A new 25-storey apartment tower proposed for Mercer Street would push Geelong’s western gateway skyline higher, with Morphy Birrell Property Group lodging plans for a project directly beside one of the city’s most significant heritage streetscapes.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">FK</a>-designed development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/65-67-mercer-street-geelong-vic-3220">65-67 Mercer Street</a> has now been referred to Victoria’s Planning Minister. The site sits opposite the Geelong rail corridor and immediately south of the heritage-listed St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church and Ashby Hall precinct.

Rather than compete with the neighbouring ecclesiastical buildings, the proposal adopts a sculpted podium intended to reference the materiality and scale of the heritage context. Planning documents note the design draws cues from the “dark stone brick” church and surrounding masonry buildings, while the tower above transitions into a softer, curved form oriented toward Corio Bay and the Geelong waterfront.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b797d10c-d4a6-47af-b8df-1aeaa3b382be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/public%20square.png?VersionId=QGIpcz1x1hKB6lQLl2iobyHqb6PS2Ztc" />

The development forms “Stage 5” of Morphy Birrell Property Group’s broader Mercer Street precinct strategy, following the completion of the 21-storey Miramar tower on Cavendish Street and several additional approved redevelopment stages nearby. Planning consultants Ratio said the proposal “represents an exemplary development outcome” aligned with the strategic ambitions for Central Geelong’s continued urban renewal.

The mixed-use project would replace an existing low-rise commercial building and surface parking area on the 3,320 sqm corner site. FK’s urban context report describes the proposal as a residential development comprising apartments, resident amenities, commercial space, and integrated landscaping positioned to maximise bay views and northern sunlight access.

Renders show a deeply articulated tower with curved balconies stepping above a lower masonry podium that frames a landscaped forecourt facing Mercer Street. The design intentionally preserves sightlines toward the adjacent church buildings, with the podium scaled to reinforce the heritage edge before the tower recedes upward.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bdca91e-66f7-4ac7-8baa-2f93bd5b564e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/geelong%20site.png?VersionId=QOhbino4ZgzKYw5dW3QE14E.2yq.Sv87" />

The planning report highlights the site’s strategic location within 400 metres of key Geelong destinations including Cunningham Pier, the Geelong Station precinct, Deakin University, and the convention centre. Bus services run directly along Mercer Street, while the Corio Bay foreshore sits around 100 metres north of the site.

The proposal arrives amid accelerating redevelopment across central Geelong, where planning policy continues to encourage higher-density housing close to transport infrastructure and the waterfront. Mercer Street in particular has emerged as a focal point for taller apartment development due to its proximity to Geelong Station, the bay, and major civic infrastructure.

Joel Robinson

Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct

Development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the next residential stage of their $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan, lodging plans for 512 more apartments within the precinct on surplus racecourse land at 110 Wilson Street, Moonee Ponds.

The proposed development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trackside-house-110-wilson-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Trackside Gardens</a>&nbsp;in the planning application, follows the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-hamton-and-hostplus-reveal-sixth-stage-of-moonee-valley-park-masterplan">recent unveiling of the sixth-stage Cox Place Precinct</a> and continues the long-running transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse into one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects.

Positioned on the north-eastern edge of the racecourse adjacent to CityLink, Trackside Gardens will comprise three residential buildings rising between 61.8 metres and 86.4 metres within a heavily landscaped precinct shaped by Hamton’s Nature Based Cities framework.

The project forms part of the broader Moonee Valley Park redevelopment being delivered by Hamton, Hostplus and the Moonee Valley Racing Club, which is reshaping the 40-hectare racecourse site into a mixed-use neighbourhood with housing, retail, commercial space, hotels, parkland and community infrastructure.

Trackside Gardens sits separately to the recently proposed Cox Place Precinct, a five-building stage comprising around 1,100 residences, two build-to-rent buildings, two build-to-sell towers, retail, office space, and a hotel overlooking the racetrack. Together, the projects continue to accelerate housing delivery across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fc1941e-52d3-41c6-abc4-0f13fe8ae5ea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/DA%20Edits%20%281%29.png?VersionId=7qwRHq5dcvXWNot2hNOgoQhN2GIWudNK" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> with landscape architecture by Tract, Trackside Gardens has been conceived as a botanical-style residential precinct prioritising canopy planting, communal green space, and vertical landscaping.

“The architectural vision for the proposed development centres around buildings in a botanical park setting that champions the important role of nature,” the planning submission states.

“The proposal incorporates principles of biophilic design, with landscape and environmentally sustainable development influencing the ultimate design response of the buildings and prioritising the ground plane to ensure a high amenity for both occupants and visitors.”&nbsp;

Trackside Gardens will deliver 512 apartments across the three buildings, alongside 518 basement car spaces and 523 bicycle spaces. Around 20 per cent affordable housing is proposed across the broader North East Precinct, equating to around 158 dwellings.&nbsp;

The affordable housing component will be concentrated within the Wilson East building, while the remaining apartments are expected to be delivered as build-to-sell residences.

