ANZ believes the Reserve Bank is in no rush to move again.

Following the release of the May Monetary Policy Board Minutes, ANZ has taken the view that the RBA is now firmly in a holding pattern, with the cumulative impact of previous rate hikes giving the Board scope to assess how the economy evolves from here.

That positioning, in ANZ’s view, makes a June rate hike unlikely.

The bank continues to expect the cash rate to remain unchanged at 4.35 per cent for an extended period, with the RBA adopting what is effectively a wait-and-see approach.

The Minutes point to a Board that sees financial conditions as already restrictive, but without a clear read on just how restrictive they are. That uncertainty has shifted the focus away from immediate policy action and toward monitoring both domestic conditions and global developments, particularly the conflict in the Middle East.

As ANZ interprets it, the Board is deliberately avoiding strong forward guidance.

Instead, it is allowing itself flexibility, acknowledging that monetary policy has limited ability to influence the near-term trajectory of inflation, while also recognising that economic growth is likely to remain below potential for some time.

Despite that pause in momentum, ANZ notes that the Board still carries a tightening bias.

The Minutes reveal that, in weighing up its decision, the Board seriously considered another 25 basis point increase. The key debate centred on the trade-off between inflation and activity, particularly in the context of global uncertainty.

Ultimately, most members leaned toward the inflation side of that equation.

Underlying inflation is still expected to remain above target for an extended period, regardless of how external risks evolve. That has led to a view within the Board that the risks to its inflation objective have increased, and that the current cash rate may not be sufficiently restrictive to fully contain those pressures.

That’s important.

While the decision, for now, is to hold, the underlying tone of the Minutes suggests the door to further tightening has not been closed.

ANZ also points to commentary from Assistant Governor (Economic) Sarah Hunter, who highlighted the risk that inflation could pass through the economy more quickly and broadly than in previous cycles. Both Hunter and a majority of the Board expressed concern that inflation expectations could become less anchored after such a prolonged period above target.

That combination, persistent inflation and the risk of expectations shifting, is what continues to underpin the RBA’s cautious stance.

However, where ANZ diverges from the RBA is on the outlook for activity.

The Board appears relatively comfortable with current spending patterns, effectively downplaying recent declines in business and consumer sentiment. It notes that sentiment has historically been only weakly correlated with actual spending, and that feedback from its liaison program has not yet pointed to a meaningful slowdown in consumption.

ANZ is less convinced.

The bank believes the link between household disposable income, sentiment and spending is more direct than the RBA is currently acknowledging. With inflation continuing to erode real incomes, ANZ expects household spending to soften more materially than the central bank is forecasting.

That divergence matters because it shifts the balance of risk.

If activity weakens more than expected, the trade-off between inflation and growth changes. In ANZ’s view, that would reduce the need for further tightening and reinforce the case for the RBA to remain on hold.

It also suggests that the current policy setting may already be doing more work than the Board fully appreciates.

The broader takeaway from ANZ’s interpretation is that the RBA is walking a narrow path.

On one side sits the risk of inflation remaining elevated for longer than expected. On the other is the growing pressure on households and the potential for a sharper slowdown in activity.

For now, the Board is choosing to wait.

But it is a pause that still carries an underlying tightening bias, rather than a clear pivot toward easing.

In practical terms, that leaves the cash rate anchored at 4.35 per cent for the foreseeable future, with the next move still uncertain.

For borrowers, it reinforces the reality that relief is not imminent.

And for the broader economy, it highlights the delicate balance the RBA is trying to strike, between bringing inflation back to target and avoiding an unnecessarily sharp slowdown in growth.

According to ANZ, it is a balance that is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain.

Joel Robinson

RBA to hold rates for "prolonged period" rather than hikes: ANZ

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/venturecrowd-property-projects">VentureCrowd</a> is down to the final Canopy Villa release at Cumulus Grand Villas in Carrara, as construction continues on the 59-residence gated community positioned above 100 hectares of natural savanna on the Gold Coast.

The remaining Canopy Villa forms part of one of four collections within the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>-designed community and has attracted interest from buyers seeking larger-format homes that combine privacy, security and low-maintenance living. Positioned within a private cul-de-sac and facing a protected black she oak forest, the four-bedroom villa includes a large private outdoor area suited to pet owners and families wanting more flexible space.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/cumulus-grand-villas-carrara-17-baltimore-court-carrara-qld-4211">Cumulus Grand Villas</a>, located at 17 Baltimore Court, comprises a mix of three and four-bedroom villas across the Skyline, Canopy, Savanna and Broadview collections. Prices currently range from $1.455 million to $1.895 million, with the final Canopy Villa priced from $1.825 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135663 project_image_fid=360477]

The Canopy Collection villas offer four bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms and approximately 245 sqm of internal space, alongside double garages and landscaped private areas. Expansive glazing, open-plan living spaces and private balconies have been designed to maximise natural light and outlooks toward the surrounding savanna landscape.

Construction is now underway across the fully funded development, which VentureCrowd says has become an increasingly important consideration for buyers assessing off-the-plan opportunities on the Gold Coast. The project is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/devcon">Devcon Property Group</a>, which has operated in South East Queensland since 1993 and delivered more than 1,000 homes across the region.

