South East Queensland developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gardner-vaughan-group">Gardner Vaughan Group</a>’s entry into the Gold Coast apartment market has progressed from pipeline to market, with its Chevron Island project Bronze on Chevron now formally available to purchase ahead of a planned 2029 completion.

The 119-apartment development on Mawarra Street marks the Brisbane-headquartered builder-developer’s first residential play in the Gold Coast, following its expansion south from Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bronze-on-chevron-8-mawarra-street-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Bronze on Chevron</a> comprises a mix of two-, three- and four-bedroom residences, with pricing starting from just over $1.5 million. The project is being delivered under Gardner Vaughan’s fully integrated model, with the group acting as both developer and builder, a structure it has consistently applied across its South East Queensland portfolio.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367182]

Architecture has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, with landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jeremy-ferrier-landscape-design">Jeremy Ferrier</a>. The building presents as a single-tower scheme, with a focus on maximising outlook across both the Surfers Paradise skyline and the Nerang River.

Apartments have been planned with open-plan living zones extending to generous balconies, a response to the site’s dual-aspect positioning between river and ocean. Interiors follow a restrained coastal palette, with two colour schemes offered, and an emphasis on natural light and cross-ventilation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367181]

Resident amenity is concentrated across more than 1,250 sqm and includes a resort-style pool, gym, yoga lawn and rooftop entertaining areas. A function space with catering facilities forms part of the upper-level offering, alongside north- and south-facing outdoor areas.

Ground level will incorporate two retail tenancies, intended to extend the existing village character of the surrounding streets.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107520 project_image_fid=367200]

The project sits within walking distance of Thomas Drive’s established dining strip, while maintaining proximity to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Surfers Paradise</a> beach and broader Gold Coast amenity. The location, positioned on Chevron Island between the river and coastline, has increasingly attracted mid- to high-density development in recent years as the precinct evolves beyond its low-rise origins.

Gardner Vaughan’s move into the Gold Coast was first signalled in 2025, with the group identifying the region as a natural extension of its operations. Chief Executive Officer Simon Betteridge described the expansion as both “strategic and natural”, citing demand for well-designed apartments in lifestyle-driven markets.

Construction is expected to complete in early 2029.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=107520]

Joel Robinson

Gardner Vaughan brings Bronze on Chevron to market as Gold Coast debut

One of the penthouses at Lily Lane, the latest stage of Carrington Place by Ellipse Property, has set a new local apartment price record.

The four-bedroom residence, purchased by a local downsizer, sold for $5.75 million—around 75 per cent higher than the previous record of $3.3 million.

Over 40 per cent of the first release of apartments at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lily-lane-at-carrington-place-castle-hill-32-carrington-road-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Lily Lane</a> have already been snapped up just six weeks since it launched to the market.

&nbsp;

Located at 32 Carrington Road, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/castle-hill-nsw-2154">Castle Hill</a> and designed by award-winning architects <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ptw">PTW</a>, Lily Lane is directly opposite the Hills Showground Metro station. It offers a total 213 units over two 12-storey towers - a mix of 67 one-bedroom, 100 two-bedroom and 46 three-bedroom apartments - with a ground-floor retail offering.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151821 project_image_fid=368352]

Blake Schulze, National Director – Residential at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/colliers">Colliers</a>, says around 44 per cent of buyers are&nbsp;owner occupiers, with 35 per cent being investors and 21 per cent first homebuyers.

“Developments of this calibre are very rare in the Hills District, and Lily Lane’s sales success demonstrates the depth of demand for over-sized apartments that genuinely compete with freestanding homes," Schulze says.

"We are seeing particular demand from downsizers who want to remain in the area but transition into spacious, high-quality apartment living."

