An entity directed by HSN's Rafi Assouline and Rebel Property's Allen Linz has filed plans for an impressive new precinct in Woolloomooloo.

The major mixed-use development would transform a prominent William Street site into a new residential village anchored by affordable housing and a large public park.

The proposal, submitted as a State Significant Development Application, covers 164-172 and 174-194 William Street, a 6,398 sqm site between Forbes Street and Dowling Street on the southern edge of Woolloomooloo.

Designed by fjcstudio in collaboration with Bangawarra, Studio Bright and Tribe Studio Architects, the scheme would deliver 227 apartments across four residential buildings ranging in height up to 18 storeys, alongside retail space, public domain improvements and a new publicly accessible park.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0eb59b7c-914a-4a5c-b849-3a56749f5e93" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.18.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=mxM6EEqeoLjrCiTlCzTKTvzpKuh6kSkH" />

It's another design scheme for Rebel, who took <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-rebel-property-group-takes-woolloomooloo-precinct-to-nsw-government">concept plans to the NSW Gov late last year</a>.

The latest plans will be a mix of 167 build-to-sell apartments and 60 affordable apartments, with the affordable housing component representing 15 per cent of the project's gross floor area. The apartment mix includes 12 one-bedroom, 53 two-bedroom, 89 three-bedroom apartments and 13 penthouses, while the affordable housing component would comprise 42 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3b3d4553-8a8c-4af5-aa8c-519ffb1e28c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.12%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=_Yb6ibN7eDnOtQjCNDK2eviORa4qzgv." />

Rebel Property is seeking to take advantage of the NSW Government's infill affordable housing bonus provisions under the Housing SEPP, which provide additional floor space and height in exchange for the delivery of affordable housing for a minimum of 15 years. The planning pathway allows a 30 per cent increase in floor space ratio and building height where 15 per cent of the development is dedicated to affordable housing.

&nbsp;

At the centre of the development is a 1,356 sqm sunlit public park designed to become a new community gathering space at the gateway to Woolloomooloo. The park would be complemented by a network of pedestrian laneways connecting William Street with the surrounding streets, improving permeability through what is currently a largely impermeable block.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="257af931-a393-4007-8c6d-7219796df58d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=KAHy94GrhaReFsWTGDKfy39EDJ8gEEv4" />

The design team says the public domain has been heavily influenced by the site's topography and Aboriginal cultural heritage, drawing on the escarpments, gullies and landscape characteristics that historically defined the area before urbanisation. The landscape design has been developed in partnership with First Nations consultancy Bangawarra.

The project would be delivered across four separate buildings. The William Street East and William Street West buildings, designed by fjcstudio, would contain the majority of the apartments. Melbourne-based Studio Bright has designed the Forbes Street building, while Tribe Studio Architects is responsible for the Dowling Street building.

Rebel had secured approval for the concept plans late last year.

Joel Robinson

First look: HSN, Rebel, advances Woolloomooloo precinct plans

A locally heritage-listed furniture showroom on Water Street is set to become the centrepiece of a new mixed-use residential development as local developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/keylin-group">Keylin</a> seeks approval for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lotus-on-water-street-290-water-street-fortitude-valley-qld-4006">Lotus on Water Street</a>, a 15-storey project on the Fortitude Valley side of Spring Hill.

The proposal spans 290 Water Street and 137-141 Warry Street, combining several properties into a 2,869 sqm site that sits between Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill and the rapidly evolving Victoria Park precinct. Keylin's plans would deliver 132 apartments alongside new retail, hospitality and commercial space, while retaining and repurposing the historic Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom that fronts Water Street.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/jackson-teece">Jackson Teece</a>, Lotus on Water Street comprises a 12-storey residential tower rising above a three-storey podium and communal rooftop terrace. The development includes 76 apartments classified as multiple dwellings and a further 56 units proposed as short-term accommodation, designed to be flexibly used as either accommodation or permanent residences. The apartment mix comprises six one-bedroom, 54 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom homes.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9822bb79-6c49-49c9-95ba-319e8c8d81c3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20front.png?VersionId=ioW8zbN4UVebbLetTFuv92t.HkdgfR5e" />

Residents would have access to an extensive rooftop recreation level spanning more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space. Plans include a pool, gym, sauna, infrared sauna, yoga area, library, private dining room, barbecue facilities and landscaped entertainment spaces, making the rooftop the project's largest shared amenity offering.