VentureCrowd Director of Property David Whitting previously said the project responds to changing buyer priorities in the prestige Gold Coast market.

“Flexible floorplans have proven particularly relevant for purchasers aged between 40 and 65, including next home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Whitting said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135663 project_image_fid=360505]

The buyer profile at Cumulus has reflected that shift toward owner-occupier-driven demand. Stuart Towns and Tracey Loynes recently purchased a Canopy Villa, drawn to both the lifestyle offering and the flexibility the home provided for their next stage of living together.

The couple, who met three years ago, sold their Robina home earlier this year after identifying what they saw as strong long-term investment potential at Cumulus while remaining within the same Gold Coast market. The villa’s private backyard was a major drawcard for their dog Luna, while proximity to golf courses including Emerald Lakes also aligned with their lifestyle interests.

Beyond the residences themselves, the community has been planned around shared lifestyle and recreation amenities. The Infinity Terrace will include a 20-metre heated pool, barbecue facilities, alfresco dining spaces and elevated retreat areas overlooking the surrounding landscape. Walking trails, a private nature reserve, orchard and herb garden are also integrated into the masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135663 project_image_fid=360473]

BDA Architecture Director Darren Greenaway said the design approach was heavily influenced by the site’s outlook and secluded setting.

The practice sought to create what Greenaway described as a “little piece of paradise,” drawing inspiration from the elevated views, surrounding greenery and quiet location.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/carrara-qld-4211">Carrara</a> continues to attract buyers seeking larger homes within proximity to the coast but without direct beachfront pricing. Cumulus sits within easy reach of Broadbeach, Pacific Fair, Robina Town Centre and the M1, providing connections north to Brisbane and south toward the Gold Coast Airport and northern New South Wales.

The first stage of Cumulus Grand Villas is targeting completion in 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135663]

VentureCrowd nears sell-out of Canopy Collection at Cumulus Grand Villas in Carrara

Waverley Council has made a call that many councils have been reluctant to make publicly. Growth is coming, regardless of who controls it.

The release of the Bondi Junction Vision and Master Plan is less about whether the Eastern Suburbs’ primary centre will change, and more about how that change is shaped, funded, and ultimately experienced on the ground. Waverley Council has released a 100-page plan which is effectively the first comprehensive blueprint for Bondi Junction in over two decades, and in doing so, signals a clear shift in how councils are positioning themselves in the current planning environment.

For the past 18 months, the conversation across New South Wales has been dominated by the State Government’s Low and Mid-Rise Housing reforms and the emergence of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway. Both have created faster, more centralised avenues for development approvals, particularly in well-located, infrastructure-rich areas like Bondi Junction.

Waverley Council’s response has been to move early, and decisively.

Rather than react to individual proposals as they come through the HDA or broader State-led reforms, Council has sought to establish a clear, place-based framework that sets the terms for how Bondi Junction evolves. The underlying position is relatively straightforward: if densification is inevitable, it should be tied to infrastructure, public domain improvements, and a cohesive vision for the centre, not delivered piecemeal through ad hoc applications.

<img alt="bondi junction" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f1f729c-ed99-4c6c-bf87-ffbce6991941" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-19%20at%209.58.16%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ULX4OlXKjeJ5BvNCNGL86evgXCjCfMih" />

At its core, the document is attempting to reposition Bondi Junction from what it largely functions as today, a transport interchange anchored by a major retail centre, into something far more layered. The ambition is to transform it into what the plan describes as the “civic and cultural heart of Sydney’s East,” a place that is active beyond commuting hours and capable of supporting a broader mix of uses, experiences and communities.

That repositioning is built around four key ambitions.

The first is to create a true destination. Bondi Junction already attracts significant foot traffic, with more than 86,000 daily transport users and millions of annual retail visits, but much of that activity is transient. People pass through, rather than stay.

The Master Plan seeks to change that dynamic. It leans heavily into the idea of an “18-hour economy,” extending activity well beyond traditional retail hours through dining, cultural programming, events, and a more active night-time offering. This is not just about adding more hospitality venues, but about fundamentally shifting how the centre operates, from a daytime shopping destination to a place that functions across the full span of the day and into the evening.

Oxford Street Mall sits at the centre of that shift.

Long seen as underperforming relative to its potential, the Mall is identified as one of the key catalyst projects in the plan. It is to be reimagined as a day-to-night spine, combining retail, dining, wellness and cultural uses in a way that creates a continuous flow of activity. Outdoor dining, rooftop venues, laneway activation and a curated events program are all part of the strategy, alongside significant public domain upgrades that aim to improve comfort, safety and usability.

&nbsp;

The second ambition is to transform Bondi Junction into a world-class interchange.

Despite being one of the most heavily used transport nodes in Sydney, the current experience is fragmented. Connections between the station, Westfield, Oxford Street Mall and surrounding streets are often unclear, and major roads create physical barriers that disrupt pedestrian movement.

The Master Plan proposes a more seamless, people-focused network. That includes clearer pedestrian links, improved wayfinding, better integration between transport modes, and a rethinking of how arrival into the centre is experienced. The aim is to shift the perception of Bondi Junction from a place people move through, to a place they arrive in.

The third ambition focuses on greening and open space.

