observer is republishing some of our most noteworthy stories of 2011.
 
The gold rush is long past, but Bendigo’s housing market is shaping up as a treasure trove for property investors, according to the latest data released by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria. 
Bendigo, about 130 kilometres north of Melbourne and with a population of around 100,000, has the tightest rental vacancy rate in Victoria, according to the REIV. 
During the month of July, the vacancy rate tightened from 0.5% to 0.3%. 
Rental yields for houses and apartments in Bendigo are around 5%, compared with 3.7% for Melbourne houses and 4.3% for Melbourne units, according to RP Data figures.
According to SQM research, renters make up about a third of the Bendigo market. 
In addition to its strong rental market, the regional centre has also experienced solid house price appreciation, with the Bendigo median house price rising 4.5% in the June quarter to $287,500 – beating regional centres Ballarat (up 1.3%) and Geelong (down 3.9%), according to the REIV. 
Despite this growth, Bendigo houses are substantially cheaper than Melbourne, where the median house price is still above $500,000 despite recent declines. 
According to REIV spokesman Robert Larocca there are two opposing forces spurring on the Bendigo market. 
“On the one hand Bendigo is benefiting from very good transport connections to Melbourne, in fact the corridor between the two cities is seeing city type prices in some centers. But on the other hand as the state’s population has grown the rate of new dwelling construction has not kept pace,” he says. 
“There is also a particular issue in Bendigo that at the time the vacancy rate has been below 1% the proportion of rental homes deemed affordable has dropped from 72% to 50% of rental homes.” 
There are 208 properties listed for rent in Bendigo on Realestate.com.au, with two-thirds of these houses. 
Weekly rentals for houses start from about $200 for a two-bedroom house to more than $600 for Victorian-era houses close to the Bendigo CBD. 
<img src="/images/stories/cheapbendigo.jpg">
The cheapest unit for rent (also the cheapest rental in Bendigo) is a one-bedroom unit on Rowan Street (pictured above) close to the Bendigo CBD asking $135 per week with Danny Clarke from The Professionals handling the listing. 
<img src="/images/stories/expensivebendigo.jpg">
At the top end of the scale is “Hustlers Heights” (pictured above), a stately three-bedroom Victorian house offered at $700 per week, fully furnished by Emma Morison from Tweed Sutherland First National Bendigo. 
Despite the apparent shortage of rental properties, Hustlers Heights has been listed since July 30 with its close proximity to the Capital Theatre, Art Gallery and the cafes of View Street not proving enticing enough to tempt anyone to part with $700 every week. 
Nathan Ludeman, property department manager from Tweed Sutherland First National Bendigo, says the last couple of months demand for rental property has actually slowed down. 
“We have a couple of vacancies at the moment, but that is quite unusual – over the last 18 months to two years there has been a zero vacancy rate. Everything was leased.” 
He puts the current availability of rental properties to seasonal factors: “The market usually slows down over the colder months.” 
Ludeman, who has lived his whole life in the town, says there are a lot of homes under construction at present including subdivisions in and around the outskirts of the city. 
“There are a lot of people moving from Melbourne. The highway has made it a lot quicker to commute – it takes about an hour and 40 minutes – and property is much cheaper than in Melbourne,” he says. 
As for the appeal of the region, he says while it is not dependent on any one industry, it has every sector covered and offers a reasonably relaxed place 
“It’s a smaller version of Geelong, without the beach,” Ludeman says. 
Another local property manager, Anita Harrington from Tony Harrington Estate Agents – Bendigo, says demand for rentals is enormous. 
“We are currently sitting with one property vacant,” she says. 
Harrington says rentals get snapped up very quickly, with new tenants ready to move in almost immediately after an incumbent vacates. 
“It can be quite heartbreaking. There are often people crying because they cannot get a rental property.” 
Harrington says there are a lot of Melbourne investors dipping their toes into the Bendigo market as well as core investors from Bendigo who own multiple properties and continue to buy.
 
The city will also benefit from a new world-class hospital with the Victorian government throwing $630 million into the New Bendigo Hospital project due to commence in December and due to be completed in 2016. 
Bendigo ranked 69 on Your Investment Property’s Top 100 Suburbs survey earlier this year. 
The survey quoted PRDnationwide figures, which found that Bendigo’s house market recorded growth of 12.3% in 2010, and has maintained a 10% average annual growth rate over the past decade. 
PRDnationwide research analyst Dan O’Halloran highlights its relatively close proximity to Melbourne and its role as one of Victoria’s key rural hubs as its key attributes. 
“The area has a diverse and robust economy that comprises mining, agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, health, and a strong financial presence, with Australia’s only provincial stock exchange,” he says. 
“The Bendigo real estate market is large enough to maintain a reasonable level of supply and demand throughout tough economic conditions, which makes it an attractive and secure investment option.” 
“Bendigo’s relative affordability compared to Melbourne, coupled with a strong community vibe, assists to attract many new homeowners to the area each year, while a strong rental yield of 6% per annum creates an enticing option for property investors,” he concludes.
Main photo courtesy of Tourism Victoria
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Bendigo a rental property goldmine for 21st-century speculators

