<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/freecity">Freecity</a> has received development approval for its 51-storey mixed-use tower at 153-157 Walker Street, North Sydney, set to be one of the tallest mixed-use residential-led buildings in one of Sydney’s most sought-after commercial and residential addresses.

Lodged as a State Significant Development Application (SSDA) through the Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) pathway and approved by the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure following a comprehensive public exhibition and submissions process, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/153-walker-street-north-sydney-nsw-2060">the project</a> will deliver 296 apartments, alongside a 170-room, luxury hotel, activated retail and significant public domain improvements.

Situated just 200 metres from Victoria Cross Metro Station, on one of the largest developable sites in North Sydney, the development will rise to 234 metres, making it one of the tallest buildings in the suburb. With an end value of approximately $1.5 billion, the project responds directly to the NSW Government’s mandate to accelerate housing delivery in well-located, transit-connected areas.

<img alt="Freecity gets green light for mixed-use residential and hotel tower in North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="192ec455-94bf-4e01-83ef-922b1b269d67" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Freecity%20-%20Walker%20Street%20North%20Sydney%201%20RESIZED%20.jpg?VersionId=Bzqp0SBHCDvLAHjA4QXkjuGoOEIh73Jl" />

The apartment mix will cater to a broad range of buyers, with 65 studio and one-bedroom apartments, 139 two-bedroom residences, 35 three-bedroom apartments, 48 four-bedroom homes, and nine penthouses. Residents will have access to a dedicated amenity level on Level 33, featuring a swimming pool with views towards the Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House and North Sydney CBD, as well as a gym, library, shared kitchen, lounge and outdoor entertaining areas.

The hotel will occupy the lower six levels of the building and include meeting and function spaces, a wellness centre with gym, yoga studio, swimming pool and sauna, further strengthening North Sydney's growing hospitality offering.

At ground level, the development has been designed to improve pedestrian connections through the precinct. More than 700 sqm of retail space will activate the street frontage, while a landscaped through-site link connecting Walker Street, Little Walker Street and Doris Fitton Park will provide new public open space with seating, paving and extensive native landscaping.

Freecity Group Co-Founder and Joint CEO Tony Sun said the project represents one of the most significant development opportunities currently available in North Sydney.

"This is one of the most significant development sites in North Sydney and it comes at a pivotal moment for the precinct," Sun said.

"North Sydney is undergoing a genuine transformation, and this project will contribute housing the city urgently needs while creating a landmark destination."

Executive Director of Development Michael Romano said demand for both residential and hotel accommodation would continue to strengthen as the Metro precinct matures.

"The structural demand for high-quality housing and hotel accommodation in North Sydney is compelling, and will only grow as the precinct continues to evolve around the new Metro station," Romano said.

Architectus has designed the tower, orientating the apartments to maximise views towards Sydney Harbour while introducing a sculpted façade intended to respond to light, wind and the surrounding skyline.

Architectus Principal Marko Damic said the design sought to create a tower that contributes to the public realm as much as the skyline.

"We wanted to design a tower that doesn't just sit in the skyline but actively participates and contributes to city life," Damic said.

Joel Robinson

First look: Freecity gets green light for mixed-use apartment and hotel tower in North Sydney

<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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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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AURA elevates amenity living at Melbourne Square

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.

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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

The Bailey is Pyco Group&rsquo;s latest residential development in Brisbane&rsquo;s iconic and eclectic West End.

Comprising a collection of 26 boutique two and three-bedroom apartments, the project is nestled just back from the Brisbane River.

&ldquo;The Bailey offers modern sanctuary amidst the vibrant and striking backdrop of Brisbane&rsquo;s West End&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25333 project_image_fid=154021]

Designed by Brisbane architecture studio DAH Architecture (DAHA), the space is curated for work and living, with a space made for both reclining with ease and entertaining with energy.

The residence connects buyers to modern amenity, with retail and transport hubs nearby, as well as a stunning rooftop pool.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25333 project_image_fid=154028]

Located in Brisbane&rsquo;s cultural heart, West End boasts a lively lifestyle and inner-city eclectic charm, with the best of Brisbane&rsquo;s restaurants, arts and culture on offer.