Trackside Gardens has been designed around Hamton’s Nature Based Cities initiative, founded by Executive Chair Paul Hameister OAM in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Urbis, Ark Resources and Tract. The initiative promotes integrating higher-density urban development with significant biodiversity, tree canopy and landscape outcomes.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89353449-7b3c-42fd-8fd8-8bf64a5ef80f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_4.png?VersionId=X8jRt0P2L7fIWjLhfX6gPknXToXIBeLj" />

A comprehensive landscape strategy would introduce deep soil planting, vertical greening, communal gardens, and new pedestrian links throughout the site.

Planning documents state the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, a 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and “Exemplary” Nature Based Cities certification.&nbsp;

The proposal joins an expanding pipeline of approved and proposed buildings within Moonee Valley Park, including the recently launched Eveline apartments and the approved Grandstand North and South towers.

Hamton has increasingly focused on precinct-scale, nature-led communities across Melbourne’s middle-ring suburbs, with projects spanning Hawthorn, Kew, and Moonee Ponds.

Hampton unveils Trackside Gardens, latest stage of $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan

The Paul Gedoun-led <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Group</a> has achieved another milestone in its $1 billion transformation of Rainbow Bay on the southern Gold Coast with the completion of the company’s third project in four years, the $160 million <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a> residences.

Delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, Esprit buyers have now moved into the 94 apartments across two interconnected buildings at 217-227 Boundary Street.

The successful settlement of Esprit marks another astounding chapter in the S&amp;S story, which launched its highly successful Flow apartments three years ago and created its own ultra-luxury branded fingerprint on an area craving new luxury residences.

Most early purchasers have secured gains of well over $1 million since the project launched in 2021.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the completion of Esprit reflects sustained demand for premium apartments in tightly held coastal locations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Esprit has attracted buyers seeking a combination of quality design, considered amenity and a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate,” said Gedoun.

“We identified some years ago that Rainbow Bay is a unique market where supply of luxury residences is limited, and we see the settlements in Esprit further underpinning this thinking - that for both owner-occupiers and investors.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

A key feature of the development is ‘Club Esprit’, a 1,000sqm residents-only rooftop level combining wellness and recreation, believed to be a first for the Gold Coast, and which is fast becoming a signature of the S&amp;S brand.

Positioned to capture views across Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay and the Tweed River, the rooftop includes a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga lawn, sauna and steam facilities, ice bath, private dining spaces, outdoor cinema and landscaped areas for residents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> Director Jayde Pezet, who led the sales campaign for Esprit and S&amp;S’s Flow and Awaken apartments, said the project’s performance reflects both the strength of the product and the depth of demand for premium apartments on the southern Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“In some cases, we’ve seen values double since launch, which is a clear reflection of how tightly held Rainbow Bay has become and the level of demand for well-executed projects in this market,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers recognised early what S&amp;S Projects was delivering here, and that conviction has been rewarded as the project has progressed towards completion.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=214819]

Esprit offers a mix of two- three and four-bedroom apartments and sits within walking distance of the beachfront, cafés and local amenities, reinforcing its appeal as both a lifestyle and investment destination.

The project is the third completed by S&amp;S Projects in Rainbow Bay, following Flow Residences and Awaken Residences, which together have contributed to the suburb’s emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after coastal pockets. &nbsp;

S&amp;S Projects is continuing its investment in the area with Radia, a $215 million development currently under construction.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

Gedoun said the completion of Esprit signals continued confidence in the southern Gold Coast market.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen strong interest in well-located, high-quality apartments, particularly in areas where future development opportunities are limited."

“That’s been a key factor in the performance of Esprit and the broader Rainbow Bay market”.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Owners move in as Esprit completes at Rainbow Bay

Few developers can boast a portfolio across South East Queensland's luxury markets quite like <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a>.

The builder-developer, founded in 2004 by Managing Director Brook Monahan, has projects in planning, on the market, and under construction, from Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach to Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane.

With a pipeline exceeding $2 billion, Mosaic remains highly selective when it comes to development sites, having spent years refining its strategy around feasibility research and product planning. The group is set to continue growing into 2026 and beyond.

In Brisbane, Mosaic currently has three projects in the market. It is in the final release stage at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford</a> in Kangaroo Point, which is approaching complete sellout ahead of its late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328123]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, The Bedford comprises 128 two- and three-bedroom residences. A selection of ultra-luxury Masterpiece Series Skyhomes, positioned across the top levels, offer expansive floor plans and sweeping views of the river and city.

High-end inclusions, such as natural stone benchtops, bespoke cabinetry, and Miele appliances, feature throughout all apartments, alongside the Rooftop Recreation &amp; Retreat Sky Terrace. This includes a resort-style pool with sun deck and loungers, spa, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room, private dining room with a full kitchen, residents' lounge, multiple barbeque and relaxation zones, an outdoor viewing deck, and landscaped gardens with water features, all oriented to sweeping city and river views.

A gym with indoor and outdoor zones, and a golf simulator, further enhances recreational choice within the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328119]

A defining feature of the development is its integrated mixed-use component, which will deliver Kangaroo Point's first major supermarket, alongside a café and liquor store, bringing long-awaited convenience to the peninsula.

