International developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/spg-land">SPG Land</a> is preparing to re-launch its long-awaited $1.5 billion <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/paradiso-place-surfers-paradise-103-ferny-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Paradiso Place</a> development at Budds Beach, bringing a new price point to the Surfers Paradise apartment market.

The developer will release one-bedroom apartments from $825,000 and two-bedroom apartments from $1.24 million in the three-tower development.

According to Urbis, the starting price for the two-bedroom apartments is more than $400,000 below the weighted average sale price for comparable two-bedroom apartments in Surfers Paradise during 2025, which was pinned at $1.7 million.

&nbsp;

Urbis reported quarterly average sale prices for new two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments ranged from around $1.2 million to $1.7 million throughout 2025, peaking in the December quarter.

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Paradiso Place is now moving into its formal sales campaign, with a limited early-release opportunity available ahead of the public launch.

The development will comprise 845 apartments across three towers rising 40, 41 and 44 storeys from a 1.15-hectare site spanning an entire city block. The towers will sit above a new retail precinct.

"Paradiso Place represents a rare opportunity in today's market, offering premium apartments at a price point that is significantly more competitive than anything else currently available," SPG Land Sales Director Brad McMahon said.

"When you look at comparable new developments across Surfers Paradise, Main Beach and the Southern Beaches precinct, buyers are typically paying hundreds of thousands more for a similar product.

"The scale of this project and the developer-builder construction model allows us to unlock efficiencies that smaller developments simply cannot achieve. We are passing those benefits directly to buyers, while still delivering a five-star residential experience with an unmatched lifestyle."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106566 project_image_fid=374280]

Each of the three towers designed by Rothelowman will have its own podium, connected by an elevated skybridge network to create a beachside village for residents. The resident amenity has been designed to rival a five-star hotel, with private dining rooms, resident lounges and entertainment spaces.

McMahon said the pricing strategy was a deliberate response to the current market.

"What Paradiso Place offers is a unique balance, genuine value within a premium market. Buyers are not compromising on quality, design or amenity, they are gaining access to it at a more competitive price point at a time when prices across the Gold Coast continue to reach new highs."

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Located around 100 metres from the beach and within walking distance of the Surfers Paradise North light rail station, Paradiso Place occupies one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held beachfront precincts.

Construction is continuing to progress, with eight of the project's 112 foundation piles now complete. Excavation has also commenced on the first diaphragm wall panel, with the first concrete poured on 15 June, marking a key milestone in the project's early works program.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=106566]

Joel Robinson

SPG Land launches $1.5 billion Paradiso Place at attractive price point

Luxury developer-builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/lowe-living">Lowe Living</a> has achieved a new Victorian benchmark for an off-the-plan apartment, with the sale of two penthouses at its ultra-exclusive Maison Savoy development in Brighton.

The two penthouses achieved a combined sale rate of $49,926 per sqm. Both transactions eclipsed the previous identified Victorian off-the-plan price-per-square-metre benchmark, set by the 449 sqm apartment at Como Toorak, which sold at $46,659 per sqm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140818 project_image_fid=366473]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/maison-savoy-brighton-150-esplanade-brighton-vic-3186">Maison Savoy</a>, Lowe Living's redevelopment of the former Brighton Savoy Hotel on absolute beachfront land at 150 The Esplanade, Brighton, has gained significant momentum since launching just eight weeks ago. Around 30 per cent of the project's 19 residences have already been secured, generating approximately $45 million in sales.

"Securing two of the three penthouse sales at this stage, within eight weeks of launching to market speaks to the confidence our clients place in Lowe Living," Lowe Living co-founder Emma Lowe said.

"They know we'll be with them through every stage of the journey, and that assurance is something we've worked hard to earn and never take for granted."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140818 project_image_fid=366474]

Lowe said Maison Savoy was conceived as a genuine alternative to a prestige Brighton home, combining house-scale proportions with the convenience, security and lock-up-and-leave appeal of apartment living.

Lowe Living co-founder Tim Lowe said the early sales success demonstrated the resilience of Melbourne's prestige market and highlighted the growing demand for house-sized apartments among ultra-high-net-worth buyers.