DAHA was formed in 2014 to produce quality design outcomes and is led by architect David Hansford.

Urban takes a look at some of the finishes on offer at The Bailey.

<h2>Fresh finishes at The Bailey</h2>

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25333 project_image_fid=154020]

&ldquo;The apartments at The Bailey offer true modern sophistication brimming with high-quality inclusions and appliances&rdquo;, the developers said.

Whilst inspired interiors and bright, fresh finishes help to maximise natural light and enhance the sense of open-air living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25333 project_image_fid=154025]

Features in the kitchen include hybrid timber flooring, stone benchtops, Polytec cabinetry and feature panelling.

Residents can relax in their bedrooms with plush wool carpets, built-in robes and LED downlights.

The home also boasts Miele appliances, matte black hardware and ample storage.

&nbsp;

About the developer

Pyco Group is a boutique residential property developer with over 20 years of collective experience in the Australian property industry.

With over $130 million worth of projects currently underway across Sydney and Brisbane, Pyco Group continues to seek and develop superior residential property for people throughout Australia.

Designed by Brisbane architecture studio DAH Architecture, the space is curated for work and living, with a space made for both reclining with ease and entertaining with energy

max.kwok_55688

The design finishes at Brisbane’s new West End tower, The Bailey

Locals are snapping up apartments in Gardner Vaughan Group’s latest Brisbane apartments, Monterey at Kangaroo Point.

The development, which looks out to Brisbane CBD’s skyline and beyond to the mountains, has seen increased interest from locals searching for properties in a premium location.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7145 project_image_fid=153948]

With its beautiful tree-lined streets, Mowbray Park, Raymond Park and the Kangaroo Point Cliffs all on your doorstep, the home is set amongst an ideal backdrop.

A local buyer who purchased the four-bedroom, three-bathroom penthouse at Monterey said the home ticks all the boxes.

<blockquote>
“Our family has resided in Kangaroo Point for the past few years, and we love the location!”
</blockquote>

“Monterey offers amazing amenities with the rooftop and pool and gym on level one. The Northern aspect, boutique building and high-quality construction with Cross Laminated Timber [CLT] made it an easy decision to purchase the penthouse”, they said.

The use of radiata pine in the CLT method is an innovative wood product developed in Europe over 30 years ago, according to the developers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7145 project_image_fid=153957]

The choice of CLT for Monterey was a carefully considered decision, providing benefits to the construction process and its residents, including high strength-to-weight ratio, low embodied energy and reduced stress impacts.

The renewable resource also sequesters carbon and enhances thermal properties.

“As long-term residents in Kangaroo Point, there is a real shortage of modern, luxury boutique buildings available”, said another local buyer, who purchased a four-bedroom, three-bathroom residence on the sixth floor.

<blockquote>
“The developer has a great track record and we have confidence in them pioneering this new CLT design,” they added.
</blockquote>

Designed by architects Hayes Anderson Lynch, the riverside development features full-height glass, sustainable principles and is the first timber multi-story construction in Kangaroo Point.

Derived from a response to the subtropical climate, the form of the building considers the orientation of the sun, prevailing summer breezes and winter winds.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7145 project_image_fid=153949]

“Recessed, shaded balconies are skirted by brass perimeter screens that provide both sun shading and added privacy. At the ground floor, the driveway and services are tucked to one side, giving way to the light filled, glazed lobby”, said Hayes Anderson Lynch’s Elizabeth Anderson.

The angles and ribboning of the balustrade design maximises views and delivers a residence that embodies the synergy between design, sustainability and natural beauty.

“Monterey not only offers the North-East aspect and river views, but it affords the privacy and security with fewer neighbours in the building”, a third local buyer said, who is downsizing from their sub-penthouse in Macleay Towers.

Monterey truly encompasses Brisbane’s vision for “buildings that breathe.”

