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?

OSK Property developed the precinct and won two Asia Pacific Property Awards <a href="/news/osk-property-s-double-win-for-melbourne-square-at-asia-pacific-property-awards">in 2020</a> for the best mixed-use development and the best residential high-rise architecture.&nbsp;

Melbourne Square will deliver 1054 premium apartments with seven unique floor plans, exceptional private amenities, lush rooftop gardens and an expansive 3,700sqm park featuring Australian native, exotic and sub-tropical plants. The precinct provides an abundance of lifestyle amenities, including bars, a childcare centre, a Hilton Hotel, restaurants, retail stores, and a two-level supermarket.

Melbourne Square&rsquo;s one-bedroom apartments are selling for $487,000, with residents to enjoy breathtaking views, exceptional architecture and interior design, some of the city&rsquo;s best amenities and the best of Melbourne&rsquo;s CBD and Southbank to explore. What more could you ask for?

<h2>A Look at the Design of Melbourne Square&rsquo;s Residences</h2>

Melbourne Square was architecturally designed by international award-winner Cox Architecture and was influenced by the cultural heritage, greenery and grandeur of the city. Sue Carr&rsquo;s team designed the interior of the residences and was inspired by the building&#39;s architectural form and its garden landscapes. Both designers collaborated to help create intelligent spacious apartments that showcase spectacular views of the city.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=139890]

As a part of the Life &amp; Style edition curated by Coco Republic, Melbourne Square apartments include four fresh and unique design themes including; The Bondi with coastal decor, The Manhattan with mature dark aesthetics, The Paris flaunting everlasting luxury and The Soho with an industrial chic theme.

All Kitchens feature an opulent marble block island with Kohler tapware and state-of-the-art Miele appliances creating a luxurious space to prepare meals and a secondary area to dine at. Bathrooms come with dual vanities equipped with modern tapware, generous spaces for storage, large mirrored cabinets and a semi-frameless shower.&nbsp;

All bedrooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows with homes positioned to enjoy natural light and the breathtaking views of the city, an integrated heating and cooling system, and spacious wardrobes. Master suites include automated block-out blinds that extend and retract with the flick of a switch. Plus, if you need the flexibility to work from home, custom-made study nooks are available and walk-in wardrobes will give you plenty of room to store all of your clothing items.

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_fill,w_629,h_420,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/project-renders/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank-9dd974c26116f96637977bf800cf6f84.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 401px;" /></a>

Melbourne Square&rsquo;s penthouses known as &lsquo;The Couture Series&rsquo; feature luxurious residences with either 3 to 5 bedrooms and the unique opportunity to personalise its interior in collaboration with iconic firms including Carr Design, Cox Architects and HUB Furniture. Currently, new purchases of selected two and three bedroom apartments can secure you a Life &amp; Style package worth $30,000, which includes stunning Coco Republic furniture, integrated wellness technology by Delos that controls air and water quality and smart lighting, Samsung white goods and a voucher to The Plant Society.

<h2>What Amenities Does Melbourne Square Offer?</h2>

Melbourne Square has two levels entirely dedicated to relaxation, which are filled with luxurious resort-style amenities, these are level 54 also known as The Skye Club and level 8 known as The Podium. 

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch//https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/project-renders/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank-d34984a3517972c6ed4da85b10c14909.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 366px;" /></a>

The Skye Club provides residents with a breathtaking panoramic outlook of the Melbourne city skyline and boasts a 25 metre indoor pool with a spa. The Skye Club also features a gym, a premium lounge bar, a series of private meeting and dining rooms with catering kitchens and a games room too. The Skye Club is exclusive and is only accessible to residents who live on the 54th level or above.