"The Melbourne market has definitely been tested in recent years, with interest rates and global economic factors all creating a period of uncertainty across the real estate sector. The sales success at Maison Savoy however demonstrates that confidence remains exceptionally strong at the top end of the market.

"The prestige market is being driven by long-term lifestyle decisions rather than short-term market sentiment, which continues to create a level of certainty that befits an absolute beachfront property in a blue-chip location like Brighton.

"Brighton's fundamentals remain among the strongest in Melbourne, with limited new supply, enduring demand from an overwhelmingly local owner-occupier market, and a rare combination of beachfront amenity and proximity to the CBD."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140818 project_image_fid=374378]

According to Cotality, Brighton remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held prestige suburbs, with an average ownership tenure of 15.3 years for houses and 12.3 years for units, while more than 73 per cent of homes are owner-occupied.

Tim Lowe said selling two of the project's three penthouses so early in the campaign was an uncommon result.

"This sales result is a reflection of quality and understanding the local market. It's incredibly rare to transact the penthouses so early in a sales campaign in any project so to have sold two of the three penthouses at Maison Savoy so soon after launch, all in-house without any external sales agency appointed, is reflective of our careful consideration of our buyers' needs and lifestyle.

"This is knowledge that is accumulated not just from data and demographic analysis, but via a deeply embedded understanding of how this type of buyer wants to live and feel in their home. We pride ourselves on getting to know our clients personally, and over the last 10 years we have been able to refine our product offering by talking one-on-one with our clients about their design and floorplan preferences.

"Being a fully integrated developer-builder with an in-house design and sales team allows us to lead every part of the process and ensure the highest quality of product and service at every touchpoint. It's a really important part of our DNA and the recent sales success at Maison Savoy indicates that our clients and purchasers are resonating with this point of difference.

"It reinforces that demand remains strong for thoughtfully designed residences that offer rarity, lifestyle and long-term value in tightly held locations, which ultimately validates Maison Savoy's positioning as creating a new benchmark for house-scale, wellness-led apartment living on Brighton's beachfront."

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140818 project_image_fid=366480]

The residences at Maison Savoy start from 295 sqm, with most enjoying uninterrupted views across Port Phillip Bay. The project sits moments from the Brighton Bathing Boxes, Royal Brighton Yacht Club, Middle Brighton Baths and Church Street's retail and dining precinct.

A key feature of the development is its private residents-only bathhouse, curated by the founder of Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse and modelled on traditional European bathing rituals and the award-winning Sorrento bathhouse.

The wellness offering includes a hydrotherapy pool, salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pool, foot activation zone and a Vichy rainfall bed, one of only a handful in Australia. Residents will also have access to a Technogym studio, lounge spaces and a dedicated concierge service offering everything from morning coffee delivery and restaurant bookings to dry cleaning and home coordination.

"Wellness-led design has become a defining factor for luxury buyers," Emma Lowe said.

"Purchasers increasingly value homes that enhance wellbeing through thoughtful design, private amenity, privacy and liveability."

The penthouse purchasers are now undertaking a bespoke customisation process curated personally by architect Pete Kennon and the Lowe Living team, one of the developer's signature service offerings.

Construction on the $160 million transformation of the former Brighton Savoy Hotel site commenced last month, with completion expected in early 2028. The project has secured funding from NAB alongside development partner Monark.

Just one penthouse remains available, along with a limited number of two and three-bedroom residences starting from $3.75 million.

Lowe Living currently has eight projects on the market across Melbourne and recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, having grown a $1 billion development pipeline alongside a $350 million construction pipeline.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140818]

Lowe Living set new Melbourne off the plan apartment record

For more than three decades, Hyecorp has been delivering residential projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore, building a portfolio centred on design-led apartment living in some of the city's most established neighbourhoods.

Hyecorp recently launched the latest in its long line of apartment developments, Celine, a 29-storey tower on Archer Street in Chatswood. Like the majority of the developer's projects, Celine caters to a broad buyer demographic, offering a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, all designed with owner-occupiers in mind.

Functionality and flexibility are often buzzwords in the new apartment market, but they sit at the core of Hyecorp's design philosophy.

Hyecorp Joint Managing Director Stephen Abolakian says the developer understands it isn't designing apartments for today's needs alone, but for how buyers will live several years into the future.

