Apartment buyers in New South Wales are set to gain a decade of insurance-backed protection against major building defects, after the NSW Parliament passed the Fair Trading and Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2026.&nbsp;

The Bill establishes decennial defect insurance, known in the market as Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), as an alternative to the existing two-year strata building bond. It cleared the Legislative Council with amendments on Tuesday evening (August 4, 2026), with the Legislative Assembly agreeing to those amendments shortly after.

Under the reform, eligible developers can satisfy their statutory bond obligation by taking out an approved decennial-style policy that gives owners 10 years of cover for major structural defects from completion, claimable directly, without first having to pursue developers or builders through costly legal action.&nbsp;

The change forms the final tranche of amendments arising from the 2021 statutory review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and related legislation.

Resilience Insurance, which originated the cover in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022, welcomed the passage and credited the NSW Government for delivering it.

“This is protection apartment buyers have needed for a long time, and the credit for delivering it belongs to the NSW Government,”&nbsp;said Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into. Reform like this is what good, evidence-based regulation looks like.”

Resilience has delivered LDI in NSW since 2022, protecting thousands of apartments, giving the State, and now the country, real-world evidence of how decade-long, no-fault protection works in practice.

The reform also places NSW within a wider national shift.

NSW is the third jurisdiction to put decennial cover into law. The ACT legislated for it in 2024, with the scheme taking effect in late 2025, and Victoria passed its own framework on 17 June. Between them, the three cover the majority of Australia's apartment market.

The reform commences once the legislation is proclaimed, which is expected in the coming weeks. From that point, developers of Class 2 residential apartment buildings can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial policy in place of the bond.

Buyers who purchased into projects that took out the cover early are among the first in the country to take keys to apartments carrying decade-long structural protection.

“With the legislation passed, the focus now turns to making it work for buyers,”&nbsp;Nugent said.

“There are already thousands of apartments in NSW covered by this insurance, bought by developers who moved early. The question every buyer should be asking in a display suite is a simple one: does this building come with 10-year defect cover, and who stands behind it?&nbsp;

“We look forward to working with the Government and the Building Commission in coming weeks as the framework moves to implementation, and to sharing what we have learned over the past four years so the protection reaches owners as smoothly and quickly as possible.”

Other states are working through their own reform programs. Western Australia has indicated that decennial cover is within consideration a later stage of its reform sequence, and Queensland has been examining the settings as it looks at the development pipeline ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Resilience Insurance acknowledges the NSW Government’s continued focus on strengthening consumer protection while supporting housing delivery across the State.

Fast Facts: What the reform means

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Proven at scale:&nbsp;Decennial cover has operated in NSW since 2022, protecting thousand of apartments.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">10 years of cover:&nbsp;Protection for major structural defects runs for a decade from completion, claimable directly and with no legal action required.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">An alternative to the bond:&nbsp;Eligible developers can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial-style policy in place of the 2% strata building bond.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Part of a national shift:&nbsp;The ACT has had decennial provisions in force since 2025 and Victoria passed its framework in June. NSW now joins them.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">No-fault, first resort:&nbsp;Owners corporations claim directly from the insurer without first having to establish who is liable for the defect.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost-competitive:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the 2% bond while offering broader, longer protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market position:&nbsp;Resilience originated LDI in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022.</li>
</ul>

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI):&nbsp;Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Consumer-first:&nbsp;Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost advantage:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market leader:&nbsp;&nbsp;Resilience Insurance originated LDI in Australia and is the national market leader.</li>
</ul>

Joel Robinson

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

Builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mcnab-developments">McNab</a> has wasted little time reshaping one of South Brisbane's most significant undeveloped apartment sites after acquiring the property earlier this year.&nbsp;

McNab has lodged plans to scrap an existing approval for two 30-storey towers and instead deliver a single 28-storey residential building, preserving part of the site for a future development opportunity.

The proposal, lodged over <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-peel-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">64 Peel Street and 9 Cordelia Street</a>, is for a residential-led mixed-use development comprising 124 apartments above a landscaped podium, alongside a boundary realignment that preserves part of the land for a future residential project.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="743bf564-3f8f-45fc-b8d3-bbf18f5b628f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20Peel%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=EhCxGrVn_VFH3qTbKnI4WppGwaMnOn0t" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>, the development will deliver 119 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom apartments across 23 residential levels. A five-level podium will accommodate 135 car spaces, while the ground floor will include a 66 sqm commercial tenancy, an activated residential lobby with work-from-home spaces, and a publicly accessible landscaped plaza linking Cordelia and Peel streets.&nbsp;

Communal amenities will span Level 6 and the rooftop, including indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, a swimming pool, barbecue facilities, kitchen and dining areas, lawn space, sauna, steam room and yoga facilities.

The application also proposes a boundary realignment to create a standalone 1,290 sqm development lot while retaining an adjacent parcel for future redevelopment, allowing the balance of the site to contribute additional housing over time.

Hayball said the architecture has been shaped by the site's elevated corner position at the intersection of Peel and Cordelia streets and Brisbane's subtropical climate.

The design incorporates generous landscaped setbacks, a masonry podium wrapped with planting, large north-facing balconies, and a slender tower profile intended to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and long-range views. The rooftop has been conceived as a wellness-focused retreat overlooking Brisbane, with amenities positioned to capture views towards Mount Coot-tha and the CBD.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f99e84-6ad8-4a87-82d1-869685b754d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20tower%20perspective.png?VersionId=Gw0IuJaSAlk.tvGBxInhZOcQAdIB..2b" />

The planning submission positions the proposal as a response to both changing market conditions and Brisbane's Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning reforms.

McNab acquired the site after the previous approval was granted, with the existing scheme no longer reflecting current residential market demands, economic conditions, construction challenges, construction efficiencies or the quality of development outcome now being pursued, the planning report noted.

