<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/perifa">PERIFA</a> have celebrated the topping out of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf,</a> marking a significant milestone in the delivery of one of Syd​ney's most anticipated waterfront communities.

Located on Sydney's harbourfront at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/putney-nsw-2112">Putney</a>, the project has now reached its highest structural point, with construction progressing strongly towards completion in 2027. 
&nbsp; 
The milestone was celebrated on-site with project partners Phoenix Property Investors, Mitsubishi Estate Asia, Versatile Construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, consultants and stakeholders, to recognise the collective effort behind the transformation of the historic waterfront site into a vibrant new residential, marina and lifestyle destination.

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&nbsp; 
<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will deliver a mix of waterfront residences and terraces, complemented by a private 36-berth marina, waterfront dining opportunities and a revitalised foreshore designed to reconnect the community with the river's edge. 
&nbsp; 
Abadeen Executive Chairman and Founder Justin Brown said the project represented a rare opportunity to create the next chapter in Sydn​ey's long history of successful waterfront precincts. 
&nbsp; 
"Throughout Sydney, some of the city's most sought-after addresses have emerged from carefully considered waterfront precincts such as Woolloom​ooloo Wharf, Walsh Bay and Breakfast Point," Brown said.

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&nbsp; 
"What makes these places so successful is that they become much more than residential developments," Brown said.

"They bring together homes, hospitality, marina facilities, public spaces and a strong sense of community in locations where future supply is incredibly limited."

Brown has long described absolute waterfront land in Sy​dney as "finite."

"Once these opportunities are developed, they are rarely replicated. That's why Syd​ney's waterfront precincts have consistently demonstrated strong demand and long-term value growth over many decades. 
&nbsp; 
"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is one of the few remaining opportunities to secure a residence within a masterplanned waterfront community that combines direct water access, marina ownership opportunities and a genuine village lifestyle just moments from the Sy​dney CBD."

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&nbsp; 
PERIFA Founder and Managing Director Fabrizio Perilli said the project reflected a shared commitment to delivering exceptional places that create long-term value for residents and the broader community. 
&nbsp; 
"The topping out milestone is a significant achievement for the Versatile Group and a testament to the collaboration between all project partners, consultants and contractors involved," Perilli said. 
&nbsp; 
"Beyond the residences themselves, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> will establish a new waterfront destination that celebrates the history, character and lifestyle of this unique location while creating a lasting legacy for future generations."

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&nbsp; 
Construction is being delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/versatile">Versatile Construction</a>, with structural works now substantially complete across the precinct. Attention will progressively shift to the construction of the waterview terraces, apartment façades, services and interior fit-out works over the coming months. 
&nbsp; 
With limited residences and marina berths remaining, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> continues to attract strong interest from owner occupiers and downsizers seeking a premium waterfront lifestyle within close proximity to Putne​y Village, Rh​odes, Top Ry​de and the Syd​ney CBD. 
&nbsp; 
As one of the last opportunities to secure a residence within a new masterplanned waterfront community on Sy​dney Harbour, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/putney-wharf-harbourfront-precinct-20-waterview-street-putney-nsw-2112">Putney Wharf</a> is expected to remain a highly sought-after address for years to come.

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Joel Robinson

Abadeen, PERIFA, top out Putney Wharf harbourfront precinct

Kew has long been regarded as one of Melbourne's premier residential suburbs. It's a location defined by its grand period homes, leafy streets and some of the city's most prestigious schools, yet it has often sat just outside the spotlight cast on neighbouring Hawthorn and Camberwell.

Increasingly, however, buyers are recognising that Kew offers much of what draws people to those suburbs, with a quieter residential setting, exceptional amenity and long-term owner-occupier appeal.

Within a few minutes' walk, residents can access Kew Junction, one of Melbourne's most established village centres. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, supermarkets, boutique retailers and everyday services are all on the doorstep, with local favourites including Centonove, Adeney Milk Bar Cafe, and Frank &amp; Harri creating the type of walkable lifestyle that has become increasingly difficult to find in Melbourne's inner east. Beyond the immediate neighbourhood, Glenferrie Road's renowned shopping and dining precinct in Hawthorn and the retail, dining and entertainment offerings of Camberwell Junction are both just a short drive or tram ride away.

The suburb is equally well connected. Tram routes 48 and 109 provide direct access to the CBD, while High Street and Cotham Road connect residents to the wider inner east.&nbsp;Nearby access to the Eastern Freeway also places the Yarra Valley, Mornington Peninsula and Melbourne Airport within easy reach, adding another layer of convenience for weekend travel.&nbsp;It's a rare combination of connectivity and tranquillity, where quiet residential streets sit just moments from some of Melbourne's most established shopping and lifestyle precincts.

For families, Kew remains one of Melbourne's most tightly held addresses. Carey Baptist Grammar School, Xavier College, Methodist Ladies' College, Trinity Grammar, Ruyton Girls' School and Genazzano FCJ College are all nearby, while the Yarra River parklands, walking trails and sporting clubs provide another layer of lifestyle appeal.

It's within this established pocket that developer Ricdanic is delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/wimba-ave-kew-9-11-wimba-avenue-kew-vic-3101">Wimba Ave</a>, a boutique collection of just 13 residences across two buildings named after its location on the tree-lined Wimba Avenue,&nbsp;within one of Kew's most prestigious pockets where homes have been known to sell up to and above $8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=354809]

The residences prioritise the space that buyers are increasingly searching for but struggling to find in established suburbs. Living areas extend beyond five metres in width, ceiling heights range from three to five metres, and apartments open onto private gardens averaging around 125 sqm. Selected residences also feature balconies of approximately 60 sqm, while premium inclusions include Miele appliances, double-glazed windows, EV readiness, fully electric systems and a 7.2 NatHERS energy rating.

Architect Chris Idle says opportunities to deliver homes of this scale within established suburbs have become increasingly uncommon.