The Podium spreads across two full floors of both towers and is highlighted by a rooftop garden with a sub-tropical theme. The Podium offers a demonstration kitchen, a lounge bar and three private dining rooms that can be reserved. Residents will be entertained by the cinema and games room and will thoroughly enjoy the golfing simulator and the music room. To relax residents can enjoy an expansive outdoor pool equipped with sun lounges, a gym, two saunas, and yoga studio. The Podium provides a peaceful atmosphere that all residents can access and enjoy.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch//https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/project-renders/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank-21e35fc6091b859162646eb4eb734f75.jpg" style="height: 286px; width: 600px;" /></a>

Melbourne Square also offers residents personal care options including a car service that can drive you anywhere in Melbourne, housekeeping available to take care of your laundry needs, a welcome desk with a concierge and private spaces can be reserved to host functions.

For families, the Nido Early School offers premium early childhood education for children aged 6 weeks to school age, ensuring parents that all children will be well taken care of.&nbsp;

The grounds of Melbourne Square offer recreation and regeneration and include a lush 3,700 square metre park where residents can have a picnic or relax in the shade. The grounds also feature a collection of pocket gardens, a tree-lined boulevard, water features and walkways.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" src="https://melbournesquare.com.au/resources/images/vision/n4.jpg" style="height: 300px; width: 600px;" /></a>

<h2>Melbourne Square&rsquo;s Retail Offerings</h2>

Melbourne Square&rsquo;s collection of retailers were chosen to build on to the already impressive and established dining scene in Melbourne&rsquo;s CBD and surrounding Southbank area.&nbsp;

Melbourne Square accommodates Southbank&rsquo;s first major full-line supermarket and the first double-storey Woolworths&rsquo; in the state of Victoria. Whilst picking up the groceries at Woolies shoppers can also stock up their cellars at the BWS Bottle Shop.

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch//https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/project-renders/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank-8c242f8bffafa667d836cdcd906314d8.jpg" style="height: 400px; width: 600px;" /></a>

The Melbourne Square precinct incorporates a coffee shop named the Espresso Bar which overlooks Melbourne Squares park and serves premium baked goods and barista made coffee. The precinct also includes four unique and buzzing restaurants including; Pizza Pantelleria an Sicilian pizzeria, Theo&rsquo;s Fish Bar which serves tasty grilled and fried seafood options, The Golden Bunny by Tho Tho a Vietnamese restaurant and Waku Waku an authentic Japanese eatery.

<h2>Melbourne Square&rsquo;s Commercial Tower</h2>

Melbourne Square&rsquo;s commercial tower offers a lucrative entrepreneurial opportunity for commercial interests because of its unparalleled connection to the Melbourne CBD. The commercial tower has over 38,000 square metres of commercial space available over its 29 floors and features world class end-of-trip facilities in two of the levels. The incentives to establish and grow any business exists at Melbourne Square.&nbsp;

<h2>The Hilton Hotel&nbsp;</h2>

The renowned accommodation brand Hilton Hotels is also establishing a luxury 600-room hotel at Melbourne Square, offering conference and dining facilities, state of the art accommodation and wellness amenities.

<h2>Melbourne Square&rsquo;s Prime Location</h2>

Melbourne Square is situated in the fantastic inner-city suburb of Southbank and is centrally positioned to enjoy the very best of Melbourne living including; the bustling streets of the CBD, the shimmering waters of the Yarra River, the tranquil Royal Botanic Gardens and the waterfront playgrounds of Docklands and St Kilda Beach.&nbsp;

There is something for everyone to do and see in the beautiful inner-city suburb of Southbank. Art lovers can enjoy the world famous National Gallery of Victoria which is the oldest, biggest and most visited art museum in Australia as well as the Australian Centre for Contemporary Art which displays exhibitions from national and international artists. Performance art enthusiasts will be entertained by the internationally acclaimed Melbourne Recital Centre and Melbourne Arts Centre which is Australia&rsquo;s largest and busiest performing arts centre with more than 4,000 performances being hosted each year including The Australian Ballet, Opera and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" src="https://melbournesquare.com.au/images/location/arts-3.jpg" style="width: 600px; height: 344px;" /></a>

