Apartment buyers in New South Wales are set to gain a decade of insurance-backed protection against major building defects, after the NSW Parliament passed the Fair Trading and Building Legislation Amendment Bill 2026.&nbsp;

The Bill establishes decennial defect insurance, known in the market as Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), as an alternative to the existing two-year strata building bond. It cleared the Legislative Council with amendments on Tuesday evening (August 4, 2026), with the Legislative Assembly agreeing to those amendments shortly after.

Under the reform, eligible developers can satisfy their statutory bond obligation by taking out an approved decennial-style policy that gives owners 10 years of cover for major structural defects from completion, claimable directly, without first having to pursue developers or builders through costly legal action.&nbsp;

The change forms the final tranche of amendments arising from the 2021 statutory review of the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 and related legislation.

Resilience Insurance, which originated the cover in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022, welcomed the passage and credited the NSW Government for delivering it.

“This is protection apartment buyers have needed for a long time, and the credit for delivering it belongs to the NSW Government,”&nbsp;said Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

“Minister Chanthivong and his team have shown real leadership in replacing an outdated two-year bond with cover that matches the lifespan of the buildings people are buying into. Reform like this is what good, evidence-based regulation looks like.”

Resilience has delivered LDI in NSW since 2022, protecting thousands of apartments, giving the State, and now the country, real-world evidence of how decade-long, no-fault protection works in practice.

The reform also places NSW within a wider national shift.

NSW is the third jurisdiction to put decennial cover into law. The ACT legislated for it in 2024, with the scheme taking effect in late 2025, and Victoria passed its own framework on 17 June. Between them, the three cover the majority of Australia's apartment market.

The reform commences once the legislation is proclaimed, which is expected in the coming weeks. From that point, developers of Class 2 residential apartment buildings can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial policy in place of the bond.

Buyers who purchased into projects that took out the cover early are among the first in the country to take keys to apartments carrying decade-long structural protection.

“With the legislation passed, the focus now turns to making it work for buyers,”&nbsp;Nugent said.

“There are already thousands of apartments in NSW covered by this insurance, bought by developers who moved early. The question every buyer should be asking in a display suite is a simple one: does this building come with 10-year defect cover, and who stands behind it?&nbsp;

“We look forward to working with the Government and the Building Commission in coming weeks as the framework moves to implementation, and to sharing what we have learned over the past four years so the protection reaches owners as smoothly and quickly as possible.”

Other states are working through their own reform programs. Western Australia has indicated that decennial cover is within consideration a later stage of its reform sequence, and Queensland has been examining the settings as it looks at the development pipeline ahead of the 2032 Olympics.

Resilience Insurance acknowledges the NSW Government’s continued focus on strengthening consumer protection while supporting housing delivery across the State.

Fast Facts: What the reform means

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Proven at scale:&nbsp;Decennial cover has operated in NSW since 2022, protecting thousand of apartments.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">10 years of cover:&nbsp;Protection for major structural defects runs for a decade from completion, claimable directly and with no legal action required.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">An alternative to the bond:&nbsp;Eligible developers can meet their statutory obligation with an approved decennial-style policy in place of the 2% strata building bond.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Part of a national shift:&nbsp;The ACT has had decennial provisions in force since 2025 and Victoria passed its framework in June. NSW now joins them.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">No-fault, first resort:&nbsp;Owners corporations claim directly from the insurer without first having to establish who is liable for the defect.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost-competitive:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the 2% bond while offering broader, longer protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market position:&nbsp;Resilience originated LDI in Australia and has delivered it in NSW since 2022.</li>
</ul>

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?

<ul style="color:#222222; font-family:Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:small; font-style:normal; font-variant-ligatures:normal; font-weight:400; text-align:start; white-space:normal; background-color:#ffffff; text-decoration-thickness:initial; text-decoration-style:initial; text-decoration-color:initial">
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI):&nbsp;Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Consumer-first:&nbsp;Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Cost advantage:&nbsp;At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.</li>
	<li style="margin-left:15px; font-family:Aptos, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size:12pt; color:#000000">Market leader:&nbsp;&nbsp;Resilience Insurance originated LDI in Australia and is the national market leader.</li>
</ul>

Joel Robinson

NSW parliament passes 10-year defect insurance laws for new apartment buyers

Builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mcnab-developments">McNab</a> has wasted little time reshaping one of South Brisbane's most significant undeveloped apartment sites after acquiring the property earlier this year.&nbsp;

McNab has lodged plans to scrap an existing approval for two 30-storey towers and instead deliver a single 28-storey residential building, preserving part of the site for a future development opportunity.

The proposal, lodged over <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-peel-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">64 Peel Street and 9 Cordelia Street</a>, is for a residential-led mixed-use development comprising 124 apartments above a landscaped podium, alongside a boundary realignment that preserves part of the land for a future residential project.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="743bf564-3f8f-45fc-b8d3-bbf18f5b628f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20Peel%20st%20podium.png?VersionId=EhCxGrVn_VFH3qTbKnI4WppGwaMnOn0t" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>, the development will deliver 119 two-bedroom and five three-bedroom apartments across 23 residential levels. A five-level podium will accommodate 135 car spaces, while the ground floor will include a 66 sqm commercial tenancy, an activated residential lobby with work-from-home spaces, and a publicly accessible landscaped plaza linking Cordelia and Peel streets.&nbsp;

Communal amenities will span Level 6 and the rooftop, including indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, a swimming pool, barbecue facilities, kitchen and dining areas, lawn space, sauna, steam room and yoga facilities.

