The Gold Coast economy has grown by 25 per cent since 2020/21 to surpass $55 billion, but perhaps the more significant story is what sits behind the headline number.

For decades, the Gold Coast has been viewed through the lens of tourism, lifestyle and population growth. The latest State of the City Report suggests that perception is increasingly out of step with reality.

Released by Invest Gold Coast, the report ranks the Gold Coast as Australia's largest non-capital city economy and, perhaps more notably, second nationally behind Sydney for Economic Complexity, a measure that assesses the diversity and sophistication of an economy.

It's a result that places the Gold Coast ahead of Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, highlighting the extent to which the city's economic base has broadened beyond its traditional industries.

Today, the Gold Coast supports more than 350,000 jobs, is home to over 83,000 businesses and generates $19 billion in annual exports. Manufacturing now accounts for 62 per cent of international export growth, while sectors including health, education, advanced manufacturing, technology and professional services are becoming increasingly important contributors to the local economy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the report confirmed the city's evolution into one of Australia's most significant economies.

"The Gold Coast economy continues to grow at an incredible pace. This is no surprise to those of us who have watched the evolution up close," Mayor Tate said.

"As one of the most entrepreneurial, investment driven and opportunity focused economies in the country our ambition has been realised and possibilities are endless.

"The Gold Coast has built a reputation as the city that says yes. We say yes to investment, yes to opportunity and yes to people who want to build something.

"It's this mindset helping us drive major growth across health, advanced manufacturing, screen production, marine, technology and the knowledge economy."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149670 project_image_fid=360975]

While population growth has been one of the defining stories of the past decade, the report points to a broader economic transformation taking place.

The city's knowledge economy now contributes $7.9 billion annually and supports around 31,000 jobs, while the health and wellbeing sector contributes $5.2 billion and employs more than 42,000 people. Together, the six priority sectors identified in the report account for almost $24 billion in economic output and more than 145,000 jobs.

One of the strongest examples is the Gold Coast Health and Knowledge Precinct at Southport. The 200-hectare precinct now contains more than $5 billion worth of health, education, research and innovation infrastructure and supports over 16,000 jobs.

The report also highlights the growing role of advanced manufacturing, particularly in aerospace, defence and modular construction.

Gold Coast-based Gilmour Space Technologies recently became the first Australian commercial company to attempt an orbital launch, while companies including Modscape and ModnPods are helping establish the Yatala-Stapylton corridor as one of Australia's fastest-growing advanced manufacturing hubs.

The city's entrepreneurial culture is also translating into business growth.

Since 2019/20, the number of businesses operating on the Gold Coast has increased by 22 per cent, while firms employing more than 200 people have grown by 80 per cent. The report suggests the next challenge is converting more local start-ups and medium-sized businesses into nationally significant companies.

Development activity remains another key indicator of confidence.

There are currently more than $23 billion worth of major projects underway across the Gold Coast, supported by a record 75 active cranes, a figure that now exceeds Brisbane and represents a 150 per cent increase since 2016.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112024 project_image_fid=343235]

Importantly, the report notes the next phase of investment will need to extend beyond residential development.

While 93 per cent of crane activity is currently tied to housing, Invest Gold Coast argues future investment will increasingly need to focus on cultural, civic, infrastructure and industry-enabling projects that strengthen the city's long-term economic resilience.

Invest Gold Coast Chair Will Hodgman said the city was now benefiting from years of economic diversification.

"What is happening on the Gold Coast is the result of the city's economic base broadening, fuelled by industries with long-term, high-growth potential," Mr Hodgman said.

"This is no longer a secondary Australian economy, the Gold Coast is becoming a globally connected city with deeper capability across health, knowledge and creative industries, advanced manufacturing, technology and exports."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108274 project_image_fid=365786]

Looking ahead, the Gold Coast's population is projected to exceed one million residents by 2046.

For a city that was once largely defined by tourism and lifestyle, the latest figures suggest the Gold Coast is becoming something more significant, one of Australia's most diverse and economically sophisticated urban economies, and increasingly one that national and international investors can no longer afford to overlook.

Joel Robinson

75 cranes, $23 billion pipeline and a $55 billion economy: Inside the Gold Coast economic boom

Ron Bakir's Homecorp has sold more than 75 per cent of the apartments in its wellness-driven Florence Residences in Surfers Paradise following its first weekend release.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/florence-residences-24-monte-carlo-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">26-storey project on Monte Carlo Avenue</a>, which commenced construction earlier this year, has seen a flurry of buyers secure their slice of the Gold Coast's latest wellbeing-focused offering in one of the nation's most competitive property markets.

Since the pandemic, the Gold Coast's population has grown by more than 11 per cent, a rate approximately four times faster than Sydney's, driven largely by lifestyle changes and interstate migration. While buyer activity has moderated in some markets nationally, demand for newly built dwellings on the Gold Coast continues to gain momentum as purchasers increasingly prioritise lifestyle, amenity, wellbeing, liveability and long-term investment potential.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372743]

Homecorp CEO Ron Bakir says buyers today are looking for more than just a home.

"What we are seeing is a shift in how people define value in property," Bakir says.