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<img src="/images/stories/landsend.jpg">
Land’s End, the 1902 Colonial Revival mansion overlooking Long Island Sound at Sands Point, was demolished in April 2011.
Its five hectares are now being subdivided into a gated cul-de-sac, to be known as <a target="_blank" title="Seagate" href="https://seagateatsandspoint.com/">Seagate at Sands Point</a>.
As the New York Times recently wrote, the aura of The Great Gatsby only just lingers around the estate, which was thought to have inspired the setting for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel about the Roaring ’20s. But there is no conclusive evidence that the 25-room Land’s End was the model for Tom and Daisy Buchanan's mansion in the 1925 novel.
Although its name has been changed to Seagate, Bert Brodsky, the owner, declared that it would “represent today’s Gatsby.”
<img src="/images/stories/seagate2.jpg">
With prices ranging from about $10 million to $17 million, it will have five new mansions (such as the one pictured) on lots of almost one hectare.
Brodsky reportedly bought Land’s End for $US17.5 million in 2004.
This week actor <a target="_blank" title="Leonardo DiCaprio" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/leonardo-dicaprio-gets-his-sydney-tennis-court-for-gatsby-shoot/2011083151370">Leonardo DiCaprio has secured a rental property in Vaucluse in which to live</a> while he films the titular role in Baz Luhrmann's version of The Great Gatsby.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

East Egg residents get new homes in Long Island development

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Andrew Scott, the former CEO of shopping centre group Centro, has escaped a boardroom ban but must pay a $30,000 fine over his part in approving faulty 2007 accounts,  the Federal Court has ruled
Former Centro CFO Romano Nenna was handed a two-year boardroom ban but was not fined.
The outcome of the penalty hearing follows the Federal Court’s June finding that Scott and Nenna along with six non-executive directors had breached their corporate duties when approving the 2007 accounts.
The result will disappoint corporate regulator ASIC which had sought bans of three years for the two men and fines of $100,000 each.
It is also likely to anger Centro shareholders who will receive just 5¢ per share should a restructure of the business be approved in December.
Scott presided over Centro when its financial woes began in December 2007 after it ran into trouble refinancing about $1.3 billion in debt.
For the 2007 financial year, annual accounts show he was on a $3.5 million package.
He resigned as CEO in January 2008.
Lawyers for Scott and Nenna argued they had already been punished from the publicity surrounding the case.
The outcome of the hearing comes just two days after Centro revealed statutory net profits of $2.7 billion after preparing its accounts on a “one-off” liquidation basis.
Current Centro CEO Robert Tsenin says the restructure is “the only feasible prospect of delivering any value to security holders”.
“The alternative is likely to be external administration in which circumstances Centro security holders are expected to receive nothing”.
The judgment and penalties imposed on the former Centro directors may be subject to appeal.
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Former Centro CEO Andrew Scott escapes boardroom ban but cops fine

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{yoogallery src=[images/stories/august31paulallen]}
Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen has listed his remote Washington state island for sale with price hopes of US$13.5 million. The price might seem steep for a 118-hectare island that is almost undeveloped, save for a simple log cabin and an air strip, but it's just over half what Allen wanted for the island in 2005, when he unsuccessfully listed it with price hopes of US$25 million.
The tech entrepreneur bought Allan Island (the island is named for the Navy hero who discovered it, not Bill Gates' former business partner) in 1992 and had planned to build a retreat on it, but decided instead to build on nearby Lopez Island, where he bought 157 hectares in 1996. Allan Island is listed through <a target="_blank" title="Windmere" href="https://www.windermere.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=listing.listingDetailUpdated&amp;listingID=18537393&amp;paginate=true">Windmere </a>agent Wally Gudgel.
Allen co-founded Microsoft with Gates in 1975 and came up with the name Mico-Soft. He was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma in 1982 and did not return to the company, though he did not officially resign from its board until 2000. 
Forbes magazine has estimated Allen's personal wealth at US$13.5 billion. 
Anyone who would like to own an island but does not want to travel all the way to the US might want to consider the recent listing of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/rural/nsw-farming-island-hoped-to-attract-luxury-buyers/2011082851314" title="Urunga Island" target="_blank">Urunga Island</a>, off the coast of NSW.
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Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen lists private island for US$13.5 million