The application also proposes a boundary realignment to create a standalone 1,290 sqm development lot while retaining an adjacent parcel for future redevelopment, allowing the balance of the site to contribute additional housing over time.

Hayball said the architecture has been shaped by the site's elevated corner position at the intersection of Peel and Cordelia streets and Brisbane's subtropical climate.

The design incorporates generous landscaped setbacks, a masonry podium wrapped with planting, large north-facing balconies, and a slender tower profile intended to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and long-range views. The rooftop has been conceived as a wellness-focused retreat overlooking Brisbane, with amenities positioned to capture views towards Mount Coot-tha and the CBD.

<img alt="First look: McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5f99e84-6ad8-4a87-82d1-869685b754d2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/mcnab%20tower%20perspective.png?VersionId=Gw0IuJaSAlk.tvGBxInhZOcQAdIB..2b" />

The planning submission positions the proposal as a response to both changing market conditions and Brisbane's Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning reforms.

McNab acquired the site after the previous approval was granted, with the existing scheme no longer reflecting current residential market demands, economic conditions, construction challenges, construction efficiencies or the quality of development outcome now being pursued, the planning report noted.

McNab continues to expand its residential development pipeline across Brisbane and the Gold Coast. The developer recently launched The Tannery in West End, securing more than 60 per cent of apartments before the project's public release. It is also delivering Elements Budds Beach in Surfers Paradise and Lucia Highgate Hill, an eight-apartment boutique development overlooking the Brisbane River.

McNab resets decade-old South Brisbane approval with 124-apartment tower

A steeply sloping Bellevue Hill site is set to accommodate a new mid-rise apartment development, with plans lodged for 20 homes that respond to the site's dramatic topography.

The proposal for the consolidated land at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/138a-140-bellevue-road-bellevue-hill-nsw-2023">138A-140 Bellevue Road</a> has been designed by Sydney architecture practice Common Office, which has used the site’s substantial fall to distribute the building’s scale and unlock 20 apartments without presenting the full height to the street.&nbsp;

“The unique design strategy leverages the site’s substantial topographical fall to facilitate increased density, presenting a seven-storey profile to Bellevue Road while rising to 10 storeys at the rear,” Common Office said in its architectural design report.

The apartment mix spans one, two, three- and four-bedroom residences. Four two-bedroom apartments are designated as affordable housing, while the plans also include two adaptable dwellings. The mix is majority three-beds, with the typical three-bed apartment offering around 144 sqm internally, with balconies of around 15 sqm.

The affordable housing component represents 15 per cent of the residential floor area and allows the project to access additional height and floor space under the NSW Government’s in-fill affordable housing provisions. The site also falls within the inner area of the Low and Mid-Rise Housing Policy because it is within 400 metres walking distance of Double Bay Town Centre.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1230d0f-3bfa-4a11-abaf-0928c66ef345" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da.png?VersionId=dZeMK3P.OutGjN8ycjsxm8uNsj_QFWQv" />

Common Office has arranged the building around a masonry podium and a lighter upper volume, drawing on two recurring elements of Bellevue Hill’s established architecture: sandstone bases and the vertical proportions of local Inter-war Art Deco apartment buildings.

“The proposal is governed by a holistic design language that reconciles the solid horizontal masonry of the neighbourhood’s podiums with the elegant verticality of its Art Deco heritage,” the architect said.

“The building maintains a consistent rhythmic logic utilising deep recesses and a sophisticated material transition to break down the 10-storey scale into a series of articulated, human-scale volumes.”

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0147f503-1af1-4d51-97fb-c2f1cba63a9d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20bldg.png?VersionId=GoW7q3NlK67OpnePXhk7zvklrlKb72Qc" />

Large-format sandstone tiles will define the lower levels, establishing a robust base that negotiates the change in elevation from Bellevue Road. Above, red-tinted precast concrete frames, recessed balconies, anodised aluminium screens and expanded metal details will create a more vertically expressed façade. Integrated planter beds will introduce greenery across balcony edges and recessed sections of the building.

The elongated northern façade has been divided into three recessed vertical masses to reduce its perceived length. Triangular window elements and metal privacy screens reference the geometry of nearby Art Deco buildings while controlling overlooking toward surrounding homes. The southern elevation will incorporate further privacy screening, landscaped edges and deep balconies to maintain light and ventilation.

<img alt="First Look: Plans lodged for topography-led affordable housing project in Bellevue Hill" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e8679cf1-18bc-4447-8a0f-0052b94ab83c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bellevue%20da%20rooftop.png?VersionId=5SQqQqRFf76rvE2p1TbxJSweMN70AIbc" />

Private and communal landscaping is distributed throughout the development. A landscaped garden apartment is positioned within the lower portion of the site, while a communal terrace on Level 5 will include a central timber deck, barbecue facilities, resident planting plots and areas for outdoor dining and informal gatherings.

Common Office described the terrace as an elevated sanctuary designed to capture district views and sunlight. Its planting strategy incorporates endemic species associated with the Eastern Suburbs Banksia Scrub, extending the landscape vertically through the building and providing habitat for local flora and fauna.

A second communal outdoor area is proposed at roof level, with built-in seating, paved gathering areas and perimeter planting.

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction. Positive Investment Enterprise is delivering the 16-apartment Kew Palm House on Birriga Road, while Chanine Developments is also under construction at Florian, a 36-apartment project on Banksia Road.