One of the more consistent pieces of community feedback throughout the Vision phase was the need for more greenery, better public spaces, and a more comfortable urban environment. Despite being surrounded by major parks, Bondi Junction itself has relatively limited accessible open space, with much of the public realm dominated by hard surfaces and traffic infrastructure.

The plan responds with a network of new and upgraded public spaces, increased tree canopy, and what it terms the “Parkline,” a green link connecting Waverley Park through to Centennial Park. This is not just about aesthetics. It is about addressing heat, improving liveability, and ensuring that increased density is matched by access to high-quality outdoor space.

The fourth ambition is perhaps the most important from a development perspective: growth that gives back.

Bondi Junction is already the primary location for new housing supply in the Waverley LGA, and that is expected to continue. The area carries a target of 2,400 new dwellings by 2029, with further growth projected beyond that as demand for well-located housing continues to rise. The Master Plan does not seek to limit that growth. Instead, it attempts to shape it.

New housing is to be concentrated around transport, with stepped building heights designed to protect the character of surrounding neighbourhoods. At the same time, the plan introduces a more explicit link between development uplift and public benefit. This is where value capture becomes central.

The document outlines a framework where increased development potential is tied to contributions that fund public domain improvements, community infrastructure, open space, and affordable housing. It is an approach that recognises that much of the transformation of Bondi Junction will be delivered by the private sector, but seeks to ensure that the benefits of that growth are shared more broadly. The Civic Precinct is a key part of that equation.

Leveraging Council-owned land, the plan proposes a consolidated civic and cultural hub centred around Ebley Street. This would include new community facilities, cultural spaces, and potentially a new Council Chambers, creating a focal point for civic life that currently does not exist in Bondi Junction at scale.

It is one of several catalyst projects identified in the Master Plan, alongside the Oxford Street Mall transformation. These projects are intended to anchor change, acting as early interventions that unlock broader investment across the precinct.

Importantly, the Master Plan is not just a design document. It includes a delivery framework that sets out how these ambitions are intended to be realised.

Council is explicit in acknowledging that it cannot deliver the transformation alone. Implementation will require coordination between State agencies, private developers, landowners and the community, with a mix of planning agreements, infrastructure contributions and direct delivery mechanisms used to fund and stage improvements over time.

The plan outlines a mix of short-term, medium-term and long-term actions, from immediate public domain upgrades and planning controls, through to larger-scale projects that will unfold over the next decade or more. In practical terms, the next 12 to 24 months will be the most important.

This is when the Master Plan will move through exhibition, refinement and eventual adoption. It is also the period in which Council will seek to embed the framework into its planning controls, giving it weight in the assessment of future development applications.

Council officers have indicated that once the Master Plan is in place, it could be used as a benchmark when assessing Housing Delivery Authority proposals, and potentially reduce the need for further HDA declarations within Bondi Junction. In effect, it is an attempt to bring planning control back to the local level, while still aligning with State housing targets.

That tension between State-led reform and local planning control is not unique to Waverley. It is playing out across Sydney.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

If delivered as intended, Bondi Junction will become denser, more active, and more complex. It will support more residents, more workers, and a wider range of uses, extending beyond its current retail core into a more layered urban environment.

“The civic and cultural heart of Sydney’s East”: Bondi Junction masterplan revealed

Toorak's dress circle St Georges Road, home to some of the city's priciest homes, is set for a rare new apartment development.

Blood Diamond Group, an entity tied to Tina Brandi, wife of David Brandi who has been a prolific bidder on The Block over the years, has filed plans for an ultra-exclusive development across an amalgamated 3,662 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/104-106-st-georges-road-toorak-vic-3142">104 and 106 St Georges Road</a>.

The proposal would replace two existing homes on the riverfront site with a five-level apartment building cascading down the steeply sloping land toward the Yarra River. Designed by Charles Wright Architects, the development has been carefully shaped around the site’s topography and river environs, with the upper levels stepping back to reduce visual bulk from both St Georges Road and the Yarra corridor.

Planning documents describe the proposal as “a site layout and building typology that is consistent with the emerging character of the area and which provides exceptional amenity for future residents without compromising that of neighbouring properties.”&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Blood Diamond Group unveils riverfront apartment plans for Toorak Pavilion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ea19a17e-7528-4fa8-b727-05f2f7c025e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Toorak%20pavilion%20a_0.png?VersionId=rZ2IjdoUL_UrRl1sZ4wZHnQXbYUaEmUQ" />

The scheme comprises 12 apartments, including 10 three-bedroom residences, one one-bedroom apartment, and a substantial split-level five-bedroom penthouse. A 624 sqm communal rooftop terrace will crown the building, while three undercroft levels embedded into the hillside will accommodate apartments and basement parking.

The design leverages the site’s dramatic northern outlook across the Yarra River, with living areas and balconies oriented toward the water. A central atrium running the full height of the building is intended to draw natural light deep into the residences and improve internal amenity.

Landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo Design &amp; Landscape</a> will play a major role in softening the built form, particularly along the river edge where significant setbacks have been introduced. The proposal includes a minimum 30-metre setback from the Yarra River boundary, preserving a substantial landscaped buffer between the development and the waterway.

