<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> has lodged plans for a $750 million, three-tower mixed-use precinct that would complete the long-running redevelopment of Carlton's former Carlton United Breweries site.

The proposal at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/185-195-queensberry-street-carlton-vic-3053">46-78 Bouverie Street and 185-195 Queensberry Street</a> spans a 6,468 sqm site, the last remaining undeveloped parcels within the former brewery's 2007 masterplan.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the development will comprise two purpose-built student accommodation towers and a third build-to-sell apartment tower above a shared commercial podium and basement.

Across the three towers, SP Setia is proposing 606 build-to-sell apartments and 1,499 student accommodation units containing 2,009 beds.

The apartments will sit in the tallest tower, which will rise nearly 200m and 55 storeys. It will become&nbsp;one of the more substantial new build-to-sell apartment projects at the northern edge of Melbourne's CBD.

The apartment mix is weighted toward smaller inner-city product, with 188 studios, 206 one-bedroom apartments, 192 two-bedroom apartments and 20 three-bedroom apartments

<img alt="First look: SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8271bc87-1b0a-41b7-ac73-a425ee375261" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/3_2.png?VersionId=G4lw23o90B1boX4k4dj7rdz2ZEajS9wy" />

Part of the precinct will be a large-scale&nbsp;3,684 sqm supermarket and a further 2,198 sqm of speciality retail, creating close to 5,900 sqm of new commercial space within the precinct.

But one of the biggest components of the proposal is what sits between the buildings.

Around 4,650 sqm, or roughly 72 per cent of the site, will be publicly accessible open space, incorporating plazas, pedestrian connections, landscaped laneways and retail spill-out areas.

The ground plane is intended to finally complete pedestrian connections envisaged when the CUB masterplan was first approved nearly two decades ago, stitching together Victoria Street, Queensberry Street, Bouverie Street and Swanston Street through the former brewery precinct.

Urbis said the development would "complete the CUB precinct", with the public realm providing important north-south and east-west connections through what is currently the final undeveloped portion of the masterplanned site.

SP Setia is also exploring a new linear park within the Bouverie Street road reserve, with the concept to be developed further with the City of Melbourne through the planning process.

The proposal is being pursued through the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program under Clause 53.23 for significant residential development with affordable housing.

The planning report acknowledges the proposed heights exceed those contemplated under the original Comprehensive Development Plan and masterplan, but argues the built-form context has changed considerably over the past two decades.

Urbis said the three towers would instead create a stepped transition between Carlton and the Hoddle Grid, rising progressively from the 94.1-metre Tower One along the Queensberry Street edge to the 199.44-metre Tower Three closer to the established CBD-scale buildings to the south.

<img alt="SP Setia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e885a07a-592c-40fc-bf82-e6dbaf32da54" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.52.24%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=7s_ErUkSKAdY1mAWp3GRZgMNCGtwhk5m" />

SP Setia plans to deliver the development across three stages.

Stage One would deliver the basement, podium and retail areas for the entire precinct alongside the first student tower. Tower Two would follow in Stage Two, before the 606-apartment Tower Three is delivered as the final stage.

If approved and delivered, the project would close out a redevelopment process that has been underway since the former brewery masterplan was approved in 2007, adding more than 2,600 student beds and apartments to a precinct already home to Swanston Central, the Barak Building, RMIT Design Hub and several large student accommodation developments.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

SP Setia plans three-tower finale for Carlton’s former CUB precinct

Melbourne developer Lowe Living is seeking to add to its growing bayside apartment pipeline, filing plans for a boutique eight-residence development in tightly held Middle Park.

Lowe Living, which has built much of its development portfolio across Melbourne's affluent bayside and south-east suburbs, is behind the plans for the 730 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/123-125-erskine-street-middle-park-vic-3206">123-125 Erskine Street</a>, just off Armstrong Street and within the Armstrong Street Neighbourhood Activity Centre.

The developer is seeking approval for a five-storey residential building above two basement levels, with just eight large-format apartments and 18 car spaces.

“This is a deliberately very different proposition for us,"&nbsp;Tim Lowe, Co-Founder of Lowe Living, said.

"Eight residences is exceptionally boutique, but that's precisely what this site calls for.

“There is a strong community in Middle Park and the surrounding suburbs who have spent decades building a life here. They no longer want the maintenance of a large period home, but they aren't prepared to compromise on space, quality or location. We think there is a real opportunity to capture that hyper local market. A site like this rarely comes to market.”

<img alt="Lowe " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="875fe572-0f14-4d90-9e11-55b28dd07731" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.42.49%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GDNQRv9BfpR9r1zkZ5UDyUM4ZvpIksut" />

The low-density proposal has been designed by Cera Stribley and is being progressed through the Victorian Government's Great Design Fast Track pathway, having already secured eligibility from the Minister for Planning.

The Office of the Victorian Government Architect supported its eligibility after finding the proposal demonstrated consistency with the program's seven design principles, while the project's financial feasibility has also been independently confirmed by Invest Victoria.

The project is targeting the downsizer market, with the planning documents describing the homes as larger-format residences and noting the two penthouses could otherwise have been configured as four separate apartments.

<img alt="Lowe 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="60ab0987-2da6-4175-adac-315dcf6053c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.15%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bOCPH0B2MFwlmaRW.TTCF9TzyifgVoQI" />

The site has dual frontage to Erskine Street and Canterbury Place and currently comprises a collection of commercial buildings used as offices, including a former heritage bakehouse, a former stable, a later gabled addition and a central courtyard.

It sits within the Commercial 1 Zone and the Armstrong Street Commercial Precinct heritage overlay, with the existing property classified as a contributory heritage place.

Heritage has subsequently played a significant role in Cera Stribley's design.

The front section of the former bakehouse facing Erskine Street will be retained, including its return walls, street-facing hipped roof and chimneys, while the Erskine Street façade and part of the western return wall of the former stable will also be incorporated into the new development.