On the penthouse sale, it says it shows buyers&nbsp;are prepared to pay a premium for scale, quality, and direct access to the Metro.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151821 project_image_fid=368351]

One-bedroom apartments are sized from 50-72 sqm with prices starting at $745,000, while two-bedrooms are priced from $990,000 with sizes from 75 to 132 square metres. Three-bedroom floorplans are sized between 97 and 182 sqm,, with prices starting at $1,395,000.&nbsp;

The three remaining penthouses, spanning up to 262 sqm, are priced from $2.9 million.

Over 75 per cent of apartments include dedicated studies, multipurpose rooms or family rooms, with select layouts offering walk-in pantries and laundries. Apartments are appointed with premium Miele appliances including ovens, washing machines, dryers, gas cooktops and dishwashers, while larger residences also incorporate integrated Miele microwaves, Fisher &amp; Paykel integrated refrigerators and five-burner Miele cooktops.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151821 project_image_fid=360285]

Lily Lane will be constructed by award-winning iCIRT-rated builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/decode">Decode Group</a>, with construction to commence in mid-2026 and expected to complete early 2029.

Carrington Place comprises more than 800 apartments and is being delivered across multiple stages, with completion expected in 2032. Integrated with neighbouring bushland, the project will feature over 20,000 sq, of outdoor recreational area, including a one-kilometre boardwalk to Fred Caterson Reserve.&nbsp;

The Hills Showground Metro Station is just a two-minute walk away, offering fast connectivity to Sydney’s CBD, North Sydney, Chatswood, Macquarie Park and Norwest Business Park.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151821]

Ellipse sets Castle Hill apartment record with $5.75 million Lily Lane penthouse sale

Fresh off completing its Delano Crows Nest development, Lindsay Bennelong has lodged plans for its next project, this time turning its attention back to the beach.

The developer, started 20 years ago by Clarendon Homes founder Peter Campbell, is proposing a 37-apartment scheme at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-25-ashburner-street-manly-nsw-2095">17-25 Ashburner Street</a>, Manly, positioned between the southern end of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/manly-nsw-2095">Manly</a> Beach and East Manly Cove.

Lindsay Bennelong called on local architecture firm Platform Architects to design the new building, given their success at Finn, Lindsay Bennelong's current luxury apartment project on North Steyne.&nbsp;

According to the Design Verification Statement by Bridie Gough of Platform Architects, the proposal “relates to the current context but also the desired future character of taller buildings suitable to the new planning controls.”

The site has been identified as a Low to Mid-Rise Housing (LMR) location, given its position within 400 metres of the Manly Town Centre E1 Business Zone. The LMR controls are intended to unlock additional housing supply in well-located areas close to public transport, allowing developers to seek increased height limits to support greater density.

“The proposal seeks to provide this increased level of housing whilst being respectful of some of the smaller scale buildings also nearby,” the statement reads.

Lindsay Bennelong Development Director Leigh Manser said the project has been carefully aligned with the intent of the LMR controls. The proposal will significantly increase housing yield on the site, replacing four houses and 10 apartments, comprising 25 bedrooms, with 37 new apartments delivering a total of 94 bedrooms, whilst remaining compliant with the LMR controls.

“Sydney is in a severe undersupply, and delivering more dwellings and more bedrooms than what currently exists is exactly what the LMR policy is designed to activate,” Manser said, noting that nine of the apartments will be allocated as affordable housing for frontline workers.

“We have already commenced discussions with our community housing provider to determine the rental levels that frontline workers can realistically afford in this location,” he said. “These will need to sit well below the standard affordable housing benchmark of 20 per cent below market rent, and that has been factored into our feasibility and pricing.”

<img alt="Manly" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ad03000f-19f9-48b4-b27d-e85ca800a1da" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-30%20at%208.41.59%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=a.txHwCZgbCInlQ6QXbIrI.umvW1T.r8" />

The design of the building incorporates a wave-like indentation running through the façade, referencing the nearby coastline and anchoring the building within its local context.

The&nbsp;Design Verification Statement says careful consideration has been given to the articulation of the building, ensuring the bulk is broken down to a more human scale through a defined four-storey podium."

