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?

Construction has started on the Brisbane riverfront apartment building, Rivello, in Northshore Hamilton, which has seen over&nbsp;90 per cent of apartments sold for more than $133 million in just 10 weeks.

The sales rush has been led by owner-occupiers, including young professionals and downsizers, many of whom live within a 10-kilometre radius.

Interstate purchasers looking to relocate or invest in the Queensland have made up around 10 per cent of the sales.

More than 1,000 jobs will be created during construction of the $149 million, 21-storey building, which will home 150 apartments and a suite of resort-style amenities, including a roof-top infinity-edge pool with expansive views across the Brisbane River to the CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102922 project_image_fid=171473]

Developer Brookfield Residential Properties has appointed builder Tomkins Commercial and Industrial Builders - who have delivered more than 300 projects across the residential, commercial, industrial and education sectors - to construct the mixed-use development, with completion anticipated for late 2023.

Rivello is the latest stage of Brookfield&rsquo;s activities in the Northshore Hamilton Priority Development Area (PDA), situated six kilometres from the Brisbane CBD, and the ninth building by Brookfield Residential Properties in the Portside residential and lifestyle precinct.

Brookfield Residential Properties Managing Director, Lee Butterworth, said the outstanding sales result had seen construction start on Rivello several months ahead of schedule.

&ldquo;The response to Rivello has been exceptional, with sales including an ultra-opulent penthouse for more than $5.5 million, two sub-penthouses for more than $2.9 million each and the majority of our three bedroom apartments, which average $1.5 million,&rdquo; he said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102922 project_image_fid=174005]

&ldquo;Those sales are a vote of confidence from the top end of the market in Rivello and we&rsquo;ve seen an equal level of enthusiasm from purchasers across our one and two bedroom apartments, with only a handful of floorplans now remaining, with river, park or local views still on offer.

&ldquo;We are looking forward to moving into the next phase of Rivello, by bringing our vision to life. To be able to accelerate the start of construction is a fantastic result, not just for our purchasers but the 1,000 workers who will be employed in constructing this exciting project.&rdquo;

Butterworth said the start of work on Rivello was also a significant milestone for the broader Northshore Hamilton precinct, where Brookfield Residential Properties had been developing since 2006.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve been part of the major transformation of Northshore for over 15 years, delivering the Portside Wharf dining, shopping and entertainment precinct as well as more than 850 riverside apartments, and look forward to continuing to be part of the area&rsquo;s evolution for many years to come.&rdquo;

Economic Development Queensland General Manager Debbie McNamara said the project marks another milestone in Northshore&rsquo;s transformation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102922 project_image_fid=171475]

&ldquo;I am proud of Economic Development Queensland&rsquo;s continued investment in infrastructure to revitalise the Northshore Hamilton PDA, which paves the way for projects like Rivello,&rdquo; she said.

&ldquo;Rivello will be yet another reason for people to enjoy Northshore, which is home to Portside Wharf, Eat Street Northshore, Alcyone Hotel, and some of Brisbane&rsquo;s best riverfront living.&rdquo;

Butterworth said Northshore Hamilton continued to be in high demand due to its premium, riverfront location.

&ldquo;There are very few opportunities to purchase a new apartment on the Brisbane River, particularly within six kilometres of the Brisbane CBD, which makes Northshore a highly sought-after locale,&rdquo; he said.

&ldquo;Northshore is a popular lifestyle choice because of the extensive mix of dining, shopping and entertainment in the precinct and the ease of access via CityCat or road to an array of destinations. The feedback from buyers at Rivello is that these factors certainly underpinned their decision to secure an apartment.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=102922]

The sales rush has been led by owner-occupiers, including young professionals and downsizers, many of whom live within a 10-kilometre radius

Construction begins on Rivello, Brisbane apartments, as sales hit 90%

The Brisbane-based Pikos Group are set to launch its next apartment project, a striking collection of three towers in the affluent suburb of Kangaroo Point.