A local buyer who purchased the four-bedroom, three-bathroom penthouse at Monterey said the home ticks all the boxes

Locals snap up Gardner Vaughan Group’s Monterey apartments in Kangaroo Point

The Brisbane-based Shayher Group are seeing high demand from locals at their recently launched Indooroopilly townhouse development Long Pocket.

The Jacaranda Place development bordering the Indooroopilly Golf Club in Brisbane will home 45 townhouses when completed in 2023.

Shayher are expecting a mix of buyers, from downsizers wanting a lower maintenance lifestyle while retaining the space, to young professionals with young kids and families looking to be near the private St Peters Lutheran College school zone.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95798 project_image_fid=156478]

There&#39;s two collections, the Rainforest Collection or the Riverview collection, the latter proving most popular so far.

Each townhouse will feature a number of living areas, a galley kitchen with Gaggenau appliances, an integrated fridge and freezer, as well as a&nbsp;butler&#39;s pantry.

They will have expansive entertaining balcony as well as an outdoor courtyard.&nbsp;There are internal lifts available in selected townhomes which is a feature aimed at the downsizer.&nbsp;&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95798 project_image_fid=161824]

The grounds will feature a 22 metre resort style pool as well as a sauna and a steam room.

There are five display homes on site ready for inspection.

<h2>About the developer</h2>

Shayher Group is privately owned Australian company that began operating in 1999 and has since grown into a diversified property group.

With their HQ in Brisbane, Shayher have developments across Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria. One of their most recognised developments&nbsp;is the $1 billion redevelopment of the heritage-listed Pentridge Prison in Melbourne.

Locally, Shayher have developed The One, the 82 level, 467 apartment development in the Brisbane CBD, and are set to transform the Bulimba Barracks in the next few years.

The Jacaranda Place development bordering the Indooroopilly Golf Club in Brisbane will home 45 townhouses when completed in 2023.

Shayher Group see local interest at Indooroopilly townhouse collection Long Pocket

Bensons Property Group’s Chevron One offers residents holiday-style living year-round, with close to 2000 sqm of resort-style amenities.

Designed by Marchese Partners, the project includes a Club One residents’ lounge, floating cinema, dining facilities and sculpted gardens.

As Chevron Island's first luxury tower, the development has a 24-hour concierge service and 360-degree uninterrupted views that will never be built out.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68838]

The on-site luxury amenities also include a private dining facilities, a library, multiple swimming pools, a sculpture garden&nbsp;and more.

Situated on Stanhill Drive, Chevron One is within walking distance to Thomas Drive cafes and retail shops, Home Of The Arts precinct, and the beach.

Chevron One&nbsp;Residences offer a fully furnished, fully managed and hassle-free ‘turnkey’ lifestyle investment.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68841]

Interstate investors in particular will be keen on the 14 day free days of holiday accommodation per year for their apartment.

<a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld?source_news_article_id=101645&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gold_coasttile.png" /></a>

Developer Bensons Property Group are offering a range of incentives for investors in the 41 level tower designed in collaboration with Marchese Partners and Byrns Lardner Landscape Architecture.

The entry price to&nbsp;Chevron One&nbsp;is as low as $480,000 for a one bedroom, one bathroom apartment. A two bedroom, two bathroom apartment with parking is priced from $705,000.

Estimated completion of Chevron One is late 2023. To secure your new home in the sought after development, request a call from a Chevron One sales agent via Urban.&nbsp;

Chevron One offers residents holiday-style living year-round, with 2000 sqm of resort-style amenities

jordan_55689

Amenities watch: What's on offer at Chevron One?

Summit 110, the Broadwater development by the property developer&nbsp;Centa Property Group, is approaching sell-out after its mid-2020 completion.

There's been a wave of sales since the turn of the year, with 27 apartments snapped up over the last six months or so.

Sales in the first three months of 2020 in the Rothelowman-designed tower were coming in at around two a week,&nbsp;RE Ventured agents Nikola and Rudi Scutti advised.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9201 project_image_fid=162813]

“We’ve experienced an upswing in sales over recent months with solid interest being shown in the remaining apartments,” Nikola said.