McNab continues to expand its residential development pipeline across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The developer recently launched The Tannery in West End, securing more than 60 per cent of apartments before the project's public release. It is also delivering Elements Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise and Lucia Highgate Hill, an eight-apartment boutique development overlooking the Brisbane River.

McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower

A steeply sloping Bellevue Hill site is set to accommodate a new mid-rise apartment development, with plans lodged for 20 homes that respond to the site's dramatic topography.

The proposal for the consolidated land at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/138a-140-bellevue-road-bellevue-hill-nsw-2023">138A-140 Bellevue Road</a> has been designed by Sydney architecture practice Common Office, which has used the site’s substantial fall to distribute the building’s scale and unlock 20 apartments without presenting the full height to the street.&nbsp;

“The unique design strategy leverages the site’s substantial topographical fall to facilitate increased density, presenting a seven-storey profile to Bellevue Road while rising to 10 storeys at the rear,” Common Office said in its architectural design report.

The apartment mix spans one, two, three- and four-bedroom residences. Four two-bedroom apartments are designated as affordable housing, while the plans also include two adaptable dwellings. The mix is majority three-beds, with the typical three-bed apartment offering around 144 sqm internally, with balconies of around 15 sqm.

The affordable housing component represents 15 per cent of the residential floor area and allows the project to access additional height and floor space under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing provisions. The site also falls within the inner area of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy because it is within 400 metres walking distance of Double Bay Town Centre.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1230d0f-3bfa-4a11-abaf-0928c66ef345" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da.png?VersionId=dZeMK3P.OutGjN8ycjsxm8uNsj_QFWQv" />

Common Office has arranged the building around a masonry podium and a lighter upper volume, drawing on two recurring elements of Bellevue Hill’s established architecture: sandstone bases and the vertical proportions of local Inter-war Art Deco apartment buildings.

“The proposal is governed by a holistic design language that reconciles the solid horizontal masonry of the neighbourhood’s podiums with the elegant verticality of its Art Deco heritage,” the architect said.

“The building maintains a consistent rhythmic logic utilising deep recesses and a sophisticated material transition to break down the 10-storey scale into a series of articulated, human-scale volumes.”

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0147f503-1af1-4d51-97fb-c2f1cba63a9d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20bldg.png?VersionId=GoW7q3NlK67OpnePXhk7zvklrlKb72Qc" />

Large-format sandstone tiles will define the lower levels, establishing a robust base that negotiates the change in elevation from Bellevue Road. Above, red-tinted precast concrete frames, recessed balconies, anodised aluminium screens and expanded metal details will create a more vertically expressed façade. Integrated planter beds will introduce greenery across balcony edges and recessed sections of the building.

The elongated northern façade has been divided into three recessed vertical masses to reduce its perceived length. Triangular window elements and metal privacy screens reference the geometry of nearby Art Deco buildings while controlling overlooking toward surrounding homes. The southern elevation will incorporate further privacy screening, landscaped edges and deep balconies to maintain light and ventilation.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8679cf1-18bc-4447-8a0f-0052b94ab83c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da%20rooftop.png?VersionId=5SQqQqRFf76rvE2p1TbxJSweMN70AIbc" />

Private and communal landscaping is distributed throughout the development. A landscaped garden apartment is positioned within the lower portion of the site, while a communal terrace on Level 5 will include a central timber deck, barbecue facilities, resident planting plots and areas for outdoor dining and informal gatherings.

Common Office described the terrace as an elevated sanctuary designed to capture district views and sunlight. Its planting strategy incorporates endemic species associated with the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, extending the landscape vertically through the building and providing habitat for local flora and fauna.

A second communal outdoor area is proposed at roof level, with built-in seating, paved gathering areas and perimeter planting.

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction. Positive Investment Enterprise is delivering the 16-apartment Kew Palm House on Birriga Road, while Chanine Developments is also under construction at Florian, a 36-apartment project on Banksia Road.

&nbsp;

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction.

First Look: Apartment development pitched for Bellevue Hill, Double Bay fringe

South Brisbane's apartment pipeline continues to build momentum, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/trk-property-group">TRK Property Group</a> lodging plans for a 161-apartment tower on Montague Road as developers accelerate investment across the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

The proposal for 176–186 Montague Road would replace an existing office building with a 20-storey residential tower designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, adding to a growing pipeline of high-density projects reshaping one of Brisbane's fastest-evolving inner-city precincts.

The project has been conceived as a "living building", featuring a flowing tower form, extensive vertical landscaping, and generous communal spaces that respond to the evolving Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

TRK Property Group Development Director Matt Kan said the project reflected the confidence developers have in South Brisbane's long-term future.

"South Brisbane is entering an incredibly exciting period, and we see Montague Road sitting right at the heart of that evolution," Kan said.

"With the former Visy site directly opposite us and significant investment planned throughout the broader Kurilpa precinct, there is a real sense of momentum around this part of the city and what it will become over the coming years.

"For TRK, this is an opportunity to be part of that next chapter and deliver a project that responds to where the precinct is heading, while contributing to the continued evolution of Brisbane's river edge."

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="590fe1ad-f892-4446-a679-80e33a16d029" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20tower%20facade.png?VersionId=uOJStrcKpyHFcPE1w6_9SMAFzVMCcZll" />

The scheme includes a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, incorporating multi-purpose rooms in selected residences to provide additional flexibility for home offices or expanded living areas. The proposed mix comprises 15 one-bedroom, 13 one-bedroom plus MPR, 73 two-bedroom, 26 two-bedroom plus MPR, 30 three-bedroom, and four four-bedroom apartments.

Rather than adopting a conventional rectilinear tower, COX Architecture has developed a sculpted form inspired by the movement of the Brisbane River.

"The proposal has been designed by COX Architecture as a 'living building' that responds to the site's riverine setting, floodplain history and evolving urban context within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct," the planning report states.

"The architectural form draws from the fluid nature of the Brisbane River, with a curved and undulating tower form that creates a varied architectural edge and avoids a conventional rectilinear tower expression."