"What attracts residents to new developments is a desire for more than just a residence. They are looking for a place that complements their lifestyle, supports their wellbeing and reflects the way they want to live into the future.

"Lifestyle, longevity, proactive health, wellbeing, connection and a sense of community are increasingly shaping purchasing decisions, particularly on the Gold Coast, where these factors continue to be a major drawcard."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372744]

Bakir says Homecorp is responding to this shift through an approach that places greater emphasis on design, amenity and experience working together to create places that feel considered, connected and enduring in value.

Inspired by Eastern European design, Florence Residences will comprise 120 apartments alongside a private residents-only wellness club featuring a resort-style rooftop pool, hot and cold plunge pools, a spa retreat, contemporary gymnasium, and a spacious yoga and Pilates studio.

The development will also feature a residents-only lounge with private dining facilities and a rooftop bar, premium outdoor entertaining areas, a hotel-style lobby lounge, generous bike parking, and pet-friendly amenities including a heated dog wash.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150414 project_image_fid=372742]

A limited number of apartments remain available, with an exclusive collection of four-bedroom sub-penthouses set to be released in the coming months.

Florence is one of the latest additions to Homecorp's expanding multi-billion-dollar property portfolio, which also includes plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/homecorp-lodges-plans-for-260-million-moroccan-bathhouse-inspired-tower-in-budds-beach">$260 million development in Budds Beach</a> tailored to the growing wellness market.

A development application has been lodged for a 27-storey, 156-residence tower at 8–10 Acacia Avenue and 25–27 Oak Avenue, featuring a residents-only Moroccan spa-inspired sanctuary.

Apartments at Florence Residences are priced from $1,249,000, with construction expected to be completed by late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150414]

Buyers rush to Homecorp's Florence Residences as Gold Coast wellness trend gains momentum

The NSW Government has expanded its $1 billion Pre-sale Finance Guarantee program, broadening access for affordable housing providers and smaller residential developments as it seeks to accelerate housing delivery across the state.

The Minns Government says the program has already helped bring forward more than 600 homes across Sydney and regional NSW since launching in September 2025, with similar models now adopted in South Australia and Western Australia.

The latest changes, announced by Treasurer Daniel Mookhey and Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully, are designed to improve access to finance for projects that have planning approval but are struggling to secure funding.

Among the key changes is an expansion of support for community housing providers. The program will now support up to 100 per cent affordable housing projects valued at up to $30 million when delivered by not-for-profit providers, while support for larger affordable housing developments will increase for projects worth up to $80 million.

The government says the changes will help accelerate the delivery of housing for low-income workers, older people, people living with disability, and those at risk of homelessness, while reducing reliance on direct grants or subsidised loans to bridge funding gaps.

The eligibility criteria for smaller residential developments have also been broadened. The previous $5 million minimum project value threshold has been removed and replaced with a requirement that projects deliver at least four homes.

Support has also increased for projects delivering fewer than 20 homes, with the guarantee now able to cover up to 75 per cent of dwellings in a development, capped at $30 million per project.

The changes are expected to particularly benefit smaller-scale and regional developments, which often face greater challenges meeting pre-sale requirements imposed by lenders.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the scheme demonstrates how government can use its balance sheet to stimulate housing supply without relying solely on taxpayer-funded grants.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee shows how this Government is using its balance sheet to reduce risk and unlock private investment, enabling new homes to move from design to construction faster," Mookhey said.

"This landmark reform allows us to deliver homes for working families at a lower cost to taxpayers, while also maintaining strong financial discipline."

Planning Minister Paul Scully said the program had already proven effective in bringing stalled projects to market.

"The Pre-sale Finance Guarantee has already proven it can unlock stalled projects and accelerate housing delivery by giving lenders the confidence they need to back good developments," Scully said.

"These changes will allow more affordable housing and smaller developments to access support so more homes can be built faster where communities need them most."

Housing Minister Rose Jackson said the expansion would help community housing providers overcome financing barriers that often delay projects.

"We know community housing providers are ready to build more homes, too often they're held back by barriers to finance," Jackson said.

"Expanding the Pre-sale Finance Guarantee helps remove those barriers so more affordable homes can get off the ground sooner."

The announcement was welcomed by the Property Council of Australia, which has long advocated for measures aimed at improving project feasibility and access to finance.

Property Council NSW Executive Director Katie Stevenson described the expansion as a practical intervention that addresses one of the most immediate constraints on housing delivery.

"This is exactly the kind of practical intervention we need right now, focused on getting projects out of the ground, not just approved," Stevenson said.

"It builds on a model the Property Council has worked closely with government to develop following calls for such a scheme ahead of last year's NSW Budget, so it's great to see it being expanded."

Stevenson said the reforms would help unlock projects that are ready to proceed but have been delayed by financing challenges. However, she noted that broader feasibility issues remain a significant barrier to increasing housing supply.

"The biggest challenge in NSW housing today is delivery. Too many projects have planning approval but are simply not financially viable to proceed under current settings," she said.

Speaking at the Property Council's NSW Housing Summit, Housing Minister Rose Jackson acknowledged that feasibility and financing pressures continue to constrain housing delivery, while reaffirming the government's commitment to work with industry on solutions.

Stevenson said the government's recognition of those challenges was encouraging ahead of next week's state budget.