Downsizers have been taking a liking to the larger three bedroom apartments, while the&nbsp;two bed apartments proved more popular with owner-occupiers and first home buyers.

&nbsp;The price point on of the biggest drivers.

“At Summit buyers can buy a luxury two-bedroom apartment ready to move in for under $500,000," Nikola said, adding that buyers were&nbsp;surprised by the quality of finish, and the central location so close to the water and to major infrastructure.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=9201 project_image_fid=162812]

Investors have also creeped back in to the market, with a mix wanting a holiday home, or a tenanted investment with a view to move to the Gold Coast permanently in a few years.

Rudi Scutti said the tight rental market is delivering these buyers yields of up to six&nbsp;per cent on Summit apartments.

“The few units that have been bought by investors were snapped up based on those returns alone,” Rudi said.

<a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld?source_news_article_id=101629&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="797" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gc_newest_tile_jpeg_2.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

The $40 million development, completed in August last year, homes 83 apartments across its nine levels.

The remaining two-bedroom apartments, expected to be sold out in the next few weeks, are priced from $450,000.

Sales in the first three months of 2020 were coming in at around two a week



Summit 110 on Broadwater approaching sell-out

Harry Triguboff has reportedly secured a Surfers Paradise apartment development site.

He has spent $75&thinsp;million to buy an oceanfront site consolidated by Singapore&rsquo;s Banyan Tree group.

The 4423sqm Banyan Tree site is at the northern end of the Esplanade.

The triangular site is partly occupied by the 46-year-old Bahia tower and the Beach Lodge low-rise.&nbsp;

Banyan Tree consolidated the site in 2014 for $50 &thinsp;million, then gained approval for a twin-tower project, Cassia Northpoint, and then the Singaporean-based hotel and resort operator looked for a joint venture partner for its proposed $500 million project.

<a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld?source_news_article_id=101626&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" height="797" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gc_newest_tile_jpeg_4.jpg" width="1200" /></a>

The sale comes after it disposed a Brisbane holding on which it envisaged a 128-apartment tower.

Triguboff, 88, is close to completing a nearby 76-floor tower on The Esplanade, Surfers Paradise.

It was 2018 when Triguboff paid $58 million for the 22-level International Beach Resort (formerly the Apollo), to construct Ocean, a 76-level building with more than 700 serviced and residential apartments.

He plans two 55-floor towers for the Banyan site and the Gold Coast Bulletin says he will keep one of them with a Meriton Suites hotel.

Triguboff believes the Gold Coast is &ldquo;entering a new era&rsquo;&rsquo; post-Covid.

Harry Triguboff has reportedly spent $75 million on an oceanfront site in Surfers Paradise

jchancellor

Harry Triguboff's latest apartment site acquisition

Brisbane is seeing continued growth in its apartment market, but&nbsp;Colliers Director of Residential Andrew Scriven says there&#39;s not been the same strength in the capital&nbsp;yet compared to the booming Gold Coast market just an hour south.

&quot;It&#39;s a more solid market in Brisbane at the moment, with good sales to owner-occupiers,&quot; Scriven says, and suggests for Brisbane to grow, they need investors to come back.

&quot;There&#39;s a bigger pool of people throughout the rest of Australia,&quot; Scriven said, highlighting the four million residents in SEQ and 21 million or so across the rest of the country. That&nbsp;investor pool is ultimately the most important&quot;.

Interstate investors are starting to come back in to the market, but only slowly, Scriven says.

&quot;The yields in Brisbane are&nbsp;still the highest out of all three states [Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane], with some of the lowest vacancy rates in the country. Prices are half that of Sydney, and 30 per cent less than Melbourne.&quot;

Scriven noted that there&#39;s been a high price differential over the last year&nbsp;between established and off the plan apartments, which is offering further opportunity for value.

&quot;Over the last 12 months, the established apartment median&nbsp;has risen may be 10 per cent,&quot; Scriven says.