The podium has also been designed as an architectural feature rather than a conventional parking structure, with cascading planting, screening and natural-toned materials softening its appearance. Resident parking is elevated above ground level to address the site's flood constraints, while habitable apartments sit above flood planning levels. Upper-level communal facilities are designed to accommodate shelter-in-place arrangements during major flood events.

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01fa15d0-90df-46c7-9555-7941fc45373c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20podium.png?VersionId=mHyua.w1pHGBt9qEdWzrlsv.leztUCwO" />

Communal amenity is a major focus of the proposal. Around 1,815 sqm of shared resident space is proposed across the ground floor, level 19 and the rooftop, including co-working areas, indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, wellness facilities, dining and gathering areas, lawn spaces, a rooftop pool and spa, and extensive landscaping. At street level, a landscaped forecourt and approximately 345 sqm of publicly accessible open space along Montague Road are intended to improve the pedestrian experience while activating the building's frontage.

The development will provide 163 car spaces, including 152 resident bays and 11 visitor spaces, together with 144 bicycle spaces incorporating resident storage, visitor parking, bicycle maintenance facilities and e-mobility charging infrastructure.

The site sits within one of Brisbane's fastest-changing inner-city precincts, less than two kilometres from the CBD and within easy reach of South Bank, West End, the Queensland Cultural Centre and extensive public transport connections. The Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning framework is encouraging higher-density residential development to help meet Brisbane's housing supply targets while supporting walkable, transit-oriented neighbourhoods.

TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans

Article summary

<ul data-end="785" data-start="311">
	<li data-end="459" data-section-id="5hbcyr" data-start="311">Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at Skye Kangaroo Point, headlined by a two-storey sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm.</li>
	<li data-end="561" data-section-id="1p7lq8n" data-start="460">Early buyer interest suggests the residences could set a new Queensland apartment price record.</li>
	<li data-end="667" data-section-id="1y70z0l" data-start="562">The collection includes four move-in ready penthouses and the highly customised Skye One residence.</li>
	<li data-end="785" data-section-id="yvm0y1" data-start="668">The release caps one of Bri​sbane's most ambitious luxury apartment developments overlooking the Brisbane River.</li>
</ul>

<hr data-end="790" data-start="787" />
Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye by Pikos</a> development in Kangaroo Point, with early buyer interest indicating the flagship residences could eclipse every apartment sale previously recorded in Queensland.

The collection crowns the luxury riverfront development with five residences, including four completed penthouses and Skye One, a two-level sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm that will be tailored to its eventual owner.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374075]

Wanting to offer a fully customisable home, Pikos is offering Skye One as a blank canvas, allowing the buyer to work alongside the developer's design team to customise the home's layout, finishes and internal spaces.

The residence will feature a 247 sqm private rooftop terrace with its own swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor kitchen and multiple entertaining areas overlooking the Brisbane River and CBD skyline.

The remaining four penthouses have been completed and are ready for immediate occupation, each offering four bedrooms, expansive open-plan living areas, soaring ceilings and private lift access.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374059]

One of the defining features throughout the project is its use of Roman Classic Travertine, with more than 20,000 sqm of the natural stone imported from Italy after being personally selected by Pikos Group Founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos, interior designer Julie Williamson and third-generation stone specialist Mario Caucci.

Pikos said the penthouse collection represented the culmination of the company's long-term vision for Skye.

"True legacy isn't measured by what we build today, but by what endures tomorrow," Pikos said.

"Our ambition is to create places that become more valuable with time, enrich the lives of generations, and stand as timeless landmarks long after we've stepped away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374060]

Williamson said the interiors were inspired by the natural character of Kangaroo Point and the Brisbane River rather than international design trends.

"Materiality tells the story of a place," Williamson said.

"We looked to the movement of the Brisbane River, the texture of the cliff face and the warmth of the surrounding landscape to create interiors that feel understated, enduring and unmistakably Brisbane."

Positioned above the Kangaroo Point cliffs, Skye places residents within walking distance of Howard Smith Wharves, South Bank and James Street while offering uninterrupted river and city views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=90059]

Brisbane's next apartment price record? Pikos unveils Skye's exclusive penthouse collection

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?

A Moroccan-bathhouse residential tower has been unveiled for Budds Beach, with Australian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/homecorp">Homecorp</a> announcing plans for a $260 million resort-style project in one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held waterfront precincts.

A development application has been submitted to the Gold Coast City Council for a 27-storey tower at 8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue, Surfers Paradise, marking one of the few new large-scale residential projects proposed for the precinct in more than a decade.

The project will comprise 156 two- and three-bedroom residences, anchored by a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired wellness sanctuary featuring private treatment rooms, a traditional Nordic sauna and steam room, hot and cold plunge pools and a curated juice bar. There will also be a resort-style rooftop precinct, complete with a heated infinity pool and spa, a residents’ lounge with a private kitchen and bar, a contemporary fitness centre with a yoga and Pilates studio, and outdoor BBQ areas with entertaining lounges.

<img alt="8-10 Acacia Avenue and 25-27 Oak Avenue, Surfers Paradise" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="997f8dbb-4ed1-47e4-8780-d12a3d5cd0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_3.png?VersionId=IsDJXxE8.HG92i4dnbmmPQi.fVXjME7I" />

"At Homecorp, we are driven by the pursuit of better - challenging expectations, thinking bigger and shaping communities that leave a lasting legacy," said Ron Bakir, CEO and Founder of Homecorp.

"This project draws on our experience and expertise to take what the market has been craving to the next level - a home that nurtures wellness, calms the mind and lifts the everyday stresses away. A home is more than a place you live, it’s where you rest, reset and find balance."

&nbsp;

Bakir says what sets the location&nbsp;apart is its rare, tightly held nature within one of the Gold Coast’s most vibrant lifestyle and entertainment precincts, yet quietly tucked away in a peaceful, beachside enclave.