Levels four and five will be set back five metres from the retained stable façade, while bricks removed through demolition are proposed to be salvaged and reused within the new building where possible.

<img alt="Lowe 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e97927a9-a2de-4a0f-83b6-65451238abfa" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-21%20at%208.43.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=VR44AChLrX9q1XPB9GvVQV.ALXXbe4gC" />

Rather than presenting as a single five-storey building to Erskine Street, Cera Stribley has broken the development into a series of distinct forms.

A three-storey infill element will sit between the retained bakehouse and stable façades, with the upper levels recessed behind the heritage fabric. Canterbury Place will similarly feature two three-storey podium forms, separated by a central pedestrian accessway, before the upper two levels step back from the street.

A pedestrian through-link will run through the centre of the project between Erskine Street and Canterbury Place, creating entrances from both sides of the site and introducing landscaping and communal areas through the ground plane.

Landscape architect Acre has designed planting across the ground level, private terraces and upper levels, including a feature canopy tree at level three and integrated planting and arbours across the level four terraces. Five existing Erskine Street trees are proposed to be retained.

Sustainability is also a significant component of the Great Design Fast Track application. The apartments are targeting an average eight-star NatHERS rating, with no residence below 6.5 stars, while the project has achieved a 75 per cent BESS score. Seven of the eight apartments are designed for cross-ventilation, with the remaining residence using mechanically assisted natural ventilation.

The plans also incorporate an 8kWp rooftop solar system, a 5,000-litre rainwater tank and infrastructure allowing future electric vehicle charging for every residence.

Lowe has a strong portfolio across Melbourne's blue-chip suburbs. They recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/jardin-house-by-lowe-living-camberwell-335-camberwell-road-camberwell-vic-3124">Jardin House by Lowe Living</a> in Camberwell, their first development in the Stonnington LGA.

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

Article summary

<ul data-end="888" data-start="289">
	<li data-end="442" data-section-id="8tsh6o" data-start="289">DVB Projects is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway at 137 Old Burleigh Road, Broadbeach.</li>
	<li data-end="573" data-section-id="1nyxl3e" data-start="443">The 34-level tower will comprise just 49 ultra-luxury residences, including half-floor, full-floor and penthouse apartments.</li>
	<li data-end="717" data-section-id="oiyimj" data-start="574">The launch follows strong demand at DVB's nearby Sea Glass project, which is more than 50 per cent sold and currently under construction.</li>
	<li data-end="888" data-section-id="epk9o9" data-start="718">The development adds to the transformation of Old Burleigh Road, with premium beachfront apartment projects continuing to reshape the tightly held Broadbeach strip.</li>
</ul>

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dvb-projects">DVB Projects</a> is preparing to launch its second Gold Coast apartment development, with demolition now underway on the Broadbeach site as the Sydney developer moves closer to bringing the ultra-luxury project to market.

The 34-level tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/137-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">137 Old Burleigh Road</a> will comprise just 49 residences, ranging from half-floor apartments through to full-floor homes and a penthouse. The launch follows the strong sales performance of DVB's nearby Sea Glass development. More than half of the apartments at Sea Glass, on the other side of Broadbeach, have been snapped up, well ahead of its late 2027 completion

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2944b4be-c84e-4b54-8dc1-c712e76704c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E02_Exterior_Street%20Level%20Entrance.jpg?VersionId=YoNig7pRdrE3HCue7sUj78LzJteeQf3H" />

The start of demolition at 137 Old Burleigh Road signals DVB Projects’ underlying confidence in the Gold Coast’s luxury beachside apartment sector.

“We see the Gold Coast as one of the most compelling lifestyle markets in Australia, particularly at the premium end where demand continues to deepen,” said Dean Brown, Managing Director of DVB.&nbsp;

“This project has been carefully designed to respond to that demand - delivering large-format residences with a level of quality, privacy and amenity that is still relatively rare in the apartment market on the beachside."

Brown says the site itself is "exceptional."

"Old Burleigh Road is one of the most tightly held beachfront strips, and opportunities to deliver a project of this scale and calibre in this location are extremely limited.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="398f377a-c037-455e-9250-0c5e0d84c35b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/I12_FF%20Balcony.jpg?VersionId=NwOiRWGMubR1c8wthuEfggklcja7al9." />

The project will comprise 40 half-floor residences of approximately 260 sqm, alongside eight full-floor residences spanning around 524 sqm.

A single penthouse will crown the building, featuring a private pool, barbecue area, indoor gym and dedicated entertaining spaces.

Residents will have access to a resort-style suite of amenities, including a 20-metre pool with daybeds, a gymnasium, hot and cold plunge pools, a sauna, and private residents’ lounge and dining facilities.

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1642bb0-9a66-4427-a022-dfc0988c6287" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/A02_Pool%20to%20View.jpg?VersionId=c0IXPyn_Gp_Kn3XCwzMrqIVkAdCEwVXP" />

Sales agent Todd Matheson, of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a>, which is marketing both 137 Old Burleigh Road and Sea Glass, said 137 Old Burleigh Road would address a clear gap in the market for genuine luxury products.

“There are very few opportunities on the Gold Coast where buyers can secure a residence of this size and quality in a new building,” Matheson said.

“What we’re seeing is a growing cohort of downsizers and interstate buyers who still want space - they’re not willing to compromise on living area, entertaining or finishes.

“This project has been designed with that buyer in mind. It offers the scale of a home, combined with the convenience and security of apartment living, in one of the coast’s most desirable positions.”

<img alt="DVB Projects to commence demolition on $320m Broadbeach luxury tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="59aae0ca-5639-4320-8aca-d0bf60f48e43" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/E01_Exterior%20Hero.jpg?VersionId=DS8Zfy2WtgUEtdfe0TEUuf1W1GfcZq8S" />

Located on a 1,156 sqm site one block from the beachfront, the development will replace an ageing walk-up building and is expected to contribute to the ongoing transformation of the Old Burleigh Road strip into one of the Gold Coast’s most prestigious residential corridors.