"There are very few opportunities to do these kinds of developments in leafy, established suburbs," he says. "To get this level of amenity, natural light, and architectural freedom in such a setting is extremely rare."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140755 project_image_fid=366267]

The architecture draws on Kew's established character through the use of handmade Krause bricks, while landscaping by John Patrick introduces 23 plant species, including nine native varieties, creating an environment which focuses just as much on nature as it does the building.

Construction on Wimba Ave is well underway by renowned high-end builder Sinjen, with completion expected in late 2027. Prices start from $2.22 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140755]

The enduring appeal of Kew's tree-lined streets and village lifestyle

"For me, it's the location." That was the first thing Chris pointed to when reflecting on why he and his wife Marita decided to purchase at Candela Ivanhoe, the under-construction new apartment development by Salter Brothers in the heart of the north-eastern M​elb​ourne​ suburb. ​

"We've lived here before… everything is here," Chris said.

"Our doctor is around the corner, there's dentists, pilates, everything we need, restaurants, fast food places, two train stations, Ivanhoe and Darebin, both in walking distance. You don't need anything else."

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Just 10 kilometres from Melbo​urn​e's CBD, Ivanhoe combines direct city connectivity with the amenity of an established village community. Residents have access to highly regarded schools, expansive parklands, public transport, and a thriving retail and hospitality precinct centred around Upper Heidelberg Road, all within a neighbourhood that has retained its leafy character despite its proximity to the city.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/candela-ivanhoe-40-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Candela Ivanhoe</a> sits within the heart of this established landscape, positioned just moments from Ivanhoe Village and within walking distance of many of the suburb's most sought-after amenities.

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From Candela, residents can access cafés, grocers, wine bars, restaurants and essential services on foot, while Ivanhoe Station and Darebin Station provide direct connectivity across Mel​bour​ne. The development is also surrounded by some of the suburb's best-known lifestyle destinations, including Pinkie, Laurent, Enni, Docasa and Woodfire Pizza e Cucina, alongside Ivanhoe Plaza, Woolworths, pharmacies and specialty retailers.

Green space is another defining feature of the suburb. Darebin Parklands, Ivanhoe Park, Nellie Ibbot Park and the Yarra River trail network provide extensive opportunities for recreation, while Ivanhoe Golf Course and Ivanhoe Tennis Club continue to underpin the area's long-established lifestyle appeal.

The suburb's education offering further strengthens demand. Ivanhoe Grammar School, Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar School, Mary Immaculate Primary School and Ivanhoe Primary School have helped establish the area as one of Melbou​​rne's most sought-after schooling precincts, attracting families and downsizers alike who want to remain connected to the area.

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While location was the priority for Marita and Chris, the project itself also needed to meet their expectations.

"Whilst location was paramount, I was also looking at design of the environment and Candela ticked every box," Marita said.

"We're just thrilled with our choice."

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Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/salter-brothers">Salter Brothers</a>, Candela Ivanhoe has been designed to complement its village setting, with an emphasis on generous floorplans, natural light and practical everyday living.

Residents will have access to a range of shared amenities, including a communal rooftop garden and dedicated residential lounge, complemented by a ground-floor café and lifestyle wellbeing centre, helping foster the sense of community already emerging among future owners.

That approach has resonated strongly with the market. More than 90 per cent of purchasers at Candela Ivanhoe are owner-occupiers, with buyers ranging from downsizers and second-home buyers to young families and first home buyers, creating a genuinely multi-generational community of grandparents, parents and children. It reflects a broader shift across Melbo​​urne's apartment market, where buyers are increasingly prioritising neighbourhood quality, lifestyle amenity and long-term liveability.

Currently under construction by Ironside, Candela Ivanhoe comprises 58 apartments. Candela Ivanhoe is scheduled for completion in the coming months, and residents can move in from September. One to four bedroom residences, prices from $649,000 and limited opportunities remaining.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=342]

Location and lifestyle drive demand at Candela Ivanhoe

As apartment buyers increasingly look beyond the four walls of their residence, the quality and depth of shared amenity has become a defining factor in how developments are designed and experienced, particularly in the high-rise, new apartment development space.

In Southbank, where high-density living continues to evolve, developers are placing greater emphasis on creating environments that support wellbeing, connection, and convenience as part of everyday life.

That approach sits at the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aura-at-melbourne-square-7-hoff-boulevard-southbank-vic-3006">AURA</a>, the latest residential tower in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/osk-property">OSK Property</a>’s $3.5 billion Melbourne Square precinct. Rising 67 storeys above Hoff Boulevard, the 673-apartment development has been conceived around what OSK describes as a “vertical wellness ecosystem”, a layered collection of amenities that extends throughout the building rather than being confined to a single podium level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=370263]

The amenity offering begins on the seventh level within the AURA Club, a dedicated resident hub focused on health, relaxation, and daily convenience. Here, residents will have access to an indoor swimming pool, cold plunge, spa, sauna, and steam room, alongside a fully equipped gym, reformer Pilates studio, and yoga room.

The wellness facilities are complemented by a range of spaces that acknowledge the changing ways people live and work. Work-from-home lounges and co-working areas sit alongside a library, music room, games room, cinema facilities, and open-air terrace spaces, providing residents with flexible environments that can adapt throughout the day.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367468]

Beyond the internal amenity, AURA introduces a series of Japanese-inspired gardens that form a quieter counterpoint to the tower’s social spaces.

Landscaped retreats feature curated outdoor dining, tranquil courtyard seating, fire pit, and a tea house pavilion. Rather than functioning as simple recreational areas, the gardens have been designed as places for reflection and informal gathering, drawing on principles of balance, nature, and calm that underpin the project's broader design philosophy.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367810]

The social amenity continues to evolve as residents move higher through the building. Levels 49 and 50 house the Meridian Club, where a lounge bar, conservatory spaces, and private dining rooms take advantage of elevated city views. At the summit of the tower, the exclusive Cumulus Club spans Levels 66 and 67, offering additional lounges, private dining, and meditation and treatment rooms positioned above Melbourne’s skyline.

For OSK Property, the extensive amenity offering reflects a broader focus on wellbeing as a core component of apartment living rather than an added feature.