At street level, the proposal focuses on the adaptive reuse of the heritage buildings along Water Street, where 518 sqm of retail and commercial space is planned across shop, office and food and drink outlet uses. A permeable residential lobby would be positioned between the retained heritage buildings, creating a pedestrian connection between the historic streetscape and the new tower behind.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="269cf3e0-7d13-48bf-a318-05a00deb5c10" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20podium.png?VersionId=DLXmTCLsp6GOcLpQ0h.0z7wKCw59EhN_" />

The heritage retention strategy is central to the scheme. The development application notes that the Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom and adjoining heritage buildings will remain, with only non-significant structures on the site earmarked for removal under a previously issued Heritage Exemption Certificate. Levels one and two of the new podium are recessed behind the heritage façades to maintain their prominence within the streetscape.

Jackson Teece has drawn inspiration from the site's manufacturing history when designing the podium. The planning documents state that the façade incorporates perforated metal screening that references the woven and rattan furniture historically produced on the site. Cascading and climbing plants are integrated throughout the podium to soften the building's presentation and screen parking levels behind. The landscape strategy also informs the project's name, Lotus on Water Street, drawing on the historic Spring Hollow waterholes that once ran through Spring Hill and the blue water lilies associated with Meeanjin, Brisbane's traditional name.

The proposal also incorporates the neighbouring property at 141 Warry Street, currently occupied by a healthcare service. The existing building would remain, with nine dedicated parking spaces allocated within the new development to support its ongoing operation. In total, Lotus on Water Street proposes 117 car spaces, including 110 resident spaces and seven visitor bays, alongside 100 bicycle spaces.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70cf07bc-4fd8-4e70-92dd-be8b21c4e4f0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20site.png?VersionId=txlxrJImM0Sm_vTzHVKh5DDUkyL_CiiA" />

The site sits within the Spring Hill East Precinct of the Spring Hill Neighbourhood Plan and is positioned around 650 metres from both Fortitude Valley Station and Exhibition Station. It is also within walking distance of the King Street precinct, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston Quarter and Victoria Park, which is earmarked to become a major venue precinct ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Planning documents describe the location as a key gateway between Spring Hill and Fortitude Valley and highlight the area's increasing importance as new transport infrastructure and Olympic-related investment reshape Brisbane's inner north. The development team argues the project will contribute additional housing supply while activating a section of Water Street that has historically received less investment than other parts of the Valley.

Keylin has become increasingly active across Brisbane and southeast Queensland, assembling sites in strategic inner-city locations. They are currently selling and delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/oria-spring-hill-447-gregory-terrace-spring-hill-qld-4000">Oria Spring Hill</a>, just over 140 apartments due for completion in 2027.

Keylin plans heritage-led Lotus on Water Street apartment development in Fortitude Valley

Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Mortgage relief? NAB forecasts RBA rate cut, not hike, after softer economic conditions