&quot;New apartments haven&rsquo;t risen at all over that time. There&#39;s a bit of a price differential which is starting to look like an opportunity for investors.&quot;

With limited action from interstate investors, sales have picked up to owner-occupiers, no more evident than at&nbsp;The Fernery, the mixed-use project in Ferny Grove in Brisbane&#39;s north.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=100681 project_image_fid=162778]

&quot;There&#39;s been overwhelming success since launch in April&nbsp;from the local market, looking to either downsize, invest or secure something for the children. Most of them have come from a couple of kilometre radius.&quot;

&quot;Locals have really embraced the project. They&nbsp;haven&rsquo;t really had that offering ever.&quot;

The bureau^proberts-designed project, developed&nbsp;by the Townsville-based Honeycombes&nbsp;in partnership with their financier MaxCap, will comprise the 82 apartment block The Fernery, as well as&nbsp;a 12,000 sqm retail centre set next to the Ferny Grove train station.

Prices start from $352,500 for the one bedroom apartments, $399,000 for the two bed units and $620,000 for the three bedrooms.

Scriven says the mixed-use retail precincts is what buyers want in this day and age.

&quot;They&#39;ve got the butcher, the baker, the candlestick maker, all at their doorstep,&quot; Scriven says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=100681 project_image_fid=162784]

&quot;It&#39;s away&nbsp;from that investment grade apartment development to more quality schemes. Good architecture and good place&nbsp;to live that will increase in value.&quot;

On the level of finishes and designs of the apartment development, Scriven suggests what The Fernery is offering is&nbsp;what you would typically find in the more premium apartment&nbsp;market areas such as Newstead and New Farm.

Construction is due to commence of the residential and retail components in the coming months, with Broad Construction appointed to handle the build. Completion is slated for late 2023.

Scriven suggests that construction dates, completion dates and builder appointments are&nbsp;what people want to hear when it comes to buying off the plan developments, particularly mixed-use precincts.

&quot;They want to know timelines and when they are being delivered.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=100681 project_image_fid=162783]

There&#39;s been a bit of expat interest&nbsp;across Brisbane, but that&#39;s primarily been focused on the housing market.

&quot;What we have seen is expats have come back, particularly Australian&nbsp;citizens in Sydney and Melbourne.&nbsp;There&#39;s been around 440,000&nbsp;Australian&#39;s come back from overseas over the 12 moths to Feb or March. All those people are living someone, or they&#39;ve bought.

&quot;A lot of expats have a lot of wealth and have been leaning&nbsp;towards the housing market in SEQ which has been well documented&quot;.

There was a bit of expat interest in the boutique St Lucia riverfront, 160 Macquarie Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=25721 project_image_fid=157087]

Now over 70 per cent sold, 160 Macquarie is&nbsp;St Lucia&#39;s first riverfront apartment development in more than a decade.

The development by&nbsp;QM Properties, led by horse enthusiast and managing director&nbsp;Jon Haseler, has been designed by the architecture firm&nbsp;Rothelowman&nbsp;and only homes 34 riverfront apartments.

Scriven suggested that as a city and potential place of residence,&nbsp;Brisbane has come out of the COVID pandemic as well as any other capital.

&quot;If&nbsp;you don&#39;t need to be in the office, there&#39;s worse places you can be than Brisbane,&quot; Scriven says.

&quot;We didn&#39;t have a lock down as long as anyone else and that has certainly been an attraction to the city. People can work a little bit longer from home, a bit more mobile. There&#39;s regionalisation or mobility in the work force.&quot;

Locals snap up apartments in The Fernery, but Brisbane needs investors to grow: Five minutes with Colliers director Andrew Scriven

The Gold Coast developer Raptis has officially lodged plans for its newest Gold Coast tower.

They've secured a prime development site in Broadbeach at 6-8 George Avenue, next to the Pacific Fair Shopping Centre in the heart of the coastal hotspot.