"It's positive to see the government clearly recognising that feasibility pressures are now a binding constraint on supply," she said.

"With the Budget just days away, the focus must be on backing delivery, making sure projects stack up, finance can flow, and more homes can move from approval to construction."

The expanded Pre-sale Finance Guarantee forms part of the NSW Government's broader housing agenda, which also includes planning reforms, the NSW Housing Pattern Book, and a series of rezonings intended to increase housing capacity across the state.

NSW expands Pre-sale Finance Guarantee to unlock more affordable and regional housing

Design-led developer-builder Lowe Living has unveiled its latest residential development, Jardin House, marking its first foray into Melbourne's blue-chip City of Boroondara.

Located a short walk from Camberwell Junction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House</a> has been designed to appeal to affluent local downsizers and established families seeking a low-maintenance alternative to the large homes that have long defined Camberwell and surrounding suburbs.

The project will comprise a collection of two and three-bedroom apartments ranging from 92 sqm to 280 sqm, alongside a limited number of penthouse residences featuring rooftop terraces spanning more than 100 sqm, with optional private pools.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372212]

Lowe Living Co-Founder and Managing Director Tim Lowe said Camberwell represented a natural next step for the developer as it expands into some of Melbourne's most tightly held residential markets.

"Jardin House is an important project for our team as it marks the next evolution of our portfolio into different well-established blue-chip pockets of Melbourne," Lowe said.

"Camberwell, with its incredible walkability, family-led neighbourhood feel and superb access to education and transport, makes it a natural choice for us."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372227]

Designed by Tristan Wong Architects, with interiors by Hecker Guthrie and landscaping by Acre, the development takes inspiration from the Art Deco architecture that remains a defining feature of many of Camberwell's established streets.

A curved facade, arched openings, textured brickwork and sculpted forms reference the suburb's architectural heritage, while extensive landscaping softens the building's presence and creates a strong connection to the surrounding tree-lined streetscape.

The project will be set behind a secure gated entrance, with residents arriving through landscaped gardens designed to create a transition between the public realm and private residences.

Inside, the residences feature natural stone and timber finishes, full-height glazing, Miele appliances and generous open-plan living areas designed for long-term owner occupation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372225]

While the apartments themselves have been designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers, it is the amenity offering that sets Jardin House apart from many other boutique projects currently launching across Melbourne.

The centrepiece is a 350 sqm private bathhouse curated in partnership with Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse founder Lyndall Mitchell.

The wellness precinct includes mineral pools, hydrotherapy experiences, a Himalayan salt room, sauna, steam room, cold plunge pools and dedicated relaxation spaces, creating what Lowe Living describes as a private wellness retreat exclusively for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146717 project_image_fid=372222]

The collaboration follows Lowe Living's recent partnership with Aurora at Maison Savoy in Brighton, although Jardin House is the first project to incorporate both indoor and outdoor wellness experiences.

Emma Lowe, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Lowe Living, said wellness was becoming an increasingly important consideration for apartment buyers.

"Collaborating with Lyndall Mitchell from Aurora Spa &amp; Bathhouse for a second time is an intentional nod to creating residences that are more than just homes, but a way to enrich the lives of our residents through wellness and longevity," Lowe said.

The amenity offering is complemented by a Technogym fitness studio, residents' lounge, private dining spaces and concierge services.

The launch comes as developers increasingly target Melbourne's established eastern suburbs, where rising land values, ageing housing stock and growing downsizer demand are creating opportunities for boutique apartment projects.

Lowe said the company expects significant generational wealth transfer across suburbs such as Camberwell in coming years, creating further demand for luxury apartment living.

"Camberwell is a blue-chip suburb where homes regularly transact for multiple millions of dollars," he said.

"The generational change of wealth in these locations expected in the coming years is significant, so we see an opportunity to create exclusive residences that appeal to older families and downsizers in order to meet this demand."

Apartments at Jardin house start from $1,195,000. The project forms part of Lowe Living's near-$1 billion portfolio of new developments across Melbourne.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146717]

Lowe Living launches Jardin House in Camberwell

As <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/north-sydney-nsw-2060">North Sydney</a> continues its transition from a commercial centre into a more layered residential and lifestyle precinct, a new generation of apartment developments is reshaping expectations around scale, amenity, and long-term liveability.

Improved transport connections through the Victoria Cross Metro, continued investment in dining and public spaces, and a constrained supply of new luxury apartments have sharpened demand for homes that combine proximity to the CBD with the privacy and outlook traditionally associated with harbourside houses.

At 177 Walker Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/aland">ALAND</a>’s new apartment development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-walden-north-sydney-177-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">The Walden</a> enters the market with a distinctly residential approach to high-rise living. The 30-level tower will deliver 161 residences, ranging from one-bedroom apartments through to sub-penthouses and a full-floor penthouse, all oriented to capture uninterrupted views across Sydney Harbour, the Opera House, and out toward the Pacific Ocean.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6395]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project takes advantage of the site’s natural topography and elevated position above the harbour. Rather than relying on density alone, the architecture focuses on outlook, orientation, and spatial flow, with every apartment occupying a corner position to maximise natural light and cross ventilation.