“Aura stands tall as an exemplar of holistic wellness – its focus on social, physical and mental health culminate in a building that is calming, restorative and relaxing, where residents will have their own sanctuary within the well-connected and sought-after Southbank,” says OSK Property CEO Chong Boon Woon.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=367796]

AURA’s amenity strategy extends beyond the tower itself through its integration with the wider Melbourne Square precinct.

Residents will have direct access to Kennedy Park, Southbank’s 3,745 sqm landscaped public park, alongside a full-line Woolworths supermarket, childcare centre, hospitality venues, and approximately 1,600 sqm of additional retail planned within AURA’s lower levels. Together, these elements create a highly connected residential environment where daily needs, recreation, and wellness are woven into the fabric of the community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151921 project_image_fid=370253]

As Melbourne’s apartment market continues to mature, developments are increasingly judged by the lifestyle they provide beyond individual residences.

Through its combination of wellness facilities, landscaped retreats, social clubs, and precinct-wide amenity, AURA represents a shift toward a more comprehensive model of vertical living, one where shared spaces play as significant a role as the homes themselves.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151921]

AURA elevates amenity living at Melbourne Square

Builder-developer Scion is the latest to target Sydney's booming Hills Showground Metro precinct, filing plans for more than 100 apartments within walking distance of the station.

Scion has lodged a concurrent rezoning and State Significant Development Application for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/27-33-middleton-avenue-castle-hill-nsw-2154">27–33 Middleton Avenue</a>, where it plans to replace four existing homes with an 11 and 14-storey mixed-use development comprising 109 apartments, six affordable housing dwellings, and a ground-floor café.

Designed by BHK Architects, the proposal includes three levels of basement parking with 174 spaces, more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space, and extensive landscaping across the 3,791 sqm site.

The development has been designed as two buildings connected by a recessed wintergarden spine, with the 14-storey building positioned to the south and the 11-storey building to the north.

<img alt="Scion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="64dc359d-736b-43b8-87a8-70a8285cab47" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-25%20at%208.47.01%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=PXh.m8id_aevBPHEckPf88wQ2RQThPos" />

The apartment mix has been weighted towards owner-occupiers, with 13 one-bedroom apartments, 55 two-bedroom residences, 31 three-bedroom apartments, six three-bedroom lofts, and four four-bedroom homes. Six apartments will be dedicated as affordable housing in line with the NSW Housing SEPP.

According to the Architectural Design Report by BKH, the proposal seeks to create "a place-responsive architecture" inspired by the natural landscape surrounding Cattai Creek, while strengthening the public domain through landscaping, active frontages and a neighbourhood café.

Atlas Urban, in its Urban Design Report, says the proposal takes a different approach to increasing density around Hills Showground Station by favouring a more slender, vertically articulated built form over a conventional mid-rise outcome. The report argues this allows for greater deep soil planting, improved solar access and a better public domain outcome, while still delivering additional housing close to rapid public transport.

The site sits around 500 metres from Hills Showground Metro Station, within a precinct earmarked for significant residential intensification following the opening of the Sydney Metro Northwest line. Planning documents accompanying the application note that Greater Sydney's population has grown by more than one million people since planning for the precinct first began, reinforcing the need to accelerate housing delivery around existing transport infrastructure.

Scion is expanding its development pipeline which also includes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/chatham-west-ryde-2-6-chatham-road-west-ryde-nsw-2114">Chatham in West Ryde</a>, 62 apartments which are approaching completion. They also have a State Significant Development Application with the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/96-anzac-avenue-west-ryde-nsw-2114">145 apartments on Anzac Avenue</a>, also in West Ryde.

First look: Scion plots Castle Hill apartment development near Hills Showground Metro Station

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?

A trio of Queensland property groups have unveiled plans for a $300 million mixed-use redevelopment of the former Noosa Bowls Club site, a proposal that would deliver more than 200 new homes in one of the Sunshine Coast's most supply-constrained markets.

Kilter Property, Frank Developments and Calile Malouf Investments are behind the plans for the 1.8-hectare site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-noosa-drive-noosa-heads-qld-4567">99 Noosa Drive</a>, which would transform the long-vacant site into a new residential precinct featuring 208 apartments, retail, hospitality and public space.

The proposal comes as Noosa continues to grapple with housing affordability and a shortage of permanent accommodation, particularly for key workers. The site's location in Noosa Junction, close to shops, public transport and employment, aligns with the direction of Noosa Council's Housing Strategy, which encourages higher-density housing within established activity centres rather than continued urban expansion.

The draft plans include 48 affordable-by-design apartments and 48 rooming accommodation units aimed at key workers. Around 2,000 sqm of ground-floor retail and food and beverage space would activate the street frontage, alongside a new public town square and landscaped open space.

<img alt="Noosa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2dd02f53-1360-4e51-801e-bfd61a6c980e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-26%20at%208.44.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=x1iNs3BSMN6Jy7YUwaBZMHRrrKX2hMpy" />

&nbsp;

Frank Developments Founder and Director Frank Licastro said the development would continue the company's focus on architecturally-led residential projects while addressing one of the region's biggest challenges.

"Not only will this project exude a sense of luxury, it will also enhance not only the built environment but also the surrounding community," Licastro said.

"Noosa's success relies on the people who live and work here. Providing well-designed accommodation for key workers is critical to supporting the local economy and ensuring the Shire can continue to thrive."

Kilter Property Co-Founder Huw Williams said the focus was on delivering additional permanent housing while creating a mixed-use destination that benefits both residents and the wider community.

"Our focus is on delivering a well-considered mixed-use project that provides more permanent housing options, supports local workers and businesses, and delivers an exceptional product for the local market," Williams said.

"The redevelopment vision aligns with the long-term evolution of Noosa Junction as a vibrant activity centre, creating a destination that enhances the area's character while delivering significant economic and community benefits."

Calile Malouf Investments, best known for its role in Brisbane's James Street precinct and The Calile Hotel, will bring its place-making experience to the project. The company recently commenced construction on The Calile Noosa hotel and says the residential development will complement its growing investment in the region.