"When we launch our projects we need to be aware that these developments aren't finished for several years," Abolakian says.

"That home office in the here and now might be a nursery by the time the project completes for a prospective buyer, so we need to think about how the apartment spaces function for future uses so there's longevity in the ownership."

Celine's architects, Fuse, followed the same philosophy, saying the design extends well beyond aesthetics.

"Celine focuses on timeless architectural form and functionality, with a strong emphasis on light, proportion and materiality. The design responds to the urban context of Chatswood while delivering calm, highly liveable interiors that feel both contemporary and enduring. The floorplans have been carefully resolved to maximise usability and outperform typical market offerings in terms of efficiency and liveability."

Most apartments incorporate multipurpose rooms designed for flexibility. Each includes an integrated desk and a standard Murphy pull-down single bed, allowing the space to transition from a home office or study to guest accommodation as needs change. The layouts have also been designed to maximise natural light, storage and overall functionality.

One and two-bedroom apartments feature Miele appliances, while three and four-bedroom residences are appointed with integrated Gaggenau appliances and Taj Mahal stone benchtops.

Buyers who purchase early in the construction process can also take advantage of Hyecorp's "Live Your Way" interior design service, allowing them to personalise finishes and tailor elements of their home to suit their own lifestyle. It's a feature designed to appeal to owner-occupiers who want their apartment to feel uniquely theirs from the day they move in.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149594 project_image_fid=362614]

While flexible floorplans have become a hallmark of Hyecorp's apartment design, the developer has also continued to place significant emphasis on resident amenity.

As buyers increasingly expect more from apartment living, shared spaces have evolved beyond a gym and barbecue area. They are now an extension of the home, providing spaces to relax, exercise, entertain and connect with neighbours.

At Celine, the resident amenity has been designed with a focus on wellness, centred on the level six podium. An infinity-edge swimming pool, spa, sauna and fully equipped gym are complemented by barbecue facilities and a residents' lounge, creating a range of spaces for relaxation, recreation and social connection above the streets of Chatswood.

Practical conveniences have also been integrated throughout the building, including EV charging provisions, smart parcel lockers, bicycle storage, a pet wash station and dedicated car wash bays, reflecting the project's focus on making everyday living as seamless as possible.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149594 project_image_fid=362633]

"Celine has been designed to deliver a refined residential experience that reflects the evolution of Chatswood into a premium urban centre,"&nbsp;Abolakian says.

"With over 30 years of experience delivering projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore, Hyecorp brings a deep understanding of what local buyers value. Every detail has been considered to balance luxury, functionality and long-term liveability. This is not just about apartments, but about creating a lasting residential address for discerning buyers."

Hyecorp, vertically-integrated builder-developer, is anticipating construction commencement later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=149594]

Hyecorp brings 30 years of Lower North Shore experience to Celine in Chatswood

Burgeoning South East Queensland developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/frank-developments">Frank Developments</a> is continuing to pad out its capital city development pipeline.

The developer, led by Frank Licastro, has its sights set on Kingsford Smith Drive in Hamilton, where it is planning <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/avela-60-kingsford-smith-drive-albion-qld-4010">AVELA</a>, a 166-apartment development across three towers that tier down from 28 storeys to 19 and 17.

The towers will rise above the iconic Breakfast Creek Hotel.

Frank has brought on Melbourne architecture practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rob-kennon-architects">Kennon</a> to design the building, conceived as a “defining architectural marker where the airport corridor meets the inner city.”

<img alt="First look: Frank Developments plans sculptural AVELA for Brisbane's Breakfast Creek gateway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e787c64e-f0a4-4725-891e-e86b40ee5c5c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/AVELA.png?VersionId=1ulwuZ9w2vQ2td7v.J2zUI7Ih_DT4Kwz" />

Kennon describes the project as a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

"Positioned at the northern gateway of Brisbane's primary CBD corridor, this project represents a singular moment in the city's urban evolution, one that will not come again," the architecture practice said in the documents submitted to the Brisbane City Council.

"Where the airport and world beyond meets the city, the building will rise as a sculptural landmark, a defining piece of architecture that signals arrival into Brisbane and anchors the connection between the city and the communities to its north."