While a mature English Oak near the front of the site is proposed for removal, the plans retain a large English Elm closer to the riverfront, alongside other established vegetation in the lower section of the property.

<img alt="First look: Blood Diamond Group unveils riverfront apartment plans for Toorak Pavilion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ed3bf19b-5bc7-482f-bde7-41f709a13c3a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Toorak%20pavilion%20b.png?VersionId=SG_kBGu4rOaSPY8FtVcmPJfSCrstuOfg" />

Architecturally, the building adopts strong horizontal forms with expansive glazing and curved balcony edges facing the river. Planning documents note the upper levels “adopt a receding form” to ensure the building responds appropriately to the Yarra River environs overlay controls.&nbsp;

The surrounding streetscape is characterised by large contemporary homes embedded into the hillside, many presenting as modest one or two-storey forms to the street before expanding toward the river frontage below. The planning report notes this established pattern heavily influenced the massing strategy for Toorak Pavilion.&nbsp;

Until the recent sale of the landmark Clendon Road mansion Coonac for around $130 million, St Georges Road held the state's most expensive home, the $80,000,088 derelict "Ghost House" mansion that was bought by crypto king Ed Craven.&nbsp;

Blair House, also on St Georges Road, sold for $74.5 million in 2022.

First look: Toorak Pavilions slated for dress circle St Georges Road

Six months after a development site on Kangaroo Point’s Shafston Avenue sold for $6.55 million, plans have been lodged for a 23-storey apartment tower.

A company named JMT Mega Capital, understood to be interstate investors when the 1,222 sqm double block traded late last year through Patona Property, is proposing an 84-apartment development in place of the existing low-rise buildings.

The slender tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/212-220-shafston-avenue-east-brisbane-qld-4169">212–220 Shafston Avenue</a>, overlooking the Brisbane River, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/aplus-design-group">Aplus Design Group</a>. It will comprise a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments above six basement levels, topped by rooftop resident amenities.

<img alt="First look: 23-storey Kangaroo Point tower planned for Shafston Avenue riverfront precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e17ba9e-553e-42ef-92b6-22081671521a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium_3.png?VersionId=hlVUf99vrOjUs.vhQs0qV0DhOncUy9T8" />

The development has been designed as a vertically articulated tower with recessed balconies, curved façades and planted edges intended to soften its scale within the evolving Shafston Avenue skyline. In the submitted Urban Design Report, Aplus Design Group said the tower had been “shaped with a slender vertical expression, articulated façades, recessed balcony zones, integrated planting and a clearly defined podium relationship, helping to reduce perceived bulk and create a more elegant contribution to the Shafston Avenue streetscape and broader Kangaroo Point skyline.”

The scheme comprises 84 apartments, including 25 one-bedroom units, 34 two-bedroom apartments and 25 three-bedroom residences. A total of 104 car spaces are proposed across six basement levels, including resident, visitor and accessible parking.

Residents will have access to rooftop communal open space and shared amenities, while the development also incorporates deep planting zones and subtropical landscaping throughout the podium and tower levels. The project includes 35 per cent communal space coverage across the site and a 17.5 per cent deep soil zone allocation to support urban greening outcomes.

The application exceeds the mapped building height under the Kangaroo Point Peninsula Neighbourhood Plan and is being assessed under Brisbane City Council’s impact assessment pathway. The design team argues the additional height is supported by the site’s strategic inner-city location, existing high-density zoning, and proximity to transport and employment hubs.

“The design has been developed to make better use of a well-serviced urban site within an established high-density residential setting, while improving the street presentation and overall quality of the public realm interface,” the report states.

<img alt="First look: 23-storey Kangaroo Point tower planned for Shafston Avenue riverfront precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1ab44b1e-ff45-4bf3-8da8-8aa0cd79db33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_10.png?VersionId=tSxeGekZOqj1e9g3PEn_yFoC3taKDp3U" />

The proposal adds to a growing pipeline of apartment developments reshaping Kangaroo Point ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, with demand continuing to strengthen for new housing supply in well-connected inner-city precincts.

Mosaic has nearly sold out its under-construction <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford by Mosaic</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a>,&nbsp;while Pikos recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye Residences</a> nearby. Pikos is also delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gaia-kangaroo-point-108-lambert-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Gaia</a>, over 230 three- and four-bedroom apartments on Lambert Street.

First look: 23-storey Kangaroo Point apartment tower planned for Shafston Avenue riverfront precinct

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>

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First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

The Shakespeare Group are offering a number of incentives for buyers in their recently completed Melbourne CBD collection of towers St. Boulevard.

Buyers at St. Boulevard, which was&nbsp;shortlisted as a finalist for Development of the Year High-Density Residential in 2020, can currently buy an apartment with just a five per cent deposit, the other five per cent matched by the developer.

The Shakespeare Group are also waiving fees for the first year of ownership, as well as offering buyers a white goods package and a voucher for the pricey furniture house Coco Republic.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1260 project_image_fid=80580]

The offers apply for the development&#39;s completed one and two bedroom apartments. One bedroom apartments start from $433,500, with two bedders priced from $830,000.

Elenberg Fraser designed the three glass-swathed towers,&nbsp;Magnolia,&nbsp;Anaca and&nbsp;Ginko, which have 403 apartments each with a kitchen finished in natural stone.