The first release of Lambert Street Apartments, to be developed on one of the last remaining vacant sites overlooking the Brisbane River, will see 75 apartments up for grabs, with strong enquiry already fielded by the Pedro Pikos-led developer.

There will be three towers as part of the Lambert Street Apartments, designed by Conrad Gargett Architect and oriented to look across the river to New Farm.

<a href="/new-apartments/gaia-kangaroo-point-108-lambert-street-kangaroo-point">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

&ldquo;Lambert Street represents the final chance for a new generation of luxury to rise in Kangaroo Point &ndash; there are no other developable sites left in the area,&rdquo; Pikos said.

<img alt="" height="856" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/stage_1_pikos_lambert_st.jpg" width="604" /> 
The first of the three towers

&ldquo;Interstate developers have been desperately trying to get their hands on developable land in Kangaroo Point, but they&rsquo;re a little too late to the party.

&ldquo;We have always had a huge affinity for Kangaroo Point and this project will present a vanishingly rare opportunity to secure a riverfront residence drenched in the trademark Pikos luxury-touch.&rdquo;

The project is set to rise opposite the highly successful&nbsp;Argyle New Farm, which has underpinned the strength of the central Brisbane market, securing 90 per cent&nbsp;of its sales for $7.75 million, and a penthouse sale at $15.4 million.

<img alt="" height="1672" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/stage_2_pikos_lambert_st.jpg" width="1200" /> 
One of the later release towers

&ldquo;Our appartments will enter the market at a tenth of the price of the Argyle, without compromising on quality or vistas, which is remarkable value for buyers seeking a more affordable entry to riverside living,&rdquo; Pikos added.

Kangaroo Point is one of Brisbane&#39;s most sought-after and tightly held markets for houses and apartments, with little high-rise stock in the pipeline or recently completed.

<a href="/new-apartments/gaia-kangaroo-point-108-lambert-street-kangaroo-point">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

Gap Development Sales Director Grant Plummer, who is handling the marketing, said there&#39;s been incredible levels of demand already.

<img alt="" height="1526" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/stage_3_pikos_lambert_st.jpg" width="1200" /> 
Another render of one of the future releases

&ldquo;Kangaroo Point is the location with it all &ndash; it&rsquo;s got proximity, panoramas, and a captivating charm which has cemented it as the pinnacle of city living for the luxury owner occupier market,&rdquo;&nbsp;Plummer said.

&ldquo;The diminishing opportunity for new product in such a coveted location has resulted in an incredible level of demand which we are excited to satiate with our spectacular Lambert Street collection.&rdquo;

Lambert Street is being modelled with the same finishes as Pikos&#39;s&nbsp;Skye apartments, located on just across the bend.

<a href="/new-apartments/gaia-kangaroo-point-108-lambert-street-kangaroo-point">To keep up to date with the development and its launch, enquire here</a>

There will be three towers as part of the Lambert Street Apartments, designed by Conrad Gargett Architect and oriented to look across the river to New Farm

Pikos Group set to launch La Storia, first stage of Lambert Street Apartments in Kangaroo Point

Fully vaccinated Australian citizens and residents will be allowed to fly into New South Wales without quarantine from November 1, and this will have some positive implications for the housing market in Sydney, according to Pete Wargent, the co-founder of the national network of property buyer&rsquo;s agents BuyersBuyers.

&ldquo;While the immediate impact on the housing market will be limited, the impact will be noticeable in 2022,&quot; he said.

&quot;After a prolonged period of elevated rental vacancies in the CBD and its immediate surrounds, things will start to tighten up over 2022 as new arrivals fly in, and the rental market should strengthen from here, especially for short-stay lets&rdquo; Mr Wargent said.

&ldquo;Investors are coming back into the market now, so those with a borrowing capacity with around $1 million will undoubtedly be looking at units in Sydney over the year ahead, with plenty of opportunities to buy a property that will deliver a strong capital growth.