<img alt="First look: Frank Developments plans sculptural AVELA for Brisbane's Breakfast Creek gateway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d572bf62-a98d-4847-95d0-889e3d3283e1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/AVELA%20podium.png?VersionId=6.Ax4jBzTbY5ahm55iaMWNR03ODhDQSm" />

The development is centred around owner-occupier apartments, with a mix of two, three and four-bedroom residences designed to capitalise on city and river views.

Four basement levels accommodate resident parking, allowing the podium to prioritise pedestrian activity and public-facing uses like ground-floor retail, a cafe, a&nbsp;neighbourhood grocer, and a public accessible indoor pickleball court and event space.&nbsp;

There will be nearly 2,000 sqm of communal wellness and recreation facilities across three levels.

<img alt="First look: Frank Developments plans sculptural AVELA for Brisbane's Breakfast Creek gateway" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5ac3cbf-3c11-4219-89f3-e12d9e0f9ffd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/AVELA%20podium%20A.png?VersionId=_.4zd1HLCKa1s6I_oxkY4NNqX6o3Yevn" />

&nbsp;

Frank Developments has increasingly focused on design-led residential projects across South East Queensland.

AVELA is Licastro's second on Kingsford Smith Drive following <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/alba-92-kingsford-smith-drive-hamilton-qld-4007">Alba</a>, 85 apartments just down the road. The developer has <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/mira-61-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">MIRA</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/myst-burleigh-heads-270-the-esplanade-miami-qld-4220">MYST</a> on the Gold Coast, as well as <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/murano-teneriffe-37-wyandra-street-new-farm-qld-4005">Murano</a> coming up in Teneriffe and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bel-air-33-oxlade-drive-new-farm-qld-4005">Bel Air in New Farm</a>.

Frank Developments plans sculptural AVELA for Brisbane's Breakfast Creek gateway

ASX-listed developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/stockland">Stockland</a>&nbsp;is continuing its push back into the new apartment market, filing plans for a prominent gateway site between Collingwood and East Melbourne.

The development giant, which moved back into the new apartment space when it announced Stanton Place in Sydney's Rosebery and have since filed plans for a 50-storey tower, are jumping into the off the plan Melbourne market.

They are hoping to create a mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/79-81-victoria-parade-collingwood-vic-3066">79-81 Victoria Parade</a>, replacing an existing commercial building with a scheme by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/john-wardle-architects">Wardle</a>&nbsp;for 478 apartments,&nbsp;ground-floor retail, new public open spaces and a publicly accessible pedestrian laneway.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="72dbbca9-3918-4073-afad-a0c0c35be8e7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20pers.png?VersionId=bzMVUKKxvwuNK1m0v_td126Rgct32uk_" />

The design report identifies the public realm as a central driver of the proposal.

"Collingwood has limited access to high-quality parks and public open space, and the proposal delivers valuable new areas for respite, social interaction and fine-grain retail activity."

The development would deliver a diverse mix of housing, including studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments alongside townhouse-style residences. Two basement levels are proposed beneath the development, providing resident and retail parking as well as extensive bicycle facilities.

Wardle's design draws heavily on Collingwood's industrial character, using articulated building forms, brickwork and robust materials inspired by the suburb's warehouse and manufacturing heritage. The built form has been broken into a series of smaller volumes to better respond to the surrounding streetscape while extensive communal gardens, rooftop amenities and shared resident spaces are integrated throughout the project.

<img alt="First look: Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7b2135ed-65df-4253-ad53-f216f06bd467" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/stockland%20podium.png?VersionId=l1B6Hqn8zs772VxH6L1fDPg0KHshan9v" />

The planning documents describe the existing office building as offering little engagement with the public realm, with the redevelopment intended to create a more permeable and active neighbourhood destination.

"The proposed scheme presents a significant opportunity to deliver a vibrant retail plaza and a local neighbourhood hub serving both existing and future Collingwood residents."

The 79–81 Victoria Parade site occupies a strategic location about 1.5 kilometres east of Melbourne's CBD, at the threshold between Collingwood and East Melbourne. It is well served by tram services along Victoria Parade and sits within walking distance of St Vincent's Hospital, Fitzroy Gardens, the Fitzroy activity centre and a broad range of employment, retail and hospitality destinations.

