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?

Buyers have been given an&nbsp;opportunity, albeit expected to be a brief one,&nbsp;to secure a townhouse on the burgeoning Hope Island.

35 Grant Residences, a collection of 48 townhouses and 10 waterfront duplex villas, is being developed by Aniko Group, who for the past few years has been creating a number of in demand projects on the exclusive Gold Coast island.

Already three quarters of the $55 million project has been accounted for, with local owner-occupiers showing the strongest interest to lock in a waterfront lifestyle&nbsp;on the city&rsquo;s booming north shore.

Set in a gated community amid an expansive park precinct with walkways and manicured gardens, 35 Grant Residences has been created as a private urban oasis for its residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95316 project_image_fid=187321]

&ldquo;We have been inspired by New York&rsquo;s Central Park to create a spacious area of parkland as the centrepiece of the 35 Grant Avenue community, giving residents a beautifully manicured open area on their doorstep to enjoy,&quot; Aniko&nbsp;boss George&nbsp;Mastrocostas said.

&ldquo;We stepped up our plans for 35 Grant Avenue after receiving a significant level of inquiry from prospective buyers, most of them locals who appreciate the lifestyle Hope Island offers residents today.&quot;

The new development will comprise residences that offer three bedrooms with a few also featuring&nbsp;a multi-purpose room.&nbsp;All residences will include a double lock up garage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95316 project_image_fid=184675]

Part of the wider developer will be a range of state-of-the-art amenities for residents, including a pool area with sunbeds and outdoor showers, a communal herb garden, barbecue facilities and a fire pit.

There&#39;s also plans to include a select number of marina berths.

The 35 Grant Residences will be priced from $745,000 to $1.5 million.

Aniko Group has progressively transformed the Hope Island landscape over the past two years, building on the growing dominance in the market for a waterfront lifestyle and its central location which is being enhanced by a boom in public and private infrastructure, including a proposed new railway station and the Coomera Connector.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95316 project_image_fid=184673]

&ldquo;With each new project we are writing a new chapter in the evolution of Hope Island and our latest development takes Gold Coast waterfront living to a new level,&rdquo; Mastrocostas added.

&ldquo;In the two years since we announced our very first Hope Island development, we have seen a significant transformation in the suburb.

&ldquo;It has become hugely popular with local buyers who appreciate the location and superb urban amenities it currently offers. With the infrastructure work currently under way, many see this part of the Gold Coast being very well positioned for the future.&rdquo;

Aniko is experiencing exceptional demand at its most recent Hope Island project, Athena Residences at 6-8 Sickle Avenue, where more than 90 per cent of apartments now sold.

Aniko is now sold out of its $140 million development, 1 Grant Avenue, where construction of stage two was recently completed.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=95316]

“We have been inspired by New York’s Central Park to create a spacious area of parkland as the centrepiece of the 35 Grant Avenue community," Aniko boss George Mastrocostas said.



Aniko launch Hope Island townhouses, 35 Grant Residences

The Sydney-based Draycon Building are continuing with&nbsp;development on the Gold Coast&#39;s Chevron Island.

They&#39;re the latest to submit plans for a residential apartment tower, as they push on toward completion of their maiden Chevron Island project, Boutique, set for completion in mid-2022.

The sold out project on the nearby Parnero Street has 42 apartments across its 14 levels.

Draycon&#39;s&nbsp;latest plans are&nbsp;at&nbsp;5-7 Stanhill Drive, on the quiet side of Chevron Island away from Surfers Paradise and HOTA. Again designed by BDA, the new project will have 82 apartments across 22&nbsp;levels, a mix of 42 two-bedroom apartments and 40 three-bedroom units.

<a href="/new-apartments/5-7-stanhill-drive-chevron-island">To get the latest updates of this project, enquire here.</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/5-7-stanhill-drive-chevron-island"><img alt="" height="1535" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/draycon_stanhill_chevron_island.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
The curved&nbsp;tower architecture is minimal and timeless. Image credit: BDA Architecture

&quot;The architecture of the proposed development is minimal and timeless,&quot; BDA Architecture&#39;s statement to the Gold Coast City Council read.