With the development moving into the delivery phase, 137 Old Burleigh Road is slated to hit the market later this year.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145141]

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

<a data-end="327" data-is-only-node="" data-start="250" href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/norus-projects" rel="noopener" target="_new">Norus Developments</a> has lodged plans for a new apartment development in Clayton that would add further momentum to the suburb's emerging Green Street corridor.

Plans have been lodged for the consolidated site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1359-1365-centre-road-clayton-vic-3168">1359-1365 Centre Road</a>, where Norus is seeking approval for 218 apartments across a 12-storey apartment building designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/life-architecture-and-urban-design">Life Architecture</a>.

The proposal sits within the Clayton Major Activity Centre at the threshold of the planned Green Street corridor, a landscaped pedestrian connection intended to improve links through the precinct towards Clayton Railway Station.

The development would replace the site's existing collection of low-scale residential and commercial buildings with a single consolidated building, introducing significantly greater housing density to this part of Centre Road.

A retail tenancy is proposed at ground level to activate the Centre Road frontage, accompanied by transparent street interfaces and landscaping intended to create a more pedestrian-focused edge to the development.

<img alt="First look: Norus Developments plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a5a763a-d9e9-4253-af2f-88008de27ebf" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Clayton%20a.png?VersionId=S2WJJbat1XVkZwB9SnYtygirXgWHiklX" />

The building has been designed with stepped massing and upper-level setbacks to manage its transition towards surrounding residential properties. The planning report describes the approach as one that integrates the building into the landscape rather than treating landscaping as a secondary element.

"A strong landscape and public realm strategy underpins the proposal," Urbis states in the planning report.

"Public benefits include an affordable housing contribution, a new pocket park, generous landscaped setbacks, deep soil planting and integrated Water Sensitive Urban Design."

The report adds that these elements are intended to create "a permeable, pedestrian-focused ground plane that enhances walkability, supports urban cooling and reinforces the emerging Green Street character."

Biophilic and passive design principles extend through the residential levels, with planting, daylight, natural ventilation and views towards landscaped areas forming part of the amenity strategy.

Parking would be concentrated away from the public realm, with 145 car spaces proposed from the rear laneway rather than dominating the Centre Road frontage.

The proposal follows an extensive pre-application process with the City of Monash. Three formal meetings were held between the project team and Council from December 2025 to March 2026, with the scheme evolving through several concept iterations before the current design was lodged.

The project arrives as Clayton prepares for substantial change around its established activity centre and the wider Suburban Rail Loop precinct. Its position on Centre Road places the development within an existing concentration of shops, services and public transport, while the Green Street connection is intended to strengthen pedestrian access towards Clayton Railway Station.

First look: Norus plans landscape-led apartment project for Clayton’s emerging Green Street

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a> has officially commenced construction on Bronze on Chevron, celebrating the sod turning of its first-ever Gold Coast development and marking a significant milestone in the company's continued expansion across South East Queensland.&nbsp;

Following the successful delivery of premium residential developments throughout Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-chevron-island-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> represents Gardner Vaughan Group's entry into the Gold Coast market. Bronze will deliver 119 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments above two ground-level retail tenancies.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367193]

The recent sod turning ceremony was attended by Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, President of the Surfers Paradise Surf Life Saving Club, Cassandra Sedgman, project consultants, purchasers, project partners and invited guests to celebrate the commencement of construction.&nbsp;

Gardner Vaughan Group Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge said Bronze on Chevron represented an exciting new chapter for the business.&nbsp;

"We've spent almost four decades building homes that respond to the way people want to live, and we're excited to bring that experience to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>," Betteridge said.

"Bronze on Chevron is particularly significant because it marks Gardner Vaughan Group's first development on the Gold Coast following many successful projects across Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367183]

Betteridge said the ground breaking is a proud moment for the&nbsp;team and their purchasers, who can now see their future homes beginning to take shape.&nbsp;

"As both developer and builder, we're able to oversee every aspect of the project from design through to construction, ensuring the quality and attention to detail Gardner Vaughan Group has become renowned for."&nbsp;

Designed by acclaimed architectural practice <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, Bronze on Chevron has been thoughtfully designed to complement Chevron Island's evolving streetscape while embracing its relaxed coastal lifestyle.

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

The development will offer generous residences with refined interiors, premium finishes and resort-style amenities, with completion anticipated in early 2029

Gardner Vaughan Group breaks ground on first Gold Coast development, Bronze on Chevron

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?

Sydney-based developer Gold Partners Australia is making its move on the Gold Coast, launching what is one of the most affordable towers to the booming Broadbeach market.

Its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harmony-on-broadbeach-2797-gold-coast-highway-broadbeach-qld-4218">Harmony on Broadbeach</a> project, just 400m from the beach, has prices starting from $975,000 for its two-bedroom apartments that measure nearly 90 sqm internally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113098 project_image_fid=355607]

There will be 113 two- and three-bedroom apartments spread out across the 33-storey tower on the 1,201 sqm site that will front First Avenue. Gold Partners Australia, which has delivered several major projects in Sydney's Norwest and has an active pipeline with projects in Hornsby and Carlingford, secured the block vacant, and want to start preliminary site works early next year through their in-house construction capability.

DBI Architects designed the tower with a four-level podium which will have an open-air swimming pool, sun deck, outdoor lounges, alfresco dining spaces, and a gym with adjoining yoga lawn. A hospitality venue will anchor the building at street level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113098 project_image_fid=355611]

Olympus Property Group is selling Harmony on Broadbeach on behalf of Gold Partners Australia. Olympus Director Deanna Lockett says the project is resonating with everyone from locals, investors, those moving from interstate, and second home buyers from Brisbane.

"There's been nothing new come to the market in Broadbeach at this price point for nearly a year," Lockett recalls. "It hits the sweet spot of affordability, good sized apartments, in a great location."