"Budds Beach has remained exceptionally limited in supply over the past decade and this site presented an unmatched opportunity to deliver something truly special to both Surfers Paradise and the Gold Coast.”

Conveniently connected to major roads and the G:link, residents will enjoy easy access to Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Burleigh Heads, while still being just minutes from the city’s most iconic beaches and the Broadwater’s ‘golden mile’.

The 2130 sqm site acquisition adds to Homecorp’s growing Gold Coast multi-storey portfolio on the Gold Coast, following the success of Eve Residences in Labrador upon its completion in November 2024. In 2025, Eve earned multiple national accolades and went on to win ‘Best Oceanview Condo Development’ in the Asia Pacific region at the PropertyGuru Asia Property Awards Grand Final, outperforming entries from more than 13 prestigious international markets.

The company also commenced construction last year on the highly anticipated $250 million second stage of Cienna Varsity Ridge, set to deliver 289 residences by 2027 in the heart of Varsity Lakes, and launched the $210 million Florence Residences along Surfers Paradise’s Monte Carlo Avenue to the market, with construction kicking off last month.

"The property market is constantly evolving, particularly here on the Gold Coast, which continues to outperform national trends thanks to its unmatched lifestyle, natural beauty and growing infrastructure, especially ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympics. We are proud to be adding more homes to the skyline, creating spaces that are not only designed for liveability but also nurture wellness within. They are homes that are built to last a lifetime and beyond," concluded Mr Bakir.

The project is set to launch to the market later this year.

Homecorp lodges plans for $260 million Moroccan bathhouse-inspired tower in Budds Beach

What began as a leap of faith in the 1970s has evolved into one of the Gold Co​ast's most enduring development success stories. Raptis, now led by second-generation developer Evan Raptis, continues to shape the region's skyline four decades after patriarch Jim Raptis first ventured north from Sy​dney.

Jim Raptis began developing in Sy​dney in his 20s under the guidance of a seasoned mentor. After several successful joint ventures, he sensed untapped potential on the Gold Coast and made the bold decision to relocate. That instinct proved prescient, the Raptis family has contributed thousands of apartments to what was once purely a tourist destination and is now recognised as Australia's lifestyle capital.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=361818]

With decades of experience navigating the complex Gold Coast development landscape, Raptis maintains fully vertical integration, from site acquisition and construction through to marketing and sales strategies. This comprehensive approach has allowed the company to weather multiple market cycles and emerge well-positioned for the region's continued growth.

"We've seen the region change drastically over the last two decades, with that change accelerating in the last five years," says Evan Raptis. "The Gold Coast is becoming unrecognisable. There are some exciting projects happening up and down the coast. The Spit is being talked about as Australia's version of Monaco, with billions in development underway."

Unlike the volatile pre-GFC years that rocked the Gold Coast market, Raptis believes the region has matured considerably. "Demand remains strong, but the market is now settled and stable."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=361823]

While the company recently completed Pearl Main Beach, an 84-apartment development just 53 steps from the sand, Broadbeach has truly been home for the Raptis family.

"There's nothing Broadbeach doesn't have," Raptis says. "There's always a new café or restaurant coming into the neighbourhood, and the redevelopment of the Niecon Plaza, bringing nearly 5,500 square metres of retail, dining and office space, will only elevate Broadbeach even further."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=357483]

The suburb has reached what Raptis describes as a "settled phase" of its evolution, with owner-occupiers and repeat visitors increasingly shaping demand rather than traditional investors.

The company's latest Broadbeach project, Sterling, is now constructed to level 22 and scheduled for handover in June 2026. With approximately 70 per cent of apartments already sold ahead of completion, the development has attracted a distinct buyer profile.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101620 project_image_fid=361821]

"We're seeing significant interest from lock-up-and-leave buyers and downsizers," Raptis explains. "Some use the apartments over Easter or Christmas, while others come down from Brisbane on weekends. They aren't your typical 'investors' who will put the apartments up for permanent rental."

Sterling offers prospective buyers a rare advantage: fully completed display apartments showcasing several two- and three-bedroom configurations, something few off-the-plan developments can provide.

With another Broadbeach project in the pipeline, Raptis emphasises that the next chapter is about maintaining standards rather than pursuing growth at any cost.

"We've been building for over four decades, and our track record matters. Our focus remains the same: deliver what we build, stay close to the details, and delivering a finished product that hopefully exceeds our clients' expectations."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=101620]

It’s all in the family: Four decades later, Raptis continues to shape the Gold Coast skyline

JWLand has completed the final residential stage of its Lyneham precinct, Northbourne Village, with De Burgh now welcoming residents who have begun settling into their new homes.

A selection of the 350 studio, one, two, and three-bedroom apartments remains available within the two-building <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/de-burgh-at-northbourne-village-40-de-burgh-street-lyneham-act-2602">De Burgh</a>, which occupies a prominent position along Northbourne Avenue.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=359152]

The apartments at De Burgh have been configured to prioritise natural light, privacy, and usable outdoor space, with ground-floor homes featuring private courtyards and upper-level apartments opening to generous balconies. Double-glazed windows are standard across the development, supporting acoustic comfort and improved energy performance.

Kitchens are fitted with Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, while all residences include ducted reverse-cycle air conditioning integrated with app-based controls, allowing residents to manage lighting and climate remotely. These inclusions reflect a broader focus on durability, efficiency, and everyday functionality rather than short-term finishes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=356280]

Shared amenity is delivered through a resident gym, rooftop garden, lounge spaces, parcel lockers, and landscaped communal areas that connect De Burgh to the wider Northbourne Village environment.

Nick Babic, Marketing Project Manager at JWLand, said the completion of De Burgh gives buyers a level of certainty that off-the-plan purchases cannot always provide.