CMI Director Cal Malouf said the aim was to create a walkable precinct combining housing, retail and hospitality while remaining true to Noosa's character.

"We see a similar opportunity in Noosa to deliver a vibrant, walkable destination that combines exceptional housing, hospitality and retail in one integrated project," Malouf said.

Brisbane-based Cavill Architects has been appointed to design the project.

Noosa Bowls Club to be redeveloped into mixed-use apartment precinct

Allure Chevron Island is among the newest residential developments taking root in the exclusive pocket of the Gold Coast.

Delivered by Macquarie York, Allure boasts a collection of 95 residences with outstanding, resort-style luxury inclusions.

Situated in the heart of the dynamic Chevron Island, residents at Allure can enjoy inner-city convenience and coastal bliss across 17 contemporary levels.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21132 project_image_fid=33504]

Designed by BDA Architects, the striking architectural form welcomes residents with a sense of privacy and sanctuary, offering a range of public spaces and elegant apartments.

&ldquo;Ambitious in execution and extravagant in vision, this landmark development will stand as the ideal address for a suburb on the move&rdquo;, said BDA Architects&rsquo; Darren Greenway.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21132 project_image_fid=33509]

The two, three and four-bedroom apartments boast open-plan designs, bespoke lighting and high-quality finishes.

Chevron Island is the ideal Gold Coast suburb for a richly rewarding island lifestyle precinct, with nearby schools including the Southport School and St Hilda&rsquo;s School.

Allure is located a short five-minute drive from the Surfers Paradise shoreline, and is within walking distance of great retail, trendy eateries and cultural offerings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21132 project_image_fid=33895]

Among its amenities include a double-storey atrium, residents lounge, rooftop pool and alfresco dining.

The development is expected to reach completion in mid-2022.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=21132]

Allure Chevron Island is among the newest residential developments taking root in the exclusive pocket of the Gold Coast

max.kwok_55688

What residents get at Allure on Chevron Island

The headline grabbing news from&nbsp;the Gold Coast in August was Gurner's $1.25 billion plans for a four-tower super development in Surfers Paradise.

There's further moves&nbsp;from the likes of Marquee Development Partners, the Brisbane-based Ention Properties, and the luxury local developer S&amp;S Projects.

Urban has wrapped up all of the movements across the Gold Coast over August.

<h2>Abadeen launch Villea, Palm Beach apartment development</h2>

<h2>[smartcode_project:default project_id=106840 project_image_fid=172253]</h2>

The Sydney-based developer, Abadeen Group, has officially launched&nbsp;its first Gold Coast project.

Abadeen, founded and run by property industry veteran&nbsp;Justin Brown, is behind the latest Palm Beach tower, Villea.

The 69-apartment tower at 26 Mawarra Street has one,&nbsp;two and three-bedroom apartments,&nbsp;designed for owner-occupier.

All of the one-bedroom apartments have already been snapped up pre-launch.

Villea offers&nbsp;a rare affordable entry point in Palm Beach, with current and future projects in the pipeline predominantly targeted at the luxury owner-occupier, many with prices starting from $2 million and up.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/abadeen-launch-villea-palm-beach-apartment-development">click here</a>.

<h2>Last chance to buy a La Mer, Main Beach apartment as luxury owner-occupier demand continues on the Gold Coast</h2>

<h2>[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=171652]</h2>

The luxury owner-occupier boom covering the whole of the Gold Coast&nbsp;is seeing apartments in&nbsp;luxury towers snapped up and sold out in double-quick time.

The latest is La Mer, the 34-level Main Beach apartment project on at 3580&nbsp;Main Beach Parade

More than three quarters of the 29 apartments, developed&nbsp;by Polites Property Group in partnership with&nbsp;QNY Group, are already reserved, with the majority snapped up by locals.

The entry level three-bedroom apartments, which were priced at&nbsp;$2.35 million, have all been accounted for, with the remaining three-bed apartments now priced from $3.18&nbsp;million.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/last-chance-to-buy-a-la-mer-main-beach-apartment-as-luxury-owner-occupier-demand-continues-on-the-gold-coast">click here</a>.

<h2>First look exclusive: Gurner reveals $1.25 billion, four-tower Surfers Paradise apartment development La Pelago</h2>

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="697" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gurner_main.jpg" width="1200" />

The Melbourne-based developer&nbsp;Gurner, led by the high-profile developer&nbsp;Tim&nbsp;Gurner, has revealed its $1.25 billion plans for their&nbsp;Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise&nbsp;mega site.

The 11,000 plus sqm site at 108&nbsp;Ferny Avenue&nbsp;will be known as&nbsp;La Pelago, and will comprise four huge towers with nearly 1,000 apartments, around a quarter dedicated to a hotel.

Gurner&nbsp;swooped for their first residential development on the Gold Coast, and only their second in Queensland, following the collapse of&nbsp;Ralan, who had planned for two&nbsp;towers on the sprawling Budds Beach site.

La Pelago, likely named after the small commune in Italy,&nbsp;centralises on a private island theme, where&nbsp;each building is surrounded by over 9,000 sqm of amenity, lush tropical landscaping by SWA and pool-side water retreats, creating four private islands.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-gurner-reveals-1-25-billion-four-tower-surfers-paradise-apartment-development-la-pelago">click here</a>.

<h2>Little Projects set for boutique Broadbeach apartment tower aimed at the luxury owner-occupier</h2>

<h2><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="800" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/little_projects_broadbeach.jpg" width="1200" /></h2>

On the back of their successful sellout of their $200 million Signature Broadbeach, developer&nbsp;Little Projects&nbsp;Co are set for their second Gold Coast development, and it's just around the corner.

The new tower at 20 Mary Avenue in Broadbeach&nbsp;will be made up of just 29 full floor and double-storey apartments.

Designed for the owner-occupier by the award-winning architect&nbsp;Elenberg Fraser,&nbsp;each apartment will have at least three bedrooms, hand-crafted materials and a minimalistic design.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/little-projects-set-for-boutique-broadbeach-apartment-tower-aperture-aimed-at-the-luxury-owner-occupier">click here</a>.