Construction will commence in Q2 2026, and wrap up, all going well, by the end of 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113098]

Harmony on Broadbeach launches to booming Gold Coast suburb

Since the pandemic hit Australia, there’s arguably not been a suburb anywhere in the country more popular than Palm Beach. Data from Apartments.com.au showed that from 2020 to 2021, enquiry spiked by 130 per cent, driven predominantly by local and interstate purchasers snapping up luxury beachfront apartments.

While enquiry levels returned to early (though not pre-pandemic) levels in 2022, the appetite for living in the coastal enclave didn’t fade. The dip in enquiry was due simply to supply running out; every development was selling out in record time. Search traffic, one of the clearest indicators of buyer interest that reflects demand beyond available supply, remained as high as when enquiries peaked.

Developers responded quickly. They were snapping up sites left, right, and centre, racing to bring projects to market to meet the ongoing demand. Many of those who benefited from the COVID-induced boom are now back in the suburb again.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> is one such developer. Having perfectly timed its entry into the Palm Beach market, Sherpa launched Perspective Two Sea and Perspective 488 at the height of the boom. Perspective 488 sold out in three months, impressive in itself, before the developer went on to sell out Perspective Two Sea, just nine full-floor apartments, in a matter of weeks, with prices ranging between $3.5 million and $4.75 million.

Sherpa has since completed Perspective Nexus, which sold out prior to its recent construction completion, and has just commenced work on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Amargo</a> on Sixth Avenue, the first project under its new Flourish brand, designed to offer more price-accessible apartments. Already, 85 per cent of Amargo’s apartments have sold, starting from under $600,000, and Sherpa has secured three more sites in the suburb for future projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=306037]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ignite-projects">Ignite Projects</a>, led by Josh Foote, followed a similar trajectory. Foote delivered Periscope in 2019, then rode the post-COVID boom, selling out Cabana Palm Beach, 30 apartments, in just eight weeks. It was one of the fastest-selling projects on the Gold Coast at the time, with prices ranging from $1.775 million to over $5.5 million.

Foote has now re-entered the Palm Beach market with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/retreat-palm-beach-188-jefferson-lane-palm-beach-qld-4221">Retreat Palm Beach</a>, a 56-apartment development on Jefferson Lane, featuring two- and three-bedroom residences, most with butler’s pantries, private outdoor spaces, and curated interior finishes. Prices range from $1.35 million to $3.95 million. Ignite will soon commence construction, having recently brought building capability in-house.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1851]

Foote says Palm Beach has transformed dramatically in the last six years. “The buildings we knocked down for Periscope had needles and all sorts falling out of the walls. The units themselves literally had junkies and prostitutes living in them,” Foote recalls. “In many ways, the development in Palm Beach has obviously done the suburb a huge benefit. I feel the planning department could be a little loose now though, and there will be regrets later as it changes so rapidly.”

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[smartcode_project:default project_id=134965 project_image_fid=1845]

It’s been a little longer between projects for Brisbane-based <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bpg-developments">BPG Developments</a>, which completed Sable Palm Beach in 2019, shortly before the COVID boom. The developer is now returning with plans for a 14-storey tower featuring 68 apartments and three double-storey townhouses facing Jefferson Lane.

BPG Director Glen Williams, who runs the company alongside Nick Parr, says the duo only develop in locations they love. “I’ve been a part of the Currumbin Surf Club for the last two decades,” Williams says. “We love the southern end of the Gold Coast and are looking forward to bringing more apartments to the area.”

The appeal of Palm Beach has also drawn interstate developers. Sydney-based <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> selected the suburb for its Gold Coast debut, securing a site on Mawarra Street near Palm Beach State High School. The developer is nearing completion of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/villea-palm-beach-26-mawarra-street-palm-beach-qld-4221">Villea</a>, a 69-apartment project that will sit above an activated ground plane. Abadeen Founder and Chairman Justin Brown says Palm Beach was a natural choice.

“We recognised an opportunity to introduce our prestigious brand into a location that is absolutely thrumming with demand for high-end living,” Brown says. “Palm Beach is widely regarded as the embodiment of coastal idyll and one of the Gold Coast’s premium lifestyle locations, and we intend to honour that with a collection of contemporary residences that accentuate the area’s appeal.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106840 project_image_fid=336441]

Also nearing completion is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elevaire-palm-beach-1409-1411-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Elevaire</a>, a 40-apartment project at the northern end of Palm Beach on the Gold Coast Highway. The building includes hot and cold magnesium plunge pools, with remaining apartments starting from just under $1.4 million.

SRQ Projects Director Nicholas Clydsdale, who is marketing both Villea and Elevaire, says Palm Beach continues to top the list for buyers for a number of reasons. “It’s the most accessible beachfront suburb on the southern Gold Coast,” Clydsdale says. “It’s also got the most beautiful beach, bookended by two of Queensland’s most stunning headlands — Currumbin and Burleigh.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112941 project_image_fid=216015]

Also joining the Palm Beach boom are Gold Coast locals Tim Gordon and Bruce Mathieson, the duo behind the ultra-luxury Mantaray Residences and Marina at Main Beach’s The Spit. Their project, Elle on Jefferson, designed by Cottee Parker, comprises 58 apartments and a suite of wellness amenities, including a 15-metre lap pool, hot and cold plunge pools, private cabanas, a sauna, steam rooms, and a holistic gym offering cardio, weights, yoga, and Pilates.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=147111 project_image_fid=356658]

Having developed Lyra Hope Island, Sydney and Gold Coast developer Changfa found an affordable pocket for their recently launched new development Corallo, where one-bed apartments start from just $845,000.

The $200 million mixed-use project on the corner of the Gold Coast Highway and Palm Beach Avenue includes ground floor dining and retail and is considered so valuable its developer,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a>, will be staging its release of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments and penthouses to the market.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=805]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a>&nbsp;International, Director, David Higgins, said the development’s location, just metres from the beach,&nbsp;influenced the sculptural design by the acclaimed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-architecture" target="">Plus Architecture</a>&nbsp;studio.