&ldquo;A word of caution: buyers need to ensure that they buy a high-quality property, with no significant issues, either in relation to the location of the property, or in relation to the specific property attributes&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7758 project_image_fid=150461]

&nbsp;&ldquo;While there&rsquo;s currently an outstanding demand for almost all properties, at a later point of time, under &lsquo;normal&rsquo; market conditions, the demand for B-grade properties will not be as strong as the demand for top-quality dwelling units.&nbsp;

&quot;Buyers should have a cool head and avoid decisions they might regret later,&rdquo; Mr Wargent said.

The Sydney re-opening move will ultimately force other states such as Victoria to advance their reopening roadmaps, but as first cab off the rank Sydney will be the first market to see an impact from international arrivals, noted Doron Peleg, CEO of RiskWise Property Research.

&ldquo;We expect the regulator APRA&rsquo;s moves to tighten lending to more leveraged borrowers combined with growing affordability challenges to see more buyers in Sydney looking at family-suitable units and other attached dwellings, as affordable alternatives to freestanding houses.&nbsp;

&quot;The price differential between houses and units in Sydney has never previously been so stretched, and the deposit gap will push more buyers towards units.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108800 project_image_fid=179484]

&ldquo;Based on our research, the greater the price differences, the higher the likelihood that family-suitable units will deliver strong price increases, as these units deliver an excellent benefit, considering their average price&rdquo; Mr Peleg said.

RiskWise expects unit prices in the supply-constrained markets of Sydney appreciating materially over the coming year, with mortgage rates expected to stay very cheap for some time.

&quot;In particular, boutique developments with no facilities such as lifts, pool, or a gymnasium are likely to outperform due to strong demand by investors, downsizes, and well-off professionals who seek low-maintenance and comfortable dwellings. The high land value content in these locations and unit blocks tends to drive capital growth over time.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7758 project_image_fid=79424]

&ldquo;The Sydney unit markets where we expect to see robust performance include those in the eastern suburbs, in the $1 million to $1.4 million price range, such as Vaucluse and Bellevue Hill.&nbsp;

&quot;Our research has also highlighted some sub $800,000 suburbs in the inner west, such as Strathfield and Summer Hill&rdquo;. 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;There is also a range of suburbs on the north shore and in the northern beaches, which look attractive from a unit to house price ratio, including Mosman and Cremorne, and some of the other premium locations&rdquo; 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;Median unit prices in the $1 million to $1.4 million price bracket, with a high land to asset ratio available on boutique unit block purchases, are relatively more accessible to the booming investor cohort&rdquo; Mr Peleg said.

The demand for B-grade properties will not be as strong as the demand for top-quality units, buyers agent Pete Wargent said.


jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

The Sydney apartment markets that will show price growth: Pete Wargent

The Property Council of Australia has announced the important role the property industry will play in achieving net zero as NSW decarbonises its economy.

NSW director Luke Achterstraat said as NSW invests $4.8 million in speeding up the transformation of the state&rsquo;s built environment towards net zero emissions, buildings can provide some of the least cost abatement opportunities in the economy.&nbsp;

<blockquote>
&ldquo;Accelerating Australia&rsquo;s transition to sustainable housing could both protect the home building sector, as well as spur growth in delivering more than half a billion dollars of additional investment in the construction industry by 2030 and create over 7,000 new jobs,&rdquo; Achterstraat said.
</blockquote>

Effectively, this would also save Australians $600 million on their energy bills.&nbsp;

According to the Property Council, upgrading the energy efficiency of Australia&rsquo;s commercial buildings would not only stimulate economic activity through inputs of local labour, it would also deliver an estimated $12 billion in energy savings between 2016 and 2030.

&ldquo;Since efficient buildings are also healthier and more productive, gains in staff productivity are likely to dwarf the benefits in energy savings.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7149 project_image_fid=175541]

According to the <a href="https://arena.gov.au/renewable-energy/renewables-in-buildings/">Australian Renewable Energy Agency</a> (ARENA), buildings account for more than half of the nation&rsquo;s electricity consumption and are a major driver of &lsquo;peak demand&rsquo;.

An additional 2019 study revealed that the construction, operation and maintenance of buildings account for almost a <a href="https://theconversation.com/buildings-produce-25-of-australias-emissions-what-will-it-take-to-make-them-green-and-wholl-pay-105652">quarter of greenhouse gas emissions</a> in Australia.