The scheme includes a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments, as well as a full-time building manager's office and wellness facilities including a sauna and a gym.

“The design ensures a high level of amenity, with apartments offering generous private open space, many with expansive views, and all with comfortable proportions."

<img alt="Bennelong" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6a7f2812-72a1-4959-84b0-997e8cd88aed" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-30%20at%2010.15.50%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=6iMxU3MkXmHVHAoNhYBjnqgka8CUZNbk" />

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/lindsay-bennelong-developments">Lindsay Bennelong</a>&nbsp;is currently developing Finn Manly, just four full-floor luxury apartments on North Steyne. They recently welcomed residents to its 81-unit Delano Crows Nest development, a&nbsp;carefully scaled infill project designed to bridge&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/crows-nest-nsw-2065">Crows Nest</a>’s lively village centre with its surrounding heritage streets.

Designed by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ajc-architects">AJC Architects</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/delano-crows-nest-27-57-falcon-street-crows-nest-nsw-2065">Delano</a>&nbsp;is arranged across three low-rise buildings, incorporating a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments alongside a limited number of townhomes addressing Hayberry Lane. The architectural approach drew on the area’s Art Deco lineage, reinterpreted through contemporary detailing and framed by landscaped communal gardens.

The developer also has a development site in Maroubra.

First look: Lindsay Bennelong's new Manly apartment development revealed

Fifty-nine residences across 37 levels. No more than two per floor. With 80 per cent now sold, what remains at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/madeline-by-mosaic-broadbeach-22-mary-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">Madeline by Mosaic</a> is a short list.

Madeline was always conceived at a scale that sits outside the normal register of Gold Coast apartment living. The residences are half- and full-floor configurations, with the largest spanning more than 400 sqm, dimensions that place them closer to the penthouse end of the market regardless of where they sit in the building.

That scale is the organising principle of everything else: how the floorplans are laid out, how the materials read, how the connection between inside and outside works.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150135 project_image_fid=355941]

The interiors were developed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser &amp; Partners</a>, the architecture practice&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic</a> brought in as design partner for the first time on this project. The palette runs to natural stone, textured timbers, and soft metallics, materials chosen as much for their tactile quality as their appearance.

Light cleverly shifts across surfaces through the day, and the design is explicit about wanting that to be noticed. Full-height glazing runs across the primary living areas, and where the building faces east toward the ocean, those walls of glass are doing real work: framing a view corridor that the site's position directly opposite Broadbeach State School's playing fields keeps permanently open.

That outlook is the site's most consequential asset. In a suburb where new towers continue to rise, a protected view line is genuinely rare, and the Mary Avenue address secures it. Residents at Madeline will look out over open parkland rather than the rear of another building, a distinction that becomes more meaningful with each new development approved nearby.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150135 project_image_fid=355939]

The private outdoor spaces are sized to match the residences themselves. Terraces on the upper levels frame uninterrupted ocean panoramas, and the planning ensures that living areas extend into those outdoor zones rather than treating them as separate attachments. The flow between the two is part of the design intent, not an afterthought.

Inside, the finish specification reflects the same approach. Rich stone benchtops, warm timber joinery, bespoke hardware, each element specified to hold up over time rather than read as a moment in a particular trend cycle.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150135 project_image_fid=3409]

Beyond the residences, the amenity offering extends that register. A lap pool and sun deck anchor the outdoor space, alongside a magnesium pool, cold plunge, steam room, and sauna.

A commercial-grade gymnasium, residents' lounge, library, and boardroom round out a programme that functions more like a private members club than a standard building amenity floor.

Construction has commenced under Mosaic's in-house building arm, with completion scheduled for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150135]

Madeline by Mosaic delivers penthouse-level living across every apartment

Developer Fortezza Group is the latest to take its new apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-belvedere-5-7-church-street-nelson-bay-nsw-2315">The Belvedere in Nelson Bay</a>, to the NSW Government.