“<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/palm-beach-qld-4221">Palm Beach</a>&nbsp;locals understand the rare opportunity here at Corallo, particularly being the tallest building in the suburb and its proximity to the beach and local restaurants, and they’ve represented the bulk of pre-launch enquiries,” Higgins said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112194 project_image_fid=799]

“The orientation of the apartments captures views of the coastline from&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217" target="">Surfers Paradise</a>&nbsp;to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/currumbin-qld-4223" target="">Currumbin</a>, and the diversity of floor plans and apartment types provide an exceptional level of choice.

“The first release includes just 59 one-, two and three-bedroom apartments and two half-floor penthouses, with flexible use designed to appeal to both owner-occupiers and investors."

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&nbsp;

No slowing down Palm Beach as new apartment market takes centre stage, again

Plans to revitalize the&nbsp;long-established Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre into a mixed-use community combining living, shopping, dining, health and wellbeing facilities, have been proposed to the Gold Coast City Council.

The Benowa Gardens Urban Village proposal by Benowa Gardens Holdings seeks to transform the 17,660 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/203-ashmore-road-benowa-qld-4217">203 Ashmore Road</a> into a contemporary, sustainable destination that reflects global trends in modern community design while retaining the familiar local character residents value.

The site is bordered by Ashmore and Benowa Roads and Carrara, with ready access to Pindara private hospital, four schools, TAFE, sports fields and the nearby Botanic Gardens.

Benowa Gardens Holdings is seeking a preliminary Council approval only for its proposed masterplan and variations to the site’s Neighbourhood Centre zoning.&nbsp; 
Formal Public Exhibition commenced Friday and also marks the start of comprehensive community consultation with surroundings residents, schools, P&amp;Cs, existing retailers, nearby sporting clubs, arts groups and Botanic Gardens volunteers.

Designed by Neylan Architecture, the masterplan envisions around 413 new apartments, complemented by upgraded retail, dining, and wellness amenities as part of 10,000 sqm of retail, and 9,630 sqm of office space/medical suites.

The development will feature green open spaces, shaded promenades, landscaped terraces, pedestrian walkways, and expanded healthcare and lifestyle services in synergy with the neighbouring Pindara Private Hospital and local schools.

<img alt="Benowa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="244f4d54-2e67-4141-92b8-78d5735f47c2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-26%20at%2012.47.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=FmF5lzhpwVZc7POsdB770TJ_Bf2c0od8" />

“This concept embraces the way people increasingly want to live - safely, conveniently, and within strong local communities,” said Patrick Lu, Director of Benowa Gardens Holding.

“Benowa Gardens will set a new benchmark for integrated living on the Gold Coast. It’s a thoughtful, community-minded evolution that brings global best practice in urban design to one of the city’s most established areas.”

Lu said this isn’t just a redevelopment, it’s a renewal with purpose.

“Benowa Gardens has served the community for decades. Our goal is to ensure it continues to do so for generations to come, as a lively, connected Urban Village where people can truly live, work and thrive. We’re already talking to school leaders and the community to seek their feedback on our proposal, and have taken on board their ideas to improve student safety with additional “traffic calming” measures on Carrara Street. We’re conducting meaningful and sincere consultations and want to play our role in preserving and enhancing the local community."

The proposed redevelopment aims to deliver tangible benefits across the Benowa and wider Gold Coast community, including:

<ul>
	<li>Improvement of retail amenity, to capture the under-served local market demand and keep the local business at their local shopping centre.</li>
	<li>Housing diversity; offering a range of apartment types for key workers, downsizers, and local families who wish to remain in the area.</li>
	<li>Enhanced shopping and dining; revitalised retail spaces designed to support local businesses and attract more visitors.</li>
	<li>Health and wellbeing access; additional medical and wellness amenities to complement existing local facilities.</li>
	<li>Improved traffic flow and access; two new access points, upgraded intersections, upgrade pedestrian pathway’s signal and proposed upgrade of pedestrian and cycle connections/space to improve safety and convenience, especially for school children.</li>
	<li>Environmental sustainability; energy-efficient design, green rooftops, and water-sensitive landscaping to reduce emissions and enhance comfort.</li>
	<li>Local jobs and investment; supporting hundreds of construction and long-term roles while stimulating local economic growth.</li>
</ul>

The group behind the project boasts extensive experience in the property development industry, both in Australia and international markets. Over the past 23 years, the group has been involved in the development and management of a diverse portfolio of assets including residential dwellings, shopping centres, bulky-goods stores, community and medical facilities, childcare centres, offices, hotels, and taverns, across Brisbane, Ipswich, and the Gold Coast.

Benowa Gardens to become new mixed-use urban village

The sheer scale of the two skyscrapers at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/victoria-albert-broadbeach-20-albert-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">Victoria &amp; Albert</a>, soaring 40 and 64 storeys above the heart of Broadbeach, was always destined to deliver some of the highest and most luxurious apartments ever built in the suburb.

Now, builder-developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/iris-capital">Iris Capital</a> has unveiled the Horizon Collection, a selection of residences with the largest floorplans and most commanding views in the towers. The three-bedroom apartments, starting from $4.64 million, include butler’s pantries, multi-purpose rooms, and, in some layouts, master retreats with private sitting areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=3944]

The most prestigious apartments in the Horizon Collection are the sub-penthouses and penthouses. The two sub-penthouses on the 38th level of the Albert Tower are priced at $8.85 million.

Each features three bedrooms, a study, and a flexible multi-purpose room with a sliding partition that allows half the space to function as a games room.

The open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area, complete with a butler’s kitchen and private wine cellar, flows onto a full-width balcony framing panoramic coastal views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=3943]

There is now just one sub-penthouse for sale on the 62nd level of the Victoria Tower, with one already secured by an expat owner-occupier. The remaining sub-penthouse, priced at $8.95 million, offers four bedrooms and a wraparound balcony that captures panoramic views up and down the Coast. vistas from every angle.