Rothelowman says the site itself shaped much of the architectural response.

“The site has a long history in terms of its inevitable transformation and when we came in, we took inspiration from the idea of reestablishing a sense of the site’s natural terrain and fall. Our scheme aims to integrate with the terrain and the landscape, using the undulating site to slowly reveal glimpses and views of the harbour. The rotation of the tower off grid means every apartment has a view and is naturally cross ventilated. The building's colour palette is quintessentially Sydney, with bronze and sandstone and a luminescent green colour in the glass, making it very earthy and grounded in its location.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6399]

Inside the residences, the emphasis moves toward larger-format living typically associated with standalone homes. Kitchens sit at the centre of the apartments, connecting directly to open-plan dining and living areas before extending outward into expansive winter gardens and balconies. Calacatta marble, bespoke joinery, integrated appliances, and custom metal detailing are used throughout, while three distinct interior palettes, Terrace, Opera, and Harbour, allow buyers to personalise the spaces without compromising the architectural consistency of the project.

The larger residences place particular attention on separation between entertaining and private zones. In many apartments, master suites occupy the outer corners of the floorplates, allowing bedrooms to benefit from floor-to-ceiling glazing and harbour outlooks independent of the living spaces. Dressing rooms and ensuites continue the material palette through fluted detailing, freestanding baths, and layered stone finishes.

Rothelowman says the design intent centred on creating homes that feel enduring rather than transient.

“Our philosophy is all about the way people live in these spaces, and we wanted to create homes that reflect the quality of life in this unique Sydney location. The apartments showcase expansive living spaces that are generous, sophisticated, and bold, with the ability to connect with views throughout each apartment.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=353235]

A separate four-storey amenity building known as The Pavilion expands the residential offering beyond the apartments themselves. Positioned alongside the tower, the building consolidates wellness, recreation, and social spaces into a dedicated resident retreat. Facilities include a 20-metre rooftop pool and sundeck, sauna, spa, ice bath, wellness studio, gymnasium, concierge service, wine cellar, residents’ lounge, private dining spaces, and dedicated co-working areas with meeting rooms and boardroom facilities.

The amenity mix reflects the buyer profile emerging in North Sydney, where owner-occupiers and downsizers are increasingly prioritising convenience, apartment scale, and long-term usability over purely investment-driven decisions.

The Walden also represents a significant milestone for ALAND, marking the company’s first major move into Sydney’s inner-city luxury apartment market after more than two decades delivering large-scale residential communities across Greater Sydney. Founder Andrew Hrsto says the Walker Street site stood apart because of both its positioning and its rarity.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134323 project_image_fid=6390]

“As a company, we had been searching for a site in one of Sydney’s blue-chip locations, spanning the Eastern Suburbs, the Sydney CBD and the North Shore, and when we had the opportunity to purchase this site, we immediately recognised that it could be something iconic.”

At launch, The Walden recorded more than $103 million in sales, with buyers drawn to the project’s harbour positioning, apartment scale, and proximity to the Metro, which now connects North Sydney to Barangaroo in three minutes and Martin Place in five.

ALAND has commenced construction, and is expecting a completion date in 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134323]

The Walden pairs house-scale living with North Sydney connectivity

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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A modern Northwood home built on land dating back to before the suburb got its name, has been listed for sale.
The four bedroom Private Road home (above and below) sits on 665 sqm that was once part of the Northwood House Estate, an early land purchase in the area.
The three level home features a number of living and dining spaces which opens to the outdoors.
An alfresco deck overlooks the leafy garden.
Belle Property Lane Cove agent Simon Harrison for an August 31 auction with a guide of $3.9 million.
It is being sold by Guy Freeland, who sits on the board of directors at UTS Insearch, and his wife Lyn, a retired occupational therapist.
<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/2019/8/7/Northwood%202.jpg" alt="">
They paid $3.5 million for the home in 2008 but are now set to downsize given their kids have flown the nest.
The home sits on land that was once the original Northwood House Estate.
Northwood House, which was built a few doors down on Private Road, was the first house built in the area. The suburbs name derives from Northwood House.
It was a substantial sandstone residence built in 1878 for Jane Davy.
It was designed by the Architect, Edmund Blacket (best known for his designs of The University of Sydney and St Andrews Cathedral).
Mrs Davy bought the 34 acres of land in 1874 and later added another 11 acres to her holding.
After Mrs Davy's death in 1903, the home and estate (divided into 48 blocks) were put on the market.
Northwood House was purchased by Mr. Abdul Wade from Bourke NSW, who used it as a depot for his camels.
Mr Wade lost the home in a poker game. 
A number of prominent families have owned Northwood House since then. During World War II, it was used by the owners as a school for mentally-handicapped children.
 