Fortezza, predominantly a South East Queensland developer, is the latest to apply for State Significant Development&nbsp; status through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority, a pathway becoming favoured by developers to speed up the approval process.

They are planning 57 two- and three-bedroom apartments across 5-7 Church Street and 42 Donald Street, near d'Albora Nelson Bay Marina. The diverse apartment mix has sizes from just over 80 sqm to the largest three-bedroom penthouses that reach nearly 200 sqm.

<img alt="Fortezza" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="090360e1-66d7-43ad-b686-aba81f173bf2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-04-29%20at%2010.22.40%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=DMqF96eBZolqSAAAcugX0l66ueWng66m" />

Fortezza calls the project a "piece of Istria in Nelson Bay,"&nbsp;referring to the largest peninsula in the Adriatic Sea, shared by Croatia (90%), Slovenia, and Italy, which is known for its Roman history, Venetian-style coastal towns and inland hilltop villages.

They say the The Belvedere is strategically positioned at the apex of Nelson Bay, offering unrivalled views of the ocean, the bay and captivating topography of the area.

"Our commitment to maintaining the integrity of every view and sight line has been relentless," Fortezza Group says.

"Through extensive modelling and analysis, we ensure that each apartment enjoys the natural beauty of Nelson Bay, regardless of future developments. Each design element is carefully curated to harmonise with our European heritage, drawing profound inspiration from the Roman architectural marvels in Istria. The arches, the cascades of greenery and the stonework that define our project pay homage to the structures that once exemplified Roman grandeur."

Residents will have access to a pool, communal green spaces, an office and a coffee shop.

First look: Fortezza Group takes The Belvedere, Nelson Bay apartment development, to NSW Government

Sydney’s property market is known for high prices, competitive bidding, and mounting pressure on first home buyers. But change is on the horizon.

From late 2025, eligible first home buyers in New South Wales will have access to a new federal government initiative aimed at addressing affordability: the Help to Buy Scheme.&nbsp;

<h2>What is the Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

The program introduces a shared equity model intended to reduce the upfront cost of entering the property market, particularly in high-demand urban areas such as Sydney.

The scheme operates under a shared ownership structure in which the federal government takes an equity stake of up to 40 per cent for new homes, or 30 per cent for existing dwellings. This arrangement allows eligible buyers to significantly reduce their loan size and avoid the added cost of Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).

Under this model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required. The government’s contribution is not a loan but a co-ownership stake in the property. As such, there is no interest or rent charged on its portion.

Because the government’s equity combined with the buyer’s deposit typically meets or exceeds the 20 per cent threshold, LMI does not apply. The remaining balance, generally between 60 and 70 per cent of the property’s value, is financed through a standard home loan with a participating lender.

The government's equity in the property remains in place until the buyer chooses to repay it voluntarily or until the property is sold. Buyers can buy back the government’s share over time, in increments of at least five per cent, depending on their financial situation.

There is no fixed repayment timeline, but the amount to be repaid will be based on the property's market value at the time of repayment, not the original purchase price.

<h2>How do you qualify for the&nbsp;Help to Buy Scheme?</h2>

To qualify for the Help to Buy Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

<ul>
	<li>Be an Australian citizen at least 18 years of age.</li>
	<li>Be a first-home buyer who does not currently own property.</li>
	<li>Intend to live in the property as their primary residence.</li>
	<li>Earn less than $100,000 per year for individuals, or $160,000 for couples.</li>
	<li>Purchase a property within the regional price caps, currently $950,000 in Sydney, though this is expected to rise to approximately $1.3 million ahead of the program’s launch.</li>
</ul>

While the Help to Buy Scheme does not solve affordability challenges across the board, it does offer a more accessible pathway for a defined segment of the market, particularly younger buyers with moderate incomes who have been priced out of traditional lending routes.