Each apartment has views, either toward the CBD, over the treetops of St Kilda Road, out to Albert Park Lake and Port Phillip Bay&nbsp;or the poolside garden view.

The heated lagoon and lap pool is one of many luxury amenities on offer. In the pool area there&#39;s resort-style pavilions and water sun beds, while also outside there&#39;s barbecue pods, garden seating areas and an outdoor children&#39;s play area.

There&#39;s a number of informal and formal lounges and reading rooms, private dining rooms and a kitchen as well as a gym complete with heated spa, sauna and steam room.

Elenberg Fraser designed the three towers, Magnolia, Anaca and Ginko, which have 403 apartments each with a kitchen finished in natural stone.

Find out what incentives The Shakespeare Group are offering at their newly completed Melbourne apartment tower St. Boulevard

<html><body>Australian home prices are likely to rise another 5% to 10% this year and next, according to Shane Oliver at AMP Capital.

"Prices were being boosted by record low mortgage rates, government home buyer incentives and the recovery in the jobs market.

"But the stop to immigration and weak rental markets will likely weigh on inner city areas and units in Melbourne and Sydney. 

"Outer suburbs, houses, smaller cities and regional areas will see relatively stronger gains in 2021," he forecast.

His comments came after housing finance rose to a new record; and house prices rose at their fastest pace in nearly 18 years. 

"While home building approvals fell sharply this reflects volatility driven by the HomeBuilder incentive scheme with dwelling construction still on track for strong growth.

"There was some other good news too with the share of housing and small business loans in payment deferrals collapsing further to just 1.8% and 1% respectively in January," he added.</body></html>

The stop to immigration and weak rental markets will likely weigh on inner city areas and units in Melbourne and Sydney

jchancellor

Weak rental markets will weigh on inner city units in Melbourne and Sydney: Shane Oliver

<html><body>AMP Capital economist Shane Oliver tips the first interest rate hike is likely to come in 2023, at least a year earlier than the RBA is currently signalling.

Oliver noted the RBA's key message from its March meeting was that it still has a long way to go to meet its inflation and employment goals.

The RBA has further signalled it still doesn’t expect a rate hike until 2024 and has accelerated its bond buying to keep bond yields down and will do more if needed. 

Oliver agrees that the RBA needs to push back against the sharp rise in bond yields as it could threaten the recovery and that a premature removal of monetary stimulus as suggested by the bond market (which is now factoring in nearly 4 rate hikes by early 2024) will risk seeing the RBA ending up continuing to fail to meet its inflation and employment goals.

"That said, if as we expect the economy continues to surprise on the upside - it was around 1% stronger in the December quarter than the RBA expected just a month ago – the first rate hike is likely to come in 2023, at least a year earlier than the RBA is allowing. 

"That’s still a long way away though and in the meantime – maybe later this year or if not through next year – the RBA with APRA is likely to start tightening lending standards in the face of an increasingly hot residential property market in order to head off another potential threat to financial stability."

Oliver's update noted December quarter GDP rose a stronger than expected 3.1%qoq; retail sales rose 0.5% in January and are up 10.6% on a year ago.</body></html>

Shane Oliver tips the first interest rate hike is likely to come in 2023, at least a year earlier than the RBA is currently signalling

RBA will hike rates in 2023: Shane Oliver

<html><body>
There were 1,587 capital city homes taken to auction last week and with 1,311 results collected so far, 84.5% have found buye

It was an improvement on last week’s preliminary clearance rate of 81.9% when volumes were higher (2,473). 

Final figures saw last week’s preliminary clearance rate revised down to 79.3%.

The lower volumes this week can be attributed to the four of the states and territories having a public holiday on Monday, including Melbourne were volumes are down substantially over the week.

There were 477 Melbourne homes auctioned last week, down on the 1,299 last week. 

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27728]

Of the results collected so far by CoreLogic, 80.9% were sold results. 

The final clearance rate last week came in at 76.4% and one year ago 66.1% on a lower 418.

In Sydney, 812 homes were taken to auction this week, returning a preliminary auction clearance rate of 86.7%.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7317] 

Last week, a higher 844 auctions were held with an 85.3% final clearance rate and one year ago 830 auctions took place and a 75.2% success rate was achieved.

According to preliminary figures, all of the smaller auction markets saw over 80% of auctions successful this week, Canberra returned the highest preliminary figure of 91.5%, followed by Brisbane (82.3%), Perth (81.8%) and Adelaide (81.7%).

Dr Andrew Wilson, chief economist at Archistar, from My Housing Market noted there was an 88 percent weekend success rate for Sydney houses and 82 percent for units.

It was 80 percent for both Melbourne houses and units.
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Of the 1,311 results collected so far, 84.5% were sold as four of the states and territories enjoyed a public holiday on Monday

Long weekend auction results hold firm

The Melbourne-based developer DealCorp has began construction on its $100 million mixed-use development Glenarm Square in Melbourne&#39;s Glen Iris.

The project, which came about as DealCorp secured 2,700 sqm of land generated from the removal of a rail crossing and a train station upgrade, will be made up of 118 apartments, as well as 800 sqm of ground level retail and commercial premises.