“There’s no need to wait or play guessing games. You can come and see the spaces firsthand, and genuinely picture yourself living there today. That includes not only the apartments, but the amenities as well. It’s easy to imagine enjoying a coffee in the central courtyard or spending time with other residents in the lounge.”

The completed status of the project aligns with strong buyer demand for finished stock, particularly among first home buyers, young professionals, and downsizers seeking certainty around timing and cost.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=356282]

With pricing ranging from $463,000 to $1.588 million, much of the offering sits within reach of buyers looking to enter the Inner North apartment market.

De Burgh’s location underpins its buyer appeal, positioned approximately 600 metres from the light rail and three kilometres from Canberra’s CBD, with direct access to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/lyneham-act-2602">Lyneham</a> wetlands, Sullivan’s Creek parkland, and the established hospitality and retail precincts of Lyneham and Dickson.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=139989]

Canberra's newest apartment building: JWLand completes De Burgh at Northbourne Village

One of Victoria’s largest private developers, Central Equity, has commenced construction on Palmera, its $1 billion luxury residential development at Northcliffe on the Gold Coast, appointing Tier 1 builder Multiplex to deliver the project.

The fast-track to construction is being undertaken ahead of Central Equity officially launching the project to market.

The company says the move reflects its confidence in both the calibre of its offering and the Gold Coast’s long-term fundamentals, underpinned by one of Australia’s strongest growing economies, continued population growth and sustained infrastructure investment.

A diversifying employment base across health, education, professional services and tourism has helped insulate the local economy from volatility, while limited new supply in established coastal locations continues to support demand from owner-occupiers and downsizers seeking long-term lifestyle value.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/palmera-residences-18-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Palmera</a> is being constructed in the prestigious Northcliffe residential neighbourhood on an expansive 3,239 sqm site. It is located at 18 Garfield Terrace near the Northcliffe Surf Life Saving Club and the patrolled Northcliffe surf beach, situated between Broadbeach and Surfers Paradise.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361249]

Offering a mix of spacious three-bedroom apartments over 52 levels, Palmera is designed to deliver a full suite of premium residences to buyers looking for the ultimate coastal lifestyle that the Gold Coast has to offer.

The project’s premium apartments will deliver northern views across the Surfers Paradise beachfront and extending all the way around to Burleigh Heads and beyond.

Palmera will be crowned by its top four levels, being a limited collection of penthouses and skyhomes that further elevate the residential offering through generous proportions and uninterrupted panoramic views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361246]

The appointment of Multiplex as the builder represents a major milestone for Palmera and cements Central Equity’s commitment to the Gold Coast after delivering more than 85 residential projects over the past four decades. It will be the 20th project collaboration between Central Equity and Multiplex.

“The commencement of construction at Palmera marks a major milestone for the project, with Tier 1 builder Multiplex appointed to deliver the development in the highly sought-after Northcliffe residential precinct on the Gold Coast,” said Central Equity Executive Director Karl Kutner.

“Our commitment to commence immediate construction is in line with our resounding confidence in the Gold Coast over the long term. The city has evolved and proven to be one of Australia’s most dynamic and resilient property markets in recent years.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361250]

Multiplex, one of Australia’s largest builders, has been shaping skylines and delivering iconic projects around the world since 1962. In that time, the Tier 1 global contractor has delivered projects with a combined value of more than US$130 billion.

“Having worked with Multiplex on many previous developments, we are pleased to be extending our relationship further with Palmera,” Kutner added.

“Multiplex brings an unparalleled depth of experience to ensure that Palmera fulfils the vision we have laid out for this strategic location and is delivered to the highest standards,” he said.

Multiplex Regional Managing Director Michael Sinclair said Multiplex was delighted to be aligning with Central Equity yet again.

“Central Equity is creating a stunning new addition to the Gold Coast skyline, and we look forward to bringing their vision to life with a world-class construction team and program. We are proud to be working alongside Central Equity on our 20th project together.”

Palmera has been designed by Marchese Partners, with interiors by DBI.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=361247]

Residents will have private access to extensive, state-of-the-art amenities, featuring two large pools including a generously scaled, family-friendly pool with safe shallow zones, and a 25-metre lap pool facing the western side, ensuring maximum sunlight all day.

Also available exclusively to residents is a sauna, magnesium pool, yoga studio, expansive gym, resident lounge, outdoor BBQ and dining areas. Residents will also be welcomed by concierge and luxurious entry foyer.

Located on Garfield Terrace in Northcliffe, Palmera enjoys a prime coastal position just moments from the patrolled Northcliffe beach and the G:link light rail, providing effortless connectivity along the Gold Coast’s beachfront suburbs, linking the Gold Coast University Hospital in the north with Nobby beach and Burleigh Heads to the south once the extension completes later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108274]

Central Equity unveils Palmera on Garfield Terrace, Surfers Paradise

The idea of a low-maintenance forever home located close to the city were the two driving factors behind a recent purchaser’s journey at Murcia, the under-construction East Brisbane apartment development by Sarazin.

Last year, Lois and her husband purchased a two-bedroom plus multi-purpose room (MPR) apartment in the new building, which is being constructed by Hutchinson Builders and is on track for completion in late-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=341638]

The couple’s number one priority was to remain within easy commuting distance of the city for work. Murcia is positioned alongside the new Cross River Rail, with Woolloongabba Station just 300 metres from the front door.

They are currently living in their Annerley unit, which they have owned for several years, after recently moving out of their inner-city apartment, located on the very same street as Murcia.

“We had watched the development for a long time, and when construction activity began, that’s when we felt confident to buy,” Lois said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=356540]

The timing also made sense. By moving back into their Annerley unit, they are able to save money ahead of settlement, while looking forward to returning closer to the city once Murcia is complete.

“We see Murcia as a forever home, as opposed to an investment, or something we need to appreciate massively in value and move on from in a few years,” Lois said.

“We secured an apartment large enough to grow a family, so we’re expecting to call Murcia home for a very long time.”