Southbank is home to the largest casino complex in the Southern Hemisphere known as the Crown Melbourne, it includes the Crown Towers which is the go-to accommodation option for celebrities with Bill Gates, Beyonce and Jay Z, George Clooney and Elton John, all known to have stayed here. The Crown features a cinema, a spa, Kingpin bowling, Playtime arcade games, several bars and nightclubs, 29 restaurants, multiple luxury clothing stores, as well as hosting concerts and live theatre performances.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also found in Southbank is The Eureka Tower, which is Australia&rsquo;s second tallest building at a height of 975ft which boasts the highest public vantage point for any building in the Southern Hemisphere.&nbsp;

For residents who are looking to further their career or teach those who are Southbank&rsquo;s notable institutions include the Victorian Institute for Forensic Medicine which is Australia&rsquo;s largest multidisciplinary centre for forensic services and the Victorian College of the Arts which offers educational opportunities in Dance, Film, Musical Theatre, Production, Television, Visual Art and Writing.

<h2>Melbourne Square&rsquo;s Construction Process&nbsp;</h2>

Stage One in the construction process of Melbourne Square was completed on May the 26th which included the bottle store and supermarket, the cafe and four restaurants, the childcare centre, the landscaping including the 3,745 square metre park and the east and west residential towers.

The remaining stages of construction are yet to be finalised later this year, with the fully completed site to be home to six towers including the commercial tower, the Hilton Hotel and two more residential towers.&nbsp;

If you are interested to learn more about the Melbourne Square precinct, you can visit its <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank">Urban property listing here</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Located in the inner-city area of Southbank the newly completed Melbourne Square, spans an entire inner-city block and stands at a height of 226 metres.

Davis Gale

The ultimate guide to Melbourne Square: 93-119 Kavanagh Street, Southbank

The boutique Lutwyche apartment development Bloom on Wesley in Brisbane&#39;s north&nbsp;has proved a hit with downsizer and professionals, with only 20 per cent of apartments left to sell.

Just three-bedroom apartments remain in the Wesley Street block of 36, which start&nbsp;from $720,000. The two-bedroom apartments sold out at the start of the year.

Ramy Raymond, the managing director of Raise Projects who are developing and building the apartment project,&nbsp;says the three-bedroom apartments have resonated with buyers due to their size, position, and the fact they are pet friendly.

Raymond says despite construction at a late stage, with completion expected at the start of 2022, buyers are still customizing their apartments, which he says buyers value in this day and age.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6179 project_image_fid=88257]

The location of the development has been a plus for buyers, set near shopping precincts,&nbsp;public transport, and Kedron Brook Parkland&rsquo;s walking and bike paths.

&ldquo;The combination of the resort-style rooftop, boutique exclusivity and being near great shopping, dining, services and transport means that Bloom on Wesley offers unrivalled value for our buyers to live without compromise, whether they are re-sizing or downsizing,&quot; Raymond says.

&ldquo;With property commentators suggesting that prices will surge for three-bedroom, two car space apartments located five to 10km of the CBD, due to the upward pressure from the housing market, Bloom on Wesley represents a great opportunity for owner-occupiers and investors right now.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6179 project_image_fid=88256]

Only seven apartments remain. The three-bedroom apartments range in size from 123 sqm up to 207 sqm, and are priced from $720,000 up to $860,000.

Raise are planning a high-end apartment development at Teneriffe, dubbed Verdis on Wyandra.&nbsp;

Just three-bedroom apartments remain in the Wesley Street block of 36, which start from $720,000

Downsizers and professionals take Brisbane's Bloom on Wesley apartments to 80% sold

Sentinel Real Estate latest Build to Rent project, Element 27, in Perth WA is set to become the first Carbon Neutral Certified apartment building in Australia under the Climate Active Carbon Neutral Standard for Buildings.

Located in Subiaco, Western Australia, Element 27 comprises 264 apartments, managed and leased by Sentinel to renters.&nbsp;

The building was designed to incorporate a number of strategies aimed at water and energy conservation, reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and durable products for minimal maintenance and waste.

Its key sustainability features include electric car charging stations, a 30kW photovoltaic system for common area energy usage, a rainwater and grey-water recycling system, specialty waste streams, access to a centralised geothermal system, energy efficient appliances, occupancy sensors, an embedded metering network and an impressive 8-star NatHERS rating.&nbsp;

&ldquo;Driving more sustainable outcomes is at the core of &nbsp;Sentinel&rsquo;s projects,&quot; Michael Streicker, president of Sentinel said.