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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The current level of large scale agricultural land on the market continues to test the market in Western NSW, according to the recent Herron Todd White (HTW) rural report. 
The valuation firm says the likes of the Midkin Aggregation is coming on the market and now purportedly selling for $300 million, Harvard University’s properties in western New South Wales are worth circa $200 million, the full RIFA Portfolio is now on the market along with some smaller corporate level holdings in the Albury area and central New South Wales.
"You would think that the dry climatic conditions being experienced across the state would temper any expansionary activity however this is not the case," the valuation firm said. 
"Apart from these larger scale corporate level properties, there are a number of smaller properties changing hands at value levels that show the market continuing to increase."
Recent examples of this are is <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-mixed+farming-nsw-ivanhoe-7987330" target="_blank" style="font-size: 12.16px;">Eurella Station, Ivanhoe</a> (pictured below).
This is a 25,600 hectare parcel located eight kilometres north of Ivanhoe which was sold by private treaty by Landmark Harcourts Deniliquin for $4.4 million.
This equates to $172 per hectare overall and approximately $550 per DSE.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/13/ivanhoe.jpg" alt="">
This property was improved with a five bedroom homestead, machinery shed, four stand shearing shed and good sheep and cattle yards.
This sale is in close proximity to Rosewood Station which sold in November 2018 for $165 per hectare.
"We are also aware of an offer and acceptance on a property in the same general area that was purchased approximately two years ago and now is under offer at a value level that will show a 27% increase over that period. While this appears high, it is in line with most areas in New South Wales," the valuation firm said. 
The report notes the Ivanhoe area is proving to be an active location in terms of property being offered for sale.
The holding <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-acreage+semi-rural-nsw-ivanhoe-132035774" target="_blank">Cross Roads Station</a> (pictured below) is being marketed by a new entrant to the rural sales scene, Border Real Estate.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/13/cross%20roads%20station.jpg" alt="">
This is a 27,000 hectare grazing property located to the north-east of Ivanhoe which has attracted solid levels of interest with approximately 35 enquiries.
This property has a current capacity of approximately 8,000 DSE.
The recent sales indicate that this property should achieve greater than $4 million, the report noted. 
"It will be interesting to see the result once the expressions of interest period closes," the valuation firm commented. 
Another property further to the north-east of Cross Roads is<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-cropping-nsw-ivanhoe-700057638" target="_blank"> Koonaburra</a> (pictured below) which is being offered to the market via a Facebook campaign and also through Elders Real Estate.
This property is approximately 40,000 hectares and has an asking price of $55 per acre or $136 per hectare.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/13/ivanhoe%203.jpg" alt="">
This property has areas of Mallee and thicker timber.
"After taking into consideration these areas, the asking price would be considered a strong sale if achieved," the valuation firm said.
These two properties are located in an area which has received some level of rainfall and as such there are areas of feed and grass available.
The report suggests this has been one of the major contributing factors to the level of interest is being shown.
"Discussing the situation with one of our clients, they pointed out that their budgets indicated that the cost to purchase grain and hay to feed their drought stricken stock was approximately four times that of the cost of going out and purchasing a property that would accommodate the same level of stock.
"This is a function of the extremely low interest rates currently being experienced. This option is really only available for those that have a very strong balance sheet but is indicative of what can be achieved in the current low interest rate environment." 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Western NSW rural market activity continues to increase: HTW rural

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Hot and windy days are compounding the dry conditions in the Darling Downs region, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) rural report.
"In our travels, many landholders frequently ask where the driest part is observed.
"In my opinion, it would have to be in the south-east corner to south of Toowoomba through to Stanthorpe," the valuation firm said. 
Many paddocks that were once grazing now appear as fallow cultivation country due to being eaten out to bare ground.
The report notes a real concern should it rain is the potential impact of significant soil erosion due to very little ground cover - much of the country has turned to a fine powder.
The latest Bureau of Meteorology climate outlook statement for November to January indicated the chance of receiving above median rainfall for the south-east is between 25 and 30% and slightly better moving west where the Balonne Shire is 40 to 50%.
For graziers in the south-east and particularly in the Southern Downs region, where the majority of stock water requirement is provided by surface water only, the outlook is becoming desperate as dams are drying up rapidly.
With the dry seasonal conditions, it is now evident that this is impacting on market confidence with very few transactions of scale in the south-east region.
One sector of the market that has shown improvement in the liquidity is in far western Queensland and primarily those holdings benefiting from either rain or flood waters from February and March events further north.
Market activity in the Paroo, Quilpie and Barcoo Local Shires over the past eight months has increased on the back of improved seasonal conditions.
The purchasers are a combination of local and outer district landholders seeking additional country, but the major market driver is those seeking grass.
"The increase in buyer demand has created a broad firming in value trends over a relatively short period. This trend may consequently soften should further follow-up rain not be received this summer, where any firming in values observed in the short term maybe attributed to those grass purchases," the valuation firm said. 
Some recent transactions in the region include:
◗ Clifton Station, Windorah (pictured below) - a 48,800 hectare holding under contract;
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/13/clifton%20station%201.jpg" alt="">
◗ Canaway Downs, Eromanga (pictured below) - a 93,316 hectare holding selling for $8.137 million in May;
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/13/canaway%20downs.jpg" alt="">
◗ Coniston, Windorah (pictured below) - a 28,500 hectare holding under contract;
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/13/coinston.jpg" alt="">
◗ Retreat, Windorah - a142,601 hectare holding reportedly sold for $20 million including stock and equipment.
"We are also aware of a pending sale in the Cunnamulla region that will show the continuing strengthening for river frontage country, with further details to be provided when publicly available," the valuation firm said. 
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Dry seasonal conditions impacting market confidence in Darling Downs: HTW rural  