<h2>Chevron Island set for New York-inspired apartment tower Greenwich</h2>

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="568" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/ention_chevron_one.jpg" width="1200" />

The residential development of the in demand Surfers Paradise enclave&nbsp;Chevron Island&nbsp;is set to continue.

The Brisbane-focused Ention Properties are the latest developer to enter the Gold Coast market from the Queensland capital. They're set to develop a&nbsp;New York-inspired apartment project, dubbed Greenwich, a reflection of Manhattan's famous Flatiron building.

Ention have reduced the number of apartments from 48 to 46, and increase the height level to 15. It will be&nbsp;targeted at owner-occupiers, KM Sales and Marketing associate director Todd Matheson says.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/chevron-island-set-for-new-york-inspired-apartment-tower-greenwich">click here</a>.

<h2>First look: Marquee Development Partners lodge plans for new Kirra Beach, Coolangatta apartments</h2>

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="624" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/musgrave_kirra_2.jpg" width="1200" />

Fresh off selling out their&nbsp;Kirra Beach&nbsp;apartment development SOL before it even hit the open market, the local Gold Coast developer Marquee Development Partners are on to their next project.

And it's literally just down the road&nbsp;at&nbsp;4 Musgrave Street, on the in-demand&nbsp;Kirra Beach&nbsp;in Coolangatta.

The Brisbane-based Ellivo Architects have drawn up the plans for the 14-level tower,&nbsp;which will home 39 apartments.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/first-look-marquee-development-partners-lodge-plans-for-new-kirra-beach-coolangatta-apartments">click here</a>.

<h2>Esprit, S&amp;S Projects new Rainbow Bay, Coolangatta apartments to feature Gold Coast's first rooftop wellness centre</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

The Gold Coast is set for its first ever residential rooftop wellness centre at Esprit, the new Rainbow Bay, Coolangatta apartment development by S&amp;S Projects.

Dubbed Club Esprit,&nbsp;the wellness rooftop will sit above&nbsp;97 apartments at 6432 Boundary Street, two interconnected buildings&nbsp;above Rainbow Bay Village. It's being dubbed as fit for purpose for an elite athlete.

Club Esprit will sit on the rooftop of the 11-level building. KMSM agent Jayde Pezet will handle the sales.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/esprit-s-s-projects-new-rainbow-bay-coolangatta-apartments-to-feature-gold-coasts-first-rooftop-wellness-centre">click here</a>.

<h2>Marquee prepare launch for Palm Beach apartment development, Northshore</h2>

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="745" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/northshore_marquee.jpg" width="1200" />

The South East Queensland developer Marquee Development Partners are continuing to bulk up their apartment development pipeline, following the speed of their latest&nbsp;Kirra Beach.

Marquee's&nbsp;Kirra Beach&nbsp;apartment development SOL didn't even hit the market, selling out all 46 apartments in the in-demand&nbsp;Kirra Beach&nbsp;in just 10 days.

The development, which&nbsp;will go down as one of the Gold Coast's fastest sell-outs,&nbsp;was Marquee's eighth project, and they're set to launch their ninth.

For more information, <a href="/news/qld/marquee-prepare-launch-for-palm-beach-apartment-development-northshore">click here</a>.

<h2>Want to know what happened over the Gold Coast in July? <a href="/news/qld/gold-coast-apartment-insights-what-happened-on-the-gold-coast-in-july">Click here.</a></h2>

There's further news from Marquee Development Partners, the Brisbane-based Ention Properties, and the luxury local developer S&S Projects

Gold Coast insights: What happened on the Gold Coast over August?

Brisbane apartment values surged over August, jumping 1.4 per cent, according to the monthly update from property data firm CoreLogic.

It was the Queensland capital&#39;s best performing month in 2021 and took the rolling quarterly gains to 1.6 per cent,&nbsp;following&nbsp;0.8 per cent gains over July and 0.7 per cent in June.

Values are now 7.7 per cent higher than they were at the start of 2021, when the median apartment price was $390,000. Now it&#39;s $425,000, CoreLogic calculate.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7879 project_image_fid=81516]

The price gap between houses and units in Brisbane however has widened, with Brisbane&#39;s median house price standing at $691,000, around $270,000 higher than the median apartment price.

New listings in Brisbane are slowly on the up ahead of the traditional listing increase in spring. The same can be said for Adelaide, Perth and Hobart, however the trend remains weak in the locked-down&nbsp;Sydney, Melbourne and Canberra.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7879 project_image_fid=81519]

Queensland has benefitted from record low vacancy rates, with southern state dwellers heading north during the pandemic over 12 months ago.

The June 2021 quarter data from the Real Estate Institute of Queensland showed that nearly&nbsp;two thirds of local government areas in Queensland recorded their lowest or equal lowest residential vacancy rates since 2010.

Of the 35 local government areas, 20 saw their vacancy rates tighten, 10 remained static and five saw them slightly rise in the June quarter.

Brisbane&rsquo;s vacancy rate dropped from 2.1 per cent&nbsp;to 1.7 per cent&nbsp;from the previous quarter. The Gold Coast&rsquo;s remained static at a tight 0.6 per cent&nbsp;and the Sunshine Coast&rsquo;s was slightly higher, from 0.5 per cent&nbsp;to 0.6 per cent.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21132 project_image_fid=33504]

Around Greater Brisbane, Ipswich stayed at one per cent, Logan slightly tightened from 1.1 per cent&nbsp;to one per cent&nbsp;while Moreton Bay remained the same at a low 0.7 per cent. Redland was tight at 0.5 per cent, falling from 0.6 per cent, while the Scenic Rim dropped from 0.8 per cent&nbsp;to 0.7 per cent.

REIQ&nbsp;chief executive Antonia Mercorella said the perfect storm of conditions thrown up by COVID-19 appeared to still have their grip on vacancy rates in the Sunshine State.

&ldquo;It seems the COVID-19 phenomenon of people moving to the regions for lifestyle purposes is still having an effect on vacancy rates,&rdquo; Mercorella said.