Monahan says The Bedford represents the culmination of a near-decade-long journey, after first identifying the A-grade Prospect Street site in 2016. While they came close to acquiring it at the time, the site was ultimately purchased by Woolworths' development arm, Fabcot. The opportunity resurfaced in 2024 when the site, vacant for nearly three decades, was brought back to market.

Monahan says Mosaic projects often begin years before any formal plans are drawn. Their new South Brisbane development is no exception, with the site first earmarked in 2018.

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan says. "Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141711 project_image_fid=353495]

A similar story unfolded at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a> in Kangaroo Point, opposite The Gabba. Like The Bedford, it is also approaching sellout of its 125 two- and three-bedroom apartments. The majority of sales are attributed to returning customers and referrals, with a balanced mix of investors and a strong majority of owner-occupiers.

BDA Architecture was again engaged to design the 22-storey building, which will feature a suite of wellness and lifestyle amenities, including a golf simulator and cinema, a commercial-grade gym, and a rooftop recreation level with a pool, steam room, sauna, cold plunge, teppanyaki bar, private dining spaces, and landscaped terraces.

Construction is on track for completion in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Mosaic's latest offering is its most ambitious yet, boasting a rare, north-facing riverfront position on Montague Road in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale by Mosaic</a> is a 39-storey tower comprising just over 200 residences and Masterpiece Series Sky Homes. Designed in partnership with Bureau Proberts, it will feature nearly 3,000 sqm of genuine, internationally benchmarked six-star, hotel-style amenities, including a wellness precinct, pool, gym, massage and treatment rooms, cinema, golf simulator, and extensive outdoor dining areas across a two-level rooftop deck.

Early works are underway, with full construction expected to commence in the second half of 2026, and an anticipated late 2029 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Since 2012 alone, Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects and is set to deliver another $2 billion worth of developments, comprising hundreds of luxury apartments, each defined by Mosaic's signature standards of quality, detail, and delivery.

"We never arrive, there is no finish line," says Monahan. "Our ambition is to keep evolving what luxury means, creating design- and lifestyle-led residences in incredible locations, places people genuinely aspire to and want to live, homes that are loved deeply and endure long beyond their moment."

Mosaic's Midas Touch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> (Urban) has broken ground at Keira Place, its new major mixed-use residential precinct in the heart of Wollongong CBD.

Held at 120-122 Smith Street, the groundbreaking marked the commencement of construction on Stage 1 of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, with the opening of the new display suite. 
&nbsp; 
Keira Place is a State Significant Development that will deliver new housing supply, affordable homes and inclusive living options within walking distance of Wollongong’s CBD, coastline, transport, hospital and education precincts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369868] 
&nbsp; 
Stage 1 is now under construction and will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, along with activated ground-floor retail and commercial space. 
&nbsp; 
Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the groundbreaking represented a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected Urban’s long-term commitment to regional cities.

“Today’s groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong’s city centre,” Elias said. 
&nbsp; 
“Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369869] 
&nbsp; 
Hon. Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Member for Wollongong said Keira Place is exactly the kind of development Wollongong needs – delivering new homes close to transport, employment and services, while supporting the continued growth and renewal of the CBD.

"This project reflects the Minns Labor Government's commitment to increasing housing supply in well-located areas." 
&nbsp; 
Wollongong Lord Mayor Cr Tania Brown said Keira Place would deliver lasting community benefits for the city. 
&nbsp; 
"Keira Place is a welcome addition to Wollongong's CBD delivering new housing, affordable homes and activated street-level spaces that will benefit our community for years to come," Brown said. 
&nbsp; 
"Urban Property Group's investment reflects the confidence that quality developers have in Wollongong's future, and I look forward to seeing this precinct come to life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369867] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/dko">DKO,</a> Keira Place prioritises liveability and long-term performance, with landscaped shared spaces, generous apartment layouts and a pedestrian-friendly streetscape along Smith Street. 
&nbsp; 
Residents will have access to landscaped podium areas, communal rooftop amenities with views to Mount Keira and the Wollongong skyline, and convenient ground-level retail.

The development will have 10-year Latent Defects Insurance by Resilience Insurance.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144442]

Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD

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?

The established property investor and developer, Centa Property Group, has lodged plans to create a striking apartment development in Brisbane&#39;s Indooroopilly.

Rothelowman has put together the designs for the 12-level building at 4-12 Lambert Road and 7 Railway Avenue, which will have 95 apartments.

Typical for the renowned architecture firm&#39;s inner-city projects, they are set to revitalize&nbsp;the ground floor, creating a mini-retail precinct for four tenancy spaces, and locate the residential amenity on the roof.

The project will be Centa&#39;s first in Brisbane, having recently developed a few buildings on the Gold Coast.

Centa Director Jason Yuen said that in&nbsp;recent years they had&nbsp;noticed great developments&nbsp;taking place in South Brisbane and the Fortitude&nbsp;Valley/Newstead region.&nbsp;

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&quot;When we acquired this site in 2020, we saw an&nbsp;opportunity to be pioneers in delivering a sensational project for the Indooroopilly community,&quot; Yuen told Urban.