&quot;The gently sculpted form of the tower balances over the grounded podium. Stacks of bespoke slabs lines and a textured and timeless material palette of white concrete, timber screening and planting creating a rich and layered coastal effect.&quot;

BDA note that the mix of two and three&nbsp;bedroom apartments cater for a number of price points and encourage genuine diversity of ownership/occupation.

&quot;With the inclusion of the Short-term Accommodation Use, an adaptive outcome has been proposed that can respond to the future demands within the Chevron Island Precinct.&quot;

<a href="/new-apartments/5-7-stanhill-drive-chevron-island">To get the latest updates of this project, enquire here.</a>

<a href="/new-apartments/5-7-stanhill-drive-chevron-island"><img alt="" height="1621" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/draycon_stanhill_chevron_island_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
Timber screening creates a layered coastal affect. Image credit: BDA Architecture

The majority of the resident amenity will be located on the second level, where there will be a swimming pool, lounge, and gym. The 22-level tower will be crowned with a communal rooftop, complete with two spas, a yoga terrace, outdoor kitchen and dining areas.

Chevron Island has emerged in the last 12 months as one of the most sought after pockets of the Gold Coast, with little residential development prior to the recent Gold Coast apartment market boom.

The latest&nbsp;&nbsp;Chevron Island&nbsp;apartment development to hit the small Gold Coast island is&nbsp;Ni&ntilde;a, the&nbsp;second development on the island by the Sydney-based Macquarie York, who are just a few apartments away from selling out their first&nbsp;Chevron Island&nbsp;project, Allure.

Ni&ntilde;a, less than 200 metres from Allure at 8-10 Parnero Street, will home 73 apartments in a 22-level building designed by&nbsp;Plus Architecture.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108640 project_image_fid=186291]

Soon to launch will be Tapestry, the first Gold Coast project from the&nbsp;Brisbane-based development and construction firm, Siera Property Group.

Seira, headed by the managing director&nbsp;and founder Brent Thompson, has laid plans&nbsp;for the&nbsp;17-level project, with the name Tapestry&nbsp;paying homage to the Island&#39;s new Home of the Arts precinct.

The plans by the local BDA Architecture will see 83 apartments built on&nbsp;a 1,518&nbsp;sqm site at&nbsp;39-43 Darrambal Street, toward the southern end of the island.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108641 project_image_fid=179071]

The 55 metre building will comprise 28 three-bedroom apartments and 55 two-bedroom apartments, around half of those with multipurpose rooms. There will be six apartments per level until level 14 where there will be five.

The two-bedroom apartments start from 84 sqm, while the three-bedroom units have internal living areas between 113 sqm and 141 sqm. Every apartment has a balcony of at least 10 sqm, as well as their own parking space.

The street level will feature extensive raised planters and a water feature on entry to the lobby, where there will be a number of garden rooms and&nbsp;resident office space with a kitchen.

Crowning Tapestry will be a resident rooftop, complete with 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. There&#39;s set to be a private dining space with a terrace and fire pit, a gym with sauna and steam room, and a lounging area with a lawn.

"The architecture of the proposed development is minimal and timeless," BDA Architecture's statement to the Gold Coast City Council read

Draycon lodge plans for latest Chevron Island apartment development

The prominent Sydney developer, TOGA, has lodged plans for their next residential apartment development.

They&#39;ll be developing for the first time in Kensington, where they&#39;ve submitted a development application for 142 apartments above a mix of commercial and retail at street level. The expectation is approval and sales launch will occur around April time.

Turner Studio has designed the $59 million project at 137-151 Anzac Parade, having handled TOGA&#39;s popular mixed-use Marrickville precinct, Wicks Place, which is around 50 per cent sold.

<img alt="" height="843" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/toga_kensington_2.jpg" width="1200" />

TOGA&#39;s GM of sales, Anthony Falas, says the Kensington development is&nbsp;targeting the higher end owner-occupier.

&quot;The two-bedders are 80, 85 sqm, at the larger end of the scale for a typical two-bedroom apartments,&quot; Falas told Urban.