The couple plan to grow their family, but without the added maintenance demands of owning a standalone house further from the city. Working with Sarazin and architect HAL, they were able to slightly tweak the floorplan, converting the two-bedroom plus MPR layout into a functional three-bedroom apartment.

An added bonus was the recently revised communal space plans, which now incorporate a dedicated working-from-home area, complete with work pods, and shared desks.

“It means the third bedroom doesn’t have to become a part-time office and part-time bedroom,” Lois said, adding that residents have the benefit of working from home without actually being inside their apartment.

The rooftop wellness amenity was another standout compared to living in an established complex or a house. A signature feature of Sarazin developments, the rooftop will include a full gym, hot and cold plunge pools, a steam room and sauna, and a hotel-style pool with cabanas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135094 project_image_fid=214682]

Buyer journeys can vary significantly, from purchasing in the established market to buying new, or choosing between houses and apartments. Lois said they knew immediately that buying off the plan was right for them.

“We wanted something new, with less maintenance, and we weren’t quite ready to make the full financial leap straight away. The timing and deposit structure gave us the flexibility we needed.”

Designed by HAL Architects and inspired by the Spanish city of Murcia, the development takes a Mediterranean-influenced approach to architecture and landscaping, with a strong emphasis on shared spaces.

“The design feels considered, the amenities support how we actually live, and the location keeps us connected to the city without feeling right in the middle of it.”

Murcia is Sarazin’s second development in the area, following the completion of Silk One just up the road in 2022. They have several more projects coming to market in Woolloongabba ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Summer Olympics.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135094]

Close to the city, built for the future: Inside a growing family’s move to Murcia in East Brisbane

While most developers are aiming high across the Gold Coast, John Kearney’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/immerse-projects">Immerse Projects</a>&nbsp;has scaled back its plans for its Kirra Beach project.

As first reported by Apartments.com.au in April 2025, Immerse <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-immerse-projects-plan-new-apartments-at-kirra-beach">lodged plans for 105 apartments</a> on its 2,026 sqm Haig Street site.

The developer has now revised the proposal, reducing the 14-storey building to nine storeys and cutting the total number of apartments from 105 to 65.

The new scheme will also feature a broader mix of apartments. It will comprise 23 two-bedroom units, 17 three-bedroom units, and 25 four-bedroom apartments, the latter a configuration that was not included in the original proposal.

<img alt="Lot 11 C2859, 7 Haig Street, COOLANGATTA QLD 4225" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="972e3bbf-c3e6-4308-b098-5821e571f829" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Haig%20Street%20perspective%201.png?VersionId=3jkyNU0n7TW08DpkoEsY62bXWTb3UHxY" />

The building will rise to a compliant height of 29 metres, aligning with the Building Height Overlay.&nbsp;

The built form incorporates three basement levels accommodating 197 resident car parks and 13 visitor spaces, alongside storage and servicing areas. Level two is dedicated in part to communal amenity, including a lap pool along the western boundary, pool deck, spa and cold plunge pools, gym, work-from-home and meeting spaces, and landscaped areas designed to enhance privacy and outlook.

The typical floorplate will have eight apartments per level.

<img alt="Lot 11 C2859, 7 Haig Street, COOLANGATTA QLD 4225" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="002d2594-9cf4-4ee4-bb2a-9a0546ac1cc5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Haig%20Street%20site.png?VersionId=Qk.Cm0K9RziXrWu0Q4u2eOjEM3CwNhhC" />

The subject site is currently occupied by two 1970s-era walk-up buildings, Giraween and Caribbean, comprising 14 apartments.

Immerse Projects, led by building veteran John Kearney, who also heads construction firm Greyburn, has become increasingly active in the Kirra and broader southern Gold Coast market. The group recently completed Rhyhthm Kirra Hill on Garrick Street. They have another site locally, on McLean Street, which has approved plans for 58 apartments.

First Look: Immerse favours four-bed apartments in Kirra Beach switch

The development wave is continuing in the affluent suburb of Woollahra following last year’s planning reforms introduced by the Minns Labor Government.

In early 2025, the NSW Government implemented significant changes to its Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy, altering planning controls to allow greater density for new apartment projects within an 800-metre walking distance of stations and town centres in the Woollahra Local Government Area, overriding existing local controls. Buildings are now permitted to rise up to six storeys within 400 metres of a station or centre, or eight storeys where affordable housing is incorporated, and up to four storeys within the 401 to 800 metre radius, which can increase to six storeys with affordable housing.

Since then, a significant number of development applications have been lodged, and numerous sites have transacted, some at record highs, with the increased density provisions now working in favour of developers.

Lower North Shore developer Abadeen are behind the latest project. They are planning a six-storey residential building at 101–115 Edgecliff Road, on the border of Woollahra and Bondi Junction.

<img alt="First Look: Lindos Group plans six-storey adaptive reuse apartment project in Woollahra’s Fletcher Precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="17a75a04-3ecd-4b0f-af9f-54514690721b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Edgecliff%20DA%20front.png?VersionId=r0MiKualBGqKrjVj6hJZHsEiwl9QzF0D" />

The proposal would replace a trio of interwar flat buildings on the amalgamated 1,514 sqm site, which has three street frontages to Edgecliff Road, Adelaide Street and Australia Lane.

Importantly, as noted in the documents, the project represents a 200 per cent increase in bedroom density, from 32 bedrooms to 66, rather than a significant increase in the number of apartments, which will rise only slightly from 28 to 29.

The scheme proposes four one-bedroom units, 13 two-bedroom units, and 12 three-bedroom apartments. The submitted planning documents note that, based on market research and background analysis, one of the primary target markets will be downsizers seeking to remain in the local area while moving out of larger freestanding homes they no longer require.

“This allows for new housing supply opportunities beyond just the subject site,” the Design Report by architecture firm Squillace states. The current unit mix comprises 24 one-bedroom apartments and four two-bedroom units.