&nbsp;

Bellevue Hill is enjoying renewed momentum in the new apartment market, with several boutique developments recently launched and currently under construction.

First Look: Apartment development pitched for Bellevue Hill, Double Bay fringe

South Brisbane's apartment pipeline continues to build momentum, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/trk-property-group">TRK Property Group</a> lodging plans for a 161-apartment tower on Montague Road as developers accelerate investment across the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

The proposal for 176–186 Montague Road would replace an existing office building with a 20-storey residential tower designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, adding to a growing pipeline of high-density projects reshaping one of Brisbane's fastest-evolving inner-city precincts.

The project has been conceived as a "living building", featuring a flowing tower form, extensive vertical landscaping, and generous communal spaces that respond to the evolving Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct.

TRK Property Group Development Director Matt Kan said the project reflected the confidence developers have in South Brisbane's long-term future.

"South Brisbane is entering an incredibly exciting period, and we see Montague Road sitting right at the heart of that evolution," Kan said.

"With the former Visy site directly opposite us and significant investment planned throughout the broader Kurilpa precinct, there is a real sense of momentum around this part of the city and what it will become over the coming years.

"For TRK, this is an opportunity to be part of that next chapter and deliver a project that responds to where the precinct is heading, while contributing to the continued evolution of Brisbane's river edge."

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="590fe1ad-f892-4446-a679-80e33a16d029" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20tower%20facade.png?VersionId=uOJStrcKpyHFcPE1w6_9SMAFzVMCcZll" />

The scheme includes a mix of one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, incorporating multi-purpose rooms in selected residences to provide additional flexibility for home offices or expanded living areas. The proposed mix comprises 15 one-bedroom, 13 one-bedroom plus MPR, 73 two-bedroom, 26 two-bedroom plus MPR, 30 three-bedroom, and four four-bedroom apartments.

Rather than adopting a conventional rectilinear tower, COX Architecture has developed a sculpted form inspired by the movement of the Brisbane River.

"The proposal has been designed by COX Architecture as a 'living building' that responds to the site's riverine setting, floodplain history and evolving urban context within the Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct," the planning report states.

"The architectural form draws from the fluid nature of the Brisbane River, with a curved and undulating tower form that creates a varied architectural edge and avoids a conventional rectilinear tower expression."

The podium has also been designed as an architectural feature rather than a conventional parking structure, with cascading planting, screening and natural-toned materials softening its appearance. Resident parking is elevated above ground level to address the site's flood constraints, while habitable apartments sit above flood planning levels. Upper-level communal facilities are designed to accommodate shelter-in-place arrangements during major flood events.

<img alt="First look: TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="01fa15d0-90df-46c7-9555-7941fc45373c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/TRK%20podium.png?VersionId=mHyua.w1pHGBt9qEdWzrlsv.leztUCwO" />

Communal amenity is a major focus of the proposal. Around 1,815 sqm of shared resident space is proposed across the ground floor, level 19 and the rooftop, including co-working areas, indoor and outdoor recreation spaces, wellness facilities, dining and gathering areas, lawn spaces, a rooftop pool and spa, and extensive landscaping. At street level, a landscaped forecourt and approximately 345 sqm of publicly accessible open space along Montague Road are intended to improve the pedestrian experience while activating the building's frontage.

The development will provide 163 car spaces, including 152 resident bays and 11 visitor spaces, together with 144 bicycle spaces incorporating resident storage, visitor parking, bicycle maintenance facilities and e-mobility charging infrastructure.

The site sits within one of Brisbane's fastest-changing inner-city precincts, less than two kilometres from the CBD and within easy reach of South Bank, West End, the Queensland Cultural Centre and extensive public transport connections. The Kurilpa Sustainable Growth Precinct planning framework is encouraging higher-density residential development to help meet Brisbane's housing supply targets while supporting walkable, transit-oriented neighbourhoods.

TRK Property joins South Brisbane apartment surge with Montague Road tower plans

Article summary

<ul data-end="785" data-start="311">
	<li data-end="459" data-section-id="5hbcyr" data-start="311">Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at Skye Kangaroo Point, headlined by a two-storey sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm.</li>
	<li data-end="561" data-section-id="1p7lq8n" data-start="460">Early buyer interest suggests the residences could set a new Queensland apartment price record.</li>
	<li data-end="667" data-section-id="1y70z0l" data-start="562">The collection includes four move-in ready penthouses and the highly customised Skye One residence.</li>
	<li data-end="785" data-section-id="yvm0y1" data-start="668">The release caps one of Bri​sbane's most ambitious luxury apartment developments overlooking the Brisbane River.</li>
</ul>

<hr data-end="790" data-start="787" />
Pikos Group has released the five-penthouse collection at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye by Pikos</a> development in Kangaroo Point, with early buyer interest indicating the flagship residences could eclipse every apartment sale previously recorded in Queensland.

The collection crowns the luxury riverfront development with five residences, including four completed penthouses and Skye One, a two-level sky home spanning more than 1,000 sqm that will be tailored to its eventual owner.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374075]

Wanting to offer a fully customisable home, Pikos is offering Skye One as a blank canvas, allowing the buyer to work alongside the developer's design team to customise the home's layout, finishes and internal spaces.

The residence will feature a 247 sqm private rooftop terrace with its own swimming pool, sauna, steam room, outdoor kitchen and multiple entertaining areas overlooking the Brisbane River and CBD skyline.