&ldquo;We encourage the NSW State Government to leverage the unique opportunity the built environment offers to dramatically reduce carbon emissions in highly cost effective ways that will also stimulate the economy,&rdquo; Achterstraat said.&nbsp;

&ldquo;As Australia heads towards a low emissions economy, governments must provide a clear pathway of policies that give certainty to industry and create economic opportunities for Australian businesses.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7758 project_image_fid=150461]

Other key industry bodies, including the&nbsp;Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), are also encouraging the government to make use of the largely untapped emissions reduction opportunities available within the sector.&nbsp;

GBCA CEO Davina Rooney&nbsp;Australia&rsquo;s property sector is already&nbsp;leading the way in carbon reduction&nbsp;and making commitments at COP26 can help the Australian Government build on this work.&nbsp;

Facilitating the transition of Australia&rsquo;s building sector towards an economy for the future is critical in improving and sustaining the future liveability, productivity and sustainability of our communities and cities.

Achterstraat concluded: &ldquo;With the right policy frameworks in place, we can minimise the costs of a transition&nbsp;to net zero emissions and create economic opportunities across all parts of industry, from sole traders and homeowners to large businesses.&rdquo;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Buildings account for more than half of the nation’s electricity consumption and are a major driver of ‘peak demand’

max.kwok_55688

Property industry to play a pivotal role in the race to net zero, says Property Council

The architect-turned developer, Joe Adsett, has submitted plans for his&nbsp;next South East Queensland residential apartment development.

Adsett, who secured a sell-out at his Rockpool, Rainbow Bay project&nbsp;earlier this year, has ventured to the affluent and tightly held waterfront of Kangaroo Point, where he's&nbsp;set to create a&nbsp;luxury $85 million, 15-level tower.

Named River Arc for its location on the curve of the Brisbane River at 44 O'Connell Street, the project will home just 14 luxe apartments, set&nbsp;on one of the last north-east facing, absolute riverfront development sites.

Adsett said to differentiate, they went with a lower density on the 1,186 sqm site, which would typically yield 75 apartments.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="675" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/joe_adsett_kangaroo_point_main.jpg" width="1200" />

“As a practice specialising in luxury residential architecture, we have seen incredible growth in the Brisbane super prime residential market," Adsett said.

"We believe the market has quickly matured to the point it will accept a project of this nature and to that end we have readily chosen to under develop the site from its potential density to focus on a boutique one per floor offering.”

Each of the apartments will benefit from expansive river views and range in size from 300 sqm&nbsp;to 550 sqm. The exclusive development offers residents a unique opportunity to directly access the water via private moorings.

"The site is uniquely positioned on a north-eastern bend of the river and we designed the building to cantilever towards the river edge.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="675" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/joe_adsett_river_arc_kangaroo_point.jpg" width="1200" />

"The cantilever is achieved by our design of an external concrete structural veil, which integrates the wall and floors into one uniform structure. The structure is not only supporting the building; it also acts to create large column free spaces which open to the water. The structure also curves to create large eaves around the building which reduce the heat load on the glass and provide acoustic attenuation between the levels.

"In addition, it allows protection from driving rain and&nbsp;reduces wind gusts up the vertical face of the high rise. The design of the facade curves and arches to become an object of beauty in its own right, and in turn forms the iconic look of the building.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="2000" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/river_arc_kangaroo.jpg" width="1200" />

The riverfront is dedicated to an abundance of tiered landscaping and communal amenities, providing a sanctuary for residents whilst giving back to the river ecosystem. An existing mature Flooded Gum tree is maintained by the development, preserving the natural features of the site.

The site is set to benefit from a multitude of Brisbane’s future infrastructure investment with the anticipated Riverwalk extension from Mowbray Park, Kangaroo Point Green bridge, Cross River Rail precinct, Gabba redevelopment, and local ferry terminal upgrades.