Glenarm Square has been designed by Plus Architecture with interiors by Hecker Guthrie.

Around 70 per cent of apartments have sold since launch, with prices ranging from $600,000 to $1.8 million. There&#39;s been a mix of&nbsp;first home buyers, young families, professionals and downsizers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9869 project_image_fid=154895]

Hamilton Marino have commenced construction of the development at 5 Glenarm Road, which was act as a gateway to Gardiner Station.

Local interest is expected to peak again in the coming months with the release of a new penthouse collection positioned on the recently approved eighth level, with penthouse residences starting from $1.1m.&nbsp;

<a href="/buildings/the-residences-glenarm-square-5-glenarm-road-glen-iris"><img alt="" height="780" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/glenarm_square_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

DealCorp executive chairman David Kobritz said the project represented a progressive approach to there-development and revitalisation of key in-fill sites, particularly in well-renowned locations like Glen Iris where the median house price sits at over $2 million.

&ldquo;Glenarm Square is set to deliver not only high-calibre apartments for buyers but an activated public realm that will seamlessly integrate with the entrance to the train&nbsp;station and bring a vibrancy to the area with the activation of over 800sqm of retail and commercial space.

&ldquo;By creating living and vibrant neighbourhoods out of this repurposed and highly valuable land, we can deliver residences in suburbs where demand is traditionally high, and create an alternative solution to the challenge of urban sprawl.

&ldquo;Glenarm Square is not only proof that the concept works at an engineering and development level, but a benchmark for the revitalisation of future sites of this nature,&rdquo; he said.

Glenarm Square has been designed by Plus Architecture with interiors by Hecker Guthrie.

DealCorp start construction on $100 million mixed-use Glen Iris development Glenarm Square

Waste not want not is a phrase coined long before the term circular economy.

The circular economy was coined by the Chinese in the 1990s in response to&nbsp;natural resource limitations. The concept is aimed at&nbsp;eliminating&nbsp;waste&nbsp;and the continual use of resources.

It was 2019 when the issue was addressed in the National Waste Policy Action Plan in Australia. And last year the national developer Mirvac announced their plan, Planet Positive: Waste &amp; Materials, which will see them aim to send zero waste to landfill by 2030.

<a href="/buildings/pavilions-residences-2-figtree-drive-sydney-olympic-park"><img alt="" height="1632" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mirvac_apartment_5.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
The artwork and kitchen table top were created from glass and fabric

Mirvac have been championing sustainability efforts well before the plan however. In&nbsp;2013 they&nbsp;committed to investing in a new sustainability strategy,&nbsp;This Changes Everything.

Last week they unveiled a two bedroom apartment in their Sydney Olympic Park development Pavilions which featured a number of items, from floor tiles to kitchen splash backs, made entirely of waste, an industry first.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7363]

In collaboration with the University of New South Wales Centre of Sustainable Materials Research and Technology (SMaRT), Mirvac have utilized the technology to turn waste materials into &quot;green ceramics&quot;, which were used throughout the apartment. The technology is at their microfactory in Cootamundra.

Matt &#39;Green&#39; Kean, the NSW&nbsp;Energy and&nbsp;Environment Minister, was a speaker at the event, but wasn&#39;t keen on following industry trailblazers, Mirvac chief exec Susan Lloyd Hurwitz and Professor Veena&nbsp;Sahajwalla, the global pioneer in waste technology and&nbsp;director at SMarT.&nbsp;

Kean said the innovative Pavilions partnership could be the Blueprint for how we do sustainable development&nbsp;in the future.

<a href="/buildings/pavilions-residences-2-figtree-drive-sydney-olympic-park"><img alt="" height="1098" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mirvac_wall.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
The feature wall made out of coffee bags

Ms Lloyd Hurwitz said that the building industry in Australia is responsible for around 60 per cent of the waste generated.

&ldquo;Every year, an estimated&nbsp;11 billion tonnes of waste&nbsp;are sent to landfill globally. 92 billion tonnes of&nbsp;materials are extracted, with buildings responsible for around 50 per cent of global materials used,&rdquo; Ms Lloyd Hurwitz said.

&ldquo;Diverting the large volumes of waste generated on construction sites from landfill to create quality&nbsp;finishes and furniture is not only good for our environment but good for the economy.&rdquo;

Professor Veena said she was delighted that Mirvac was so committed to sustainability and she was&nbsp;impressed the company was prepared to take risks to find new ways and purposes for materials that&nbsp;can end up in landfill.

&ldquo;Mirvac is a true industry leader and I commend Sue and her team for being part of the journey to help&nbsp;society create a materials revolution where we start to think of, and treat and reform, waste as a&nbsp;renewable resource,&rdquo; Veena said.

<a href="/buildings/pavilions-residences-2-figtree-drive-sydney-olympic-park"><img alt="" height="1827" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mirvac_apartment_4.jpg" width="1200" /></a> 
One of the most impressive features is the pendant lighting above the kitchen island. One of the next steps is to create bench tops out of waste.

&ldquo;The severy stylish and functional furnishing and products made in our UNSW SMaRT Centre green&nbsp;ceramics MICROfactorieTM show what can be done when science, technology and industry vision and&nbsp;commitment come together.&rdquo;

Urban took a tour of the impressive apartment overlooking the surrounding sports stadiums. It&#39;s set to be a 12 minute commute to the CBD when the next metro station is complete.