The remaining four penthouses have been completed and are ready for immediate occupation, each offering four bedrooms, expansive open-plan living areas, soaring ceilings and private lift access.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374059]

One of the defining features throughout the project is its use of Roman Classic Travertine, with more than 20,000 sqm of the natural stone imported from Italy after being personally selected by Pikos Group Founder and Executive Director Pedro Pikos, interior designer Julie Williamson and third-generation stone specialist Mario Caucci.

Pikos said the penthouse collection represented the culmination of the company's long-term vision for Skye.

"True legacy isn't measured by what we build today, but by what endures tomorrow," Pikos said.

"Our ambition is to create places that become more valuable with time, enrich the lives of generations, and stand as timeless landmarks long after we've stepped away."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=90059 project_image_fid=374060]

Williamson said the interiors were inspired by the natural character of Kangaroo Point and the Brisbane River rather than international design trends.

"Materiality tells the story of a place," Williamson said.

"We looked to the movement of the Brisbane River, the texture of the cliff face and the warmth of the surrounding landscape to create interiors that feel understated, enduring and unmistakably Brisbane."

Positioned above the Kangaroo Point cliffs, Skye places residents within walking distance of Howard Smith Wharves, South Bank and James Street while offering uninterrupted river and city views.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=90059]

Brisbane's next apartment price record? Pikos unveils Skye's exclusive penthouse collection

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?

Supermarket giant Coles and local developer Dimas Property Group have teamed up to create one of the most connected new apartment developments in Melbourne’s leafy Balwyn.

The partners secured a prime site on Whitehorse Road, opposite Balwyn Park and in the prized Balwyn High School catchment area.

They appointed the in-demand architecture firm <a href="/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> to design <a href="/new-apartments/white-weston-balwyn-village-259-281-whitehorse-road-balwyn-vic-3103">White &amp; Weston</a>, just 45 two, three and four-bedroom apartments across a low-rise three-level building set in gardens by the equally sought-after landscape architect <a href="/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo</a>. The apartments will sit above a full-line Coles, offering the ultimate convenience for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136850 project_image_fid=343596]

The apartments overlook Balwyn Park, home to an AFL oval, kids playground, tennis club and bowling club.

Cera Stribley Interior Design Director, Jessica Coulter, said the homes were designed to feel personal and functional, with materials selected to reflect a connection to nature.&nbsp;

“We really understand what goes into creating a truly amazing home,” Coulter said. “We’re always looking for those individual moments that make a space special.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136850 project_image_fid=343582]

Each residence is fitted with Miele appliances, Signorino stone finishes, Block flooring, and Great Dane lighting.&nbsp;

Private terraces and rooftop gardens were designed to act as extensions of the living areas, offering additional usable space for residents.

“We’ve had some really generous outdoor spaces to work with,” Coulter added. "The communal roof garden is an expansion of the individual homes."

The 655 sqm residents garden, curated by Jack Merlo, feature a mix of native and exotic plantings, delivering year-round greenery opposite the park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136850 project_image_fid=343581]

Each home is optimised for energy efficiency under Sustainability Victoria’s Whole of Home Initiative—reducing costs and environmental impact.

White &amp; Weston is also optimised for energy efficiency under Sustainability Victoria’s Whole of Home Initiative, reducing running costs and environmental impact.

Security and convenience are also top of mind, with basement parking equipped with number plate recognition technology and a BESS (Built Environment Sustainability Scorecard) rating 10 per cent above industry average.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136850 project_image_fid=343584]

Each apartment is sold with a six-year building guarantee and 52-week defect coverage. An incentive offer for early buyers via Apartments.com.au includes a complimentary whitegoods package for the first three purchasers.

Marshall White Projects Director Liam Adey says early interest has come from empty nesters, professional singles, and young couples.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136850]

Marshall White Projects Director Liam Adey says early interest has come from empty nesters, professional singles, and young couples

Coles and Dimas Property Group launch White & Weston in Balwyn Village

<a href="/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> and Hankyu Hanshin Properties have received development approval for the sixth stage in Melrose Park’s urban renewal masterplanned community in Sydney’s north west.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="/architects/group-gsa">GroupGSA</a>, Aeris is the most visionary stage yet in Melrose Park. The two 20 and 24-level towers, significantly higher than what has come before in the Melrose Park masterplan, will feature 468 apartments. There will also be a smaller&nbsp;seven-level building atop a common basement podium.&nbsp;

'Aeris' derives its name from the Latin word 'aer,' meaning 'air.' The name captures the essence of the limitless sky and expansive vistas that this stage offers. Aeris embodies a sense of openness, symbolising boundless possibilities and the freedom of vast, open spaces.&nbsp;

It is the latest realisation of Sekisui House Australia’s vision at <a href="/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a>, where apartments reach new heights in design, craftsmanship and amenity, offering sweeping city views and a home that will continue to reward now and into the future.

<img alt="Aeris, Melrose Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2359a181-4aab-43ae-9ec8-abe730989645" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Aeris_Stage%206_3.jpg?VersionId=ikUui099uVJUabG_TDbxjUsIqfPCe_JO" />

Alex Grujovski, Project Director – Apartment &amp; Mixed-Use Developments at Sekisui House Australia, said development approval for Aeris represents an exciting chapter in the evolution of Melrose Park in transforming the former industrial precinct.

"This stage reflects our commitment to creating sustainable, vibrant communities that enhance the lives of residents and contribute in a positive way to the environment,"&nbsp;Grujovski said.