Earlier this year the popular architect secured a sell-out of his first development on the Gold Coast, the luxury Rockpool at Rainbow Bay.

Adsett said to differentiate, they went with a lower density on the 1,186 sqm site, which would typically yield 75 apartments.


Exclusive: Joe Adsett reveals River Arc, Kangaroo Point apartment development

Norwood Green, located in Norwood, one of Adelaide&#39;s most popular suburbs, is set to be home to 111, one two and three-bedroom apartments, and a number of four-bedroom townhouses.

The Catcorp development was designed by the team at Tectvs and will also play host to a number of retail offerings, including an Aldi, as well as private and public open spaces.

Located&nbsp;just a short walk to Norwood Parade and less than two kilometres from&nbsp;the CBD, Tectvs took the approach of melding landscaped green spaces with architectural design.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22648 project_image_fid=74422]

Norwood Green apartments comprise of one, two and three-bedroom apartments with car parks, across five six-storey buildings, arranged around a communal private village green.

The industrial history of the site informs the aesthetic of the building facades, and sustainability features such as solar panels to the community area and apartments add to its appeal.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22648 project_image_fid=74420]

Prices start as low as $369,000 for certain one-bedroom apartments with two-bedroom apartments starting at&nbsp;$502,000.

Norwood Green&#39;s&nbsp;final release of the&nbsp;Beulah townhouses will take place in 2022 with all previous townhomes already sold out.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=22648]

Norwood Green, located in one of Adelaide's most popular suburbs, Norwood will be home to 111, one two and three bedroom apartments and four-bedroom townhouses

jordan_55689

Catcorp's affordable Norwood Green apartment and townhouse development for sale in Adelaide

Buyers of almost every age and demographic have been showing interest in the burgeoning suburb of Preston, now one of Melbourne&#39;s&nbsp;most popular fringe suburbs just nine&nbsp;kilometres north of the Melbourne CBD.

More recently the suburb has been attracting families, due to a growing number of schooling, as well as appropriate-sized housing.

&ldquo;Thanks to a few decades of urban sprawl, Preston is now considered one of Melbourne&rsquo;s hottest northern suburbs. It seems like there&rsquo;s new, hip bars popping up on every corner&rdquo;, Timeout Magazine said.

One of the latest developments set for completion in Preston is&nbsp;Central Preston Gardens, which has completion forecast for late 2021.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108725 project_image_fid=179627]

The 16-townhome development is being delivered by the&nbsp;HongKong Sonlam Group and&nbsp;Times Fund.

Situated at&nbsp;223-227 Gower Street, Central Preston Gardens benefits greatly from it&#39;s location, close to T W Blake park, the Preston Oval and the Preston Library.

It is well connected via public transportation as it&#39;s close to Preston Station, Albert Street and High Street.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108725 project_image_fid=179628]

There&#39;s new infrastructure in the&nbsp;pipeline 2 kilometers away, with the Victorian Planning Authority currently reviewing plans for a new Preston Market Precinct, taking in 12.5 acres&nbsp;of privately-owned land with integrations with Preston Station and High Street.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108725 project_image_fid=179625]

Prices start at $750,000 for a two bedroom townhouse and&nbsp;$900,000 for a three bedder.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108725]

More recently the suburb has been attracting families, due to a growing number of schooling, as well as appropriate-sized housing.



Why families are now attracted to Preston's more suitable townhouse developments

The strength of demand for house and land offerings is set to continue throughout 2022 and into 2023, according to the HIA chief economist, Tim Reardon.
 
The latest HIA-CoreLogic Residential Land Report advised the cost of residential land prices rose by 8.5 per cent.
 
“Land supply has been in tight supply for the past two decades," Reardon said.
 
“As land is a key component of housing, this increase in price has been a key driver of the rising cost of homes and the decline in housing affordability."

Reardon noted the shortage of building materials had caused delays to home building across the country and added 4 per cent to the cost of homebuilding in 2020/21, according to the ABS. 
 
“There is little state and Australian governments can do to improve global supply chains and improve the availability of building products, but they are in direct control of the volume of land available for home building.
 