The top level of the new development will feature a rooftop deck with a pool, barbecue facilities, integrated seating, and a communal vegetable and herb garden.

“Providing these facilities is beneficial in encouraging increased interaction between occupants, which in turn fosters a greater sense of community,” Squillace’s report notes. The firm adds that the vegetable and herb garden, in particular, offers social value, with volunteering opportunities creating further interaction among residents.

<img alt="First Look: Lindos Group plans six-storey adaptive reuse apartment project in Woollahra’s Fletcher Precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9619b7bb-291d-417a-a006-f36d14a97cb1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Edgecliff%20DA%20perspective.png?VersionId=PYeMKcgOnEV7XVztARQ_YVDlvHcuyZaW" />

Squillace describes the intent as delivering additional housing supply while maintaining the heritage character of the Fletcher Precinct.

“Our objective is to design a high-quality benchmark building that enables considered additions and the adaptive reuse of the existing three brick residential flat buildings,” the architecture firm states.

The site is located within a heritage conservation area, with all three existing buildings identified as contributory items in the Woollahra Development Control Plan. Rather than pursuing wholesale demolition, the proposal retains the primary brick façades and tiled pitched roof forms along Edgecliff Road and Adelaide Street. New upper-level additions are set back from the existing parapets and articulated with horizontal and vertical shadow lines to provide visual separation.

&nbsp;

Justin Brown, Executive Chairman and Founder of Abadeen, said Woollahra represents a natural progression of the company’s strategy.

“Edgecliff Road is a remarkable site close to Woollahra Village and Bondi Junction and exactly the type of well located, tightly held opportunity we seek. Our focus has always been to identify, secure and progress sites that deliver enduring value for residents, communities and our investors.”

Abadeen CEO, Joe Tack, said the project reflects the company’s long-term confidence in Sydney’s most desirable precincts.

“Henri House in Darlinghurst has seen a strong market response at launch, and with construction now underway and the crane on site, it has reinforced the depth of demand for premium, design led apartment living in the east," Tack said.

"Woollahra is defined by heritage, lifestyle and connectivity, and the Edgecliff Road proposal presents an opportunity to contribute thoughtfully to the suburb’s evolution, delivering contemporary medium density housing close to transport, retail and open space.”

First Look: Woollahra development wave continues as Abadeen plots six-storey apartment block

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-broadbeach-13-armrick-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">Crest Broadbeach</a> continues to record strong sales momentum more than a year after the launch of second tower, reinforcing buyer confidence in the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/morris-property-group">Morris Property Group</a> development as construction progresses on site.

The two-tower project on Armrick Avenue is now around 70 per cent sold. Around 90 per cent of the apartments in the first tower have been snapped up, with more than 40 per cent of sales achieved in the second tower since its mid-2025 release. With both towers now under construction and completion targeted for late 2027, Crest continues to attract buyer interest well after its initial launch.

The project’s sales success reflects Morris Property Group’s long-standing commitment to premium locations, delivery certainty, and apartments designed for long-term owner-occupiers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112024 project_image_fid=343113]

Crest occupies a rare position on Armrick Avenue, a leafy Broadbeach address that has seen minimal apartment development despite the suburb’s wider growth. The site overlooks expansive green space, including Broadbeach Park and the neighbouring bowls club grounds, offering leafy outlooks and immediate access to open space just moments from the beach.

That scarcity has been a key driver of urgency, particularly among buyers seeking a full-time coastal residence in an area where new supply opportunities are increasingly limited.

Delivery certainty has also played a central role. Morris Property Group is delivering Crest using its in-house construction team, with both towers being built concurrently, providing buyers with clear construction visibility at a time when confidence in project timelines has become a decisive factor.

The developer’s long-standing presence in Broadbeach has further reinforced buyer confidence. Crest is Morris Property Group’s ninth apartment development in the suburb since 2006, following recently completed projects such as Malo Broadbeach and with Maison Broadbeach currently under construction nearby.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112024 project_image_fid=5430]

Pricing has also been carefully positioned relative to comparable beachfront and near-beach product. With two and three-bedroom apartments starting from $1.199 million, Crest has attracted both local downsizers and interstate purchasers seeking value without compromising location or build quality.

According to Apartments.com.au enquiry data, interest has remained broad-based, with Queensland buyers forming the core market and New South Wales accounting for around 20 to 30 per cent of enquiries since early 2024.

Apartments have been designed with owner-occupiers in mind, prioritising generous floor plans, practical storage, and low ongoing costs. Hybrid timber flooring, Bosch appliances, ducted air conditioning with condensers positioned away from balconies, and low body corporate levies, averaging around $90 per week for two-bedroom apartments, have resonated with buyers planning to live in the building long term.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112024 project_image_fid=286005]

Resident amenity has been curated to support everyday use rather than short-term spectacle, with a gym, pool, barbecue facilities and landscaped outdoor spaces integrated into the development.

As broader market conditions continue to reward projects that combine location discipline with delivery certainty, Crest’s sales performance highlights where buyer demand is consolidating in Broadbeach, towards established streets, proven developers, and apartments designed for permanence rather than turnover.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112024]

Sustained sales momentum underpins demand at Morris Property Group’s Crest Broadbeach

<article data-scroll-anchor="true" data-testid="conversation-turn-4" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:2cd0935f-64f2-4642-8736-f0c056a17aa8-1" dir="auto" tabindex="-1">
South East Queensland developer SIERA has lodged a development application for a 27-storey residential tower on Chevron Island, marking its third project in the Surfers Paradise area and second within the island precinct.

Designed by Gold Coast-based BDA Architecture, the proposal comprises 130 apartments across a slender tower positioned opposite Chevron Island Park. The 1,518 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-19-anembo-street-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">17-21 Anembo Street</a> sits at the western entry to the island and offers protected view corridors towards the Nerang River and hinterland.