“Aeris will redefine urban living with cutting-edge design, sustainability features and lifestyle amenities. Apartments will be spacious, modern and equipped with smart home technology, including digital keyless entry and remote-controlled lighting.”

<img alt="Aeris, Melrose Park" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9c231665-f25c-476a-99b3-cae38074235b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Aeris_Stage%206_2.jpg?VersionId=_VIwX3ybdIlqnHpbV2WWYTwKfObvkcaM" />

Residents will enjoy premium facilities including a rooftop pool and recreation deck designed in collaboration with ASPECT Studios, offering panoramic views over the masterplan. Additional amenities include communal alfresco BBQ/dining areas, a fully equipped gym and secure parking.

Aeris will enhance Melrose Park’s connectivity through pedestrian pathways, internal road networks and access to parks, the future Town Centre and key transport links. A publicly accessible through-site link will connect residents with future amenities.

The first apartments in Aeris are planned to be released in Q2 2025, with construction anticipated to commence in late 2025 and completion slated for 2027.&nbsp;

Sekisui House Australia’s $5 billion Melrose Park project is set to transform into a thriving new community upon completion, significantly enhancing the housing supply in the north-west of Sydney with 5,500 homes, a commercial and retail town centre and extensive parklands.&nbsp;

Over 52,000 sqm of green open spaces have received development approval in Melrose Park, comprising Central Park (17,586 sqm, soon to be renamed), Wharf Road Gardens (19,960 sqm), and Western Parklands (15,102 sqm), providing expansive green spaces for the growing community.&nbsp;

The first apartments in Aeris are planned to be released in Q2 2025, with construction anticipated to commence in late 2025 and completion slated for 2027

Sekisui secures approval for Aeris, next stage at $5 billion Melrose Park masterplan

<a href="/developers/lewis-land-group">Lewis Land Group</a> has officially launched the next release within its landmark Gold Coast masterplan, Harbour Shores.

The new release, Palm House, builds on the momentum of the first stage of the Biggera Waters community, which is already under construction and over 50 per cent sold.

Palm House introduces an exclusive collection of just 60 two and three-bedroom apartments across a seven-level building. These homes feature open-plan interiors, expansive balconies, and contemporary finishes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=336743]

Generously sized kitchens with large islands, seamless indoor-outdoor flow, and secure basement parking with additional storage underscore the thoughtful attention to detail.

Every apartment embraces <a href="/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters">Harbour Shores</a>’ signature coastal palette of soft tones and organic textures, maximising natural light and enhancing the serenity of its waterside setting.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=290044]

Residents of the new release will enjoy full access to Harbour Shores’ unmatched suite of resort-style amenities. The community boasts a 25-metre lagoon pool, a state-of-the-art gym, yoga studio, sauna, tennis courts, and an expansive 1.2km waterfront boardwalk.&nbsp;

For families and outdoor enthusiasts, The Green parklands and a network of walking and cycling paths provide abundant green space to relax and play.

The Clubhouse, a social hub with indoor-outdoor entertaining spaces, will anchor community life. On-site cafés and eateries, as well as proximity to Harbour Town Premium Outlets, ensure day-to-day convenience with a lifestyle edge.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=290031]

As part of Lewis Land’s long-term sustainability vision, the entire Harbour Shores precinct – including this latest release – is targeting a 6 Star Green Star rating.&nbsp;

Eco-conscious initiatives include solar energy, EV charging infrastructure, water-retention systems, and the planting of over 200,000 native and tropical species across the site.

Apartments in the new release start from just under $1 million. Limited marina berths are also available.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Apartments in the new release start from just under $1 million. 

Lewis Land unveils Palm House, Harbour Shores latest stage

Local South East Queensland builder-developer Gardner Vaughan Group has kicked off another in a long line of new mixed-use developments in Brisbane's inner ring.

This time they're developing in Nundah, where the family-run business has called its HQ for over a decade.

They've just put shovel to ground on <a href="/new-apartments/danby-lane-nundah-village-5-danby-lane-nundah">Danby Lane</a>, a mixed-use commercial and residential development just of 84 two, three and four-bedroom apartments that will sit above a series of retail and commercial spaces. As a sign of trust in what they deliver, <a href="/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan</a> will relocate their current <a href="/developments/nundah-qld-4012">Nundah</a> office to one of the commercial spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112531 project_image_fid=320117]

GVG Commercial Director, Sam Gardner, said the ground-breaking is "about building momentum."

“Danby Lane represents our commitment to delivering places with purposes, designed for real people living real lives right here in Nundah," Gardner says.

"As a long-standing, family-owned builder and developer based in Nundah, we are committed to keeping our neighbours and surrounding residents informed of every step relating to the build of Danby Lane. Transparency and open communication are key to delivering a project that respects and enhances the community we’re proud to be part of.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112531 project_image_fid=340186]

Simon Betteridge, CEO of GVG, described Danby Lane as more than just an apartment complex, calling it a "lifestyle destination."

“Our vision for Danby Lane goes beyond just building apartment homes, we’re creating a community," Betteridge says.

"Having called Nundah GVG’s home for over a decade, we wanted this development to reflect the spirit of the area - where history, modern living and a strong sense of connection come together. A key part of this vision was to create a new gateway to Nundah, acting as a landmark for the area and contributing to its ongoing revitalisation.