Stockland plans new mixed-use neighbourhood precinct for Collingwood gateway site

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?

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Set to spend more time in Sydney, the Melbourne architect Rob Mills has sold his award-winning Lorne weekender, Ocean House, for $4.8 million.

It's some way higher than the $3.65 million to $4 million guide offered when it was first listed back in mid-October.

The Trade Winds Avenue property went to private auction after a number of parties showed interest in that range.

<img alt="" height="1325" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mills_2.jpg" width="2000">

Mills bought the 1.3 hectare Trade Winds Avenue property and built the home on a prohibitively steep site, combining the solidity of a cylindrical concrete form with the lightness and transparency of a glass and timber linear space.

“The two personalities of the house work together as one," Mills says.

"The concrete section, which houses the bedrooms is very purposeful, sheltering the house from the storms and deadening sound, in contrast to the connections with nature in the living section". The six bedroom property with rooftop entertaining deck was designed to function as two apartments, with two kitchens and a number of living areas.

<img alt="" height="1309" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mills_3.jpg" width="2000">

It's been a $1,400 a night holiday rental.

“Ocean House is a spectacular property and we have had the pleasure of listing this on Airbnb for so many people to experience. With multiple zones in the home, it is perfect as a coastal escape, private residence or holiday rental. Nature and the land have been vital to the design and experience at Ocean House and I hope these can be enjoyed through the lens of the beautiful architecture on offer," Mills says.

<img alt="" height="1318" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/mills_4.jpg" width="2000">

Mills is still seeking a buyer for his luxury Melbourne residence at Armadale.

He has an $8.8 million to $9.4 million guide for the luxury home which Mills bought as a former cardboard factory.

It is now a five bedroom warehouse conversion, each bedroom with their own ensuite. 

There's a lift connecting the three levels, which includes a self-contained two bedroom apartment. There's marble floors, a black and white veined curved Italian marble staircase, one of Mills signature styles, a brass kitchen and a timber-lined 'winter-room' with a fireplace.

“Designing and living in this residence has given me so many fond memories and I am sure its bold architectural statement will endure," Mills says. "It’s exceptionally versatile and offers luxury and comfort for inner-city family living.”
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Architect Rob Mills has sold Ocean House, his award-winning Lorne weekender, for $4.8 million.



Architect Rob Mills sells Lorne weekender Ocean House for $4.8 million

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Sydney readers can score free tickets to the Sydney Home Buyer and Property Investor Show, which will run Friday, July 20 to Sunday, July 22. 
<a href="https://www.homebuyershow.com.au/special-offers/propertyobserver-com-au-free-ticket-offer/" target="_parent">Click here for your free tickets.</a>
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po-LsXgBTHBmX

Sydney Home Buyer and Property Investor Show free ticket giveaway

<html><body>
One of South Yarra’s finest homes is set to sell in the next couple of days.

The Italianate Victorian home on Domain Road, set in Paul Bangay gardens, was built by the Henty family. It was once owned by the merino wool operating Falkiner family, of the well known FS Falkiner &amp; Sons, who in the earlier 1900's was ran by the former politician and grazier Franc Falkiner.

The two level home is currently made up of two apartments, both owned by HWL Ebsworth partner Leon Gorr and wife Judith.

They paid $1.6 million for the upstairs unit, bought from the late businessman Peter Smedley and his wife Christine back in 1999, and then the ground level residence cost $5.5 million in 2011.

Abercromby’s agent Jock Langley says the provenance of the property is second to none. “The scale and scope offered to restore and redefine as one of Melbourne’s most prized assets exist due to the current occupants having the foresight to acquire the two huge apartments and now offer as one,” Langley says.

The expressions of interest close December 10, with early suggestions the home could fetch $25 million.
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South Yarra mansion tipped to fetch $25 million

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More than one million people in NSW are being invited to have their say on how laws can be changed to improve the experience of the growing number of people living and working in strata communities.

Minister for Better Regulation Kevin Anderson said community consultation was now open as a crucial part of the statutory review of both the Strata Schemes Development Act 2015 and Strata Schemes Management Act 2015.