The busy Sydney-based architecture firm Koichi Takada Architects, who have taken on a number of projects on the Gold Coast in recent months,&nbsp;have designed the 40 storey building.

Takada referenced their Sydney project Infinity Square, delivered by Mirvac at Green Square, in the design statement. It&nbsp;had similar lush greenery toward the top end of the tower.

<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="1012" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/raptis_broadbeach.jpg" width="1200" />

The tower will comprise 134 apartments, made up of 64&nbsp;two beds and 64 three beds. There will be four sub penthouses and two penthouse apartments.

The resident amenities on level three will feature a 20 metre pool met with outdoor lounges, a gym and sauna,&nbsp;resident's lounge, kids club, and a communal dining area.

Koichi Takada Architects has been designing more and more apartment developments across&nbsp;coastal Queensland. There was huge success at the luxury FORME development The Norfolk at Burleigh Heads.

FORME&nbsp;managing director David Calvisi&nbsp;said the building has quickly become an icon, with the architecture flooding social media. Even the popular beach photographer&nbsp;Aquabumps have prints available of the iconic facade.

They've signed Takada on again to create <a href="/news/qld/tower-reveal-burleigh-heads-set-for-new-koichi-takada-apartment-tower-by-forme">their newest project at 96 The Esplanade</a>, also in Burleigh Heads. The The new development will home 23 half-floor apartments of around 220 sqm, as well as three full-floor residences with around 440 sqm of space.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="/news/qld/tower-reveal-burleigh-heads-set-for-new-koichi-takada-apartment-tower-by-forme">Tower reveal: Burleigh Heads set for new Koichi Takada apartment tower by FORME</a>

<a href="/developments/gold-coast-qld?source_news_article_id=101613&amp;ref=news_body_link"><img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="797" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/gc_newest_tile_0.png" width="1200" /></a>

6-8 George Avenue Design Statement

The proposed development at 6-8 George Avenue, Broadbeach aims to create a landmark architectural feature, highlighting the characteristics of its natural context and enhancing the Broadbeach skyline. Located less than five minutes walk from the nearby Kurrawa Beach and Parklands, this building is ideally located to take advantage of the Gold Coast lifestyle.

The site enjoys easy access to shops, restaurants, transport hubs and night life both in Broadbeach and nearby Nobby Beach and Surfers Paradise. The site is also well connected to schools and public facilities. In seeking to address this context, the proposal has taken cues from the nearby beach parklands. The green walkways, rolling banks and leafy dunes of Kurrawa Parklands are mirrored in the development. The tower is treated to the east and west with dense, leafy terraces and planters, creating a visual extension to the parklands below.

The repetition and regularity of these green terraces echo the tree lined, beach front pathway that connects Broadbeach to its neighbouring suburbs. A sculpted, green finial caps the tower, tapering away from the parkland below and lends the building the form of the Norfolk Pine. This appeal to the local context is further addressed in the materiality of the tower. At street level, the podium is characterised by lush planting, offset with a soft palette of natural finishes and materials. Natural stone cladding and paving at the ground level hint at the neighbouring beach.

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These tones are offset with soft white render and white batten screening to the podium, while the cascading planting above provides movement and colour to the façade. Recessive elements are treated with dark finishes to further emphasise the natural palette. This materiality and form has been continued into the private spaces of the building. The apartments have been designed to maximise access to natural light and ventilation. To the east and west, operable glazing can be opened to the perimeter planters allowing for seamless views over a green verge to the surrounds.

This proposal also seeks to be sympathetic to its local built form. The site is neighboured primarily by residential buildings of varying scale and character. To the north, the Broadbeach centre features several prominent residential towers, most notably the 40 and 50 storey Oracle towers. Immediately north-east of the site, opposite the parkland is the iconic Carmel by the Sea and the recently constructed Elysian Broadbeach.

To the south-east is Ultra Broadbeach, a 32 storey hotel. Generous tower setbacks maintain the form and amenity of the area, while the tower significantly enhances the public realm. 6-8 George Avenue has been designed to enhance and protect the natural and built character of Broadbeach. It is hoped this development will be a landmark enjoyed by all Gold Coast residents and become a catalyst for quality development to come.