The scheme is expected to commence in NSW in late 2025, as part of a national rollout.

Under the new model, purchasers can enter the property market with as little as a two per cent deposit, well below the traditional 10 to 20 per cent usually required

Help to Buy Scheme: What first home buyers in NSW need to know

The First Home Owners Grant (FHOG) is a government initiative designed to help eligible first-time home buyers by offering financial assistance towards the purchase or construction of a new home.

While the FHOG is a nationwide program, it is administered separately by each state and territory, meaning the eligibility criteria, grant amounts, and property requirements can vary depending on your location. This means that the amount available and the conditions attached to the grant will differ, so it is important to check the specific guidelines for your state or territory.

It’s important to note that the FHOG is just one of several incentives available to first home buyers. In most states and territories, the grant is not linked to stamp duty exemptions or concessions, with the exception of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). The FHOG is typically a one-off payment, reducing the overall cost of purchasing or building a new home before any stamp duty concessions are applied.

Below, we provide a breakdown of the First Home Owner Grants available across Australia, outlining the specific details for each state and territory.

<h2>New South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $600,000. For land purchases and owner-builders, the threshold extends to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Provides full stamp duty exemption for homes valued up to $800,000, with concessions available for properties up to $1 million.

<h2>Victoria South Wales First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides a $10,000 grant for first-home buyers purchasing or building new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Benefits: Offers full stamp duty exemption for properties up to $600,000, with concessions available up to $750,000.

<h2>Queensland First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers $30,000 for contracts signed between 20 November 2023 and 30 June 2025. The FHOG applies to new homes valued up to $750,000.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Provides additional concessions for properties valued up to $800,000.

<h2>Western Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

&nbsp;

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes valued up to $750,000 in the southern regions and up to $1 million in the northern regions.

Stamp Duty Concessions: Available for homes valued up to $600,000 for transactions entered into on or after 9 May 2024.

<h2>Australian Capital Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Replaced by the Home Buyer Concession Scheme, offering full stamp duty concessions for eligible buyers.

<h2>South Australia First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Provides up to $15,000 for new homes, including houses, apartments, and townhouses. As of 6 June 2024, there is no property value cap for eligibility.

Stamp Duty Relief: Available for new homes and vacant land purchases.

<h2>Tasmania First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: Offers a $10,000 grant for new homes and off the plan purchases.

Stamp Duty Exemption: Between 18 February 2024 and 30 June 2026, first home buyers of established homes valued up to $750,000 receive a full exemption on property transfer duty.

<h2>Northern Territory First Home Owner Grant</h2>

First Home Owner Grant: The Northern Territory provides a $10,000 grant for new homes only. Additional government grants and concessions are available for first home buyers.

Stamp Duty Exemption: The only stamp duty exemption available to property buyers is the House and Land Package Exemption (HLPE).

Eligibility criteria and application processes differ across states. Prospective buyers should refer to their respective state revenue offices for full details on grant availability, conditions, and additional concessions.

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

In the ever-evolving landscape of sustainable architecture and environmentally conscious design, systems and ratings in place can help determine the energy efficiency of residential buildings in Australia.

Australia has multiple building rating systems that evaluate energy efficiency and sustainability in existing and new building designs.

Some systems assess individual building components, while others provide an overall rating for the entire structure.

A rating system ensures that homes are comfortable and energy-efficient, whether you are buying, renovating, or building.

NatHERS (Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme) is a common way for new homes to meet energy efficiency requirements.

As new developments continue to shape the urban environment, understanding NatHERS ratings becomes essential for developers and homeowners. This article delves into the concept of NatHERS ratings, their significance, and how they contribute to creating energy-efficient homes.