&quot;We also noticed there was a lack of/shortage in apartment living, catering for the down-sizers and acreage owners moving closer to the city, but still able to send their children to University and private schools whilst still enjoying the amenity they have always had.

&quot;The site is within close proximity&nbsp;to some of Brisbane&#39;s best schools, the iconic Indooroopilly shopping centre, two major golf courses, the University of Queensland, the Witton Barracks park which will be soon upgraded by Brisbane City Council.

&quot;We see this is a true transit-oriented development that is designed to bring people, activities, public space and amenities together.&quot;

The terracotta building will be made up of two and three-bedroom apartments, with over a quarter of the apartments having a multi-purpose room.

The rooftop will home a swimming pool and adjoining wading pool, a designated space for outdoor dining and a barbecue area, an outdoor gym space, and a yoga lawn.

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Rothelowman advise in their submission to the Brisbane City Council that the liveability of each dwelling is embodied in the architecture.

&quot;Consideration and analysis for how each space will be occupied throughout the day is reflected in the design of a series of indoor and outdoor rooms,&quot; Rothelowman note.

&quot;The apartment experience is created by the sectional relationship between interior and exterior space.

&quot;A downturn landscaped planter with occupiable Juliette balcony to the east and west facades moderates views, western summer sun and creates privacy.

&quot;The architecture becomes the interior and the interior becomes the architecture.&quot;

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Active frontages are provided to Lambert Road and Railway Avenue to promote street life at the ground plane.

&quot;Places for incidental interaction and relaxation enhance the opportunity for walkability and social interaction along the Railway Avenue Precinct,&quot; Rothelowman added.

A landscaped laneway extends the active frontage into the site to promote permeability.

Centa, who invest in both commercial and residential property, has been acquiring the Lambert Street amalgamation since late 2020.

Most recently Centa, founded in 1978&nbsp;by Henry Yuen, has been developing on the Gold Coast.

Their last project, Summit 110, on the Broadwater in Labrador, completed in 2020. Before that they developed Spice Broadbeach, the 57-apartment development&nbsp;which was finished in 2017.

Centa is currently working on another residential mid-rise development project on the Gold Coast. &nbsp;We have 2 x retail projects and 1 x land sub division under construction at the moment.&nbsp;

The terracotta building will be made up of two and three-bedroom apartments, with over a quarter of the apartments having a multi-purpose room

Centa Property Group submit Rothelowman-designed Indooroopilly apartment plans

Akin, the newest apartment project from the Brisbane developer Tallis Property Group, has been strategically located to take advantage of all the burgeoning South Bank has to offer.

The Merivale Street tower is just around the corner from Fish Lane, the recently developed&nbsp;laneway-style town square,&nbsp;which is the hub of Brisbane's art, culture and entertainment scene. At Fish Lane there's&nbsp;16 restaurants, 11 bars and six cafés, including Julius Pizzeria, Gauge, Hello Please, Maeve and Maker.

Akin has been built within a cultural precinct, becoming a neighbour to a hub of galleries and performance spaces, including the Gallery of Modern Art, Queensland Museum, Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre and the Queensland Theatre.

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The 30-level tower, designed by DBI,&nbsp;sits near Musgrave Park and Park Avenue at South Bank, as well as Brisbane Streets Beach and Queens Gardens.

Brisbane State High School and West End State School are in the area, with TAFE Queensland just down the road.&nbsp;

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With the area under development across a range of areas, South Brisbane&nbsp;will continue to see growth in the years to come.

Construction is currently under way on a number of projects including the Queen’s Wharf Brisbane, Neville Bonner Bridge and New Performing Arts Venue (NPAV), which will all be well-connected with the developing Brisbane Metro.&nbsp;

Queen’s Wharf Brisbane is a $3.8 billion integrated resort development that will put Brisbane firmly on the map as a global tourism, leisure and entertainment destination.

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Spanning more than 270 meters across the Brisbane River, The Neville Bonner Bridge will be an important&nbsp;link between South Bank and the Queen’s Wharf precinct.

New Performing Arts Venue is a $150 million theatre which will amplify the thriving performing arts precinct in South Brisbane.

Akin, which has just released its collection of sky homes, has a number of five-star amenities, such as the resident’s lobby, business hub, rooftop terrace, gym, resort pool, wellness centre and outdoor dining space.

Only three and four-bedroom apartments remain the tower, which is currently under construction by DESCON. Prices start from $1,399,950.

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The Merivale Street tower is just around the corner from Fish Lane, the recently developed laneway-style town square


South Brisbane's liveability and lifestyle driving buyers to Akin apartments

Two of the Gold Coast&rsquo;s most active project marketers &ndash; who have been behind some of the city&rsquo;s best performing apartment projects - say market forces delaying some projects will continue to drive the market to new heights.

Jayde Pezet and Todd Matheson, of KM Sales and Marketing (KMSM), say rising construction costs impacting on the feasibility of projects and delays with building materials because of global supply chain issues, will only increase the demand for apartments in the current market.