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The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate has risen to 5.3 per cent over October, according to statistics from the ABS released today.
The RBA may have been forgiven to be upbeat after last month where the unemployment rate ticked lower to 5.3 per cent, however the latest batch of figures will no doubt play on their minds heading in to the last official interest rate meeting of the year next month.
Unemployment is now at its highest rate since July last year. The RBA are targeting an unemployment rate at 4.5 per cent.
The employment rate fell by some 19,000 jobs over the month, mainly due to the fact participation rate (people looking for jobs), ticked down to 66 per cent.
Under employment rose 0.2 per cent to 8.5 per cent.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/14/unemployment%20rate.jpg" alt="">
Source: Twitter @JFosterFM
Callam Pickering, APAC economist at Indeed Australia, noted the youth unemployment problem.
"Australia's youth unemployment rate (15-24 years) back above 12%. Australia has a big youth unemployment problem and we don't talk about it enough," he tweeted.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/14/unemployment%20age.jpg" alt="">
Michael Tull, assistant national secretary community &amp; public sector union, tweeted his thoughts on the overall state of the economy.
"Retail terrible, wages awful and now unemployment up...but hey there’s apparently a budget surplus so everything must be great."<a class="css-4rbku5 css-18t94o4 css-901oao css-16my406 r-1n1174f r-1loqt21 r-1qd0xha r-ad9z0x r-bcqeeo r-qvutc0" href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/auspol?src=hashtag_click" data-focusable="true"> </a>
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Unemployment edges higher in October

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On Tuesday night (12th of November), the City of Melbourne's Future Melbourne committee endorsed the council's submission to the Victorian Government's Ministerial Advisory Committee on Planning Mechanisms for Affordable Housing, effectively making clear the council supports a mandatory and state-wide inclusionary zoning mechanism to increase affordable housing across the state.

The Advisory Committee was appointed in September, has been set up to operate for six months and, will deliver its final report containing advice to the Planning Minister on affordable housing models and options within three months of its initial meeting.

City of Melbourne's submission notes it is developing its own Affordable Housing Strategy that is set to build on its Homes for People: Housing Strategy 2014-2018.  Other research obtained by the City of Melbourne, namely a Housing Needs Analysis, found that there is a current shortfall of at least 5500 affordable rental homes in the municipality and that number is anticipated to increase to 23,200 by 2036.

The council's now-adopted report states,

<blockquote>
"Current mechanisms in the Melbourne Planning Scheme which seek to encourage affordable housing are yet to deliver any affordable homes.  No affordable homes have been negotiated in private developments in the City of Melbourne since legislative changes to the Act. State and federal government programs are anticipated to provide 250 affordable homes in the City of Melbourne by 2036 [and] the introduction of a mechanism to the Victorian planning system requiring affordable housing will ensure a consistent supply."
</blockquote>

The City of Melbourne’s submission to the Ministerial Advisory Committee recommends there is an introduction of state-wide mandatory inclusionary zoning, at a rate to be determined by modelling, with a cash-in-lieu option, complemented by:

<ul>
<li>Flexibility for local governments to increase the state-wide minimum requirement where there is strategic justification and evidence of need;</li>
	<li>A voluntary uplift incentive that can be applied in strategic development areas to encourage a higher provision beyond the state-wide minimum or any local government-specific minimum; </li>
	<li>A commitment from the three tiers of government to work in partnership to create a holistic and integrated approach to ensure that policy, funding, incentives and governance is effective. </li>
</ul>
SGS Economics and Planning was commissioned to undertake a Housing Needs Analysis that looked at current and future demand for affordable rental housing within the City of Melbourne, the inner Melbourne and metropolitan Melbourne.

For inner-Melbourne, the analysis found a shortfall of 29,500 affordable and social housing dwellings in the Inner Metro Partnership region (which includes the Cities of Melbourne, Port Phillip and Yarra).  Likewise, for metropolitan Melbourne, the analysis found 231,250 households are "currently in need of affordable and social housing," accounting for 13% of all households.