<h2>What is NatHERS?</h2>

NatHERS is a national initiative implemented by the Australian government to promote energy efficiency in residential buildings. The scheme aims to provide a standardised method for assessing the thermal performance of homes, considering factors such as insulation, orientation, ventilation, and building materials.&nbsp;

NatHERS ratings are the most common way new homes meet the National Construction Code's (NCC's) minimum energy efficiency requirements.&nbsp;

NatHERS assessments provide thermal and whole-home ratings for new homes, townhouses, and apartments.

The rating helps evaluate the energy performance of buildings, guides homeowners and developers to make informed decisions about the energy efficiency of their properties, and encourages the construction of more sustainable, comfortable, and cost-effective homes.

<h2>How NatHERS Ratings Work</h2>

NatHERS ratings are determined through four accredited software tools (AccuRate, BERS Pro, FirstRate5, HERO) using a calculation engine CSIRO developed to predict building temperature based on various factors.

The tools can model complex effects of building mass, insulation, window size, and other elements.

The outcome is a star rating that reflects the building's overall thermal efficiency, indicating how well it can maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without excessive reliance on heating or cooling systems.

The star rating scale ranges from 0 to 10, with a 6-star rating being the minimum requirement for compliance with the National Construction Code (NCC).&nbsp;

Achieving a higher star rating demonstrates a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainability, as the building is better equipped to minimise its environmental impact and reduce long-term energy costs.

Anyone can use NatHERS tools, but accredited assessors can provide certified ratings and professional advice.

<h2>Benefits of Higher NatHERS Ratings</h2>

Energy Efficiency: Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings are more energy-efficient, requiring less heating and cooling energy. This reduces the structure's carbon footprint and lowers occupants' energy bills.

Cost Savings: Homes with higher NatHERS ratings are generally more energy-efficient, resulting in reduced energy consumption for heating and cooling. This translates to lower energy bills for homeowners, making sustainable living environmentally friendly and economically viable in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Lower energy consumption directly translates to a reduced environmental impact. Buildings with higher NatHERS ratings contribute to the overall goal of mitigating climate change by lowering greenhouse gas emissions associated with heating and cooling systems.

Improved Comfort: Buildings with high NatHERS ratings offer better thermal comfort to occupants. Proper insulation, well-designed ventilation, and optimal orientation maintain a consistent and comfortable indoor temperature, providing occupants with a more enjoyable and healthier space.

Market Value and Desirability: Higher NatHERS ratings can enhance the market value of a property. As energy efficiency becomes a more significant consideration for homebuyers, a well-rated building may attract a premium price and stand out in the real estate market.

Compliance with Building Codes: NatHERS ratings are a vital component of the National Construction Code (NCC), and compliance with these ratings is often a mandatory requirement for new developments. Local councils and planning authorities may set minimum energy efficiency standards that must be met to obtain development approval.

The Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS) is a crucial initiative shaping the future of energy-efficient, resilient, and cost-effective homes. With its recent upgrades, NatHERS has evolved into a world-leading tool for the building sector, supporting the global commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Staff Writer

What is a NatHERS rating in new off the plan apartment developments?

Mixed-use developments have gained significant popularity across Australia in recent years due to their unique blend of residential, commercial, and recreational spaces.

Unlike traditional single-purpose developments, mixed-use projects offer a harmonious integration of various functions within a single locale.

Residential units seamlessly coexist with commercial establishments, retail outlets, dining venues, entertainment hubs, and recreational facilities, with the combination not only enhances convenience but also fosters a vibrant lifestyle and a sense of community.

<h3>Convenience and accessibility</h3>

Mixed-use developments are designed with convenience in mind. They often integrate residential units with commercial spaces, retail outlets, restaurants, and recreational facilities, creating a self-contained community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114215 project_image_fid=204874]

The proximity allows residents to enjoy the convenience of having essential amenities and services within walking distance. Whether it's grabbing a cup of coffee, going grocery shopping, or accessing healthcare services, everything is conveniently located, saving residents time and effort.