&quot;We&#39;ve dedicated over 75 per cent of the building to the two and three-bedroom product, offering something that is rare for&nbsp;the area&quot;

Falas added that TOGA wanted to cater for a different market than the area is used to, going away from the more common developments which are targeted at the&nbsp;student accomodation given the proximity to the UNSW Randwick Campus.

TOGA are also offering a range of unique apartments in the project. The SoHo apartments, spread across two levels, give owners the opportunity to have a separate work from home space downstairs, with a studio-style apartment upstairs, accessed by an external staircase.

Falas suggests there may well be buyers of those apartments who will lease out the ground level office space.

Turner Studio Director Kevin Driver, who directed the development application design and documentation, noted in the application that the proposed development will provide a built environment suited to the context that responds to the desired future characteristics of the area, while taking cues from the existing context in terms of streetscape, material and landscaping.

<img alt="" height="826" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/toga_kensington_3.jpg" width="1200" />

&quot;This will be achieved by well-designed building and public realm offering good amenity for the resident population and the visitors to the site,&quot; Driver said.

&quot;By integrating and responding to features unique to its locality the development will provide a higher quality of contextually relevant spatial experience.

&quot;The context is undergoing change following the emergence of the Kensington and Kingsford Town Centres Development Control Plan.&quot;

The development will feature&nbsp;rooftop communal open space with an&nbsp;outdoor dining barbecue area, flexible activity zones, a study and recreation area,&nbsp;and communal gardens, all with the aim to improve wellness of the residents.

There will be further communal open space at street level, with a future laneway proposed.

Turner advise that&nbsp;apartment layouts have been developed to maximise the number of north, west and east facing living spaces to ensure each building meets solar access requirements.

<img alt="" height="905" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/toga_kensington_4.jpg" width="1200" />

Some&nbsp;20 per cent&nbsp;of the apartments will be adaptable&nbsp;in order to provide variety to potential purchasers.

&quot;The site and its environs are undergoing change from a lower-scale residential suburb/retail strip to a higher density residential/mixed-use precinct, incorporating new open space and laneways,&quot; Driver added.

&quot;The architecture and materiality of the proposal draws on the local vernacular, while responding to precinct.

&quot;The architectural design intent and principles are based on a series of articulated volumes to both Anzac Parade and the future laneway to the west. These are given a series of familial characterisations through the use of brick frames/blades and expressed slab edges.&quot;

FAST FACTS:

- 142 apartments

- 19 one beds

- 78 two beds

- 31 three beds

- 14 SOHO apartments

- 691 sqm of commercial, 724 sqm of retail

Turner Studio has designed the $59 million project at 137-151 Anzac Parade, having handled TOGA's popular mixed-use Marrickville precinct, Wicks Place, which is around 50 per cent sold

TOGA lodge Kensington apartment plans

The Sydney developer, CBD Core, is continuing its&nbsp;residential development&nbsp;in the popular Hills District suburb of Castle Hill, in the booming North West Sydney growth corridor.

Having recently completed Oriel Castle Hill, one of the most impressive developments in the area, the long standing developer&nbsp;is&nbsp;set to create another two residential apartments buildings at 19 Ashford Avenue.

The low-rise towers, dubbed Ashford and Partridge&nbsp;for their locations&nbsp;fronting&nbsp;Ashford Avenue and Partridge Avenue, will rise six levels and home&nbsp;67 apartments within the new Showground Station precinct at Castle Hill, which&nbsp;is currently experiencing substantial urban change from the existing single-family dwellings of suburban character.

The project will be a mix of&nbsp;two studio apartments, 11 one-bedroom apartments, 39 two-bedders, 15 three-bedroom apartments.

LFA Pacific, who are the architecture team behind the design, noted in their design statement that the proposed development will create dwelling choice and opportunities for families in the surrounding suburbs, as family needs change. The studios and one-bedroom apartments will provide an affordable entry in to the housing market.

<a href="/new-apartments/argo-castle-hill-19-ashford-avenue-castle-hill-nsw-2154"><img alt="" height="780" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/castle_hill_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

LFA suggested&nbsp;the development will contribute to the desired future character of the precinct which is defined as &#39;to become an attractive and well-connected neighbourhood that achieves housing targets, creates vibrant, safe and desirable places, reinforces the garden shire character and lifestyle and is supported by necessary infrastructure&#39;.