The council's submission, through research performed by SGS, references other jurisdiction's inclusionary zoning implementations including in South Australia, New South Wales, London and California.  In San Francisco for example, new private housing developments with 10 or more housing units are to include affordable housing units or pay a fee in lieu.

Non-residential development mechanisms to finance affordable housing are also cited - for instance in Boston - Melbourne's sister-city - approximately 5000 affordable units were financed through a levy of $8 per square foot on new commercial development that generated $45 million USD between 1986 and 2000.

The Advisory Committee's final report is set to be delivered by early December 2019.

To read the City of Melbourne's Ministerial Advisory Committee submission as well as its supporting evidence, see <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/about-council/committees-meetings/meeting-archive/MeetingAgendaItemAttachments/878/15660/NOV19%20FMC1%20AGENDA%20ITEM%206.5%20SUBMISSIONS%20TO%20MINISTERIAL%20ADVISORY%20COMMITTEE%20ON%20PLANNING%20MECHANISMS.pdf">melbourne.vic.gov.au</a>.

Lead image: Artist impression of the Boyd development, which includes affordable housing via <a href="https://twitter.com/cityofmelbourne">City of Melbourne</a>
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Alastair Taylor

City of Melbourne adopts policy for mandatory inclusionary zoning as mechanism to deliver affordable housing

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Design duo Karen McCartney and David Harrison have listed their Dangar Island weekender, which has been their Sydney retreat for two decades.
The Clontarf-based couple are going through the traditional family generational shift so they just don’t get up to the Hawkesbury as often enough these days.
And the Belfast-born home design doyenne is increasingly focused on her desire to spend more time back in Europe­. “We have had a shift in family thinking,” she said.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/18/Screen%20Shot%202019-11-13%20at%209%201.jpg" alt="">
The weekender was an original island fibro shack which the couple replaced in 2006, with family in-laws Jan Robertson of architecture firm Robertson &amp; Hindmarsh designing the house which Robert Harrison then built.
It has been listed for sale by Marcus Lloyd-Jones at the Modern House agency.
Clad in an Australian hardwood blackbutt stained a dark grey and featuring Indian­ sandstone and lime-washed floors, the home is hidden among the gumtrees.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/18/Screen%20Shot%202019-11-13%20at%209%202.jpg" alt="">
“The brief was to create an open space that captured the views and as much northern light as possible,” McCartney recalls, plus ensuring it was “robust and practical”.
McCartney says many Sydneysiders don’t know where Dangar Island is, adding that was “fine with us” as part of the appeal of the island is that it feels so remote.
She said going to the island on the ferry after the working week “lets us decompress”.
“We will be deeply sad when we leave for the last time, but we are at the age and stage to move on” she said.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/18/Screen%20Shot%202019-11-13%20at%209%203.jpg" alt="">
There are only about 200 houses on Dangar Island, which is only accessible by boat.
The island recently had a $1.425 million sale, plus a two-bedroom cottage that sold for $500,000.
The couple also own a rustic­ barn overlooking fields of sunflowers at Duras in the southwest of France, which they secured from her parents and is now being run as an Airbnb.
Inside Out magazine founding editor McCartney has just launched her latest book ICONIC Modern Australian Houses 1950-2000.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/18/Screen%20Shot%202019-11-13%20at%209.jpg" alt="">
This article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph. 
Images courtesy of Modern House. Internal images by Michael Wee. External images by Richard Powers. 
 
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firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Design duo Karen McCartney and David Harrison list Dangar Island retreat