<h3>Vibrant lifestyle and community</h3>

One of the major advantages of mixed-use developments is the vibrant lifestyle they offer. With a diverse range of amenities and communal spaces, residents have ample opportunities to interact, socialise, and build a sense of community.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=107714 project_image_fid=214122]

The presence of parks, community centres, and shared spaces fosters a lively atmosphere, encouraging residents to engage in various activities and events. The vibrant lifestyle within these developments creates a unique sense of belonging and camaraderie among the residents.

<h3>Potential for higher rental yields and property value appreciation</h3>

Mixed-use developments tend to attract a broad range of tenants and buyers due to their versatile nature. This high demand can result in higher rental yields for investors and potentially lead to property value appreciation over time.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=139989 project_image_fid=212887]

The integration of commercial and retail spaces attracts businesses, which can provide a stable rental income stream. Additionally, the popularity of mixed-use developments often drives up property values, making them a potentially lucrative investment in the long term.

<h3>Enhanced security and maintenance</h3>

Mixed-use developments typically have comprehensive security measures in place. With controlled access points, CCTV surveillance, and professional security staff, residents can enjoy enhanced safety and peace of mind.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108019 project_image_fid=212658]

Additionally, these developments often have dedicated maintenance teams responsible for the upkeep of common areas, landscaping, and infrastructure. This ensures that the overall appearance and functionality of the development are well-maintained, creating a pleasant living environment for residents.

<h3>Live-work-play balance</h3>

One of the key attractions of mixed-use developments is the ability to achieve a desirable live-work-play balance. The integration of residential and commercial spaces allows residents to live closer to their workplaces, reducing commuting time and improving work-life balance.

The proximity to various amenities and recreational facilities encourages an active and healthy lifestyle. Residents can easily access fitness centres, parks, restaurants, and entertainment options, all within the same development, leading to a more fulfilling and convenient way of life.

alisonwarters@gmail.com

The top five reasons to buy in a mixed-use development

When buying a property, everyone needs to be aware of the additional costs that come as part of the buying process.

Often the largest outlay, after the deposit which goes to the bank, is stamp duty.

<h2 style="line-height: 1.38;">What is Stamp Duty?</h2>

Stamp duty is an extra tax to pay the government when you buy land, a property, and other certain assets.

It happens when the legal ownership is transferred. It can also be known as property transfer duty or transfer duty.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/C32BWkB5--c" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2>Who pays Stamp Duty?</h2>

In some circumstances, you may get an exemption. For some states, you won’t have to pay for stamp duty if you are a first home buyer or a pensioner for houses under a particular price. There are also stamp duty concessions, where you may be entitled to a discount.

<h2>How much does Stamp Duty cost?</h2>

Each state has different rules which affect how much you need to pay. These rules can affect the rate you pay, and the timeframe you will need to pay in. Before you buy land or a property, make sure you check the up-to-date information for your state’s stamp duty.

You can use a free stamp duty calculator online to see approximately how much you’ll need to pay. Find out if you’re eligible for an exemption by enquiring on a project via Urban!

Overall, the stamp duty you need to pay will depend on:

<ul>
	<li aria-level="1">How much your land/property is worth</li>
	<li aria-level="1">Where your land/property is located</li>
	<li aria-level="1">What type of land/property it is</li>
</ul>

Want to find out more? <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@UrbanAustralia?utm_source=YouTube&amp;utm_medium=Video&amp;utm_campaign=Subscribe&amp;utm_id=Subscribe">Subscribe to our YouTube channel</a> for more property videos.

Ellen Walker

Off-the-plan property explained: What is stamp duty?

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International restaurant chain PappaRich is continuing its national expansion, this time in Brisbane, where it has just signed a lease on Elizabeth Street.

The Malaysian cuisine restaurant chain opened its first Australian outlet in the Melbourne CBD in 2012 and has since expanded its operations throughout Victoria, NSW and the ACT.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/11/06/queensland_nov_6_one.jpg" width="470" height="353" alt="queensland_nov_6_one"> 
Its first Brisbane restaurant will be, at 153 Elizabeth Street, before the end of the year.