&ldquo;There has been a lot of industry talk about the impacts of rising costs and supply chain issues, but we are seeing the continuation of a very strong downsizer market similar to what we saw in 2021,&rdquo; Pezet said.

&ldquo;If there are issues that delay new projects coming to market we believe this is only going to create a situation where there is less stock on the market and therefore more demand.&rdquo;

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KMSM are gearing up for a billion-dollar year of property transactions, with $625 million in projected settlements for the company in 2022, plus a further $600 million in projected project launches.

&ldquo;2021 was a watershed year for the city and we are well and truly anticipating this momentum to accelerate into 2022,&rdquo; Pezet said.

&ldquo;With interstate and international borders now open and lockdowns behind us, the Gold Coast property market will begin to transition into a new phase driven predominantly by southern buyers or local down sizers who want the appeal of coastal living.&quot;

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&ldquo;It&rsquo;s not just buyers that are flocking north - interstate developers too have been quick to cotton on to the value that lies on Gold Coast soil, snatching up development sites before they even hit the market.&quot;

&ldquo;Despite the boom we&rsquo;ve witnessed in recent years, the city remains considerably undervalued compared to the likes of Melbourne and Sydney.&rdquo;

Both Pezet and Matheson have witnessed the highs and the lows of the city&rsquo;s economy, having sat at the helm of the property marketing landscape through the GFC and its subsequent rebound in recent years.

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Now with a strong tailwind behind them, the pair are carrying their prolific partnership into its next evolution, today announcing the rebrand of KMSM to &lsquo;Pezet Matheson&rsquo;.

KMSM emerged as the sales and marketing arm of KordaMentha &ndash; an independent and trusted firm providing professional services &ndash; in 2011 and has since remained a branded subsidiary of the investment group. But as the Gold Coast rapidly emerges as one of the country&rsquo;s most competitive property pockets, Matheson said now was the time to take the company&rsquo;s image in a fresh direction.

&ldquo;The city has evolved massively in recent years, and we felt there was no better time to take the next strategic step with the company and our place in the market moving forward,&rdquo; said Matheson.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108327 project_image_fid=181282]

&ldquo;We will still retain our connection to the KordaMentha roots which the company was founded upon, however this strategic rebrand is an opportunity to position ourselves as industry leaders as the company evolves with the booming Gold Coast property landscape.&quot;

&ldquo;The transition coincides with some exciting new initiatives on the horizon for Pezet Matheson which will allow us to bring a broader real-estate offering to assist our purchasers and clients with property management and residential sales moving forward.&rdquo;

Over its 11 years of operation, the company has been involved with some of the most high- profile and successful projects to sweep the Gold Coast, including its early work alongside Sunland Group and the $800 million Oracle Broadbeach.

Since then its profile has grown to encompass Star Residences, Signature Broadbeach, The Monroe, Magnoli Apartments, Esprit, Greenwhich and numerous others.

More recently KMSM has led the sales and marketing on S&amp;S Projects&rsquo; Flow Residences and Awaken. Flow was recognised as one of Australia&rsquo;s best selling off the plan projects for 2020 with an average sale price of $3.95 million, while Awaken set a new southern Gold Coast record in 2021 with the $8.15 million sale of its penthouse.

Jayde Pezet and Todd Matheson say rising construction costs impacting on the feasibility of projects and delays with building materials because of global supply chain issues, will only increase the demand for apartments in the current market.


Gold Coast's Pezet Matheson forecast $1bn year of transactions

Cronulla is set to welcome one of its most high-end apartment projects to date.

Solstice will bring just 15 apartments to Prince Street -&nbsp;Cronulla&#39;s version of Bondi&#39;s Campbell Parade - offering unobstructed beach views across the amalgamated 1,700 sqm dress circle site.

In reality there&#39;s actually only 13 available to purchase, with the developers, GNK, wanting to retain the two penthouse apartments for themselves to reside, which are both set to feature wrap-around balconies and plunge pools.

GNK Developments, led by builder developers Geoffrey Mailey and David Hammond, amalgamated the site at 5-9 Prince Street at the northern end of Cronulla Beach, and had the Sydney-based EMK Architects design the H-shaped development, two buildings coming together to create the five-storey building.

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Each apartment will span between 200 sqm and 365 sqm of living space and will have three to four bedrooms&nbsp;and will be kitted out with high-end Gaggenau appliances.

Laver Residential Project Directors James Lampropoulos and Dennis Vertzayias, who are exclusive agents for the project, said it&#39;s the best residential development&nbsp;Cronulla&#39;s ever seen.

&quot;Everything about the project is the height of luxury,&quot; Vertzayias said.

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&quot;From the&nbsp;penthouse-size apartments&nbsp;which include enormous private lock up garages that accommodate multiple vehicles, to the iconic prime beachfront location on Prince Street, it is a very rare and exciting opportunity,&quot; he added.

Solstice sits on a rare island site, where three of the four sides of the building don&#39;t have any adjoining&nbsp;neighbours, which provides residents with further views of the ocean, and district views back to the city from the upper level apartments.