The tower will comprise 134 apartments, made up of 64 two beds and 64 three beds. There will be four sub penthouses and two penthouse apartments



Tower reveal: Raptis set for new Broadbeach, Gold Coast apartment tower

Plans have been submitted to the Gold Coast City Council for a&nbsp;new residential apartment development in Palm Beach.

The boutique project at 1245 Gold Coast Highway, dubbed Aqualina, has been lodged by the Sydney-based development firm Emicon, ran by the Saab family.

Aqualina is&nbsp;Emicon&#39;s first project on the Gold Coast, and the first outside of New South Wales. They&#39;ve previously created apartment projects in Parramatta&nbsp;and Umina Beach on the Central Coast, with a number of projects in the pipeline across Sydney.

Emicon was incorporated in November 1994. Prior to this the company had been operating under its previous name of E &amp; G Saab Constructions for over 20 years.

The Gold Coast tower, designed by BDA Architecture, will only home three bedroom apartments, just two on each of its eight levels.

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The design was inspired by the natural environment of Palm Beach, from the soft edges of the water to the colours of the headlands, the BDA Architecture submission read 
 
&quot;Inspiration also comes from the curved edges of surfboards and the local architectural vernacular.

&quot;The architecture of the proposal is tailored to the coastal, sub-tropical location of Palm Beach.&quot;

The Design Summary

This project offers the opportunity to design an innovative architectural building and provide a higher residential density development along the beach-front of Palm Beach. The nine storey residential apartment building provides a sculptural fa&ccedil;ade which draws inspiration from the surrounding landscape environment.

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The Site

The site is located at the Northern End of Jefferson Lane, with access currently located off the Gold Coast Highway, between 15th &amp; 17th Avenue, Palm Beach. The site is 756m&sup2; in area and has unobstructed beach-front views. A two storey apartment block currently occupies the site. The site is bounded to the north by a two storey holiday home with a mix of 2, 3 and 9 storey residential buildings further to the north. The site is bound to the south by a two storey block of units and has close walking distance to public transport along the Gold Coast highway corridor.

Overview

Positioned along Jefferson Lane at Palm Beach, the project will enjoy the amenity of the beach-front and close proximity to shops, cafes and restaurants in the Palm Beach precinct. The site has unobstructed views to Burleigh Headland and south to Coolangatta coastline. This project offers high quality residential apartments with two units per floor level. The apartments provided are large liveable apartments that can cater for families and focus on maximising natural ventilation and natural light.

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All apartments are provided with large featured balconies that can be used as an outdoor living room. The two units per floor level provides a low density of only 16 apartments and 48 beds. The ground floor contains vehicle access from Jefferson Lane with visitor parking at grade with access to a two level basement car park, which provides car parking in excess of the planning code requirements. The remaining ground floor houses a clearly defined lobby space and community recreation facilities which contains a pool, pool deck and barbeque area.

Conclusion

This project offers high quality contemporary design that respects the surrounding environment. The imaginative and innovative detailing and built form demonstrates a positive outcome which will enhance the beach-front edge in the Palm Beach precinct.

The tower, designed by BDA Architecture, will only home three bedroom apartments, just two on each of its eight levels.

Tower reveal: Sydney developer lodges plans for Palm Beach apartment tower

Olympic swimmer Cam McEvoy has put his villa at 1/40 Via Roma on the Isle of Capri on the market.

McEvoy, 27, competed at the London and Rio Olympic Games.

He is offering to accept bitcoin or ethereum for his 2016-built property, which cost $1.15m in 2016.

McEvoy hopes to secure around $1.5m, so he can build on his existing cryptocurrency shares, the Gold Coast Bulletin reported.

Josh Longhitano of Lucent, Burleigh Heads is marketing the property which is one of four in the development.

Olympic swimmer Cam McEvoy has put his villa at 1/40 Via Roma on the Isle of Capri on the market.

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