The communal&nbsp;open space in the central courtyard will provide passive and active recreational opportunities, with a swimming pool, fitness and play areas, and outdoor barbecue space.

CBD Core design and build for their demographic, which is predominantly locals who live within a five kilometre radius.

&quot;We have everyone from retirees, downsizers, young families and singles interested in our projects,&quot; a spokesperson for the CBD Core team told Urban.

&quot;We keep projects small in size in comparison to some of the towers that are popping up around the area, and we listen to the community and buyer feedback when creating our developments.&quot;

CBD Core&#39;s most recent project, Oriel Castle Hill, a $75 million collection of 78&nbsp;apartments, completed last year.&nbsp;CBD Core describe Oriel as more of a hotel than a residential apartment block.

<a href="/new-apartments/oriel-33-dawes-avenue-castle-hill"><img alt="" height="814" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/oriel_1.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

&quot;It&#39;s a hotel without the concierge,&quot; CBD Core say. &quot;When we pop in, we see the residents walking around in their robes.&quot;

A testament to the quality of the build of Oriel and the reputation of CBD Core, Oriel only has one apartment remaining, with the majority of sales&nbsp;secured during a COVID-hit stop-start year in the property industry.

Their next project, set to launch in April, will be Astrid, a block of 94 apartments just behind Oriel.

Astrid will feature&nbsp;extensive work from home facilities, with a conscious effort to create both indoor and outdoor communal spaces, outside of the apartments so those working from home have the option to still be away from where they reside. Residents will also have access to the a gym, swimming pool, and a rooftop with barbecues and seating spaces.

&quot;Oriel was&nbsp;the&nbsp;first apartment building complex in the Showground Station Precinct to be approved, so we need to continue to improve on that high bar we&#39;ve already set ourselves,&quot; CBD Core said.

Having recently completed Oriel Castle Hill, the long standing developer is set to create another two residential apartments buildings at 19 Ashford Avenue.

CBD Core bulk up 2022 Castle Hill apartment pipeline with latest plans

Harry Trig​uboff&#39;s apartment giant, Meriton, has submitted its first New South Wales development plans for 2022.

They&#39;re set to develop again in Epping, seven years after completing&nbsp;Eppi​ng Park, their largest northern district project with 800 apartments across the 17 building precinct.

Meriton secured the Cambridge Office Park at&nbsp;37-41 Oxford Street, Epping, from the Goo​dman Group, who themselves had plans&nbsp;by&nbsp;Cande​lapas to redevelop the vast 4,970 sqm site which also homes a tennis court

Having settled on the site last year, Meriton had Nicholas Bandounas, principal of urban design at Scott Carver who is also designing part of the Australian War Memorial,&nbsp;put together plans for a 30-level mixed-use tower with a six-level basement.

The biggest amend to the DA was to include a childcare centre on the lower levels.

<img alt="" height="1186" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/37-41_oxford_st_epping.jpg" width="836" /> 
The proposed plans for the tower. Image credit: Scott Carver

The two-level commercial podium will comprise a retail space, a 60 children centre-based child care facility, and commercial office space.

Set privately for residents use on the ground level is a lap pool and spa and an 80 sqm gym, surrounded by lush landscaping.

Above will be 211 apartments, a mix of 43 one-bedroom plus study apartments, 124 two-bedroom units, 42 three-bedroom apartments and just two four-bedders.

&quot;All apartments have been designed with consideration for a high level of comfort for the residents through privacy, solar access, visual outlook, and natural cross ventilation,&quot;&nbsp;Bandounas noted in the design statement submitted to the local council.

&quot;Internal layouts have been designed to maximise living spaces and to create generous open plan layouts. All units have been provided with a private open space off the main living areas, providing access to natural light and ventilation.&quot;

The plans are a continuation&nbsp;of further development of Epping&#39;s Oxford Street, with a recently completed 22-level mixed-use building to the south and a proposal with the Parramatta Council for a 15-level mixed-use tower to the north.

&quot;Epping Town Centre is an area that is currently undergoing a transformation as a result of significant infrastructure investment with the planned Sydney Metro Northwest,&quot; Bandounas added.