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wdavis-8cCN98p7xp

Northwood trophy home listed for $3.9 million

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Commonwealth Bank, the nation's biggest home lender, continues to cut its exposure to interest-only loans.
In June 2018, 30% of their loan book was made up of interest only loans. By December 2018 it was 26% and now it is 22%.
Home loans arrears only nudged 0.01% higher to 0.68% from December to June.
The percentage of home loans in negative equity has jumped from 3.3% in June last year to 4.5%.
CBA chief executive Comyn says overall they feel like the housing market is starting to stabilise and may slightly improve from here.
"We see modest price increases and a modest increase in credit growth overall.
"We also believe that unemployment is likely to stay low.
"Clearly as we look forward, making sure there’s some sort of increase in household income, and of course, an increase in sentiment for both consumers and businesses, is going to be very important in the future economic period."
<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/2019/8/7/CBA%20Home%20Loan%20balances.jpg" alt="">
CBA announced profits of $8.5 billion in their full year 2019 results, down 4.7 percent from the year before.
Matt Comyn said the decline was driven by an extra $1 billion in remediation given out over the year, as well as "elevated risk and compliance spend."
He suggests however the company's core franchise is continuing to perform "very well."
"The key takeaways from my perspective are we’re making very good progress on becoming a simpler and better bank," Comyn said.
"Our home lending balances are up 4% which is above the system.
"Our business lending is also up 4% and we’ve continued to see strong transaction deposit growth of 9% for the year.
"Our overall result of $8.5 billion is down 4.7%. So that cash net profit after tax is of course subdued and it’s been impacted by higher remediation costs of almost $1 billion during the course of the year, as well as elevated risk and compliance spend."
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

CBA continues to reduce its exposure to interest-only home loans

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Internationally-renowned architect, Glenn Murcutt has been commissioned by 95-year-old Australian charity Royal Far West, to design the approved masterplan for its beachfront headquarters at Manly. 
Mr Murcutt (pictured left) will work closely with accomplished architect and designer, Angelo Candalepas (pictured middle) of Candalepas Associates, to create a campus for Royal Far West, to allow the charity to grow its work for country kids in need and future-proof its service for the next 100 years.
RFW CEO, Lindsay Cane AM (pictured right) says “Our vision is to deliver a beautifully integrated health and wellbeing “campus” that is inclusive, open and innovative – one that draws different people and local businesses together as a community to support our work of bringing vulnerable country kids to the beach to receive specialist health services while enjoying the warm hospitality of the local community.
“We chose to partner with Glenn and Angelo as they represent iconic, accomplished architectural talent for an iconic site – not only are they globally acclaimed, but Glenn, as a former local, intimately knows the micro-climate, light and landscape of Manly."
Mr Murcutt said he was excited to partner with RFW on their joint vision for the transformation of the site.
“Having grown up in Clontarf and attended the former Manly Boys High School, I’ve been well aware of the great service provided by RFW over many decades and have recently seen the challenges they face with their growing service demand,” he explained. 
“By opening up the site, Angelo and I intend to deliver on RFW’s inspired vision of a wellbeing campus that will not only help secure RFW’s future in a highly responsible way, but also allow the charity to grow and help more and more country children. 
“We are also aligned with RFW in that we see this commission as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to give back to Manly by supporting local jobs and existing businesses and improving the Manly visitation experience. By rejuvenating the southern portion of this site, we intend to unlock its great potential.”
Murcutt is the visionary behind a portfolio of landmark projects, including the Arthur and Yvonne Boyd Education Centre (in collaboration with Wendy Lewin and Reginald Lark), Australian Islamic Centre, Australian Islamic Mission Mosque (in collaboration with Hakan Elevli), and most recently the MPavilion (with assistance from Jonathan Temple), which is to be installed in Melbourne's Queen Victoria Gardens this summer.
Candalepas’ long history of awards includes the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) Sulman Medal for Public Architecture in 2009 and 2018, the Frederick Romberg National Architecture Award in 2011, the Seidler Award for Commercial Architecture in 2016 and the Aaron M Bolot Award for Residential Architecture four times. In 2016 he was also awarded the Premier’s Award for Architecture in NSW.
When asked for clues regarding their design for the campus, Mr Candalepas advised:
“We feel a deep responsibility for RFW and Manly and their shared history, and this site, this client and this brief are all incredible – Glenn and I are both nervous and excited about the possibilities latent in this context.
“Architecture is only ever able to be created in context and through a deep understanding of history, and this collaboration can be imagined as something able to produce extraordinary outcomes, but there is a need for a reticence in the approach, a need for a quietness and a deeper need for understanding essential parts of the landscape.” 
Ms Cane also explained the importance of the project to RFW.
“We have a unique understanding of the often-harsh realities of country life, where the growing prevalence of behavioural, mental health, speech and language challenges, coupled with a gross inequity of services between city and country, is driving the unrelenting demand for our services,” she said.
 “RFW is expanding rapidly in an effort to meet the rising challenge of country kids in need – in the last 10 years we have grown ten-fold in terms of the numbers of people we have supported.
“In the next 10 years we will have a greater challenge again – in addition to expanding our footprint we’ll also be investigating ways the campus can provide co-locating opportunities for organisations aligned with our values as well as residential, retail and commercial opportunities that will safeguard the charity’s future for the next 100 years.
 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Architect's Glenn Murcutt's vision for Royal Far West’s new Manly campus

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Award winning Melbourne developer <a href="/developers/beulah">Beulah International</a> has officially submitted the planning application for Southbank by Beulah to the Victorian Government last Friday. 
With the proposed City Road and Southbank Boulevard location, the application details plans to transform the current BMW Showroom site into a world class, multi-use development that sets a new benchmark in liveable city design.