Lampropoulos has already seen significant demand from high net worth locals, either currently living locally or someone who has a connection to the Shire and may be returning.

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So far apartment sales have ranged from $7.25 million to $9.5 million, setting a new price record for the suburb. Most apartments have been secured by&nbsp;mainly&nbsp;active downsizers who are keen on the healthy beachfront lifestyle and are downsizing from their waterfront family homes.

&quot;There&#39;s no real entry-level, every apartment is 10/10,&quot;&nbsp;Lampropoulos adds.

The same development team created the award-winning Bomborra around the corner for the locally well-known developer, who don&#39;t create too many multi-res projects.

&quot;I&#39;ve honestly not come across a project that everyone knows who the developer is and hold them in such high regard,&quot;&nbsp;Lampropoulos said.

The last new development on Prince Street was over a decade ago, when the award-winning building Bathers on Prince was developed.

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Solstice will bring just 15 apartments to Prince Street - Cronulla's version of Bondi's Campbell Parade - offering unobstructed beach views across the amalgamated 1,700 sqm dress circle site

Solstice: Unrepeatable apartment development heads to Cronulla's beachfront

A six-storey apartment building has been lodged&nbsp;at 25-27 The Grand Parade, Sutherland.

The proposal has been submitted as an Affordable Rental Housing development designed by MKD Architects.

The building will be home to a total of 38 apartments, comprising six studio units, eight one-bedroom units, 22 two-bedroom units, along with two three-bedroom units.

Fronting The Grand Parade, the northern portion of the building has a four-storey podium form, with the upper two levels recessed to reduce the buildings visual bulk when viewed from the street.

Outlined in the design statement by MKD Architects, units will utilise crossflow ventilation and natural light that is filtered throughout the building due to its location and positioning.

&ldquo;Each apartment has been sized to suit market demands and arranged to maximise, space, natural light, ventilation, amenity, and outlook,&rdquo; the statement read.

A small rooftop common open space has been outlined in the plans, which will be lined with planter boxes and will contain a centrally located pergola structure, with an outdoor kitchen and barbecue space and seating.

The corner position subject site is located within a high-density residential zone that transitions to a low density residential zone to its north and east. There is a run of recently constructed six-storey apartment buildings in the immediate vicinity, including the adjoining property to the west.

The site is a 400 metre walk to Sutherland CBD, with well-serviced public transport links. &nbsp;

The landscape design has been prepared by Taylor Brammer Landscape Architects, who have sought&nbsp;to incorporate a range of green, open spaces, consisting of easy to maintain and native planting. Two large mature eucalyptus trees are located on the site, which have also been incorporated into the proposed development.

The building will be home to a total of 38 apartments, comprising six studio units, eight one-bedroom units, 22 two-bedroom units, along with two three-bedroom units.



MKD to design new Sutherland apartment development

Following the recent completion of the sell-out Gallery Residences, Gold Coast developer Raptis is moving on to its next Broadbeach project.

They&#39;ll be seeking to develop a 41-level tower on over 1,820 sqm at 42-46 Chelsea Avenue, an amalgamation of sites secured last year for $6.5 million through GV Property Group.

Archidiom&nbsp;has designed the tower, which will home 180&nbsp;apartments, a mix of 144 three-bedders and just 36 two-bedroom configurations. There will be a maximum of just five apartments per floor.

The recreation level will be on level four, where there&nbsp;will be a&nbsp;swimming pool, residents&#39; lounge, community living area including barbecue and outdoor dining area, gardens, a gym, sauna, and a&nbsp;yoga / meeting room.

Jim Raptis, Joint Managing Director of Raptis, said the team is&nbsp;excited to lodge their latest apartment project with Gold Coast City Council.

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&quot;We&#39;ve created a lifestyle destination that seamlessly connects with the sophistication of the surrounding Broadbeach neighbourhood&quot;.

Evan Raptis, Joint Managing Director of Raptis, said&nbsp;Raptis has a longstanding record of capturing the essence of Broadbeach across a portfolio of towers.

&quot;Our vision for Chelsea Avenue will again celebrate what it&#39;s like to live in one of Australia&#39;s best communities.&quot;

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It will be a busy 2022 in Broadbeach for Raptis. They&#39;re soon to launch The Sterling Broadbeach, their 40-level,&nbsp;Koichi Takada-designed project at 6-8 George Avenue.

The Sterling Broadbeach will have&nbsp;134 apartments, made up of 64&nbsp;two-bedroom apartments&nbsp;and 64 three bedders. There will be four sub penthouses and two penthouse apartments.

The resident amenities on level three will feature a 20 metre pool met with outdoor lounges, a gym and sauna,&nbsp;resident&#39;s lounge, kids club, and a communal dining area.

There&#39;s also another site in Broadbeach, 5-9 Anne Avenue,&nbsp;which will see 35-levels, around 150 or so apartments, added to Raptis&#39; workbook.

Jim Raptis, Joint Managing Director of Raptis, said the team is excited to lodge their latest apartment project with Gold Coast City Council.