&quot;The proposal seeks to be a precedent for future development in the area.

&quot;The development will help define a new context which is envisioned for the area and within which other residential development of a similar scale and height will be built. The proposed seeks to make a positive contribution to the current and future character of the area and to set the standard for future high-density residential building developments.&quot;

Meriton is set to develop again in Epping, seven years after completing Epping Park, their largest northern district project with 800 apartments across the 17 building precinct.



Meriton set for new Epping apartment tower

The well-known Sydney property investor and developer, Vaughan Blank, has submitted $9.4 million plans to transform the old Westpac building&nbsp;on Bondi Beach&#39;s exclusive Hall Street in to a mixed-use precinct.

He&#39;ll be creating a new shop-top housing building, with retail premises on the ground floor of 26-32 Hall Street, and 15 apartments above.

BANG Architecture handled the design of the building, just a stones throw from the famous sand, which Blank bought for $17 million earlier this year.

Architect Wieger Meijer, who heads up BANG, said in the design statement submitted to Waverley Council, that&nbsp;Bondi Beach has seen some impressive developments come to fruition in the past decade.

<a href="/new-apartments/26-32-hall-street-bondi-beach">To track the development, enquire here.</a>

<img alt="" height="784" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hall_st_bondi_beach_2.jpg" width="1200" />

&quot;The desired future character can be seen by the overall high design standards, which on its turn has improved the face of Bondi significantly,&quot;&nbsp;Meijer said.

&quot;The trend of these high design standards have been a key driver in the design process of the proposed development at 26-32 Hall Street.&quot;

Meijer described the overall style as &quot;eclectic&quot;, however noted that&nbsp;all developments are tied together with an overall Australian Beach style which has influenced them.

<a href="/new-apartments/26-32-hall-street-bondi-beach">To track the development, enquire here.</a>

<img alt="" height="861" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hall_st._bondi_beach.jpg" width="1200" />

&quot;The introduction of the proposal adds to the developing image of Bondi and adds a lifestyle component to it,&quot; Meijer added.

The development, which sits next to the former post office building which has also been converted to apartments, will comprise six one-bedroom apartments, two two-bedroom apartments and seven three-bedroom apartments.

Meijer says the proposal also reflects current market demands in relation to typologies and living patterns currently established in the local area.

<a href="/new-apartments/26-32-hall-street-bondi-beach">To track the development, enquire here.</a>

Vaughan Blank has been a keen investor&nbsp;in Sydney&#39; eastern suburbs apartment market for a number of years, having previously spent over $33 million on a block of Art Deco flats in Edgecliff in 2017, which at the time was highest price paid at auction for a residential property in Australia.

Blank has adjoining future developments sites on the Bondi&#39;s O&#39;Brien Street.&nbsp;

Earlier this year $8 million plans were submitted for a <a href="/news/nsw/new-apartments-heading-to-bondi-beachs-hall-street">new&nbsp;arcade precinct and apartment development</a> just up the road across&nbsp;31, 35 and 37 Hall Street.

Behind the heritage building and facade which will remain at the street front will be a new arcade and 25 apartments, designed by&nbsp;Brian Meyerson, of the&nbsp;Surry Hills-based&nbsp;MHNDU.

Vaughan Blank set for apartment development on Bondi Beach's Hall Street

The Melbourne-based developer, ICD Property, are readying a second mixed-use hotel and apartment tower in the Sydney CBD.

The project at 372 Pitt Street, toward the Haymarket end of Pitt Street near World Square, will be&nbsp;a joint venture between ICD and&nbsp;Belingbak, who appear to be a development arm of new investment firm Belingbak Capital Partners.

Woods Bagot has put together the plans for a 54-level tower,&nbsp;subject to change as the stakeholders continue to work through the architectural design and optimisation process.

<a href="/new-apartments/sydney-nsw">To track this development and be updated on its next stage, enquire here.</a>

<img alt="" height="865" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/icd_pitt_st_sydney_main.jpg" width="1200" />

The&nbsp;project put forward to council, currently valued at around $156 million,&nbsp;is expected to see&nbsp;just a small collection of just 28 apartments, which at the moment start from about level 40, up to the top of the tower. Current plans are for just two apartments per floor from&nbsp;levels 40 to 52,&nbsp;a mix of two and three-bedroom units.