&ldquo;Driving more sustainable outcomes is at the core of Sentinel&rsquo;s projects.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7864 project_image_fid=142657]

&quot;Folllowing a productive and considered process with Climate Active and the Green Building Council of Australia, it is rewarding to see Element 27, Australia&rsquo;s first purpose-built Build to Rent project, successfully certified as the first Carbon Neutral Certified project of its kind as well.&quot;

Sentinel Fund Manager Australia is the Australian arm of the American development and real estate investment firm Sentinel Real Estate.

The Climate Active Carbon Neutral Standard for Buildings has been established through collaboration between the Australian Government Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources, the GBCA and NABERS.&nbsp;

To achieve eligibility and certification against Climate Active&rsquo;s Carbon Neutral Standard for Buildings, a number of operational factors including stabilisation, greenhouse gas emissions, waste from operations, refrigerant impacts and transport emissions are assessed. The GBCA provides Climate Active with validation of projects for certification through industry recognized pathways such as Green Star &ndash; Performance v1.2.&nbsp;

&ldquo;We congratulate Sentinel for their leadership setting the standard for the residential market,&quot; Davina Rooney, chief executive officer of the GBCA said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26734 project_image_fid=153697]

&quot;The residential sector is responsible for over 50 per cent of Australia&rsquo;s building related emissions and the Build to Rent sector has an opportunity to set clear leading goals in this space&nbsp;by bringing investor drivers to the residential market,&rdquo; said Ms Rooney.&nbsp;

Element 27 was the first purpose-built institutional Build to Rent community in Australia, with the first phase operational and fully tenanted since April 2019.&nbsp;

It is the only Build to Rent property currently active in Western Australia.&nbsp;

The second phase of the project is approaching practical completion and expected to open by September 2021, with pre-leasing commencing this month.&nbsp;

Construction of the third phase of the project is expected to begin in Q3 2021.&nbsp;

Element 27, in Perth, is set to become the first Carbon Neutral Certified apartment building in Australia under the Climate Active Carbon Neutral Standard for Buildings

jchancellor

 Sentinel’s Element 27 in Perth sets green benchmark in emerging Build to Rent sector

Chevron Island is undergoing a full regeneration, and buyers are starting to descend on the village-style island just off across the bridge from the lifestyle and entertainment hub of Surfers Paradise.

A new arts precinct HOTA (Home of The Arts), Australia&#39;s largest regional art gallery, brought attention to the small island when the $60 million precinct opened its doors in May.

That&#39;s seen a wave of demand in residential development, from both developers seeking to buy the limited amount of land on the island, and buyers keen on calling the area home.

Marquee Development Partners recently secured a sell-out of their nine-level&nbsp;Stanhill Drive development The&nbsp;Catalina, designed by BDA Architecture and inspired by Art Deco.

There&#39;s set to be a new tower, Greenwich, developed by the Brisbane-focused developer&nbsp;Ention Properties. The&nbsp;New York-inspired apartment project, designed by Ferro Chow Architects, is&nbsp;a reflection of Manhattan&#39;s famous Flatiron building.

Further development is anticipated with Catalyst Health set to create two&nbsp;towers, which will be the tallest on the island, for a vertical retirement village.

There&#39;s currently four apartment developments for sale on the island. Urban has grabbed the highlights.

<h2>Allure</h2>

<h2>Prices: Two-bedrooms from $615,000</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21132 project_image_fid=33895]

Allure is the 17-level Dalpura Street development of 95 apartments, currently being developed by Macquarie York.

There&#39;s a rooftop infinity pool, barbecue area, residents lounge, a health and fitness centre&nbsp;and a conference lounge.

Expected to be completed in 12 months by Condev Constructions to a design by BDA Architects, Allure only has&nbsp;a handful of apartments left, with over 90 per cent sold.