“With the continued surge in popularity of apartment living we expect over half the population of Greater Sydney to be living in strata titled apartment towers, townhouses and blocks of flats by 2040,” Mr Anderson said. “There are now 81,717 strata schemes registered in NSW and every year this number grows by more than 1,000 across both Sydney and regional NSW.

“It is important that the laws covering strata living stay relevant and address some of the fundamental issues that might be stopping people from fulfilling the great Australian dream of home ownership. “The Government’s landmark 2015 reforms modernised strata living, but we know there is more to do.

"In particular, we know more needs to be done to ensure that apartment buildings are well maintained and remain free of building defects over their lifetime so that owners aren’t left out of pocket by tens of thousands of dollars. That’s why we will be seeking feedback on changes that would require owners to disclose critical information about programmed maintenance, capital works spending and defects.”

Mr Anderson said feedback was also being sought on a new digital Strata Portal that will capture mandatory information for each strata building in NSW and make it available to the regulator to ensure compliance with fire and other important safety requirements.

“Strata schemes are integral to supporting NSW’s growing population and housing boom. As more and more people choose to call NSW home, strata living holds the key to encouraging growing cities and urban development which is why this review is so important to ensure we make strata living more appealing,” Mr Anderson said.
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Community consultation is now open as a crucial part of the statutory review of two the strata scheme acts



Strata laws in New South Wales to be reviewed

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Lyndon Simmons, the owner of the popular Noosa beachfront restaurant Sails, has listed his newly finished Sunshine Beach home.

Simmons's development company recently completed the Park Crescent duplex, selling the other property off the plan in 2018 for $3.45 million, with settlement only occurring in May.

He transferred the other part of the duplex to his name in 2018.

The home, at the rear of the block, has three bedrooms and three bathrooms across its 255 sqm living space.

<img alt="" height="1300" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sails_3.jpg" width="2000">

The open plan living area is located on the top level, featuring sliding glass doors to an ocean view balcony.

A glass lift runs from the living space to the guest retreat on the bottom level which opens to the rear garden complete with a deck and swimming pool, as well as a private path that leads directly to the beach.

<img alt="" height="1118" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sails_2.jpg" width="2000">

Two more bedrooms sit on the middle level, one a master suite with its own bathroom.

Tom Offermann Real Estate Noosa agent Roark Walsh has the listing. 

Three years ago Simmons tried to sell the prime waterfront site of Sails, on the pricey beachfront Hastings Street, with expectations it could fetch $11 million.
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Noosa home of Sails restaurant owner Lyndon Simmons listed

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of results from auctions in Adelaide for the weekend of March 16. <a href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Adelaide.pdf" target="_blank">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

APM's Adelaide auction results

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The NSW Government’s stamp duty change may leave many commercial property owners “worse off”, according to property valuation firm m3property.

Owners of less valuable properties may potentially pay more than double after ten years.

Jennifer Williams, the firm’s national director of research, said it was unclear whether the new property tax would achieve its aims.

“We agree that change is required to make the NSW tax system fairer, simpler and less volatile and a broad-based property tax is a good option to achieve this”, she said.

“The devil is in the detail, however, and it is yet to be seen whether an opt-in system will achieve the simplicity the Government seeks or reduce the current revenue volatility given most commercial purchasers are unlikely to opt-in.”

Many purchasers are likely to be disadvantaged by the proposed new system, given the average length of commercial property ownership in NSW is greater than ten years, mp3property suggested.

A hypothetical case study found that after ten years the owner of a property with a market value of $2 million would pay $144,937 under the current system, and $298,061 under the new system.

<img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="296" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/m3property.png?itok=HUV0PWBm" width="580">

Whilst the burden on commercial owner-occupier operators appears to be higher for the proposed property tax, stamp duty must also be taken into consideration.

For investors who buy and sell more often, the choice of which tax route to take may be more complicated.

However, the impact on purchasers is likely to vary on the type of purchaser, the property’s land value, the length of time the investor retains the property, and which option a buyer takes at purchase, property tax or stamp duty and land tax.
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Many purchasers are likely to be disadvantaged by the proposed new system, says property valuation firm m3property.