The top two levels are set to&nbsp;home two full-floor, four bedroom penthouses.

There&#39;s expected to be around 288 hotel rooms, running at nine per floor from level seven to 38.

<a href="/new-apartments/sydney-nsw">To track this development and be updated on its next stage, enquire here.</a>

Residents&nbsp;will have access to the extensive amenity which comes in the mixed-use hotel/apartment concept, with a gym, function room and cinema located on level four, a restaurant and bar&nbsp;with a full width terrace on level three, and a ground floor cafe.

&quot;372 Pitt St will be a monumental addition to Sydney, one that blurs the distinction between personal life and leisure as we strive to bring a first to market hotel and hospitality offering to Sydney &ndash; that is inspired by the diversity of people, local character and originality of the streets and scenes that surround us,&quot; the submission to the City of Sydney Council read.

<img alt="" height="1525" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/icd_main.jpg" width="1200" />

&quot;The team&#39;s vision will bring to Sydney a hotel offering with global character and attraction.

&quot;The new hotel through design, brand, and operation will be a catalyst for the precinct delivering quality architecture, urban activation, social and accommodation opportunities and increased job creation.

&quot;It will provide for the increasing tech community at Central and continue to grow the active centre of the CBD towards the south.

&quot;Our proposal is a unique opportunity for increased city amenity and global identity.&quot;

<img alt="" height="1558" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/icd_2.jpg" width="1200" />

ICD, led by Matt Khoo, are working on another mixed-use hotel apartment development <a href="/news/nsw/sydneys-city-tattersall-redevelopment-gets-sign-off-for-apartment-and-hotel-project">just up the road at the popular City Tattersall Club</a>.

That will see the scales tipped toward apartments over the hotel room component, with 241 apartments and 101 hotel rooms to be developed at the 194-204 Pitt Street address.

The 50-storey tower is another joint venture, this one&nbsp;alongside the Singapore-listed First Sponsor. Late last year the project, designed by BVN Architecture with fjmt studio overseeing all heritage designs, received the green light from the&nbsp;Central Sydney Planning Committee.

Woods Bagot has put together the plans for a 54-level tower, subject to change as the stakeholders continue to work through the architectural design and optimisation process

ICD Property plan another Sydney CBD mixed-use hotel and apartment tower

Surfers Paradise is set for a 38-level tower which will home just 35 full-floor apartments.

Local developer Ayrton Mansi, who was set to develop&nbsp;the $115 million Opal at Broadbeach before onselling the project six years ago, alongside Freddie Sheene, have submitted the plans for 17-19 First Avenue, an 809 sqm double corner block on the border of Surfers and Broadbeach.

Just 200 metres from the beach, the yet to be named tower has been designed by&nbsp;Plus Architecture, who say the design was inspired by the &quot;dynamic theatre of the ocean.&quot;

<a href="/new-apartments/nineteen-first-avenue-17-19-first-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4217">To track this project, enquire here.</a>

<img alt="" height="827" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/17_first_avenue_1.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The soaring 38-level tower. Image credit: Plus Architecture

&quot;Plus Architecture has designed Nineteen First Avenue to consciously represent the natural movement and rhythm of the ocean,&quot; the Plus team advised in their submission to the Gold Coast City Council.

&quot;The facade transforms from the active lower levels to the calmer tower form and creates a soft soliloquy of movement and rhythm.&quot;

Each apartment will have 286 sqm internal living area and a further 30 sqm of outdoor balconies. They will have three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

<a href="/new-apartments/nineteen-first-avenue-17-19-first-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4217">To track this project, enquire here.</a>

<img alt="" height="875" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/17_first_avenue_3.jpg" width="1200" /> 
The landscaped entry level. Image credit: Plus Architecture

&quot;One single, generous apartment occupies each of the residential floors which are sculpted to provide engaging and spectacular views,&quot; Plus noted.

Levels two and three will home the resident recreation, with everything from an infinity edge pool, gym, and sauna, to&nbsp;work from home facilities including a number of booths and a conference room.