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The Capercaillie vineyard in the NSW Hunter Valley has been sold to buyers from China. The 16-hectare property with five hectares under vine had been listed at $1.89 million by Alan Jurd and Cain Beckett from Jurd’s Real Estate.
It last sold for $400,000 in 1995.
It sold snappily after being listed in July. It’s the second purchase by Chinese buyers of Hunter Valley vineyards in two months. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/windsor-s-edge-vineyard-bought-by-chinese-investor/2011072450894" target="_blank" title="Hunter's Edge">Last month a Chinese investor spent about $2.7 million on the Hunter Valley vineyard Windsor’s Edge.</a> The 48-hectare property was also sold through Cain Beckett at Jurd’s Real Estate. The buyers were keen to shore up supplies of wine for bottle shop or liquor distribution in China.
Capercaillie Wine Company was established in the Hunter Valley by Alasdair and Trish Sutherland in 1995 when they built a small modern winery on a 20-year-old vineyard.
The five-hectare vineyard in Lovedale was originally planted in the late 1970s, mainly with chardonnay supplemented with a couple of acres of gewürztraminer.
In the 1990s Alasdair replanted a small portion of the ageing chardonnay with one hectare each of the two red varieties chambourcin and petit verdot.
Alasdair is a Scot, and his heritage is reflected in the very name “Capercaillie”. It is the Gaelic name given to the black woodlands grouse, native to the pine forests of Scotland.
To enhance the range of individual Hunter Valley wines, Alasdair has chosen select parcels of grapes from other proven regions of Australia, creating multi-area blends that highlight climatic and varietal differences.
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Chinese investors buy another Hunter Valley winery

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?Six real estate funds have rated as highly suitable investment products for financial advisers to recommend to their clients, according to new research by SQM.

The research house rated eight property fund managers out of a possible 26 (19 declined to be rated), with six achieving a score of four stars are higher.
A score of between four and 4.25 indicates “superior” quality, while 4.5 and above indicates “outstanding” quality.
The highest rating was achieved by BT Wholesale Property Securities Fund, which maintained its 2010 rating of 4.5.
The $109 million fund invests primarily in Australian listed property trusts, developers and infrastructure investments, both directly and indirectly.  Over the last two years it has delivered a return of 8% per annum.
Three funds achieved a score of 4.25 including the listed APN AREIT Fund, which was one of two funds to improve its 2010 rating of four stars.
The Perpetual Property Securities Fund improved its rating from 3.5 (“average”) to 3.75 (“good”).
Of the eight funds that chose to be rated by SQM the Maxim Property Securities Fund was the only one to suffer a ratings downgrade from 3.75 to 3.5.
<img src="/images/stories/sqmaugust30.gif">
The rated funds achieved a median rating of four stars, steady on last year, which SQM described as an “excellent achievement reflecting the quality of fund managers under review”.
SQM managing director Louis Christopher says the managers rated in this cycle represent the cream of the industry.
“They represent some of the very best real estate fund managers operating in this country and around the world today. Many of them have delivered value to their fund even while, in the past four years, the A-REITs markets have provided the most difficult investment climate ever recorded.
“As the list reveals there are many managers offering funds in the domestic property securities fund space and many of these managers have not sought a rating from us. Sometimes, it is even more revealing those managers who choose not to be rated by us verses who do choose to get a rating. Unlike some of our competitors, we are recognised as being fairly conservative in our ratings process.”
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Six real estate funds rate highly as investment options: SQM

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Promoters of investment properties will have to meet new standards of best practice, following the release of a new ASIC consultation paper.
The regulator wishes to ensure that there is accuracy and balance in the advertising of investment products and has proposed good practice guidance covering:
<ul>
<li>the nature of the product </li>
<li>returns, benefits and risks</li>
<li>warnings, disclaimers, qualifications and fine print </li>
<li>fees and costs </li>
<li>comparisons </li>
<li>past performance and forecasts</li>
<li>use of certain terms and phrases</li>
<li>the advertisement’s target audience </li>
<li>consistency with disclosure document</li>
<li>photographs, diagrams, images and examples </li>
<li>the nature and scope of the financial advice service </li>
</ul>
“The objective of our guidance is to help promoters and publishers present advertisements that are accurate, balanced and that help consumers make decisions that are appropriate for them,” says ASIC chairman Greg Medcraft.
“We would like those preparing advertising to actively work to present a balanced understanding of the product or service, including its risks. It is also important they take into account the kind of audience likely to see the advertising, according to the medium they are using. They should ensure that advertising is not targeting an audience for which the product is unlikely to be suitable.”
The release of the consultation paper – due to be implemented in January 2012 – comes a day after the release of draft legislation aimed at giving ASIC more power to ban financial planners and requiring them to sign a fresh contract with their clients every two years.
ASIC is seeking feedback from investors, consumers and other interest parties on its advertising proposals by October 25.
Research carried out by ASIC among 1,000 Australian investors, including property investors and self-managed super fund holders, found them heavily influenced by the media.
According to ASIC, 44% of the investors who had used or would use media-based information sources to make an investment decision said they did or would use these media sources for both investment information and to seek investment opportunities and advertisements
Furthermore, it found that investors “were attracted and/or influenced by product advertising and, for some investors, the frequency and format of the advertising acted as a proxy for quality”.
ASIC presented five hypothetical investment advertisements to investors. The two that received the most interest used the words “secured” and “capital guaranteed”.
“We encourage the financial services industry to strive to do more than simply meet the minimum requirement of not being misleading or deceptive,” the consultation paper reads.
“Rather, we encourage industry to actually take a role in ensuring that advertising helps investors and consumers to make decisions that are appropriate for them.”
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ASIC warns property spruikers about dodgy advertising