Toby Long, Mirvac&#39;s General Manager of Residential, said they&#39;ve already come a long way since Marrick &amp; Co, Mirvac&#39;s development in the inner-west suburb of Marrickville.

That had some furniture and artworks made of green ceramics. It&nbsp;was the first project in NSW to be recognised by Bioregional Australia as a One Planet Living development, another collaboration with&nbsp;SMaRT Centre.

The Pavilions apartment&nbsp;sits in one of four buildings in the Pavilions complex which was finished last year. Two of the towers are build to rent, and share a lush communal courtyard located central to each building.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=7363]

Mirvac have been championing sustainability efforts since 2013 when they committed to investing in a new sustainability strategy, This Changes Everything

Mirvac make concerted circular economy effort with apartment made of waste

<html><body>
The local developer Henzell Property Group has sold more than 80 per cent of the first stage of Corsica Residences, part of their $200 million master-planned community on the Sunshine Coast.

The waterfront apartment and townhouse in Pelican Waters at Caloundra has seen 38 townhouses and apartments sales across the first stage, with strong demand locally as well as huge interest from interstate buyers looking to Queensland.

It was local owner-occupiers who drove the majority of sales. 

Apartments range in size from 143 sqm to 261 sqm and are priced from $625,000, with terrace homes up to 267s qm priced from $800,000.

<a href="/new-apartments/the-cove-stage-1-1-glover-place-pelican-waters"><img alt="" height="793" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/the_cove_townhouses.jpg" width="1600"></a>

Construction on the first homes is expected to commence in May this year with buyers snapping up the first stage off the back of the penthouse terrace collection sell-out late last year. 

All five of the luxury penthouse terrace collection within the first stage sold within a week since its launch to market. One of the three bedroom apartments in the penthouse collection sold to a Melbourne buyer purchasing sight unseen for $1.5 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27849]

Mclean Henzell, managing director of Henzell Property Group, said the sales achieved are reflective of the high demand for luxury new residences in Pelican Waters tailored toward downsizers.

“We have been overwhelmed with inquiry since the launch and to have sold more than 80% of apartments and terrace homes in the first stage, including the sell-out of our penthouse terrace collection, puts us way ahead of where we anticipated,” Mr Henzell said.

“The sales reflect the extremely strong underlying demand for downsizer product among a local market of buyers who have been a part of the Pelican Waters community for many years but wish to downsize. 

The Cove is the final instalment in the Pelican Waters community which the Henzell family has been developing for over 30 years. It is set to be completed in 2025.

<a href="/new-apartments/the-cove-stage-1-1-glover-place-pelican-waters"><img alt="" height="801" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/the_cove_entry.jpg" width="1200"></a>

The Cove will be developed over four stages and includes 220 apartments and terrace homes, a grocer and waterfront restaurant. O.G.E Group Architects has designed the full masterplan.

Marcus Muir, sales and marketing director at Henzell Property Group, said that while the community was designed to appeal to local owner-occupiers and downsizers, exceptional interest has come from interstate buyers seeking to relocate to the Sunshine Coast.

“The Cove has been meticulously designed over a number of years to bring something to market that buyers were calling out for,” Mr Muir said.

“The Covid pandemic is definitely elevating peoples’ plans to move from southern states to Queensland and we’re seeing an increase in enquiries week on week.”

 

 
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The waterfront apartment and townhouse in Pelican Waters at Caloundra has seen 38 townhouses and apartments sales across the first stage

Henzell Property Group see 80% stage one sellout of Corsica Residences in masterplanned Sunshine Coast community The Cove

The Brisbane-based developer Bottega Group have launched their $52 million Broadbeach apartment block 123OBR.

The collection of apartments, described as&nbsp;vertically stacked verdant Queensland beach houses, is named after its location of 123 Old Burleigh Road, one row back from Broadbeach.

Designed by Woods Bagot, there are 14 whole-floor&nbsp;apartments in the boutique&nbsp;development, as well as&nbsp;a whole floor resort deck half way up the tower.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31666]

Priced from $2.65&nbsp;million, a typical whole-floor apartment at 123OBR will offer 224sqm of living space with three bedrooms with walk-in wardrobes, two bathrooms and an open plan living and dining areas which have views through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows.

Living areas are complemented by an extended balcony overlooking the ocean shaped like a ship&rsquo;s bow and an idyllic enclosed retreat inspired by the veranda of a traditional Queenslander.

Nick Malloch, co-director of Bottega Group, says their whole philosophy has been to incorporate a unique interpretation of the modern beach home into an apartment building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31666 project_image_fid=184148]

&ldquo;From the outset we wanted to embed that philosophy into a group of exclusive residences with like-minded people in a vertical village that would stand the test of time,&quot; Malloch said.

&ldquo;We certainly believe we have done that and the inquiry and interest prior to launch has reflected that.&rdquo;

Included in the 14 apartments is a two-level penthouse crowning the building and a two-level pool house starting from the ground floor.