First look: Raptis lodge Chelsea Avenue, Broadbeach apartment plans

Banner Asset Management&nbsp;has announced it will be providing funding for the construction of Chevron One, the&nbsp;41-level residential tower currently being developed by Bensons Property Group.

The Stanhill Drive development, the first on the Gold Coast for the Melbourne-based Bensons, is around 50 per cent sold. It will forever be the only true high-rise on Chevron Island, with the development application secured before more stricter rules were put in place on development height.

Andrew Turner, Founder and CEO of Banner Asset Management, said the&nbsp;iconic development&nbsp;is set to make its mark on Chevron Island for decades to come.

&ldquo;Chevron One is firmly placed within the luxury class of Gold Coast apartment developments, with local infrastructure investment, strong population growth and increasing demand for Gold Coast property making it a prime investment opportunity,&rdquo; Turner said.

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There will be 228 apartments in Chevron One, which recently began construction.&nbsp;

Demand for residential property on Chevron Island has boomed in recent years, particularly from young professionals who wish to live close to the Surfers Paradise CBD, Banner&#39;s Chief Lending Officer&nbsp;Nicholas Lakin said.

&ldquo;Recent changes to flexible working arrangements have shifted the priorities of many local and interstate buyers, who are now in search of spacious, luxury apartments in sea-change locations.

&quot;Prices for luxury apartments in the Gold Coast region are booming as a result,&rdquo; Larkin said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68836]

Designed by architects Marchese Partners, Chevron One has been&nbsp;architecturally inspired by the natural shapes and textures of the coast, with oversized balconies offering uninterrupted, panoramic views of the ocean, river and the hinterland.

The one, two and three-bedroom apartments are spacious in design, featuring open-plan living areas, with the kitchens designed by renowned chef, Shannon Bennett.

Offering a resort-style lifestyle, the development will feature a private outdoor lagoon pool with floating cinema, sculptured gardens, an indoor/outdoor beach, a lap pool, spa and sauna.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

Residents will also enjoy exclusive dining facilities, resident&rsquo;s lounge with barbecue facilities, a gymnasium and a yoga and pilates room.

Located on the banks of the Nerang River, Chevron One will rise above the new arts precinct on the island, situated&nbsp;minutes from the beaches, business precincts, retail and entertainment venues of Surfers Paradise.

Site works by Icon Construction have now commenced, with completion slated for the end of 2024.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=6515]

Andrew Turner, Founder and CEO of Banner Asset Management, said the iconic development is set to make its mark on Chevron Island for decades to come.



 Banner Asset Management and Bensons join forces to deliver $350m Chevron One development

The hotly anticipated Chevron Island apartment development, Tapestry, which was designed to reflect the growing cultural and arts precinct just off Surfers Paradise, has launched to the market.

The 22-level project, on the prized east-side of Chevron Island at 39 Darrambal Street, is being developed by the Brisbane-based Siera Group, led by Brent Thompson,&nbsp;who sits on the board of UDIA QLD and chairs the Brisbane&nbsp;City Council&nbsp;Policy&nbsp;Committee.

The tower was designed by the local architecture firm BDA, whose brief was to merge art with architecture.

The result is a striking building of 113 apartments, featuring a&nbsp;mixture of vertical blade walls and horizontal slab edges which respond to available views and natural light.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=190802]

Cantilevered balcony’s protrude from the building body with curved edges softening the feathered edges, BDA note.

The local aspect in the creation of Tapestry was one of the key focuses&nbsp;for Thompson. Aligning with&nbsp;the Gold Coast City Council's efforts to make Surfers Paradise an arts and cultural hub, Siera also engaged local artist Tania Blanchard to create a piece of artwork that will hang in the lobby when completed.

"There's a great local community on&nbsp;Chevron Island. It's a tight-knit community, while being ideally located just a five minute walk from the international tourist hub of Surfers Paradise," Thompson said.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=192962]

The two-bedroom apartments, offering a generous 100 sqm of living space as well as a parking space, start from $679,000. The three-bedroom apartments, which offer 124&nbsp;sqm of living space and two parking spaces, start from $975,000.

Crowning Tapestry is set to be one of the most impressive rooftop amenity spaces on the Gold Coast.

The resident&nbsp;rooftop will feature&nbsp;a resort-style&nbsp;swimming pool with day beds, a spa, and a pool deck. A&nbsp;barbecue and alfresco area will sit in landscaping, as will dining surrounded by an edible garden.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=192963]

There is also set to be&nbsp;a private dining space with a terrace and fire pit, a gym with sauna and steam room, and a lounging area with a lawn.

Tapestry is the first development on the Gold Coast for Siera, and Thompson spent around 18 months understanding the local market to make sure the project was going to be a success.

"Spending time on the ground allowed us to understand what was coming to the market, what developers were saying, and who was buying sites and where," Thompson said.

He identified some nice beachside opportunities, but really wanted to create something that was targeted at a wider net, rather than the multi-million dollar apartments that are limited to the fortunate few.

"We want the local owner occupier, who could be living&nbsp;in a medium-size house in the area, to be able to downsize or rightsize, or have others who just want to find a new lifestyle, and have the opportunity to do so without being priced out."