&ldquo;With more people taking the opportunity of working remotely and not having to commute regularly to their offices, they are succumbing to the lure of moving to a region where they can enjoy a sea or tree change lifestyle.

&ldquo;This could be reflected in regions around Brisbane such as the Gold and Sunshine Coasts and even further afield, where people can work remotely and commute to the capital city when necessary.

&ldquo;The lifestyle motivation is strong interstate, with people seeking an escape to Queensland from the southern states. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), Queensland recorded a net gain of 9800 interstate migrants in the December quarter &ndash; the highest of any state or territory.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102309 project_image_fid=163977]

&ldquo;Greater Brisbane also recorded the highest net internal migration rate of any capital city in the December quarter &ndash; with 4800 arrivals. By comparison, Sydney and Melbourne lost 9300 and 8500 people respectively. In terms of overseas migration, half a million Australian expats have returned since the pandemic began.

&ldquo;In central and northern Queensland, a ramping up of the resources industry and a recent revival of tourism&rsquo;s fortunes (at least until the current interstate lockdowns) could be attracting workers to these regions, putting pressure on vacancy rates.&rdquo;

Mercorella said while owner-occupiers had been dominant in the residential property sales market, investors were becoming more active.

&ldquo;In May according to the ABS, the number of new housing loans taken out by investors rose 13.3 per cent to $9.1 billion &ndash; the highest amount seen since June 2015.

&ldquo;A return of investors to the market will likely increase the number of rental properties available and reduce pressure on vacancy rates, potentially providing some relief for those struggling to find a rental.&rdquo;

Queensland has benefitted from record low vacancy rates, with southern state dwellers heading north during the pandemic over 12 months ago

What happened to Brisbane apartment values over August?

EXPERT OBSERVER

Our research for the upcoming Spring edition of The Price Predictor Index shows that Regional Queensland has set another record, with 171 locations with rising sales activity and 96% of all locations achieving price growth in the past year.

The total of 171 rising markets is the highest recorded in the six years of these quarterly surveys. From 2015 to 2020, the average number of rising markets in our surveys of Regional Queensland was 49. The three surveys in 2021 have recorded 157, 146 and 171 rising markets.

The latest increase in the number of upwardly mobile markets comes despite a further softening in the Sunshine Coast market. The Sunshine Coast Region and Noosa Shire combined still have 19 rising markets, but this compares with 25 three months ago and 37 six months ago. This distinct pattern of a softening market comes after three very strong years in this market, and prices are still rising.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89721 project_image_fid=172109]

Elsewhere in Regional Queensland, it&rsquo;s very much a story of growth. The Gold Coast, Cairns, Bundaberg, Gladstone, Mackay, Rockhampton, Toowoomba and Townsville have all increased the number of suburbs with rising sales volumes.

The Gold Coast is the most prolific municipality in the nation: 37 of the 49 Gold Coast City suburbs ranked in this report have rising trajectories with sales activity. This is an incredibly strong market, thriving on the Exodus to Affordable Lifestyle trend and going to another level every time Sydney and Melbourne experience lockdowns. Southport is a particularly prolific market: quarterly sales have been 197 288 382 496 505.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106840 project_image_fid=172253]

The other standout market is Toowoomba, where 14 of the 17 suburbs ranked in this report are categorised as growth markets.

In the Far North of the state, both Cairns and Townsville have buoyant markets. Cairns has 16 suburbs with rising sales activity and Townsville has 11. In Palm Cove in Cairns, quarterly sales activity has been 25 54 69 78 92.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=101206 project_image_fid=162024]

In Central Queensland, nine of the 10 Rockhampton suburbs in this report are rising, while 10 of the 14 Mackay suburbs have increasing sales activity. In Yeppoon, quarterly sales have been 41 73 99 107

Gladstone is continuing its revival after a long slump: 8 out of 12 suburbs now have rising sales activity and there is growing evidence of price recovery.

Bundaberg continues to emerge as a growth city, with 8 out of 11 suburbs delivering rising sales activity.

There is also rising momentum in the Whitsundays market.

PRICES: The Sunshine Coast region is the undoubted star of price growth performance in Regional Queensland, although the Gold Coast is also challenging.

Across Queensland, 96% of locations have recorded growth in their median house prices in the past year. Almost 60% of locations have risen more than 10%.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=171653]

Unit markets have also done well, with 85% of locations recording annual rises in their median unit prices.

Across the region covered by the Sunshine Coast and Noosa councils, there are 33 suburbs and towns where the median house price has increased by at least 12% in the past year.

Sunrise Beach is up 37% to $1.2 million, while Minyama has risen 29% to $1.5 million. Markets which have increased 20-22% include Coolum Beach ($850,000), Wurtulla ($745,000), Woombye ($635,000), Twin Waters ($970,000), Maleny ($750,000), Mt Coolum ($760,000), Mudjimba ($920,000) and Noosaville ($1.35 million).

The Gold Coast has 26 suburbs with annual growth in house prices above 12%, led by Currumbin (up 24% to $1.18 million) and Bundall (22% to $1.27 million). Tallai, Tugun, Coomera, Labrador and Miami have all lifted 18-19% in the past year.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21132 project_image_fid=33504]

The Hervey Bay market is lifting, headed by the 25% rise in Pialba ($400,000), while six other suburbs have increased more than 12%.

Mackay has several growing suburbs, led by 30% in Sarina ($375,000) and 25% in East Mackay ($425,000). Gladstone&rsquo;s recovery continues, with double-digit median price growth in six of its suburbs.

In Far North Queensland, Cairns has multiple growth locations, including Palm Cove (up 30% to $770,000), Caravonica (30% to $500,000) and Port Douglas (27% to $750,000). The revival in Townsville is being led by the 30% rise in North Ward ($735,000).

Unit markets have also done well, with 85% of locations recording annual rises in their median unit prices

terryryder

The rise and rise of Regional Queensland property markets continue: Hotspotting's Terry Ryder

The Sunshine Coast developer Cube Developments have been given sign off by the local council for their boutique Cotton Tree, Maroochydore apartment development, Nature by Cube.