It&#39;s a continuation of the move toward high impact, but low density apartment towers sweeping the Gold Coast, with high demand coming from high-net-worth individuals who want more than just a holiday rental apartments.

The tower is similar to Myst, a 33-level tower slated just 60 metres down the road, closer to the beach.

Myst, to be developed by Orenda&nbsp;Projects and also designed by Plus, will see&nbsp;46 apartments created, 45 of those being three-bedroom apartments, which, apart from the three whole-floor sub-penthouses, will span half of a floor.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95045 project_image_fid=179473]

The top two levels will be dedicated to a two-level penthouse, the only four-bedroom apartment in the building. That will have its own private terrace with a swimming pool.

The resident amenity will be located on the level four podium, which will home an infinity edge pool and pool lounge area, a separate spa, and a barbecue and dining space.

The level five mezzanine will have the gym, complete with a sauna and a steam room. There will also be a residents lounge in the 27th level.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=110953]

Just 200 metres from the beach, the yet to be named tower has been designed by Plus Architecture, who say the design was inspired by the "dynamic theatre of the ocean."



Surfers Paradise set for 35 whole-floor apartment tower

As they gear up to release something special to the Surfers Paradise beachfront, the family-ran KTQ Group are set to top off their hugely successful Miles Residences project at Kirra Beach.

KTQ, led by Peggy Flannery, has just released the special penthouse crowning Miles Residences, which sold out in just a couple of months after its launch in December 2020.

Miles Penthouse, the most&nbsp;elevated penthouse&nbsp;on the southern Gold Coast and priced at $16.75 million, has been two years in design to offer a complete custom residence.

The 760 sqm split-level penthouse will be made up of five ensuited bedrooms, a state-of-the-art gym, home office, three living areas, and a study.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575 project_image_fid=187457]

The heart of the heart of the home if the open plan kitchen, living and dining area, which also homes a bar. The penthouse also features a rooftop entertaining deck, accessed by private lift and featuring a private pool, as well as offering unobstructed views north across Kirra Beach to Surfers Paradise&nbsp;and south to Snapper Rocks.

&ldquo;We purposely held back the release of this penthouse as it has been our passion to take advantage of this incredibly rare opportunity and create something of distinction overlooking Kirra beach,&rdquo; said Jeremy Holmes, Development Director of KTQ Group.

&ldquo;There will never be another penthouse of this calibre and position on the southern Gold Coast.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575 project_image_fid=187456]

&ldquo;No detail has been overlooked, this penthouse contains every consideration for elevated coastal living including a secure seven&nbsp;car garage with storage.&rdquo;

The penthouse collection was initially devised as a duo; however, the second penthouse has been retained by&nbsp;Peggy and Brian Flannery.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27575 project_image_fid=138620]

&ldquo;We fell in love with the ambitious design of the penthouse, it became a passion project for us to devise the most indulgent home we could envision, and once we witnessed the finished product, we found ourselves too enamoured to give it up,&rdquo; Peggy Flannery said.

&ldquo;Such a remarkable destination demanded an equally scintillating residential offering, and so the penthouse was born from a desire to elevate the greatest natural assets on offer in Kirra.

Tim Keenan, of Keenan and Co who sold out all 118 apartments of Miles Residences as part of the $350 million redevelopment of the Kirra Beach Hotel, says prospects from around Australia have been aware the penthouse was coming to market.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve had some approaches from groups mindful that we would bring this to the market at some point, so there is definitely some keen interest,&rdquo; said Mr Keenan.

&ldquo;It really is an incredible, once in a lifetime offering and we expect very keen interest in the coming weeks.&rdquo;

Construction on Miles Residences is currently underway, with construction of the crowning penthouse due for completion in mid-2023.

“There will never be another penthouse of this calibre and position on the southern Gold Coast.”

KTQ release near $17 million Miles Residences, Kirra Beach penthouse

The hotly anticipated development of Garfield Terrace is heading in to 2022, with further plans submitted to the Gold Coast City Council for a luxury apartment tower.