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GUEST OBSERVATION 
The plight of Australia’s dairy farmers is on the political agenda this week, after One Nation leader Pauline Hanson narrowly failed in her Senate bid for a minimum milk price. But getting fair payment for their goods is far from the only challenge dairy farmers face.
Pressure has been mounting on the industry for the past decade. Existing milk alternatives are growing their market share, helped by a rise in veganism and public concern around animal welfare. The agriculture sector is under pressure to reduce its contribution to climate change, and technology advances mean milk may one day be produced without cows at all.
All this has been compounded by devastating and prolonged drought. So here’s the full story of the hurdles farmers face, now and in the future, to get milk into your fridge.
Fluctuating farm gate price
The rate at which processors pay farmers for milk is known as the <a href="https://www.dairyaustralia.com.au/industry/prices/farmgate-milk-price" target="_blank">farm gate price</a>. The prices are not regulated and are set by market forces.
In 2016 <a href="https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Parliamentary_Departments/Parliamentary_Library/FlagPost/2016/June/Dairy_industry_developments" target="_blank">the milk price crashed</a> when Australia’s two largest dairy processors, Murray Goulburn and Fonterra, lowered the price they would pay from about 48 cents a litre to as low as 40 cents.
This dramatically cut the incomes of milk suppliers. The number of dairy farmers in Australia fell by 600, or 9% <a href="https://www.dairyaustralia.com.au/industry/farm-facts/cows-and-farms" target="_blank">over four years</a>. This exit has been <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/food/2019/feb/24/drought-and-low-milk-prices-push-dairy-farmers-to-the-brink" target="_blank">exacerbated by drought</a>.
Since then, the farm gate milk price has increased and in 2019–20 is <a href="http://www.agriculture.gov.au/abares/research-topics/agricultural-commodities/sep-2019/dairy" target="_blank">expected to be 51 cents per litre</a>, due to a weaker Australian dollar and demand from export markets. But forecast global prices for butter, cheese and whole milk powder this financial year remain below that of previous years.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/13/dairy%20milk.jpg" alt="">
Methane, and milk alternatives
Methane and other livestock emissions <a href="http://www.agriculture.gov.au/ag-farm-food/climatechange/australias-farming-future/livestock-emissions" target="_blank">comprise about 10%</a> of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions.
As the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change made clear in its <a href="https://www.ipcc.ch/srccl-report-download-page/" target="_blank">land use report in August</a>, changes must be made across the food production chain if the world is to keep global warming below the critical 1.5℃ threshold. For beef and dairy livestock, this means changes such as land and manure management, higher-quality feed and genetic improvements. Meeting this challenge cost-effectively, while improving productivity, is no small task.
Technology may help in curbing greenhouse gas emissions from cows, but it also threatens to replace the dairy industry altogether. Advances in biotech may enable liquid analogous to milk to be <a href="https://theconversation.com/lab-grown-dairy-the-next-food-frontier-117963" target="_blank">produced through bioculture systems</a>, <a href="https://www.nationalgeographic.com/news/2014/10/141022-lab-grown-milk-biotechnology-gmo-food-climate/" target="_blank">without a cow in sight</a>.
Elsewhere, the rise of plant-based alternatives derived from soybeans, almonds, oats and other sources threatens traditional milk products. This can partly be attributed to increasing numbers of people adopting a vegan diet. 
Taking calves away from cows
For a mammal to produce milk, it must usually become pregnant and produce offspring. Female calves generally go into a farm’s pool of replacement animals, while male dairy calves are sold.
Pure-breed male dairy calves do not naturally lay down a lot of muscle and so do not generally make good beef livestock. Many are sent to the abattoir for slaughter, typically between 5 and 30 days of age. This practice has prompted welfare concerns and means the industry must carefully manage the handling and transport of vulnerable young calves.
Potential solutions include artificial insemination of cows using only semen that will produce female calves. The use of this technology is limited because it reduces conception rates.
There is also growing public concern about the separation of cows and calves not sent to the abbatoir. The calves are typically taken within the first 12-24 hours and reared together in a shed, where they are fed milk or milk replacer. This is thought to maximise the amount of saleable milk and minimise disease transfer from cow to calf, <a href="https://www.animalhealthaustralia.com.au/what-we-do/endemic-disease/johnes-disease/jd-and-dairy-cattle/three-step-calf-rearing-plan/" target="_blank">particularly Johne’s Disease</a>. However, <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022030219304175" target="_blank">recent research</a> has found <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022030219304369" target="_blank">little evidence</a> to support these practices.
<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0022030219304369" target="_blank">Research has shown</a> that calf-cow separation in the first day of life causes lower distress than abrupt separation at a few weeks of age or older, when the bond is stronger. This is not to say that early separation is not a concern. Rather, in the face of consumer demands for certain ethical standards, simple fixes may be hard to implement.
The message for consumers
Challenges to the dairy industry will take time and effort to address. Some, such as drought, are out of farmers’ control. Dry conditions and high cost of water, fodder and electricity have <a href="http://www.agriculture.gov.au/abares/research-topics/agricultural-commodities/jun-2019/dairy" target="_blank">forced farmers to cull less productive dairy cows</a>, leading to a decline in production.
The pressures, and associated debt, create intense stress for farmers, increase family tensions, and have negative flow-on effects throughout rural communities.
Putting aside the political push for a regulated milk price, the key message for dairy consumers is clear. If we want our milk produced in a certain way, we must pay a fair market-based price to cover the costs to farmers of fulfilling our wants.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/124290/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
Andrew Fisher, Professor of Cattle &amp; Sheep Production Medicine, University of Melbourne.
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-milk-the-whole-milk-and-nothing-but-the-milk-the-story-behind-our-dairy-woes-124290" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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The milk, the whole milk and nothing but the milk: the story behind our dairy woes