The project’s brick arch façades are a respectful nod to Nundah’s architectural past, while establishing a striking, modern identity for the future.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112531 project_image_fid=320114]

The 12-level building will feature a&nbsp;vibrant ground-floor retail and an array of resort-style resident amenities, including a pool, gym, function room and rooftop recreational area with sweeping city views.

Brisbane City Councillor Adam Allan reinforced Council’s support for urban renewal that aligns with long-term sustainability and liveability goals.

“Danby Lane will bring fresh energy into the heart of Nundah,” Councillor Allan said.

“It’s a smart, community-first development that reflects the way locals want to live, walkable, connected and full of life.”

Construction of Danby Lane is now underway, with completion anticipated in 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112531]

The 12-level building will feature a vibrant ground-floor retail and an array of resort-style resident amenities, including a pool, gym, function room and rooftop recreational area with sweeping city views

Gardner Vaughan kicks off construction at Danby Lane, Nundah

Until now, it has been nearly impossible to obtain a Passivhaus home without building one yourself.

C. Street Projects has collaborated with award-winning Neil Architecture to bring the world’s best standard for energy efficiency to Melbourne’s leafy Hawthorn.

These rare three-bedroom homes are continuously ventilated with fresh, filtered air, significantly reducing allergens and pollutants in the home.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112386 project_image_fid=338634]

Designed to maintain a comfortable 23 degrees during all seasons of the year while using 70 per cent less energy than a typical Victorian home, the Passivhaus-certified homes are also incredibly quiet, thanks to triple-glazed windows, straw panel insulation, and intelligent airtight membranes. Additionally, they are equipped with EV chargers, PV solar, and battery storage, operating as net zero energy buildings for the ultimate sustainable lifestyle.

Kin Seng Choo and Michael Robertson, the duo behind C. Street Projects, have spent the last five years developing a method and design approach to scaling certified Passivhaus projects suited to the unique challenges of Australian conditions.

“Australians should have access to sustainable homes built to global best practice. Turnkey homes certified to the Passivhaus standard provide that independent verification and surety of quality,” says Choo.

“Passivhaus certification is the exemplary benchmark for high-performance building, recognised globally. While relatively new in Australia, this model is well established in Europe, the United States and Canada. The guaranteed performance from its stringent certification process is a major selling point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112386 project_image_fid=338637]

C. Street is committed to improving the quality of buildings with international best practices and innovates approaches that pair architectural design with excellent performance.

“It has been a challenge to deliver Passivhaus certification consistently and reliably because there is a rigorous testing and commissioning process at the end.

We’ve worked tirelessly on our approach to ensure this can be done at scale. Living in a Passivhaus is an awesome experience. It will change your perspective on what’s important in a home – away from surface finishes, to focusing on what’s under the hood and what true comfort really means,” says Robertson.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112386 project_image_fid=338647]

Choo says great architecture and material finishes must be paired with energy-efficient design and the quality of execution.

"Building your own certified Passivhaus is daunting, but now <a href="/buildings/echo-hawthorn-360-auburn-road-hawthorn">ECHO</a> provides a brand new, turnkey solution available to the market. Buyers have a choice."

Jellis Craig Projects Director, Stephen Bowtell, is marketing ECHO Hawthorn.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112386]

First certified Passivhaus homes in Australia complete in Hawthorn

Leading Australian developer and builder, Coronation Property Group, has officially broken ground to mark the start of construction at its new $250 million mixed-use residential and commercial development at Chatswood.

Located at <a href="/new-apartments/57-61-archer-street-chatswood">57-61 Archer Street</a>, close to the Chatswood Chase and Westfield Shopping Centres, the 32-level&nbsp;development has been recognised as a State Significant Development (SSD) by the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority (HDA). It will deliver over 150 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments.

Designed by global architectecture firm Woods Bagot, the project will also feature 2,500 sqm of retail and commercial space on the ground level, with a restored heritage building repurposed for fine dining, wellness facilities, and a communal landscaped open space for residents.

The sod turn event was led by Coronation’s Head of Urban Transformations, Aras Labutis, and attended by Coronation’s Executive and Development Teams; Project Partners and consultants, Urban Taskforce CEO Tom Forrest and the Member for Willoughby and Shadow Minister for Small Business and Shadow Minister for Fair Trading, Work Health and Safety and Building, Tim James.

<img alt="Coronation" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3809aa87-7bc1-48e2-abcb-a762e4f808e2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-04-17%20at%203.14.07%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=iRs0eUwAZukpOkxAY11FzRiltnHE0oJ_" />

Coronation’s Managing Director Joe Nahas said he was proud that the Chatswood project represented Coronation’s first move into Sydney’s bustling North Shore market.

"We’re excited to mark the start of works on our new mixed-use development in the heart of Chatswood,” Nahas said.

“The close proximity to two major shopping centres, health services, eateries, the Chatswood Concourse arts and entertainment venue, schools, and major transport hubs, will create a vibrant, accessible new community for those looking to move to the heart of the Chatswood CBD.

"Our apartments will also offer local essential health and retail workers the opportunity to live in a beautifully designed apartment close to where they work, alleviating long commute times for them.

Nahas said&nbsp;Coronation is proud they are ‘on the ground’, continuing to deliver a solid pipeline of quality new apartments in activated, well-connected areas across Sydney.

Up to 400 jobs will be created through the life cycle of the development which is expected to be completed by Q1 2027, contingent on SSD planning approvals.

Coronation’s Managing Director Joe Nahas said he was proud that the Chatswood project represented Coronation’s first move into Sydney’s bustling North Shore market.