Each apartment has been designed to make the most of the views of the Gold Coast city skyline, Broadwater and the hinterland.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21132 project_image_fid=33509]

<h2>Chevron One</h2>

Prices: Two-bedrooms from&nbsp;$705,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

Chevron One is set to be Chevron Island&#39;s first high-rise apartment development when completed in mid-2023.

Currently under construction to a design by Marquee Partners and Bensons Property, who are developing the project, Chevron One will rise 41 levels above the sought-after Stanhill Drive dress circle.

Chevron One&nbsp;is home to nearly 2000 sqm of resort-style amenities, including a residents&rsquo; lounge, floating cinema, dining facilities and sculpted garden.

The on-site luxury amenities also include a private dining facilities, a library, multiple swimming pools, a sculpture garden&nbsp;and more.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=167319]

<h2>H^BIT^T</h2>

Prices: Two-bedrooms from $595,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6648 project_image_fid=172461]

The eight-level H^BIT^T at 17-19 Anembo Street, opposite the Korman Family Park, is currently under construction and will comprise 37&nbsp;two and three-bedroom apartments.

A few apartments have been sold, with interstate and local buyers keen on the Anembo Street development.

The building is the passion project of local construction and development veterans, who have spent the last five decades developing and building residential and commercial projects across South East Queensland.

&quot;This is their own private project. The developers have focused on providing a habitat that will sustain and enrich the residents&#39; lifestyles. They were keen to share their sense of place and make a lasting contribution to the amazing&nbsp;Chevron Island&quot;, Segal said.

The three-bedroom apartments are priced from $920,000.

<h2>Boutique</h2>

Prices: Two-bedrooms from $499,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89709]

Boutique has some of the biggest apartments on Chevron Island, with just&nbsp;42 apartments&nbsp;being developed by the Sydney-based Draycon across 16 levels.

The resident-only tower with just two and three-bedroom apartments has been&nbsp;designed by BDA Architecture at&nbsp;17-19 Parneno Street.

There&#39;s a residents lounge with business facilities, individual meeting pods and a kitchenette, as well as a swimming pool with spa, gym and barbecue area. The building is crowned with a rooftop garden with&nbsp;herb and citrus planters and outdoor recreational&nbsp;space.

The development is over 70 per cent sold. Construction began earlier this year, with completion slated for Q4 2022.

A new arts precinct HOTA (Home of The Arts), Australia's largest regional art gallery, brought attention to the small island when the $60 million precinct opened its doors in May.

All of Chevron Island's apartments for sale, as development ramps up

The video marketing for the One Barangaroo penthouse has gone live.

The 8101 apartment video creators advise "the residence is a milestone in Australian, and indeed global, real estate."

It's been listed by Knight Frank.

The penthouse spans two full floors with over 800 square metres space.

At 245 metres above sea level its offers multiple entertaining areas with over 6-metre high floor to ceiling windows.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="704" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/one_barangaroo_4.jpg" width="1200" />

There are five bedrooms, all with ensuite bathrooms.

The master suite comes with large walk in robes, twin rain shower and steam room, separate office, private plunge pool, cinema room, gym, and over 50sqm of open air space across three protected balconies.&nbsp;

A feature staircase connects the two floors, as does a private internal lift.

The interiors – designed by New York outfit Meyer Davis – take advantage of the lofty, light-filled spaces and feature light European oak flooring throughout, accompanied by plush carpets in the bedrooms.&nbsp;

The penthouse boasts private plunge pool, the only residence in the building.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="643" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/one_barangaroo_pool.jpg" width="1200" />

There is also access to the resident’s pool on level six, hotel pool on level five, and spa designed by Blainey North.

This exclusive sale is being managed by Knight Frank. The four minute video was produced by Golden Eye Media.

James Packer’s $60 million purchase ranks as the building's priciest deal, secured in 2017 for a two-storey apartment.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="654" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/crown_baragaroo_3.jpg" width="1200" />

It was 2019 when there was a deal next door, worth more than $140 million for the most expensive residence in Australia, when the top three floors of Lendlease’s One Sydney Harbour at Barangaroo South were sold off the plan.