The ‘vertical village’ concept will introduce Melbourne to a welcoming and functional mixed use precinct underpinned by creativity and cultural innovation that will support The City of Melbourne’s ‘Future Melbourne 2026’ plan. 
The stunning structure composed of two twisting terraced forms with a design led by acclaimed Dutch firm <a href="/architects/unstudio">UNStudio</a> and local firm <a href="/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, is a refinement of the winning ‘Green Spine’ concept from the 2018 Southbank by Beulah global architecture competition. Selected by the competition jury, chaired by Victorian government architect Jill Garner, the 10 months of dedication to refining and enhancing the original design showcase Beulah’s passion towards the project.

The updated <a href="/news/southbank-by-beulah-the-winning-design-for-australias-tallest-tower-revealed">Southbank by Beulah</a> has a strong emphasis on placemaking, with the 270,000sqm mixed use lifestyle precinct to host:

<ul>
<li>Four distinct collections of private residences</li>
	<li>35,000sqm of commercial offices</li>
	<li>A 220-key five star urban resort</li>
	<li>6,600sqm of conference and entertainment centre</li>
	<li>A children’s play centre</li>
	<li>A health and wellness precinct</li>
	<li>30,000sqm of world class experiential retail including the BMW Experience Centre</li>
	<li>7,250sqm of public green spaces including the Future Sky Garden</li>
	<li>13,500sqm of arts and culture programs</li>
</ul>
 
The projects world class consultant, Beulah International Managing Director Jiaheng Chan said the project team are thrilled with the finished concept and are excited to collaborate with all stakeholders on the next phases of Southbank by Beulah.

“We have worked closely with both the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning​ ​and the City of Melbourne and are inspired by their vision for Southbank. We believe this project will significantly support the wider transformation of the area by creating a green, active, connected urban environment that invites and encourages an enjoyable experience for both residents and visitors.

“We look forward to working alongside all parties to play a part in unlocking the area’s true potential and solving the urban pedestrian realm by creating a green and culturally vibrant Southbank.” 

Southbank by Beulah begins its journey with a proposed 4,000sqm fresh food marketplace at street level. Through a series of stairs and stepped terraces, the unfolding pathway leads to the first of seven podiums to which offer an exciting experiential retail space where collaborations and experiences will offer a changing and seasonal expression of the intersection between art, technology, culture, fashion and design.

On the first level, a progressive and versatile conference and entertainment venue will amplify and expand to the cultural offering of the already dynamic Southbank Arts Precinct.

“We see this project as an extension of the famous Arts Precinct and we are already in discussions with prospective prominent local and international art collaborators to create an experience to complement the current arts offering,” said Jiaheng. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/beulah_sbb_greenspine_podium.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Norm Li"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="821" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/beulah_sbb_greenspine_podium.jpg?itok=rSC-PScv" title="Norm Li" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Norm Li</figcaption></figure> 
An elevated civic square is at the heart of the project with a childcare, cultural podium and wellness precinct connected together within a public realm to give Melbournians and visitors a space of creative play, reflection and recreation. A network of external and internal artwork commissions will deliver new engaged and activated spaces for residents, visitors and workers, enhancing the quality of Southbank.

Southbank by Beulah is dedicated to the city’s wellness with the square home to a central garden; a true urban oasis set to become Australia’s first sequence of green terraces trailing to the top of the building. It is at this point that the two twisting forms emerge with the shorter of the towers to encompass a new type of workplace, with flexible commercial offices comprising of both indoor and outdoor green terraces. 
The new generation five star urban resort with generous gardens will give guests the luxury of experience and integrate people with nature within the city environment. The tower then culminates with a world-class rooftop culinary experiences, with sweeping views above the Yarra River of the <a href="/developments/melbourne-vic">Melbourne</a> skyline. 
 

Australia’s love of the backyard lifestyle is not lost with double height pocket parks throughout the towers and a myriad of connected communal spaces to inspire social integration and environmental consciousness. The main tower is crowned by a publicly accessible ‘Future Sky Garden’ showcasing innovative landscape technologies and offering spaces of opportunities for creativity. 
With Beulah’s focus and dedication to the community, the submission outlines the use of greenery and plants which will be uniquely prominent on the Melbourne skyline, as a way to enhance the quality of life of its residents, using vegetation to mitigate winds, filter noise, dust and carbon dioxide.

As Melbourne continues to grow at an unprecedented rate, Beulah embarked on an extensive global study tour in late 2018 and early 2019 to explore some of the world’s most inspiring architecture and design to further understand how leading global cities have approached the regeneration of urban areas.

“Our project is a vote of confidence in Melbourne's economy, and it will transform Southbank. It's our vision to improve the urban environment on City Road and create an internationally significant landmark that will be a vibrant mini metropolis for people to live, work, shop, learn, play and stay,” said Jiaheng.