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NSW stamp duty change likely to leave many "worse off"

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RP Data is expecting over 1,020 auctions across Victoria this week with around 910 in Melbourne alone.
<ul>
<li>Clearance rate week ending 8 September: 74.7%</li>
<li>
Melbourne auctions expected week ending 15 September: 910
</li>
<li>
Melbourne private sales time on market week ending 1 September: 38 days
</li>
<li>
Melbourne vendor discounting market week ending 1 September:  -5.9%
</li>
<li>
New listings in Victoria: 5.3% higher in month ending 8 September
</li>
</ul>
This will provide a substantial test for the market and the increase in stock is also mirrored in the private sale market with new listings growing in seasonally adjusted terms over the past week.
As is often the case at this time of the year leading indicators point to a market slowly picking up pace with clearance rates at trend, time on market reducing for private sales and listings increasing. The test will be if this is matched by more buyers than this time last year.

<hr>
Robert Larocca is <a target="_blank" href="https://www.rpdata.com/">RP Data</a>'s Victoria housing market specialist.
 
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RP Data's Melbourne weekend auction preview

<html><body>
Property investing is a game of numerical knowledge.
Clued-up investors know that it’s not just about the headline median price, clearance rates and prestige sale figures. Yields, vacancy rates and employment figures can be just as important.
Some numbers are more equal than others. Here are seven of the standout figures that you should stick to the back of your brain this week:
<ol>
<li>
1.2% Sydney’s price gains managed to drag the national result up as the latest Australian Property Monitors PriceFinder data revealed that <a href="/expert-insights/buying/sydney-strength-drags-along-slowing-house-prices-apm">national price growth had risen by 1.2%</a> for the September quarter. It was the slowest national growth figure recorded since March 2013. Brisbane was perhaps the most surprising result, with its median price falling 1.3% over the quarter. 
</li>
<li>
4% Infrastructure is often pointed to as one of the keys to future price growth. But just how big an effect does it really have. Researchers from Griffith University studied the effect of Brisbane’s introduction of ferries nearly 20 years ago and found that on average <a href="/news/qld/how-the-introduction-of-brisbanes-ferries-affected-property-prices">properties one kilometre closer to the ferry terminal increased by an average of 4%</a> more than those further away. In fact academic Barbara Yen said that: “A one hundred metre decrease in the distance to the ferry stop would increase property values by between 4.9% and 13.1%.” 
</li>
<li>
-8.5% The Sydney market has boomed over the past couple of years, but not every region has benefited. SQM Research’s Louis Christopher dug down into <a href="/news/nsw/not-all-sydney-areas-are-booming-the-citys-three-worst-performing-regions">the three areas which have underformed</a>. Among them the affluent Lower North Shore which has actually seen prices fall by 8.5% over the past three years. 
</li>
<li>
274 Brisbane has a new contender for the crown of the city’s tallest tower. <a href="/expert-insights/buying/brisbane-skytower-joins-race-to-be-the-citys-highest-residential-tower">Brisbane Skytower will reach the city maximum height of 274 metres</a>, potentially equalling Shayher Group’s proposed 82-storey residential tower on 300 George Street. 
</li>
<li>
11 Melbourne’s median house price has stabilised over the previous quarter, but <a href="https://propertyobserver.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=24bd0766a834290948593f5aa&amp;id=e48e5e6ff4&amp;e=035e81ff9a" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">price growth in 11 suburbs stood out</a>, according to the Real Estate Institute of Victoria. 
</li>
<li>
104 Melbourne City Council has secured the $76 million purchase of a 6,462 square metre property site opposite the Queen Victoria Market <a href="/expert-insights/investing/queen-victoria-market-precinct-site-sells-to-melbourne-city-council-after-104-year-wait">after a 104 year wait</a>. The council managed to fight off competition from $80 million offshore buyers to secure the prime redevelopment site. 
</li>
<li>
1,641 Melbourne is gearing up for its<a href="/expert-insights/buying/all-time-record-number-of-auctions-rp-datas-melbourne-weekend-preview"> biggest auction weekend ever</a>. RP Data figures show 1,641 auctions are scheduled for the forthcoming pre-Melbourne Cup weekend, breaking the 1,619 auction record set on the same days last year.
</li>
</ol>
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The top property investment numbers of the week