The sale includes the two-storey penthouse atop the Renzo Piano-designed building and a sub-penthouse directly below.

Completion is expected in late 2023.

The Boyd penthouse in the ANZ tower in the Sydney CBD recently sold for $60 million.

There has been no price guide given on the One Barangaroo penthouse.

But Knight Frank's latest Prime Global Forecast 2021/2022 shows that globally, luxury residential prices are forecast to rise faster than envisaged, and that Sydney is the world’s leading city for Knight Frank’s 2021 prime forecast, with luxury prices in the city expected to rise 10% over the next year. 
&nbsp; 
Lockdowns and the COVID pandemic haven’t yet had a negative impact on Sydney’s luxury property market – in fact, they are carrying it from strength to strength, with wealthy Aussies purchasing luxury properties domestically instead of overseas. 
&nbsp; 
The report shows Sydney is the leading global city for prime price forecast in 2021, with luxury prices expected to rise in Sydney by 10% over the year.

Sydney will continue its reign in the top spot in 2022, when, together with London, both cities are forecast to see prime prices accelerate 7% year-on-year.

The first quarter of 2021 saw 1,429 prime sales recorded in Sydney – the highest quarterly figure on record for the city. Despite recent lockdowns, momentum is being maintained.

Spanning two full floors and at over 800 square metres, the penthouse comes with over 6-metre high floor to ceiling windows

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

One Barangaroo penthouse video marketing gives inside look

South-West Sydney rezonings in Glenfield, Leppington and Lowes Creek Maryland are set to create more than 16,000 homes. 
&nbsp; 
Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Rob Stokes said the NSW Government was responding to the increased demand for greenfield housing as a result of the pandemic.

&quot;We are accelerating these rezonings,&rdquo; Mr Stokes said. 
&nbsp; 
The rezoning of Leppington Precinct stages two and five will allow for up to 2,400 new homes.

The Lowes Creek Maryland rezoning (above and below) will support 7,000 homes for 20,000 people.

<img alt="" height="2927" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/marylands_lowes_creek_3_05a.jpg" width="4500" /> 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;We&rsquo;re also finalising the Glenfield Precinct Place Strategy, expected to create up to 7,000 new homes and 2,900 new jobs. 
&nbsp; 
&ldquo;More homes need more parks, that&rsquo;s why as part of these land releases we&rsquo;ve secured 75 hectares of parkland at Glenfield, 62 hectares at Lowes Creek Maryland and 16 hectares at Leppington.&rdquo;

Tom Forrest, CEO at the Urban Taskforce welcomed the announcement on the rezoning of land for 16,000 new homes in South-West Sydney.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317 project_image_fid=79245] 
&nbsp; 
&quot;This announcement shows, that with political will and strong leadership, the Department of Planning, Industry and Environment can take the lead to deliver strong growth in housing approvals to drive down the price of new homes. 
&nbsp; 
&quot;This shows what DPIE can do when given clear political leadership.&nbsp;

&quot;State led rezoning will be the most efficient way to get big projects going. 
&nbsp; 
&quot;The Minister for Planning, in June, committed to fast-tracking the decisions on these precincts.&nbsp;

&quot;The commitment acknowledged that there is a housing supply crisis in NSW, and this is driving up the prices of homes, making them unaffordable.&quot; 
&nbsp; 
Forrest added the most recent new homes completion data was again disappointing for Greater Sydney, with new home completions falling well short of the Greater Sydney Commission and NSW Housing Strategy 2021 targets.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=32227 project_image_fid=93951]

&quot;The NSW Housing Strategy shows we need at least 40,000 approvals for Greater Sydney every year for the next 20 years.

&quot;In the year to March &ndash; there were on 29,500 new home completions despite the construction industry going flat out during 2020 and the first COVID wave. 
&nbsp; 
&quot;Reversing the drop-off in new home and apartment approvals is critical to solving the housing affordability crisis.&nbsp;

&quot;We will need many more announcements like this if the Minister is committed to making a serious dent into the real, accumulated shortage of approximately 100,000 new homes.&nbsp;

&quot;The same attention and enthusiasm given to the South-West needs to be extended across Greater Sydney for all housing types,&quot; Forrest said.