 

For more information on Southbank by Beulah, please visit ​<a href="http://%E2%80%8Bwww.southbankbybeulah.com%E2%80%8B.">www.southbankbybeulah.com​.</a>
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Nick Dante

Beulah International submits planning application for Southbank by Beulah

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The PwC-audited listed rural property trust, Rural Funds Group saw its shares plunge nearly 50 percent today.
The $335 million wipeout in just under the first 30 minutes of trade came after it was targeted in a report by the US-based short-seller Bonitas Research.
The rural company now has a market capitalisation of $455 million, compared to total declared assets of $802 million and net assets of $532 million.
<div class="_1665V undefined">
Bonitas's previous damaging report was on Blue Sky Alternative Investments last year. 
"Evidence suggests that RFF’s reported profitability had included $28+ million of fabricated rental income paid to RFF by its two largest third-party lessees," the report posted on the Bonitas web site suggested.
The Texan group claimed the "fabricated" rental income of $28 million was by RFF's two largest third-party lessees, almond producers Select Harvests (ASX: SHV) and Olam Orchards.
RFF immediately moved into an ASX trading halt to later update its ASX-listed real estate investment trust unit holders.
Late afternoon Rural Funds Management managing director David Bryant hit back at the negative report.
Bryant said Rural Funds had contacted ASIC on Tuesday morning to “invite them to take a look at all our records."
It is also looking for another accounting firm to examine its accounts. 
Bryant said the A-REIT's accounts are "100 percent accurate."
RFG owns more than $900 million worth of agricultural assets including almond and macadamia orchards, vineyards, water rights and cattle farms.
It is managed by the privately owned Rural Funds Management Ltd.
</div>
<div class="_1ysFk">
<div class="_1665V undefined">
The short-seller calculated that RFF had overstated its net assets by 100 percent.
It suggested the company's true net assets figure was $268 million as of December 31, 2018 which would put RFF in breach of its minimum $400 million net asset loan covenant.
"And as we have laid out in this report, we believe nearly 100 per cent of RFF’s reported profits since FY’17 are attributable to either fabricated rental income or non-cash gains from dubious fair value changes applied to RFF’s assets," it said.
<div class="eAxAf AkZ3C">
<div>
The stock had dropped 99c to $1.36 in its early trade, with its resumption in. trading set for this Thursday.
The company completed a $149 million capital raising in July last year.
</div>
<div class="_1665V undefined">
It was last in the headlines when the rural property trust bought Cobungra Station (pictured) for $35 million earlier this year.
Cobungra Station – one of Victoria's largest and most prestigious high-country beef breeding enterprises – was sold for only the third time in 100 years.
The $35 million deal secured the 6486-hectare alpine beef property at the foot of Mount Hotham, plus more than 24,000 hectares of adjacent grazing licences.
 
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
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Rural Funds Group under attack from Bonitas Research short selling hit

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Property values are set to rise by August 2020 across the nation, according to Finder, Australia’s most visited comparison site.  
In the latest <a href="https://www.finder.com.au/" target="_blank">Finder</a> RBA Cash Rate Survey™ experts and economists gave their forecasts on 12-month change of property prices in Australia’s capital cities.
The experts, on average, now anticipate the property market will be on the way up over the next year.
Graham Cooke, insights manager at Finder, said it’s too soon to tell if this is an emerging recovery in the housing market or merely a ‘dead-cat bounce’.
“Most economists surveyed foresee small levels of growth across the board, but a few tipped prices to tumble, especially in Sydney and Melbourne where one expert predicted a 7% drop."
“Whether you see this as a falling feline or the beginning of a true rebound, it’s clear that the full effects of the RBA’s recent cuts have yet to play out."
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/8/6/Finder%20-%20August%206%20-%203.JPG" alt="">
“However, after one of the strongest weekend clearance rates in Sydney in recent months (71%), there is definitely a detectable pulse,” Cooke said.
Canberra came out on top with a 2.27% predicted growth on average, followed by Hobart (2.19%) and Brisbane (1.81%). Cooke said those considering getting on the property ladder need to get their ducks in a row. “Prospective first time buyers should look at arranging <a id="LPlnk812745" href="https://finder.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=cc5e9bce699fa1d71a67cf499&amp;id=5f88598f50&amp;e=f2176dbcf8" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer" data-auth="NotApplicable">pre-approval</a> for finance soon if they want to take advantage of low rates before prices increase.” With rates at an all-time low, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) held the cash rate at 1.00% for the first time in three months.  Nearly all (96%, 44/46) experts surveyed predicted the hold, although up to two more cuts are likely by the end of the year. 
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/8/6/Finder%20-%20August%206%20-%204.JPG" alt="">
Cooke said people might be missing a trick by not considering a fixed-rate loan. “We’ve seen a lot of very low fixed-rate offers hitting the market of late, some as low as 2.79%. " “Fixed rates may be well worth considering – as we’ve never seen rates this low – but the best path may be a <a id="LPlnk383356" href="https://finder.us9.list-manage.com/track/click?u=cc5e9bce699fa1d71a67cf499&amp;id=aaf3510eb8&amp;e=f2176dbcf8" target="_blank" data-auth="NotApplicable">split loan</a>." “Think of this as the best of both worlds: if rates drop you get some of the benefits and if they increase you only get part of the pain." “Even if you’ve been on a variable loan for five years, it’s not too early to refinance with rates at a record low,” Cooke concluded.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/8/6/Finder%20-%20August%206%20-%205.JPG" alt="">
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Experts tip property prices to rise in every capital city: Finder