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A delegation of Chinese investors has inspected several farming properties in Western Australia’s Great Southern food bowl.
It included representatives of the Beidahuang BDH Group, a state-owned company that has 5 million hectares in China’s Heilongjiang province.
The arrival of serious interest from Chinese in agricultural land has divided local farmers and the WA Farmers Federation.
The delegation of about a dozen people, which included agronomists, farmers and government officials, toured grain farms at Lake King and Ongerup with a local agent.
Nearby Lake Grace farmer and WA Grains Group chairman Doug Clarke says that he has had three meetings with the delegation regarding investment in local agricultural land.
“The Chinese buy or lease farms in Brazil, Argentina, New Zealand and North Africa and in return they develop excellent infrastructure,” he says.
Great Southern farmers have made it clear to the Chinese they that want good port access and a sophisticated supply chain that is available for them to use as a third party. The Great Southern region ships through the Albany port zone.
“The delegation was responsive, and farmers here like the idea. I have been fielding a lot of calls from farmers I know wanting me to introduce the delegation to them,” he says.
So far the delegation has inspected properties that are already on the market, and foreign investors already own one –the Lake King property.
“The Chinese take their food security very seriously. One of them told me they produce 1.2 billion tonnes of grain and that is not enough,” Clare says. “Where we only produce about 3% of the world’s grain. We are very small in comparison.”
The WA Farmers Federation has expressed serious concerns about interest from China in 80,000 hectares of prime Western Australian cropping land.
Federation president Mike Norton believes if a large swathe of farmland falls under single ownership that many rural towns in the regions will disappear.</body></html>

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Chinese investors eye Australian farm property

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{yoogallery src=[images//stories/august30aguilera]}
Singer Christina Aguilera has sold her Sunset Strip, Los Angeles home for <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.redfin.com/CA/Los-Angeles/1443-Devlin-Dr-90069/home/7121123" title="Christina Aguilera" target="_blank">about $4.65 million</a>.
The 1960s modern-style 604-square-metre post-and-beam house has a recording studio, screening room and walls of glass opening to a pool, a 12-person spa and a fireplace.
There are four bedrooms and seven bathrooms.
Aguilera, who sits among the world's best-selling recording artists with sales of more than 50 million records, bought the property in 2003 for $5 million. The Los Angeles Times reported Drew Fenton and Justin Paul Huchel of Hilton &amp; Hyland, Beverly Hills, were the listing agents and Peter Lavin of Links Commercial Real Estate represented the buyer.
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Christina Aguilera loses almost $400,000 selling her house

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Property Observer code of conduct
Property Observer journalists and contributors abide by the code of ethics developed by the Media and Entertainment Arts Alliance (MEAA). The code of ethics applies across all platforms, including social media.
<ul>
<li>Report and interpret honestly, striving for accuracy, fairness and disclosure of all essential facts. Do not suppress relevant available facts, or give distorting emphasis. Give a fair opportunity for reply.</li>
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Employees must not request or accept inducements of money, goods, discounts or hospitality of any kind outside the normal scope of business hospitality. Only the editor or a nominee is authorised to accept offers of free or discounted hospitality such as travel and accommodation on behalf of a publication.
Corrections and clarifications:
Property Observer's policy is to remove any inaccurate or defamatory material brought to our attention and publicly acknowledge and correct all our mistakes as soon as possible.
We correct mistakes in the original story on the website and typically then denote the change with a correction/clarification note at the bottom of the story. In some cases, we also run the correction in the comments section of the email edition the next day.
In addition, journalists have a duty to cooperate frankly and openly with the editor about any problems and to report errors to them. Freelancers are also bound by this duty.
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Where a journalist or contributor is found to have breached the Property Observer code a range of actions could be taken, including further training, formal performance management or termination.
FOR A COMPLAINTS/CORRECTIONS FORM: 
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{rsform 51}
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