The rezoning of Leppington Precinct stages two and five will allow for up to 2,400 new homes while in Lowes Creek Maryland, rezoning will support approximately 7,000 homes for 20,000 people

South-West Sydney rezonings will see 16,400 new homes

The prominent Sunshine Coast developer Cube Developments has snapped up the last remaining beachfront site on the Sunshine Coast.

The 3,215 sqm block at Bokarina Beach, located between Calounda and Mooloolaba and adjacent to Bokarina Beach, is earmarked for a six level apartment building of up to 75 apartments.

Cube director Scott Juniper says they will be planning something more boutique, offering a point of difference to the other developments in the masterplan.

&quot;Three of the five sites nearby are under construction and are quite large scale, large built form projects, some with over 100 units,&quot; Juniper says, adding that those developments will have ground floor activiation.

Juniper says they are going the other way.

<img alt="" height="622" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/cube_location_2.jpg" width="1200" />

&quot;The market has evolved very quickly&quot;, Juniper said.

&quot;We&#39;re looking to go boutique, with larger format units, and really build to the strength of what&nbsp;Bokarina has become.

&quot;We won&#39;t be having retail at the ground floor. We are designing the area to create an exclusive compound for residents. They will feel special when they enter the building.&quot;

On entry there will be an architectural threshold walk through with draping landscape. Private dining spaces and a gym will feature, and Juniper says they are planning something special with landscaping around the swimming pool.

They&#39;re currently in redesign, having appointed local architect Cameron Sheedy to design the building.

&quot;We really know what we want. The brief is very detailed and that we want it to be boutique, and we felt Cameron was the best person to create our vision.&quot;

The Bokarina project will join Cube&rsquo;s growing Sunshine Coast portfolio, which includes three other residential apartments in neighbouring suburb Birtinya.

This includes the sell-out $27 million project One Prosperity, which is under construction and slated for completion at the end of this year; Curve, a sell-out $37 million project, which is due for completion next month and the recently launched to market &lsquo;Seasons by Cube&rsquo;.

Cube director Scott Juniper says they will be planning something more boutique, offering a point of difference to the other developments in the masterplan

Cube Developments plan, Oasis, boutique apartment development at Bokarina Beach, Sunshine Coast

With lockdown restrictions announced in South Australia, the tightening across NSW and extending in Victoria, Australia’s home loan lenders have rolled out extra support to affected customers.

The country’s largest bank, CBA, has confirmed a foreclosure moratorium, which means the bank won’t evict a customer in arrears until at least February 2022.

The CBA offers an automatic two-month mortgage deferral for customers in hardest hit locations and industries and others severely impacted by the lockdowns.

"We believe extending our freeze on any foreclosures will give those customers who are again impacted by COVID-19 more time to get back on their feet, and reassurance that they can remain in their home this Christmas and into next year," CBA chief Matt Comyn said.

"This is a critical time for all of us to pull together and support the communities most heavily impacted by the latest COVID-19 outbreak and the resulting lockdowns."

Westpac offers up to three months mortgage deferral plus credit card and personal loan deferrals, determined on a case-by-case basis.

Other lenders have indicated borrowers will need to show their circumstances have changed to get a deferral.

But borrowers taking out deferral options should be aware of the long-term implications.

RateCity.com.au analysis shows a two-month deferral on a $500,000 loan with 25 years remaining could cost an extra $1,712 over the life of the loan, paying an extra $21 a month after the deferral ends. If, after the deferral, the person instead keeps their repayments the same and extends out their loan term it could cost an extra $4,408 over the life of the loan.

RateCity.com.au research director, Sally Tindall, said "a mortgage deferral is by no means free.”

APRA, the prudential regulator, has advised newly-deferred home loans won't be treated as 'in arrears' meaning it will not affect banks' credit quality nor the borrowers credit quality.

Deferrals peaked at 11% of total mortgage books in July last year, reducing by March this year to less than 1%.