Coronation Property Group breaks ground at new Chatswood apartment development

Gold Coast-based builder-developer MAYD has officially started construction on its landmark project, One Burleigh, a collection of ultra-luxury full-floor residences overlooking&nbsp;Burleigh Heads.

<a href="/new-apartments/one-burleigh">One Burleigh</a>, located at 88 The Esplanade, will comprise 16 full-floor residences, each offering expansive oceanfront living with unmatched privacy. Construction is being undertaken by MAYD in partnership with Formplus, with completion expected by summer 2026.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323054]

“In times of economic uncertainty, tangible assets like high-quality real estate continue to offer stability and long-term value,” Todd Mould, Director of MAYD, said.

“Stock markets around the world may be fluctuating, but real estate – particularly at the premium end – remains one of the most resilient and proven long-term investment avenues. Our commitment to delivering exceptional residences like One Burleigh reflects our confidence in the enduring appeal of the Gold Coast’s luxury property market.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323056]

MAYD’s portfolio of prestigious developments includes the nearly completed Prominence in Mermaid Beach, a $35 million boutique apartment building featuring eight luxury residences. Additionally, the company has received approval for a $350 million mixed-use development in North Kirra, encompassing a five-star hotel and 60 premium private residences.

“MAYD focuses on carefully chosen, handcrafted projects,” Mould added.

“Every development we take on is selected with intention — where location, design, and quality lead the way. Our ambition is that anyone who buys a MAYD-built product can genuinely feel the care, craftsmanship and commitment we bring to every detail.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323052]

The apartments in One Burleigh have been designed by&nbsp;MAS Architecture Studio and will each feature&nbsp;four bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and three car spaces. Internal living areas span up to 381 sqm, complemented by generous outdoor spaces, culminating in total floor plans of up to 425 sqm.

“One Burleigh is more than a residence; it’s a sanctuary that offers an exclusive lifestyle experience,” Mould said.

“Our vision is to create homes that harmonise with the natural beauty of Burleigh Heads while providing the utmost in luxury and comfort.”

Residents will enjoy uninterrupted panoramic ocean views through floor-to-ceiling glass, maximising natural light and sea breezes. The design emphasises wellness, featuring serene coastal landscaping and exclusive access to a residents’ spa and lounge.

Nearly 50 per cent of the apartments have already been snapped up. Prices are starting from&nbsp;$8.85 million and rise to $15 million plus.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146358]

&nbsp;

“One Burleigh is more than a residence; it’s a sanctuary that offers an exclusive lifestyle experience,” MAYD Director Todd Mould said.

MAYD kicks off construction of ultra-luxury ONE Burleigh apartment development in Burleigh Heads

TOGA is making great strides in the construction of its&nbsp;latest Macquarie Park apartment project, <a href="/new-apartments/macquarie-rise-122-herring-road-macquarie-park">Macquarie Rise</a>.

The iCIRT-rated builder-developer has installed the first crane on the Herring Road site, which by mid-2027 will home 265 apartments and 5,000 sqm office and retail space across three towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89243 project_image_fid=242696]

Anthony&nbsp;Falas, Head of Sales at TOGA, says&nbsp;<a href="/developments/macquarie-park-nsw-2113">Macquarie Park</a> continues to show strong fundamentals for both investors and owner-occupiers, offering a vibrant community and exceptional connectivity.

"The sales success of Macquarie Rise reflects the outstanding design, premium amenities, and prime location of the project," Falas says.

"The strong market demand for our high-quality, flexible apartments underscores the trust in TOGA’s ability to deliver exceptional living spaces."

Over 25 per cent of sales have come from previous purchasers or referrals from those purchasers.&nbsp;Over 100 of the apartments were sold off the plan within weeks of launch last year.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89243 project_image_fid=242698]

Designed by Turner Studio with interiors by Stack Studio, Macquarie Rise draws inspiration from hospitality design to create homes that are elegant, functional, and adaptable.

Many apartments include a versatile multi-purpose room – an increasingly popular feature as residents seek flexible spaces to accommodate home offices, studios, or nurseries.&nbsp;

Future residents will enjoy exclusive access to Club Rise, which features a 20-metre rooftop lap pool, a business lounge with bookable meeting rooms, a gym and yoga studio, and even a karaoke and cinema room – all designed to support a balanced and connected lifestyle.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89243 project_image_fid=310789]

Macquarie Rise is strategically located within walking distance of Macquarie University, Macquarie Centre, and the Metro Station, enabling direct access to Sydney CBD and Barangaroo in under 20 minutes via the newly opened Metro line.

As TOGA advances toward vertical construction, excitement continues to build around the precinct’s contribution to Macquarie Park’s evolution as a thriving urban village.&nbsp;

The $400 million development – being delivered in partnership with Baptist Union NSW and Morling College – is set for completion in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=89243]

Anthony Falas, Head of Sales at TOGA, says Macquarie Park continues to show strong fundamentals for both investors and owner-occupiers, offering a vibrant community and exceptional connectivity

TOGA installs first tower crane at Macquarie Rise as construction gathers pace

The Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games are already shaping the future of the Sunshine Coast, with surging demand for homes at <a href="/new-apartments/sol-by-walker-maroochydore-first-ave-maroochydore">SOL by Walker</a> in the Maroochydore City Centre driven by the Queensland &nbsp;Government’s roadmap to 2032.&nbsp;

Demand for the apartment collection at SOL by Walker has soared with more than half of the first release already secured, reinforcing strong buyer confidence in the region’s future.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319846]