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The former matrimonial home of legendary boxing trainer Johnny Lewis has been listed by his ex-wife Ingreed Rojas.
There’s a $2.8 million price guide on the 1900 renovated house in Marrickville.
The four bedroom, Federation home sits on a 441 square metre holding, which overlooks Enmore Park.
It is being taken to auction on August 17.
The property became solely owned by Rojas in early 2017 having been bought by the couple in 2007 for $955,000.
Lewis has worked with six world champions over his career, most notably Jeff Fenech and Kostya Tszyu.
This article was last published in the Saturday Daily Telegraph. 
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firstname1-iYD4UYzvBa

Legendary boxing trainer Johnny Lewis's former Marrickville home listed

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Stand-up comedian Carl Barron has sold his remaining Potts Point apartment.
Barron offloaded his $5.5 million luxury 16th-level unit in the Rockwall Apartment complex two months ago, and he has now quietly sold his nearby investment apartment for $2.8 million.
It's been bought by the local Waples family, who live in nearby Elizabeth Bay.
<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/2019/8/12/barron%201%201.jpg" alt="">
It is in the Mirvac-built Ikon high-rise tower, which has been caught up in the combustible fire panel controversy.
He previously called the two-bedroom apartment home, having paid $1,825,000 in 2008.
It became a $1500-a-week rental in 2013, after he spent $4 million on the Rockwall apartment.
The no-frills funnyman, just back from a recent European tour that included Oslo, Antwerp and Amsterdam, may spend more time in the Southern Highlands, where he has an 8 hectare hideaway at Mount Murray, which cost $1,755,000 in 2017.
He once said that if he had more time, he’d take up birdwatching.
This article was first published in the Sunday Telegraph. 
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Comedian Carl Barron sells second Potts Point apartment

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The Victorian Government program tackling high-risk cladding has appointed Dan O’Brien as its chief executive.
Cladding Safety Victoria (CSV) was established by the Labor Government to oversee a $600 million program of rectification works on hundreds of buildings across Victoria found to have high-risk cladding.
O’Brien will lead the agency as it manages the funding and works with owners corporations from start to finish to make sure buildings are safe and compliant with all regulations.
The establishment of a dedicated cladding agency was a key recommendation of the Victorian Cladding Taskforce, which has worked with the Victorian Building Authority (VBA) to conduct a global cladding audit of buildings.
O’Brien has experience in the public and private sector, most recently as Chief Executive of Incolink – delivering services to Victoria’s building and construction industry.
He’s also held executive roles at the National Australia Bank and Medibank Private, and senior roles in both the Victorian and Federal governments – including Chief Executive of Regional Development Victoria and Deputy Secretary of the Department of Regional Development, Arts and Sports (Federal).
He was also Chief of Staff to former Victorian Premier John Brumby and is currently a Director of VicTrack and the Brodies Law Foundation.
O’Brien will report to Victorian Building Association Chairman Dr Owen Donald when he starts in the role this month.
The Victorian Government is also set to introduce new design standards for the outside of apartment buildings, to ensure new developments are built to a "high-quality, and improve the look and feel of local neighbourhoods".
In 2017, the Labor Government introduced the Building Better Apartment design standards to ensure apartments have adequate daylight, storage, ventilation, acoustic performance, energy and waste efficiency.
The proposed changes will affect landscaping, external walls, vehicle access, site servicing, wind effects and the management of building construction impacts.
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Victorian Government appoints cladding safety CEO and proposes new apartment designs

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
Last week I travelled around a few cities and caught up with the directors from some of Australia's top Chinese developers and institutional investors.
Here is what I found:
<ol>
<li>Together these institutions invested over $1.75 billion AUD in residential development sites in the last FY;</li>
<li>In this FY, another $2.5-$3 billion is expected to be poured in;</li>
<li>Since 2017, most of Australia's Chinese developers are moving away from high density development (e.g. apartments) to low density (house and land in particular);</li>
<li>Institutional investors are looking for high-yield (8% or more) commercial properties occupied by major businesses or government tenants;</li>
<li>Half of Chinese developers in Australia are backed by banks in China (which are mostly state-owned);</li>
<li>None of them wants to be involved in Australian politics or donate anything to any political party;</li>
<li>Most of them prefer land without a permit because of cost and their willingness to be involved in every step of designs;</li>
</ol>
What's interesting, is that all of the top Chinese developers and institutional investors believe the property market is already bouncing back.
What caught their attention from GiFang.com is how we handle data - both property data and Chinese user data.
As the world's only Chinese property platform with both website and Android/iOS app that focus 100% on Australian real estate, we can track things like the percentage of Chinese users that looked at the listings, state by state.
By the way, this is what we found in July:
VIC: 29.4% of our users viewed properties in VIC
NSW: 27.9%
QLD: 21.0%
WA: 9.9% (fastest growing)
SA: 7.3%
TAS: 4.5%
ACT: 0% (no property on GiFang)
NT: 0% (no property on GiFang)
In total there are over 1.03 million visits in July, about 40% are from AU &amp; NZ.
Michael Yang 杨霄羽 is CEO of <a href="http://www.gifang.com" target="_blank">GiFang</a>. 
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