“Ensuring there is an adequate supply of land to meet housing demand is a key responsibility of state and territory governments and one of the necessary steps to addressing the affordability challenge. There is no better time than now to increase the supply of available land and make a generational step toward improving housing affordability,” said Mr Reardon.
 
The number of vacant land sales has been easing over recent quarters due to a combination of less stimulus along with scarcity of supply, according to Tim Lawless, CoreLogic’s research director.

"The HomeBuilder grant saw demand for vacant land brought forward, with land sales surging through the second half of 2020.  

"However, the more recent trend has been a slowdown in land sales but a surge in detached housing construction as the nation moves into the early stages of what is likely to be an extended period of residential detached housing construction. 
 
“The sharp rise in vacant land prices over the year, together with rising construction costs, will place further upwards pressure on the cost of new housing.  

"The lift in land prices and residential construction costs along with the value of established housing rising rapidly, is set to add further pressure to housing affordability challenges that are becoming increasingly apparent across the country,” says Mr Lawless.
 

The number of vacant land sales has been easing over recent quarters

House and land supply issues to prompt continued price rises: HIA

The Melbourne developer Sunkin Property Group&nbsp;has been given the green light to transform the former CRISO site in Highett into a $500+ million residential precinct that will have a focus on urban renewal, sustainability, nature, and town centre connectivity.

Sunkin seeks to provide a range of dwelling typologies to meet housing demand from singles, couples and families and improve housing diversity in the area.

With a focus on a connected community and urban renewal, the proposed development will benefit from the close proximity of Highett Train station, Highett Town Centre and have a significant positive impact; supporting the local economy, generating new jobs in the area.

Some four hectares of parkland will surround the 9.34 hectare site which will include&nbsp;a new public park and conservation reserve. A new public library is also proposed to be provided by Sunkin on site for the benefit of the community, as well as a Maternal and Child Health Centre, and the undergrounding of overhead HV power lines along Graham Road.

<a href="/new-apartments/highett-common-37-graham-road-highett-vic-3190">To receive the next update and sales launch of Park Village, enquire here</a>

Central to the development is its focus on connectedness and walkability, with common and public spaces between the built form providing opportunities for neighbours to connect. This is further enhanced via integrated wellness and fitness facilities, including a resident&rsquo;s gym and pool, as well as cafes to activate the park setting.

Sunkin Property Group General Manager Development Lloyd Collins said he&rsquo;s thrilled to have received development approval from Bayside City Council.

&ldquo;Throughout the development application process we really listened to the community and as a result, we received a number of suggestions and great ideas that were included in our proposed amendments to the development plan approval,&quot; Collins said.

&ldquo;We are incredibly excited to deliver a project such as this for the wider community, which not only provides new public amenities and open space, but will have a significant positive impact on the local economy in terms of job opportunities and supporting local businesses.

<a href="/new-apartments/highett-common-37-graham-road-highett-vic-3190">To receive the next update and sales launch of Park Village, enquire here</a>

&ldquo;We are delighted that council has approved this development plan and we look forward to continuing to work in partnership with council and the wider community to deliver this much needed development. We are seeing pent-up demand within the Bayside area and believe our park setting and connection to the station and vibrant town centre retail will be highly attractive to local buyers.&rdquo;

Within walking distance to Highett train station, the ClarkeHopkinsClarke designed development is set to bolster the Victorian economy, generating 280 jobs per annum during construction, and once complete, will support Highett local traders with $50 million per annum expenditure by 2032.*

Sunkin seeks to provide a range of dwelling typologies to meet housing demand from singles, couples and families and improve housing diversity in the area

Sunkin secure approval for $500 million Highett residential precinct

The soon-to-be national property developer, Crown Group, has unveiled its penthouse collection across two of its Sydney apartment developments.

The architecture-led penthouses in Crown Group&#39;s&nbsp;Mastery by Crown Group and Waterfall by Crown Group developments are being pitched at potential onshore and offshore investors, now New South Wales is allowing quarantine-free travel.