Crowning each tower is a full-floor penthouse offering multiple expansive indoor and outdoor living and entertaining spaces. Atop the Victoria building is Oceania, which measures over 735 sqm of living space, and Kurrara atop the Albert Tower, which is almost 800 sqm. They each have four bedrooms, including a master and guest suites, a full 360-degree panorama of the Gold Coast, and all the bells and whistles expected of a luxury penthouse. They are priced from a little over $18 million.

“Every detail, every finish has been thoughtfully considered to imbue the penthouses with the ultimate sense of luxury,” says Susan Rossi, Director of Interior Design at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, who led both the architecture and interiors for V&amp;A. “We shaped these skyhomes to embody the spirit of Gold Coast luxury.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=234091]

Victoria &amp; Albert, colloquially known as V&amp;A, is the flagship Gold Coast development by the Sydney-based Iris Capital. Led by developer and hotelier Sam Arnaout, Iris Capital acquired the landmark Niecon Plaza site in 2021. At the time, Arnaout described the company’s expansion into Queensland as a strategic move to capitalise on one of Australia’s strongest growth markets.

“We were initially looking to expand into Victoria, but the massive migration to the regions that followed the pandemic created a new dynamic across the Australian market,” Arnaout said.

“From a strategic point of view, Queensland — and the Gold Coast in particular — is the perfect fit for our business. The fundamentals here are strong: genuine employment growth, high net migration, and an undersupply of apartments driven by strong demand. The Gold Coast has matured into a thriving, progressive regional city with a fantastic future.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107928 project_image_fid=234097]

Across its two towers, V&amp;A will deliver 425 luxury apartments, supported by a suite of resort-style resident amenities. These include a subtropical podium featuring a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga deck, residents’ lounge, kids’ play area, zen garden, and barbecue terraces with outdoor dining spaces.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a> Queensland Director David Higgins, who has managed sales at V&amp;A since its 2021 launch, says the project has set a new benchmark for Broadbeach’s luxury apartment market. Colliers Queensland Director David Higgins, who has managed sales at V&amp;A since its 2021 launch, says the project has set a new benchmark for Broadbeach’s luxury apartment market.

“The premium market has definitely spoken, with V&amp;A having now reached over half a billion dollars in presales since our launch,” Higgins says, adding that over 65 per cent of V&amp;A is now sold.

“Our buyers continue to validate the success of the Victoria &amp; Albert development vision and the luxury amenity that comes along with their apartment purchase. Of course, Broadbeach’s most walkable location, just 100m from the Broadbeach surfing beach, makes this luxury apartment a compelling addition to your real estate portfolio.”

Last year, Iris Capital brought construction in-house through its new arm, Iris Built. Completion of the 40-level Albert Tower is scheduled for late 2027, with the 64-level Victoria Tower, the taller of the two, expected to follow in mid-2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107928]

Victoria & Albert’s Horizon Collection takes Broadbeach living to new heights

From next year, residents of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/chevron-one-36-44-stanhill-drive-chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron One</a> will enjoy a level of luxury and exclusivity unmatched anywhere on Chevron Island, living in the tallest building that is, and likely ever will be, built on the island.&nbsp;

Tier 1 construction firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/icon">ICON</a> is fast approaching completion of the 41-level, 127-metre skyscraper, a height unrivalled on the island and now difficult to reproduce given the increased costs of both labour and materials in recent years.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68832]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bensons-property-group">Bensons</a> enlisted international architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a> to bring something new to the Gold Coast. “We started by looking at the nature and local context of the Gold Coast and knew immediately we wanted to create a sculptured object that maximised the well-positioned site and spectacular water views,” says Frank Ehrenberg, Principal at Marchese Partners.&nbsp;

“The result is equally inspired by the ripples of the ocean, sand, and dunes. This was further developed through material finishes reflecting the timeless shades of luxurious white and the warmth of sand.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=167320]

For the interiors of the 229 apartments, Ehrenberg says the focus was on creating an all-year-round lifestyle for residents. “We worked hard to ensure residents could move into the sunshine in winter and enjoy breezes in summer through oversized balconies. These spaces bring residents closer not only to the views, but also to the surrounding sights and sounds, creating a more immediate sense of being in this special address.”

This sensitivity to both location and lifestyle infuses every element of Chevron One, from the curve of its façade to the feel of timber underfoot. The interiors, anchored by kitchens curated by acclaimed chef Shannon Bennett, offer a balance of natural light and luxury finishes.

The tower’s height, positioning on the eastern side of the island, and floor-to-ceiling windows ensure most residences enjoy uninterrupted views of the Gold Coast skyline, the Nerang River, and the hinterland.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Bensons knew that with a tower of this magnitude, the amenity offering had to match, and they’ve delivered with Club One, nearly 2,000 sqm of private resident facilities comprising private dining spaces, a curated wellness precinct with indoor and outdoor pools, and a gym surrounded by landscaped gardens for yoga.

A 24-hour concierge, more akin to a five-star hotel, will service the luxury lobby, which will feature a range of artworks from local and international artists, a staple in Benson’s new developments given Chairman Elias Jreissati’s long-standing support of the arts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

Over the years, several premium apartments have achieved big-ticket sales, none more notable than the $9 million sale of a four-bedroom residence in the Daylight Sky Homes collection, sold to a Sydney family for $25,000 per square metre, a record for the Gold Coast at the time.

Chevron One sits just minutes from the Thomas Drive bridge, connecting residents to Surfers Paradise in under five minutes. Thomas Drive remains the beating heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chevron-island-qld-4217">Chevron Island</a>, lined with cafés and boutiques, while a new pedestrian bridge links directly to HOTA’s cultural precinct, complete with a rooftop bar, fine dining restaurant, and waterfront parklands that perfectly capture the island’s laid-back lifestyle.