According to SIERA Founder Brent Thompson, the design intent has been to create what he describes as “a Queenslander in the sky,” with a narrow floorplate to minimise overshadowing, maximise cross-ventilation and respond to the subtropical microclimate.

The podium has been articulated with layered materials and cascading landscaping to provide a transition between the park frontage and the residential tower above. A full-floor communal amenity level on level four will capture elevated park and river views, providing residents with wellness and recreation facilities in a private setting.

<img alt="Siera" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d1008c8-e1b5-4923-a568-29f356068e3f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-02-16%20at%204.06.44%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=p_0qI12aHgz3M8aHFbUoduXBOKDhcrqV" />

Thompson said the project continues the developer’s focus on Chevron Island, a precinct he believes has been “significantly underrated” but is now gaining broader recognition.

“The demand we’ve seen at Tapestry, nearing sell-out and completing later in 2026, confirms this is where Gold Coast residents want to live,” he said.

“It offers something rare: quiet neighbourhood character with wide, tree-lined streets, genuine local amenity, cafes, quality restaurants, medical services, daily necessities, and excellent connectivity to the light rail, beaches, river and HOTA, without feeling touristy or transient. As one of only two true island residential communities on the Gold Coast with limited development opportunity, this will become one of the coast’s most coveted addresses for those seeking a genuine residential lifestyle.”

Chevron Island has undergone steady evolution in recent years, benefiting from its proximity to HOTA and improved connectivity to Surfers Paradise and the light rail network. Thompson described the location as presenting “a unique window of opportunity”, noting that while buyer activity is strong, “pricing hasn’t yet caught up to comparable locations.”

“For buyers who understand the precinct’s trajectory, particularly its proximity to HOTA and the cultural activation happening there, this represents compelling value,” he said.

Apartment configurations will comprise two- and three-bedroom layouts targeted primarily at local owner-occupiers. Thompson said the homes are designed for “practical living,” with natural light, cross-ventilation and generous outdoor spaces central to the planning approach.

“We’re not chasing volume,” Thompson added. “We’re focused on delivering projects in the right locations for genuine owner-occupiers. Chevron Island offers an incredible combination of lifestyle, connectivity and value that we believe is significantly underappreciated in the broader Gold Coast market.”

The Anembo Street proposal follows SIERA’s 113-apartment Tapestry development on Chevron Island, currently under construction and due for completion in 2026. The developer recently completed Pipis in Bilinga and is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a 54-apartment project in Northcliffe, Surfers Paradise, in the second quarter of 2026, with 40 per cent of apartments reportedly secured ahead of its formal launch.

SIERA operates as a vertically integrated builder-developer, managing acquisition, design, sales and construction in-house.

“We’re builders at heart who develop exclusively for ourselves,” Thompson said. “We don’t build for others; we refine what we do for our residents and owners. That focus allows us to control and oversee every detail, every communication, every interaction with stakeholders from neighbours to owners to council. We’re relentless in pursuing thoughtful design for practical living.”

Pricing for the Anembo Street project has not yet been released and remains subject to development approval. The application is currently under assessment by Gold Coast City Council. If approved, construction is anticipated to commence in late 2026, with completion targeted for 2028.
</article>

First look: SIERA doubles down on Chevron Island with new tower plans 

Brisbane's riverside suburb of Hamilton is set to grow into the next apartment development hotspot.

Already favoured by GRAYA and Fortis for their upcoming projects, two more site transactions have taken place, firmly putting Hamilton on the map for new apartments in the short to medium term.

South East Queensland developer Frank Developments is stamping its authority on the suburb, paying $16.5 million for 60 Kingsford Smith Drive, a 1,640 sqm site directly opposite the Breakfast Creek Hotel.

It is the second site Frank Developments, led by Frank Licastro, has secured on the prominent riverfront strip. He also controls 92 Kingsford Smith Drive, where he and joint venture partner Signature Property Partners are preparing to launch Alba, a 72-apartment project comprising two, three and four-bedroom residences designed by BYCulprit.

MP Commercial said the latest transaction represents a “natural evolution” for Frank Developments as it continues to expand its presence in the area. The agency has exchanged on $53.5 million worth of prime inner-city development sites across three deals in the past fortnight, signalling sustained appetite for well-located infill opportunities despite broader market caution.

The Kingsford Smith Drive corridor has long attracted developer interest given its river frontage, proximity to the CBD and established amenity, but tightly held ownership has historically limited supply. Sites with uninterrupted views across the Brisbane River to Newstead Park and the city skyline are particularly rare, placing a premium on scalable parcels with favourable planning controls.

Also securing a new site, its first in Hamilton, is Rhett Williams’ Vector Property, the developer behind BANKSII in East Brisbane, a 72-apartment project opposite Raymond Park that it is developing alongside joint venture partner Core Property Partners.

Vector has secured a 2,325 sqm site at 12 Hercules Street, zoned mixed-use high density within a Priority Development Area, providing planning flexibility for a residential-led outcome.

Vector said the acquisition aligns with its focus on “disciplined capital deployment, downside protection, and strong risk-adjusted returns,” pointing to depth of demand and proven absorption in the inner-ring market.

The Hercules Street site is fully serviced and positioned close to established retail, dining and public transport, as well as major employment nodes including the CBD and Brisbane Airport. Hamilton’s connectivity, combined with its riverside setting and ongoing urban renewal, continues to support demand from both owner-occupiers and investors seeking proximity to lifestyle amenity.

Luxury developer GRAYA is hoping launch its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-graya-expands-hamilton-presence-with-the-gallery-apartments">Racecourse Road apartment development</a> this year, which will add another 53 apartments to the Hamilton pipeline, while <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/fortis-doubles-down-on-brisbane-files-boutique-apartment-plans-on-hamiltons-racecourse-road">Fortis has approval</a> for its 12-unit shoptop next door.

Latest Property News

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

Guides

Editor's Picks

Guides

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Latest Property News

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

Guides

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Guides

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News