Iwan Sunito, Crown Group co-founder and group chief executive, said, despite the COVID-19 outbreak, Asian investment in Sydney remains very strong.

&ldquo;Compared with many global cities, Sydney offers stronger growth prospects for property owners; backed by a stable government, strong education market and a demand for housing which outstrips supply.&rdquo;

This year, the Crown Group buyer pool is made up of a mix of offshore and onshore investors, with demand from the Asian market holding up despite travel restrictions.

Crown Group tapped in to the work-from-home trend, pivoting toward&nbsp;flexible floor plans and internal and external living areas, along&nbsp;with resort-style amenities and communal landscaped gardens.

The completed penthouse in the Waterfall by Crown Group apartment development in Waterloo spans two levels and has three bedrooms across its 147 sqm of living space. There&#39;s a balcony over 40 sqm, and a private rooftop with city skyline views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5763 project_image_fid=182339]

Waterfall by Crown Group is a $400 million master-planned development comprising 331 apartments across three eight-storey buildings and one 22-storey tower, which is home to the highest man-made waterfall in the southern hemisphere.

Inspired by the tropical landscape of Indonesia&rsquo;s Kalimantan and developed in conjunction with award-winning SJB Architects, Waterfall is a veritable rainforest in the heart of the city, offering access to tranquil gardens, a cantilevered gym, rooftop infinity pool, 49-jet jacuzzi for up to 16 people, outdoor cinema and music and function rooms.

Down the road is Crown&#39;s Mastery by Crown Group development in Green Square, a&nbsp;cluster of five newly completed buildings offering a total of 368 luxury apartments and anchored by a 19-storey, timber-clad tower featuring three exclusive penthouses.

Designed by&nbsp;Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, who recently designed the 2020 Olympic Stadium in Tokyo and the internationally acclaimed V&amp;A museum in Dundee, Scotland, the tower forms part of a rare collaboration of three renowned architectural firms: Kengo Kuma; established Sydney architects Silvester Fuller; and Koichi Takada Architects, who created sophisticated Japanese-inspired interiors with a generous use of natural materials.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7020 project_image_fid=173694]

Part of the exclusive Penthouse Collection are&nbsp;three architecturally-designed penthouses in Kengo Kuma&rsquo;s cantilevered tower. Offering between 150 sqm to&nbsp;171 sqm of outdoor space, they occupy the top floor of the tower envisioned by Kengo Kuma to act as a vertical urban forest, with views towards Sydney&rsquo;s CBD, Centennial Park, and&nbsp;panoramic water views to the south.

The penthouses feature water&nbsp;and moisture-resistant travertine&nbsp; in the kitchen island benchtops, splashbacks, and in the bathroom walls, floors and vanity benches. There are Smeg appliances throughout, including rangehoods, gas cooktops, ovens, steam ovens, microwave ovens and coffee machines.

Buyers will have the option to upgrade to a Japanese onsen style bathtub,&nbsp;made of fragrant hinoki cypress, in the ensuite.

&ldquo;Mastery by Crown Group is the last council-permitted tower for the area, meaning that this is an exclusive opportunity to not only live in the very first Kengo Kuma-designed residential building in Australia, but to secure views that will be impossible to replicate in Waterloo with existing zoning rules,&rdquo; Sunito said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7020 project_image_fid=173690]

Penthouse Collection residents will have access to Mastery&#39;s resort-style facilities which include an infinity-edge rooftop pool, gym, spa, mini-cinema and a community room. Australia&rsquo;s first Japanese &ldquo;eat street&rdquo; is located on the doorstep.

The Mastery and Waterfall Penthouse Collection apartments are for sale, from $3.75 million to $4.88 million..

There are still studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments&nbsp;for sale, priced from $630,000 and ranging&nbsp;to $2.37 million.

Knight Frank estimates that in 2021 Sydney luxury real estate prices will surge by 10 per cent. The outlook remains positive for 2022 as well, with a healthy seven per cent&nbsp;year-on-year growth forecast.

Crown Group tapped in to the work-from-home trend, pivoting toward flexible floor plans and internal and external living areas

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