Pezet Matheson will be handling the sales at Tapestry.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108641]

The tower was designed by the local architecture firm BDA, whose brief was to merge art with design

Siera launch artistic Chevron Island apartment development, Tapestry

Mirvac will&nbsp;release the next two buildings in their Willoughby masterplan, NINE&nbsp;by Mirvac, later this month.

The two buildings, Montage and Overture, has already secured a number of sales following&nbsp;a successful VIP release late last year.

Overture&nbsp;is set alongside Laurina Square, one of several green spaces within NINE by Mirvac. There are 55 apartments across the eight-level building, predominantly two and three-bedroom apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93788 project_image_fid=192977]

There are a number of single-level garden residences&nbsp;with generous landscaped courtyards and their own private entry.

Montage is more boutique, and will have just 30&nbsp;apartments across seven&nbsp;levels.&nbsp;Designed with a distinctly urban edge, Montage offers a concierge desk in the lobby and around 150 sqm of retail space on the plaza level, including parcel delivery storage services available to all residents.

The boutique building will feature a&nbsp;north-facing, 215 sqm penthouse, with the hear of the apartment the kitchen, complete with butler&rsquo;s pantry, wine bar and wine fridge.&nbsp;

More than 70 per cent of apartments in the three buildings Mirvac released in November sold in the opening sales weekend, with 40 per cent to repeat Mirvac customers and family members.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93788 project_image_fid=192978]

Mirvac General Manager of Residential NSW Toby Long said the strong result, which saw a diverse mix of buyers mostly from the north shore, augured well for the coming release of the two new buildings in a sought-after blue chip suburb, which is just seven minutes&rsquo; drive from the Sydney CBD, where a lack of housing diversity has made it difficult to gain entry.

&ldquo;The high number of local buyers is an indication of extremely strong pent-up demand for quality new homes in a location that is well-established with good quality schools, amenity and outdoor spaces,&rdquo;&nbsp;Long said.

&ldquo;The lack of housing choice in the area has been building for many years and would now be critical but for the new supply generated by&nbsp;NINE by Mirvac.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93788 project_image_fid=192982]

&ldquo;Another important factor for buyers, many of whom are unaccustomed to buying off the plan, is their trust in Mirvac to build a quality home that will give them many years of enjoyment. Our 50th anniversary milestone is testament to our longevity in the market and commitment to upholding the Mirvac legacy.

Long said the median Willoughby house price had risen to more than $3 million, giving confidence to empty nesters looking to downsize.

&ldquo;It&rsquo;s a great time to be selling the family home to buy a well-designed luxury apartment that requires far less maintenance,&rdquo;&nbsp;Long added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=93788 project_image_fid=192981]

&ldquo;The diverse product offering also presents opportunity for upgraders who are looking to buy a family sized apartment in this highly sought-after suburb.

NINE by Mirvac is made up of 10 distinctly different&nbsp;buildings on the 3.2 hectare site which was home to Channel 9 for more than 65 years.

Around 6,500 sqm of green open space will be delivered providing a benefit for residents and the wider community.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=93788]

More than 70 per cent of apartments in the three buildings released in November sold in the opening sales weekend, with 40 per cent to repeat Mirvac customers and family members.



Mirvac to release two new buildings in NINE by Mirvac development in Willoughby

The contemporary Chevron Island apartment development, Nina, has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council.

The development by Aecore, formerly Macquarie York, is their third in three years on the Gold Coast. They successfully sold out their debut Chevron Island project, Allure,&nbsp;just a few months ago. They're also currently developing the luxury Ocean House project in Palm Beach.

The $90 million Nina will soon rise at 8-10 Parneno Street, just around the corner form the under-construction Allure. It will have&nbsp;78 apartments over 23 storeys, including a selection of six premium skyhomes and two multi-level penthouses that offer views east to the Pacific Ocean and west to the Gold Coast Hinterland.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108640 project_image_fid=186593]

“We are extremely happy to have council approval behind us, as we now look to the next phase of delivering our signature dose of luxury to Chevron Island,” Aecore Project Director Roy Skaf said.

“Nina offers us the opportunity to build on the success we witnessed in Allure, while bringing a newer, differentiated product to a marketplace of buyers eager to call Chevron Island home."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108640 project_image_fid=186387]

The six exclusive skyhomes will offer 233 sqm of living space, which will include&nbsp;three bedrooms, a media room and four-bathrooms, as well as two large balconies.

Nina will be topped by two double-storey penthouses offering even more living space, as well as their own private terrace and plunge pool.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108640 project_image_fid=186591]

On the ground floor residents will have access to a secure bike storage area at the building’s entry, while a mezzanine level above the ground floor will host a wellness centre to include a yoga deck, a large gym, sauna and shower facilities, all set in lush landscaping.

Plus Architecture has been engaged to deliver the tower’s distinctive curvature and detailing which was meticulously designed to capture the coastal essence of ‘barefoot luxury’.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108640]

The $90 million Nina will soon rise at 8-10 Parneno Street, just around the corner form the under-construction Allure.

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