The pool house spans 388 sqm over two levels and has&nbsp;five bedrooms with walk-in wardrobes, two powder rooms, a separate laundry, a home cinema/family room, a wine cellar and a private pool, garden and balcony.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31666 project_image_fid=184162]

The two-level penthouse spans 384 sqm and has four bedrooms, each with walk-in wardrobes, plus three bathrooms, two powder rooms, two internal verandas and two separate living and dining areas, a private study and a gym.

All residents of 123OBR will enjoy five-star resort amenities on Level 6 with a poolside retreat adorned with curated artwork.

This space provides residents an extension of their private living spaces with the inclusion of additional facilities such as a commercial kitchen, space for a shared home office or library and private dining for guests.

Woods Bagot&rsquo;s lead designer David Lee says Bottega&#39;s&nbsp;open brief without parameters allowed them complete flexibility with how to define the site, which is where the&nbsp;series of vertically stacked verdant Queensland beach houses was born.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=31666 project_image_fid=184154]

&ldquo;This unique approach to collaboration really allowed us to sequence the space in a way that allowed us to design residences like private homes.

&ldquo;The interior layouts of the homes are carefully separated into private sleeping quarters looking towards the Hinterland, and active and functional living spaces towards the ocean.&quot;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=31666]

Designed by Woods Bagot, there are 14 whole-floor apartments in the boutique development, as well as a whole floor resort deck half way up the tower.



Inside Bottega Group's $52 million Broadbeach apartment block 123OBR

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The Melbourne-based developer Lowe Living have only one apartment remaining in their luxury Bayside development Azura Aspendale, which saw solid sales growth despite the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Foster Street townhouse and apartment development was launched in March last year, the same month COVID had Australian's in lockdown. Within six months of the project launch, 26 of the 27 residences had sold.

Construction is well underway on Azura Aspendale, a mix of eight townhouses and 19 apartments created by design-studio Golden. They created the homes in collaboration with landscape architect Jack Merlo and Chamberlain Architects.The project is expected to be completed in late 2021.

Lowe Living Founder and managing director, Tim Lowe, said that the meticulous craftsmanship and unparalleled attention to detail of Azura Aspendale, combined with the elite location of pure beach- front living, will present a once in a lifetime opportunity for buyers.

“Azura Aspendale is inspired by its unique location,” Mr Lowe said. “Its sophistication and sensitivity to its surrounds is something we have not yet seen in beach-side living.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=26408]

“From the tranquillity afforded by spectacular use of light and space and its carefully crafted floorplans that promote open-plan living and connection to the outdoors, to its sleek, stylish and premium finishes, Azura Aspendale represents a new generation of high-end coastal living.”

“Its absolute beach front location, with supreme views of the bay, combined with its thoughtful design, makes Azura Aspendale one of a kind.”

Inspired by tropical modernism examples in Brazil and Asia, the material palette of concrete, red brick and timber, sits in harmony with the coastal landscape.

Jack Merlo has given great consideration to the coastal location, using feature foliage and greenery to link the landscape and architecture.

“One of the most unique aspects of Azura Aspendale is the relationship between architecture, landscaping and surrounds,” said Mr Lowe. “These elements have all been carefully considered to create a sense of tranquillity and a private sanctuary, nestled beside the beach.”

“With the beauty of Port Phillip Bay quite literally on your doorstep, and only a short walk to the vibrant eateries and cosmopolitan amenities of Aspendale and neighbouring suburbs, Azura Aspendale will give owners the rare opportunity to enjoy a sea change while not compromising on locale or quality."
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The Foster Street townhouse and apartment development was launched in March last year, the same month COVID had Australian's in lockdown

Only one apartment remains at Lowe Living's Azura Aspendale

<html><body>The sale campaign for a Two Rocks residential development site spanning 38ha has been restarted in its prime coastal Perth northern suburbs location.

CBRE’s Ryan McGinnity has been appointed to manage the sale of the landholding, located at 99 Reef Break Drive, Two Rocks. 

The campaign follows the original sales process, which was paused in 2020 following the initial onset of COVID-19.

The property, which forms the balance of the original The Reef estate, is minutes to the Two Rocks Marina and shopping precinct.

The estate is designed to benefit from ocean views, with the land rising from west to east.

It will be in close proximity to the future Yanchep Train Station.

Mr McGinnity noted many developers are now running low of house and land packages or lots to sell.

“In the past eight weeks, nine of the 30 single residential lots remaining within the estate have been sold and enquiries continue to be received. 

"With the opportunity to develop approximately 640 coastal lots, we expect genuine interest from local and national developers.” 

Two Rocks – together with Eglinton, Alkimos and Yanchep at the northern edge of the city’s expanding north-west urban growth corridor – is tipped to cater for over 50% of the City of Wanneroo’s population growth in the next 20 years.

“With the northern suburb’s population expected to exceed 350,000 people by 2036, the State Government is focused on providing adequate infrastructure to enable affordable coastal living,” Mr McGinnity said.

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CBRE’s Ryan McGinnity has managed the relisting of the landholding, after the original sales process was paused in 2020 following the onset of COVID-19.

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VentureCrowd nears sell-out of Canopy Collection at Cumulus Grand Villas in Carrara

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VentureCrowd nears sell-out of Canopy Collection at Cumulus Grand Villas in Carrara

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Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

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