Bensons is selling the final apartments in Chevron One, which is estimated to complete in early 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

Reaching new heights on Chevron Island

It’s been nearly two decades since Barry Morris’ then-burgeoning Canberra-based property development company, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/morris-property-group">Morris Property Group</a>, expanded into the Gold Coast apartment market, and there are no signs of them slowing down. Morris has developed a particular penchant for Broadbeach, having completed eight projects in the sought-after suburb since Verve on Old Burleigh Road in 2006.

Their most recent completion was around 12 months ago, when Morris’ in-house construction arm finished Malo Broadbeach, 16 half-floor apartments on Jubilee Avenue, neighbouring their earlier projects, Qube and Synergy.

One of their latest releases, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/maison-broadbeach-22-chelsea-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">Maison Broadbeach</a>, continues the developer’s focus on boutique, low-density living. Maison will comprise just 21 full-floor apartments on Chelsea Avenue, one of Broadbeach’s most in-demand streets given its position across from Broadbeach Park. Each three-bedroom residence spans more than 180 sqm and features open-plan living and dining areas that extend to private balconies with parkland and coastal views.

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Buyers can choose between two interior schemes, Lumière, a light coastal palette, or Noir, a richer, moodier aesthetic, both designed in collaboration with Poppy Designs. Premium finishes include Siemens and Bosch appliances, Vintec wine fridges, Villeroy &amp; Boch fittings, and herringbone flooring throughout the main living areas.

Residents will also have access to a suite of rooftop amenities on level 24, including a pool and deck, gym and sauna, residents’ lounge, and barbecue pavilion, all designed to take full advantage of elevated views over Broadbeach and the Surfers Paradise skyline.

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Morris has a proven track record of delivering both boutique and large-scale developments, reflected in their other major Broadbeach project currently under construction, Crest Broadbeach. One of the most popular Gold Coast apartment developments on Apartments.com.au since its launch, Crest will bring around 340 apartments to Armrick Avenue.

Much like Maison, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-broadbeach-13-armrick-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">Crest</a> has drawn strong demand due to its prime location. The development is ideally positioned on the highly sought-after Armrick Avenue, a tightly held street that has seen surprisingly little apartment development despite Broadbeach’s ongoing boom. No developer has successfully delivered a high-rise on the street, until now.

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Armrick Avenue offers two key advantages for both investors and owner-occupiers: its proximity to Broadbeach Park, one of the suburb’s most beloved green spaces, and its adjacency to local icons such as the Broadbeach Bowls Club, a community fixture since the 1950s, and the Broadbeach Surf Life Saving Club. Crest residents will enjoy protected, uninterrupted southern views thanks to the park’s government-owned land, which will never be built upon.

Beyond its location and natural outlook, Crest will offer residents an extensive range of on-site amenities, including a fully equipped gym, resort-style pool, and barbecue and alfresco entertaining areas. Around 80 per cent of the apartments in the first tower have already sold, prompting the recent release of the second tower.

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Morris is delivering both towers simultaneously, with construction well underway, the tower crane is now installed on-site, and excavation is nearing completion on the fifth basement level. Both towers are scheduled for completion by mid-2027.

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Morris Property continues to reshape Broadbeach skyline

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/walker-corporation">Walker Corporation</a>’s flagship residential project in Maroochydore isn’t just bringing new apartments to market, it’s embedding a layered amenity into the foundation of a growing city centre.&nbsp;

Currently under construction, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/sol-by-walker-maroochydore-first-avenue-maroochydore-qld-4558">SOL by Walker</a> will introduce 248 residences and a two-tiered amenity offering designed to support year-round coastal living across leisure, wellness, and social use.

"SOL by Walker establishes a new standard in apartment quality, seamlessly integrating superior craftsmanship with unmatched comfort," says David Gallant, Chief Executive Officer &amp; Managing Director of Walker Corporation.

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The bulk of the facilities are concentrated in a dedicated Level 4 precinct known as The Sanctuary. A 20-metre pool forms the centrepiece of a wellness spine that includes a cold plunge, spa, steam room and sauna.&nbsp;The inclusion of multiple hydrotherapy options is notable, rather than a single-function pool deck, residents are offered a full spectrum of recovery-focused facilities within a single vertical footprint.

A gym with floor-to-ceiling glazing opens directly onto an adjacent outdoor yoga lawn, illustrating the project’s integration of indoor fitness with landscaped open space.&nbsp;

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Alongside this, barbecue zones and communal long tables serve a practical social function, complemented by a dedicated vegetable garden for resident use. These aren’t standalone inclusions, they form part of a broader layout that encourages informal gathering across structured and unstructured environments.

At the southern edge of the podium, the Sunset Gardens introduce another typology entirely: an open-air green space designed for low-intensity use. Landscaped mounds, firepits, and shaded seating are arranged to capture afternoon light, while providing spatial separation from the more active areas to the north. It’s a deliberate modulation of pace that’s rare in large-scale residential developments, where amenity zones are often over-programmed.

Further elevation, both literal and figurative, comes via the rooftop Sky Terrace. Here, a second pool, co-working lounge, function room and library are paired with expansive views across the Maroochy River and hinterland. The mix of uses reflects changing resident expectations, with spaces supporting remote work, private events, and casual downtime all within a single rooftop setting.

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Retail and dining offerings at street level extend the building’s amenity profile to the broader precinct. The ground floor will host specialty outlets and cafes, while EV charging stations and bike storage serve both residents and public users. This permeability between private and public domains mirrors the project’s role in the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/maroochydore-qld-4558">Maroochydore</a> City Centre more broadly: not just a housing solution, but a component of civic infrastructure.

As the city prepares for major population and economic growth ahead of the 2032 Games, SOL’s amenity model provides a case study in multi-level, precinct-integrated residential planning. It’s not trying to replicate suburban home features, it’s responding to density with diversity, and backing it with spatial intent.