Following the submission by the&nbsp;Sydney-based Weiya Holdings, <a href="/news/qld/first-look-weiya-holdings-submit-38-level-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-beachfront-apartments">who plan to develop&nbsp;Aalto</a>, a 64 apartment block&nbsp;at 75-79 Garfield, the fellow Sydney-based developer, Iris Capital, has lodged plans for their next development which sits&nbsp;next door.

The project, 71&nbsp;on Garfield, named after its prime location at 71-73 Garfield Terrace which Iris secured earlier this year, will have 51 apartments across the 38-level tower, as well as&nbsp;a two level beach house.

<a href="/new-apartments/71-garfield-surfers-paradise-71-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">To be the first to be notified when 71 on Garfield is nearing launch, enquire here.</a>

DBI, who handled Iris Capital's recently launched Victoria &amp; Albert in Broadbeach, their first foray in to the Gold Coast apartment market, put together the plans for&nbsp;71 on Garfield.

<a href="/new-apartments/71-garfield-surfers-paradise-71-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="829" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/iris_garfield_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
The proposed tower&nbsp;of 71 on Garfield. Image credit: DBI Architecture

"Iris Capital is set to deliver a new breed of building, combining subtropical principles, fashion inspired design and a sky living experience," DBI's design statement read.

"71 on Garfield is designed exclusively for the coastal environment, moving away from smaller unit types and white upstands to embrace the increasing demand for large apartments and a new level of coastal sophistication."

Another aimed at the high end holiday maker or owner-occupier, the smallest apartments on offer will have three bedrooms and span half a floor, oriented to have ocean-facing balconies.

They run over half way up the tower, before hitting the resident&nbsp;facilities on level 24 where there will be a swimming pool and pool deck, a gym with a sauna, and an outdoor barbecue and dining area.

<a href="/new-apartments/71-garfield-surfers-paradise-71-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="971" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/iris_garfield_1.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
The curved tower&nbsp;of 71 on Garfield. Image credit: DBI Architecture

Up to level 33 will be the full-floor, four bedroom apartments, each with a study and private plunge pool on the balcony.

<a href="/new-apartments/71-garfield-surfers-paradise-71-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">To be the first to be notified when 71 on Garfield is nearing launch, enquire here.</a>

The most impressive apartments are right on the top of the tower.

The five-bedroom subpenthouse spans two levels and has a larger plunge pool on the lower level balcony, an upstairs ocean-facing master retreat with a private balcony, study, two walk in wardrobes, and an ensuite. Each&nbsp;of the five bedrooms have walk in robes and ensuites.

Crowning the tower is a three-level penthouse, with the same floorplate as the subpenthouse, but with the addition of the rooftop, where a room, pitched as being suitable as a gym, lounge, or games room (complete with a sauna), opens to the outdoor area where there's a swimming pool and outdoor kitchen.

The beach house starts from the ground level and has four bedrooms and two living areas across its two levels. There's a pool that opens from the ground floor living space.

<a href="/new-apartments/71-garfield-surfers-paradise-71-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="695" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/iris_garfield_3.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
The outdoors of the two-level beach house. Image credit: DBI Architecture

DBI said that narrow&nbsp;sites are challenging, which makes quality urban design principles&nbsp;more important than ever.

"Reclaiming direct visual connection between the street and the beach and enhancing permeability is essential," the team noted.

"The aesthetic reveals the balance between fashion, craft, elegance and luxury. Soft edges and elegant curves help to soften the built form and create a distinctive ‘welcoming’ identity, at a macro scale to the city skyline and a micro scale at the pedestrian level.

"The timeless design and lines of the towers are highlighted by the metallic textured and crafted sculptural spine of the building dialogue with the elegance and simplicity of the glass volume.

"The materiality relates to a ‘decadent’, yet sophisticated, fashion icon and beach lifestyle."

<a href="/new-apartments/71-garfield-surfers-paradise-71-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">To be the first to be notified when 71 on Garfield is nearing launch, enquire here.</a>

There development of Garfield Terrace is expected to continue in to the new year, with the Brisbane-based Siera primed to create a boutique tower. KTQ are also set to reveal what they intend to do with their huge amalgamated beachfront site.&nbsp;

The project, 71 on Garfield, named after its prime location at 71-73 Garfield Terrace which Iris secured earlier this year, will have 51 apartments

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