The 12 luxury apartments at 49 The Esplanade, on the&nbsp;Maroochydore coastline, has already seen huge buyer interest, with nearly half of the apartments already sold.

Nature is catering for pent up demand for luxury beachfront living since the mass northerly migration to the Sunshine Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89721 project_image_fid=172105]

2020 saw Queensland undergo its&nbsp; biggest population boom in 16 years, with 30,000 people relocating to the Sunshine State.

Scott Juniper, director of Cube Developments,&nbsp;said the Cottee-Parker designed project is attracting buyers wishing to maintain a high-end, highly connected lifestyle in a home that is on par to their Sydney and Melbourne residences.

&ldquo;There is a real upmarket quality to the area of Cotton Tree, and it&rsquo;s all on Nature&rsquo;s doorstep - from the parklands, aquatic centre, retail on one side, sports activity on the other - it&rsquo;s all a stone&rsquo;s throw away,&rdquo; Juniper said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89721 project_image_fid=172109]

Juniper told&nbsp;Cottee Parker Architects&nbsp;to deliver&nbsp;the best the Sunshine Coast has ever seen.&nbsp;

&ldquo;While remaining connected, the site itself maintains a high level of exclusivity and privacy, being less built up than other areas and with fewer neighbours.

&quot;Maroochydore is currently undergoing a large urban renewal process, with the development of the &lsquo;Maroochydore City Centre&rsquo; business precinct and $2.5 billion of private sector investment that will help to re-energize the area and develop a thriving and vibrant community.

&ldquo;This will all contribute to an enviable offering in this coastal pocket, further amplified by the Sunshine Coast airport, which will assist jetsetters even further as air travel opens up.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=89721 project_image_fid=172111]

&ldquo;With little more than a handful of residences left - certainly not enough to satisfy the demand we&rsquo;re seeing come through - we&rsquo;re seeing snap decisions made to avoid missing out,&rdquo; he said. Nature by Cube is priced from $2.95 million.&nbsp;

Cube are well known in the area for their quality developments. They&#39;re currently selling Seasons in Birtinya, a&nbsp;much more budget-conscious apartment development in&nbsp;Birtinya.

They&#39;re planning a boutique project at Bokarina Beach, located between Calounda and Mooloolaba and adjacent to&nbsp;Bokarina Beach.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/qld/cube-developments-plan-oasis-boutique-apartment-development-at-bokarina-beach-sunshine-coast">Cube Developments plan boutique apartment development at Bokarina Beach, Sunshine Coast</a>

Cube Developments get green light for luxury Cotton Tree, Maroochydore apartments

The national property&nbsp;developer Gallery Group are the latest to submit plans for a residential apartment tower on the Gold Coast.

They&#39;ve submitted plans for their recently acquired site at 203-211 Surf Parade for a 35-level, 102-apartment tower dubbed Chalk.

Gallery are targeting the owner-occupier, with no one-bedroom apartments. There will be 17 two-bedroom apartments, which start in size from 105 sqm, and 85 three-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="" height="764" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/chalk_surf_parade_2.jpg" width="1200" />

Levels six to 19 will have four apartments per floor, one-two-bedroom apartments and three three-bedroom apartments. The three-bedder will each have two sitting areas and a king-sized mater suite, complete with walk-in wardrobe and ensuite.

Those three-bedders start at 178 sqm.

From there levels 20 to 30 will have just three three-bedroom apartments, no smaller than 209 sqm. The biggest is over 254 sqm.

<img alt="" height="1063" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/chalk_surf_parade_4.jpg" width="1200" />

The skyhomes crown the development, across levels 31 to 34, each with three bedrooms, a study and a media room.

The northern penthouse is over 385 sqm and also has its own cellar. The king even has its own walk in shoe storage room

Raunik Design has drawn up the plans to feature a recreation level on level four, complete with a gym with sauna, pool and spa and pool deck.&nbsp;The landscaped gardens by FORM feature barbecue and dining areas. There are two apartments on that level, one with its own plunge pool.

There&#39;s a level 35 roof terrace with indoor and outdoor seating and dining, a communal kitchen, a boardroom or private dining area and a shared office space with a breakout area.

The entry lobby will home a cafe, surfboard racks, dog wash and water feature.

In the design intent, Raunik say the tower is inspired by art deco fused with a contemporary feel.&nbsp;

&quot;Precise geometric shapes integrated with simplistic design elements achieve timeless results&quot;, it reads.

&quot;Naturally formed materials such as concrete, glass and stone are intertwined carefully with earthy tones to create a grounded atmosphere both in and around the building.&quot;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=108363]

They've submitted plans for their recently acquired site at 203-211 Surf Parade for a 35-level, 102-apartment tower dubbed Chalk

Gallery Group lodge plans for Surfers Paradise apartment development, Chalk

The masterplanned community&nbsp;Azure, in Forest Glen in the Sunshine Coast region, is set to have a number of rainforest-style villas bookend its mini-masterplan.

Developer Michael Cullen&nbsp;has lodged plans for 15 boutique villas in the Owen Creek Road development, which when completed&nbsp;will comprise of six stages across 20-acres, with communal parks, walking tracks and large open spaces.

Cullen has had Paul Butterworth Architect draw up the plans for the villas which will&nbsp;sit on blocks of land ranging from 164 sqm to 504 sqm. There are four different styles of villas, each having three bedrooms.&nbsp;

<img alt="" height="833" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/azure_land_main.jpg" width="1200" />

There will be villas at the other end of the townhouse community, which has 90 lots ranging from 195 sqm to 391 sqm. Buyers will have the option of building their own home, or buying as part of a house and land package.

Town Property sales agent Craig Morrison has been marketing the sought-after estate.

Last year, in the midst of the COVID-fuelled demand for the area, Morrison sold the first stage of the development, 21 lots, in one weekend when it launched.

There&rsquo;s now just a handful of lots remaining, starting from $365,000.