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Expat Herbert Smith Greenhills law firm chief executive Mark Rigotti and wife Mary have bought back in Sydney, emerging as the $4.1 million buyers of Cove House on Pittwater, in Clareville.
Set on 1845 square metres on the Hudson Parade dress circle, the master built trophy home has four bedrooms, including a separate guest wing.
The living spaces open to the grounds which have direct access to a private beach.
LJ Hooker Avalon agents David Watson and Andrew Mappin secured the sale.
Now living in Wimbledon, London, the Rigottis are expected back in Sydney next year.
The article was first published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph. 
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Expat Herbert Smith Greenhills boss Mark Rigotti buys Pittwater's Cove House

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Signer Jason Donovan has secured the sale of his Bondi Beach bolthole.
Hannan Bouskila at Raine &amp; Horne sold it to an investor after advising a $2,295,000 asking price.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/18/bondi%201%201.jpg" alt="">
Donovan had $1700 per week tenants.
The star spent $451,000 to buy the three-bedroom Campbell Parade apartment in 1994.
Realestate.com.au puts the suburb’s median apartment price at $1,075,000, from the 116 sales over the past year.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/18/bondi%202%201.jpg" alt="">
The prior five-year average was 229 sales annually, highlighting the continued vendor hesitancy.
The sale proceeds will now fund a holiday home in Mal­lorca, Spain for Donovan.
He is the father of Zac, Jemma and Molly.
The Sun recently put the value of his Kensington, West London, home at £5.5 million (A$10 million).
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph.
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Jason Donovan secures Bondi apartment sale

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Former Socceroo legend turned property developer Stan Lazaridis has sold his longtime Perth home for $2.9 million.
The left winger, who was capped 60 times by the Socceroos, bought the City Beach property in 1997 when he was playing for West Ham in London.
He knocked down the old 1970s home and built a home, marketed as influenced by Versace's mansion, in 2006, the year he joined Perth Glory from Birmingham.
Past its grand entry foyer with piano, the custom-designed home on 900 square metres has five bedrooms, four bathrooms, a cinema and a games room.
An alfresco entertaining space overlooks the swimming pool, spa and bar.
Ray White Dalkeith Claremont agents Vivien Yap and Phoebe Shi had the listing.
Lazaridis took to the property game after retiring in 2008.
This article was first published in the Weekend Australian. 
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Former Socceroo star Stan Lazaridis sells Perth home

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A luxury Bardon home in inner Brisbane has sold for more than $7.5 million in just 10 days.
The suburb record smashing near new build designed by architect Shaun Lockyer had a guide of $7 million plus.
The Nestor Avenue home previously traded as an original 1950s home designed by architect Neville Lund on 4,240 sqm, land that was originally owned by the Stuartholme Convent, for $2.3 million in 2013.
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Lockyer was called in to design the luxury five bedroom home dubbed The Nest that was completed in 2016.
The five bedroom home draws its inspiration from modern roots, expressed through the juxtaposition of heavy vertical and light horizontal planes highlighting itself as an amazing representation of sub-tropical architecture.
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It incorporates fine, elegant lines, sandblasted concrete, Spotted Gum timber and floor-to-ceiling glass.
The five bedrooms are located on one side of the property, the master suite complete with its own walking wardrobe and bathroom.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/11/13/The%20Nest%20Bardon%204.jpg" alt="">
The open plan kitchen, living and dining space opens to the swimming pool. There's also a gym, 1000 bottle wine cellar and a tennis court in the grounds.
The former Bardon record has stood since 2016 when a five bed home sold for $4.55 million.
 
 
 
 
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