<a href="/developers/walker-corporation">Walker Corporation</a> Group Executive of Development Peter Saba said the team has seen strong enquiries &nbsp;for homes in the heart of the City Centre.&nbsp;

“The Queensland Premier’s recent announcement, including the proposed Maroochydore Horizon Centre &nbsp;precinct in their Brisbane 2032 Olympics Plan will provide a major boost to residents and businesses in the <a href="/developments/maroochydore-qld-4558">Maroochydore</a> City Centre and the entire Sunshine Coast region,” Saba said.&nbsp;

“The flow on effect is already being felt with many buyers looking to secure their future home or investment &nbsp;in SOL by Walker as a prime opportunity to live in one of Australia’s most exciting coastal cities, capitalising &nbsp;on the region’s liveability, accessibility and world-class infrastructure plans.”&nbsp;

“We are seeing a cross section of buyers purchase at SOL by Walker, from First Home Buyers to professional &nbsp;couples and families looking for exceptional quality and high-end amenities, along with great access to a brand-new City Centre and all just minutes from the beautiful beaches of the Sunshine Coast.”

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147777 project_image_fid=319848]

The proposed landmark $1 billion Horizon Centre development will feature a multi-purpose arena, 1,400-bed athlete village and a five-star hotel, delivering a long-lasting Olympic and Paralympic legacy for the Sunshine Coast.&nbsp;

<a href="/news/qld/walker-corp-continue-sunshine-coast-evolution-with-olympic-scale-sporting-precinct">The Horizon Centre</a> will establish a vibrant civic, cultural and entertainment precinct integrated with the new WAVE transport system which will run through the Maroochydore City Centre and into the Sunshine Coast Airport.&nbsp;

The next-generation transport solution ensures SOL by Walker residents enjoy seamless access to key destinations across the Sunshine Coast and Brisbane, making city living more convenient than ever.&nbsp;

<img alt="Horizon Centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0122dd90-68c0-4e22-ab93-fc2f15f930c8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Artist%27s%20impression%201%20-%20Cultural%20Precinct.jpeg?VersionId=dSJ70tmAyM_MonhAZhm122ugeIjLBjlF" />

“The Horizon Centre precinct will not only host Games action but will provide a lasting post-Games legacy, including a high-quality restaurant and entertainment district providing the Sunshine Coast with a world-leading venue for concerts, events and cultural experiences well beyond 2032,” Saba said.&nbsp;

SunCentral CEO Amanda Yeates said Maroochydore City Centre has become an economic powerhouse for the Sunshine Coast.

“In 10 years, we have seen Maroochydore City Centre transformed from a golf course to the makings of a real city, and with incredible projects underway all around us at SOL by Walker, 50 First Avenue, Maroochy Private Hospital and now new legacy infrastructure, the next decade is shaping up to be even bigger,” Ms Yeates said.&nbsp;

Maroochydore Chamber of Commerce President Brendan Bathersby welcomed the major boost for the region.&nbsp;

“There has never been a more exciting time to be on the Coast, with major legacy infrastructure shaping our future, boosting the local economy and anchoring Maroochydore City Centre as a connected, world-class city for generations to come,” Bathersby said.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=147777]

Olympic infrastructure fuels residential boom in Maroochydore City Centre

Developer <a href="/developers/figurehead">Figurehead Group</a> is offering to pay the full stamp duty for buyers who purchase an apartment at Osprey in Safety Beach before Easter 2025.&nbsp;

The limited-time incentive applies to newly completed residences at the Martha Cove development and represents a potential saving of up to $82,000, depending on the purchase price.

<a href="/buildings/osprey-safety-beach-15-martha-cove-boulevard-safety-beach-vic-3936">Osprey</a> is now fully complete, allowing purchasers to settle and move in immediately.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138447 project_image_fid=290616]

Located at 15 Martha Cove Boulevard, Osprey is an award-winning apartment development delivered in collaboration between builder-developer Figurehead and <a href="/architects/wolveridge-architects">Wolveridge Architects</a>, renowned for their work across the Mornington Peninsula.

The residences have been designed to maximise natural light and ventilation, with each apartment positioned to capture sea breezes and views of the surrounding coastal environment.&nbsp;

Interiors feature natural textures and tones, including timber finishes, breezeway paving, and soft green accents intended to reflect the local landscape.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138447 project_image_fid=290741]

A central landscaped courtyard sits at the core of the development, incorporating sculptural concrete elements inspired by the cliff faces of the peninsula’s shoreline.

Osprey has already attracted attention from local and Melbourne-based buyers, drawn to its rare harbourside location, thoughtful design, and strong investment potential.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138447 project_image_fid=290632]

Osprey offers 18 two and three-bedroom apartments, positioned close to the harbour at Martha Cove.&nbsp;

While primarily offering a harborside lifestyle, Osprey is located just a seven-minute drive from the sand at <a href="/developments/safety-beach-vic-3936">Safety Beach</a> and only eight minutes from Mount Martha Public Park. With views over Port Phillip Bay and Arthur's Seat, the 53-hectare park offers extensive walking trails connecting the picnic area to the summit and viewing tower.

The project is positioned as part of a broader precinct renewal and is one of the few newly completed developments in the area currently offering incentives of this kind.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138447]

Buyers of completed apartments at Osprey in Safety Beach could save up to $82,000 if they purchase before Easter, with the developer covering the full cost of stamp duty.

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