There will be villas at the other end of the townhouse community, which has 90 lots ranging from 195 sqm to 391 sqm

Sunshine Coast land development Azure set for rainforest villa collection

The local Sunshine Coast developer&nbsp;Habitat&nbsp;Developments are set for a 200-apartment development on the Maroochy River.

Habitat, led by director Cleighton Clarke, has lodged plans with the Sunshine Coast Council for St Clair Apartments at 930 &amp; 931 Birtinya Boulevard, located directly adjacent to Lake Kawana.&nbsp;

There will be 100 apartments in each eight-level building, made up of 46 two-beds, 119 three-bedroom apartments, making up 60 per cent of the development, and 35 four-bedroom and penthouse apartments.

Habitat Development Group managing director Cleighton Clark said they are excited about the project and look forward to Habitat playing its part in the growth and evolution of the Birtinya lakeside precinct.

"There’s already been some exciting momentum created by Stockland and other strong local developers," Clark said, adding that the Birtinya precinct was awarded the 2020 National UDIA Award for Master-planned Development.

K Architecture designed the buildings which curve in sync with each other, and are separated by a walkway to the water.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="674" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/st_clair_habitat_6.jpg" width="1200" />

Each building will rise eight levels from the ground, with a further two-levels of basement parking which will hav over 400 parking spaces.

“St Clair has a really elegant design and will capitalise on its prime waterfront location," Clark said.

"This prime waterfront development promises stunning ocean views and across Lake Kawana to the east as well as committed green space to the west."

There will be 13 apartments on each level, apartment from the ground floor which will have 12 and level eight which will have 10.

Some of the bigger penthouse-style apartments have over 50 sqm plus outdoor space, with a handful of courtyard apartments&nbsp;with over 90 sqm of gardens.

The ground floor homes the amenity, including a 25 metre swimming pool, communal dining room and a games and play lawn. The rooftop terrace will have seating and dining areas.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="672" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/st_clair_habitat_4.jpg" width="1200" />

Habitat are hoping the project will start in mid to late 2022, and will be completed in Q1 2024, pending approval.

Habitat recently sold out&nbsp;their $83 million&nbsp;Maroochydore&nbsp;project Market Lane, and are set to launch another Maroochydore&nbsp;project, The Corso, next year.

Clark said his enthusiasm for the Sunshine Coast has been reinforced by the strong market interest in Habitat’s existing projects under construction which are all completely sold out.

“We’ve been building on the Sunshine Coast for the past 16 years and this is the most buoyant market I’ve ever seen," Clark said.

“Rental vacancy rates have been low on the Sunshine Coast for a number of years, but vacancy is incredibly tight and we’ve witnessed very strong rental growth in the last year. Apartments are renting for 20% more than they were 12 months ago in projects we’ve completed and continue to manage.

"St Clair provides us another project to commence alongside some of our other exciting projects we’re planning in 2022."

“We’ve been building on the Sunshine Coast for the past 16 years and this is the most buoyant market I’ve ever seen," Habitat boss Cleighton Clark said.

Habitat Development Group set for 200 apartment St Clair Apartments in Birtinya on the Sunshine Coast

A three bedroom, three bathroom Brisbane riverfront apartment was sold last week for $5 million through Adcock Prestige.

The 4/91 Moray St, New Farm sale was in Pietra, a Tom Dooley Developments building completed in 2011.

It first sold at $3.5m in 2010 to a family member.

It has city views and bridge views. It features a balcony with BBQ, back patio, and two-car carpark, plus storage.

Pietra comprises seven whole floor residences and one two-level riverhouse.

Tom Dooley Developments targeted the site because it enjoys outstanding views of the city and Story Bridge, which are spectacular at night.

It has been a rental over recent years at around $2300 a week.

The Pietra sale was the highest apartment in Queensland last week

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Tom Dooley Developments' Pietra New Farm $5m luxury apartment resale

The South East Queensland developer Marquee Development Partners are continuing to bulk up their apartment development pipeline, following the speed of their latest Kirra Beach.

Marquee&#39;s Kirra Beach apartment development SOL didn&#39;t even hit the market, selling out all 46 apartments in the in-demand&nbsp;Kirra Beach in just 10 days.

The development, which&nbsp;will go down as one of the Gold Coast&#39;s fastest sell-outs,&nbsp;was Marquee&#39;s eighth project, and they&#39;re set to launch their ninth.

Their next Gold Coast project, Northshore, is north of the Kirra hotspot, in the equally booming&nbsp;north Palm Beach area.

<img alt="" height="600" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/marquee_northshore_living.jpg" width="1200" />

In a joint venture with LHPP, Northshore will have 93 residences, starting from two-bed apartments and ranging to a small collection of villas, and will only be available for resident-only buyers.

The development will feature five-star resort-style amenities which come standard in Marquee&#39;s Developments. Residents will have access to&nbsp;a waterfall edge pool with Baja deck and floating sunbeds, outdoor dining, cinema, full-sized gym, work from home facilities and&nbsp;extensive wellness offerings.

Marquee&#39;s sales director Azura Griffen says the open plan apartment designs will blur the lines between inside and out.

<img alt="" height="545" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/marquee_northshore.jpg" width="1200" />

In Marquee&#39;s pipeline is another Kirra Beach project, down the road from the sold-out Sol.

At&nbsp;4 Musgrave Street, <a href="/news/qld/first-look-marquee-development-partners-lodge-plans-for-new-kirra-beach-coolangatta-apartments">the 14-level tower with 39 apartments</a> has been designed by the Brisbane-based Ellivo Architects.

In their brief submitted to the Gold Coast City Council, Ellivo note the importance&nbsp;that all primary indoor and outdoor living areas are oriented to the beach.

Marquee&#39;s sales director Azura Griffen said there was an unbelievable amount of interest levelled at SOL since the public received their first glimpse.

&quot;We never could have predicted the almost instantaneous sell-out,&rdquo; Griffen said.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=102920]

In a joint venture with LHPP, Northshore will have 93 residences, starting from two-bed apartments and ranging to a small collection of villas

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