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Inside the amenities at SOL by Walker, Maroochydore’s newest urban community

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mrcb">MRCB International</a> has taken out the top gong for its $200 million Southport project, Maris, at the Asia Property Awards.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/maris-southport-20-queen-street-southport-qld-4215">Maris</a> has been awarded Best Apartment Development (Queensland), recognising its "outstanding architectural design, lifestyle-focused amenities, and contribution to the ongoing transformation of the Southport CBD."

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a>, the 20-level tower will deliver 192 one- and two-bedroom apartments, with flexibility to combine into larger homes in response to evolving buyer needs.&nbsp;

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The recognition comes on the back of a record-breaking sales launch, with 75 per cent of residences already sold ahead of market release, the strongest sales result of any new Gold Coast project.&nbsp;

“MRCB International is proud to see Maris recognised at the Asia Property Awards,” said Ravi Krishnan, CEO of MRCB International.&nbsp;

“This award validates our approach to creating considered, lifestyle-driven residences that respond to how people want to live today – connected, well-designed, and future-focused.”&nbsp;

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Maris’ amenity suite includes a rooftop yoga and dining terrace with panoramic Broadwater views, a podium-level pool, gym, sauna, and open-air spaces designed to promote wellbeing, community, and connection.&nbsp;

Positioned on the site of the former Sundale Motel, directly opposite the Broadwater Parklands light rail station, Maris offers walkable access to retail, dining and the proposed Olympic arena at Carey Park, a future catalyst for investment in the lead-up to the 2032 Games.&nbsp;

The project has also been a major contributor to the Gold Coast’s apartment market. Research by Urbis showed Maris accounted for 80 of the 209 new apartment sales recorded across the city during the March quarter, cementing its role as <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/southport-qld-4215">Southport</a>’s strongest performing residential development.

Construction of Maris is scheduled to commence in the first half of 2026, with completion anticipated in 2028.

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MRCB's Maris Southport wins best apartment development in Queensland at Asia Property Awards

It’s only been a few months since local Gold Coast developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dankav-developments">Dankav</a> unveiled its next precinct-driven project, and less than a month since formally launching <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-alfred-mermaid-beach-2375-gold-coast-highway-mermaid-beach-qld-4218">The Alfred Residences</a>, a reimagining of the former Mermaid Beach Shopping Village.

In just the first three weeks, 30 of the 40 residences in stage one have been secured, predominantly by local buyers already living within the coveted 4218 postcode, underscoring the demand for a well-connected, beachside lifestyle.

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The origins of the shopping village, a community staple for several decades, will continue under DANKAV’s precinct-driven scheme. The apartments in the first stage will sit above a curated collection of restaurants, cafés and boutique retailers.

A central landscaped laneway defines the ground plane, framed by a series of low-scale buildings that open into shaded courtyards and plazas designed by <a href="http://j.ar">J.AR</a> Office. The residences above were designed by BDA Architecture and feature generous balconies, modern interiors and elevated views across the ocean, skyline or hinterland. The interiors are curated with layered detail and coastal-appropriate finishes, with layouts focused on privacy, natural light and ventilation.

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It was the site’s prime location that first appealed to DANKAV founder Daniel Veitch. The development sits directly across the road from the future Mermaid Beach South light rail station, giving residents convenient public transport access to the rest of the Coast.

While DANKAV is delivering extensive amenity as part of the retail plaza, the area is already well serviced, with a Woolworths Metro, established cafés and restaurants, and the all-important sand of Mermaid Beach just 100 metres from the front door.

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DANKAV is also behind the recently completed The Oxley 1823 at Nobby’s Beach, which has become the area’s go-to lifestyle precinct. They are nearing completion of LAANI on Alexandra Avenue, also in Mermaid Beach.

Construction on The Alfred Residences has already commenced, with the first stage slated for completion in 2027.

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DANKAV approaches first stage sell-out of The Alfred Residences in Mermaid Beach after three-week sales blitz

On the top floor of Gardner Va​ughan Group’s <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/danby-lane-nundah-village-5-danby-lane-nundah-qld-4012">Danby Lane</a> project in Nundah, just two penthouses offer some of the largest and most detailed new apartment homes ever delivered in the well-connected suburb, and among the biggest in Brisbane’s inner north.

Each of the four-bedroom, three-bathroom residences spans the full depth of the building on the 10th storey, one of the tallest buildings in Nundah. They are split between north and southeast orientations, maximising natural light and cross-ventilation, as well as capturing the suburb’s best views from the large wrap-around balconies.

One of the penthouses has already been snapped up by a local.&nbsp;The remaining 270 sqm penthouse is priced at $3.4 million.

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The open plan living, kitchen and dining area, which flows seamlessly to the terrace, forms the heart of each home. The kitchen has been designed as much for entertaining as everyday living, featuring large central island benches with stone overhangs that double as dining spaces. Butler’s pantries, European appliances and soft-close joinery complete the space.

The master bedroom in each penthouse features a walk-through wardrobe with integrated shelving and storage, and an ensuite with double vanities and a freestanding bathtub.

The additional bedrooms also include ensuites and balcony access, with one offering flexibility as a study or multi-purpose room. Each penthouse includes three secure car spaces, as well as a dedicated laundry with linen storage.

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Buyers can choose from two exclusive interior schemes. The Champagne palette pairs warm whites with timber grain and gold accents, while Truffle introduces deeper tones with forest-inspired wood finishes and matte black fittings. Both schemes extend consistently throughout the home, from kitchens to bathrooms.

Gardner Vaughan Group, a vertically integrated builder-developer that has already commenced construction on Danby Lane, is set to move its headquarters into one of the commercial spaces upon completion in early 2027. Having been based in Nundah for more than a decade, Danby Lane is very much a passion project for the team.

Residents will also enjoy a suite of private amenities, including a rooftop recreation area with a swimming pool, gym and function room, along with retail tenancies on the ground floor. The Nundah location will place residents just seven kilometres from Brisbane Airport and nine kilometres from the Brisbane CBD.

Over 60 per cent of the apartments at Danby Lane have sold, with a limited selection of two and three-bedroom apartments remaining.

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