RateCity.com.au research director, Sally Tindall warned as helpful as deferrals can be to get through a tight spot, "a mortgage deferral is by no means free.”

Home loan mortgage deferrals pick up as pandemic lockdowns get extended

The ASX-listed developer Mirvac has secured a sell-out of its Tulloch House apartment development, part of their wider $1.2 billion&nbsp;masterplan alongside Eagle Farm Racecourse in Brisbane&#39;s Ascot.

The 84 one, two and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses in Tulloch House sold for between $450,000 to over $2 million. There has been $18 million worth of sales in 2021.

Construction&nbsp;is well advanced,&nbsp;with the eight-level building&nbsp;recently topping out,&nbsp;with work being finalised on the interior joinery fit-out, balconies and the expansive roof terrace.

The apartments feature panoramic views north across the 50 hectare green space of the heritage racecourse and expansive views to the Brisbane city skyline to the south.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27704 project_image_fid=71319]

Residents are expected to move in at the end of 2021.

Ascot Green is part of Brisbane Racing Club&rsquo;s $1.2 billion masterplan redevelopment of Eagle Farm, which will include apartments, commercial offices, dining, services and a range of entertainment options.

Mirvac has started taking registrations of interest ahead of the launch of the third building in Ascot Green, anticipated to launch either later this year or early next.

Mirvac Head of Residential Stuart Penklis said its reputation as a highly desirable place to live had driven demand for the final apartments in Tulloch House.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27704 project_image_fid=152793]

&ldquo;While all Tulloch House apartments have now been secured, we have continued to field interest from those wanting a place in the community, prompting us to expedite the timeline for our next chapter of Ascot Green,&rdquo; he said.

&ldquo;We are in the design phase and working to bring this release to the market as soon as possible. While the finer details are being finalised, it will follow in the footsteps of our first two stages, Ascot House and Tulloch House, delivering high quality apartments to this one-of-a-kind location.&rdquo;

Penklis said&nbsp;the rare opportunity to live close to the Brisbane CBD and next to 50 hectares of green open space appealed to buyers.

&ldquo;This is a unique location that can&rsquo;t be replicated elsewhere in the city,&rdquo; he said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27556 project_image_fid=71309]

&ldquo;We&rsquo;ve found the opportunity to live with so much green space at the doorstep has been a significant drawcard for buyers, including young professionals, families and downsizers.

&ldquo;As the first residential project of its kind on a racecourse in Australia, we have the opportunity to set the bar for this style of development and have paid careful attention to embracing the historic elements of the site, with the masonry brickwork carrying through the design.

&ldquo;The upcoming building will continue to reflect its surrounds, with a new take on fa&ccedil;ade, interiors and apartment layouts that will deliver a first for the precinct, benefiting the residents who call these truly remarkable apartments home.&rdquo;

Mirvac fast-tracks Eagle Farm Racecourse community following sell-out of Tulloch House, Ascot apartments

Rental markets had tightened noticeably in most parts of the country compared with a year earlier, the latest minutes of the Reserve Bank advised.

"Rents for units in Melbourne had been the main exception, though even there the pace of decline in rents had eased over prior months," it advised.

Members discussed the continuing strength in established housing markets at the July meeting.

Nationally, housing prices had increased by more than 10 per cent in the first half of the year; a similar pace of growth had been recorded in other advanced economies, it advised.

"Conditions were strong in both capital cities and regional areas, and across different price segments. 

"Over the first half of the year, there had been increases in prices of units alongside further rises in prices of houses. 

"Demand over the preceding year had been led by owner-occupiers, although investors had become more active in recent months. 

"As had been the case for some time, the flow of new listings for sale remained similar to pre-pandemic levels but total listings were much lower, implying that dwellings were being sold at a rapid pace. 

"Rental markets had also tightened noticeably in most parts of the country compared with a year earlier; rents for units in Melbourne had been the main exception, though even there the pace of decline in rents had eased over prior months."

The minutes noted demand for housing finance had strengthened further with stronger growth in credit to both owner-occupiers and investors. 

The pace of decline in rents had eased over prior months in Melbourne, the July RBA minutes advised

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