<html><body>
<ul>
<li>$18,000 per square metre</li>
</ul>
A one bedroom Potts Point bolthole (pictured below) <a href="/expert-insights/buying/the-38-square-metre-potts-point-sydney-unit-that-fetched-684-000">38 square metre offering sold for $684,000</a> at auction last weekend.
That works out as $18,000 per square metre.
 <img src="/images/phocagallery/2014/10/potts-point-oct-24/potts%20point_0002_3.jpg.jpg">
<ul>
<li>$50,000</li>
</ul>
The 460 square metre, three level penthouse atop the Tony Owen-designed Eliza building (pictured below) comes with a <a href="/expert-insights/buying/the-15-million-eliza-penthouse-has-a-50-000-fridge">pretty hefty price tag of $15 million</a>. 
For that, the four bedroom, six bathroom apartment includes a private lobby, an internal passenger lift, 13.5-metre frontage overlooking the park and ... a $50,000 fridge.
<img src="/images/2014/10/29/eliza-oct-29-two.jpg"> 
<ul>
<li>44%</li>
</ul>
Westpac is the most exposed of the 'Big Four' to investor lending, with new research indicating <a href="/expert-insights/finance/westpac-most-exposed-to-property-investor-mortgage-market">44% of its mortgage book belongs to this market</a>.
Macquarie Group research concluded macroprudential policy could result in a 1% fall in big bank earnings.
 
<ul>
<li>Seven out of 10</li>
</ul>
It was a record breaking auction week in Victoria in the lead up to the Melbourne Cup long weekend and <a href="/expert-insights/buying/victorian-prestige-homes-dominate-rp-datas-top-10-sales-of-the-week">seven of the top 10 sales across the country were in the state</a>, according to RP Data.
Among them was the Canterbury trophy home Tavistock (pictured below). The house was designed by Ussher and Kemp, the prolific Federation era Melbourne architects who made their mark throughout Melbourne's eastern suburbs.
 <img src="/images/2014/10/28/camberwell-oct-28-breakout.jpg" alt="Victorian prestige homes dominate RP Data's top 10 sales of the week">
<ul>
<li>$5 million</li>
</ul>
But the honour of the priciest sale of the week belonged to a three bedroom Darlinghurst apartment (pictured below). 
The north-east corner apartment on the 16th floor of the Residence secured <a href="/expert-insights/buying/darlinghurst-apartment-sells-prior-to-auction-for-5-million">$5 million prior to auction</a>.
<img src="/images/2014/10/27/darlinghurst_0000_1.jpg.jpg" alt="Darlinghurst apartment sells prior to auction for $5 million">
<ul>
<li>$300 million</li>
</ul>
One of the largest commercial property transactions of the quarter went through this week.
A 50% stake in North Sydney’s 101 Miller Street/Greenwood Plaza(pictured below) <a href="/expert-insights/investing/half-share-in-north-sydneys-101-miller-street-greenwood-plaza-sold-for-300-million-plus">was sold for over $300 million</a>.
TIAA Henderson Real Estate, on behalf of TIAA-CREF, purchased the half stake from Eureka Funds Management. Mirvac Group will continue to own the remaining 50% stake.
<img src="/images/2014/10/30/greenwood-plaza-oct-30-breakout.jpg" alt="Half share in North Sydney's 101 Miller Street-Greenwood Plaza sold for $300 million plus">
<ul>
<li>$6.25 million</li>
</ul>
The octagonal Hotel Saville (pictured below) <a href="/expert-insights/building/confirmed-the-block-makes-octagonal-south-yarra-hotel-reservation">was confirmed as the site for a future installment of The Block</a> after Jonathan Chancellor revealed the $6.25 million buyer to be Watercress, the company behind the show's production. 
The site comes with a dash of morbid history. In 2002, it was alleged that male gigolo Shane Chartres-Abbott raped a client in a hotel suite.
Chartres-Abbott was arrested shortly afterwards and presented a bizarre defence that he was a 200 year old vampire.
In 2003, Chartres-Abbott was executed outside his Reservoir home as he left for his County Court trial.
<img src="/images/2014/10/24/block%20octagonal%20oct%2024%20breakout.jpg" alt="Confirmed! The Block makes octagonal South Yarra hotel reservation">
 
</body></html>

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