PappaRich will occupy 275 square metres of space on the ground level of the three-level building on Elizabeth Street. The lease, negotiated by Sam Degn of Colliers International, is for seven years.

 
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PappaRich continues expansion with Elizabeth Street, Brisbane leasing

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Competitive bidding saw an industrial facility on the central Gold Coast sell at auction for $150,000 above the reserve price.
The 7,378 square metre property, at 10 Industrial Avenue, Molendinar, was sold under the hammer for $1.7 million to owner-occupiers, Nathan and Dawn Huang.
The property was divested by Economic Development Queensland, which is part of the Queensland government, as a sell down of surplus land.
It was previously placed on the market late in 2012 through an expression of interest campaign which saw 10 written offers ranging from $1.2 million to $2.1 million, of which the highest was contracted and eventually did not complete the deal. Another party later contracted the property for $1.8 million, which also fell over to due to an inability to finance.
Pat Cavanagh of Colliers International negotiated the sale of the property, which houses two older style buildings totalling around 1,200 square metres.
He said the new owners intended to refurbish the existing improvements and operate their business, Starbright Engineering from the facility.
“The buyers also have plans to redevelop the site in the long term,” Mr Cavanagh added.
 
 
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Gold Coast industrial facility sells under the hammer for $1.7 million

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The latest data from the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has revealed a continued divide in rental market conditions between Queensland’s resource and non-resource regions to the end of September 2013.
Demand within South East Queensland has remained strong, with most markets posting a vacancy rate of 2.5% or less. The only exception is Bay Islands in Redland City, which has posted a vacancy rate of 3.9% for September this year. 
Brisbane saw a rise in vacancy rates to 2.3% for September, up from 2.1% in June this year and 1.7% in September last year.
Inner-city Brisbane (suburbs 0-5km from the CBD) recorded a vacancy rate of 2.4%, up from 2% in June this year and 1.5% in September last year. The REIQ has attributed this rise to less international student demand, as well as an influx of new rental properties over the quarter.
Rental conditions in Gold Coast has continued to tighten, with a vacancy rate of 2.2%, down from 2.6% in June this year and 3.5% in September last year. One REIQ accredited agent noted that due to the improvement in the sales market, they had seen an increase in the occurrence of investors selling their rental properties.
Additionally, the Sunshine Coast region has seen a decline in vacancy rates over the past year. It now sits at 1.3% as of the end of September, which is the lowest rate in the state for September. Vacancy rates are down from 2% in June this year and 2.5% in September last year.
Toowoomba also recorded the state’s lowest vacancy rate at 1.3%, down from 1.8% in June this year.
The Cairns rental market has remained at tight levels as well, having recorded a vacancy rate of 1.6% for September. REIQ accredited agents noted that rental demand is mostly for houses, although available properties are mainly units.
The Cairns rental pool is said to be shrinking not only due to the ongoing lack of new residential construction in the region, but because of many properties being sold to owner occupiers.
A vacancy rate or 3% is generally considered to indicate equilibrium of supply and demand for rental property within a particular area.
Conversely, areas where the resources sector plays an important role in local economies continued to exhibit relatively weak rental market conditions. The Gladstone region recorded a vacancy rate of 5.8%, up from 0.9% at the same time last year. Mackay’s vacancy rate stood at 5%, Rockhampton at 4.7%, and Townsville at 3.5%.
Just a year ago, Gladstone saw a vacancy rate of 0.9%. This figure rose to 4.6% in June this year. At the time, valuers Herron Todd White <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/hotspots/prices-fall-and-vacancies-rise-in-vulnerable-gladstone-market-herron-todd-white-hotspots/2013060561947">reported</a> that the Gladstone residential market had “relatively subdued over recent months as major gas projects in the area are nearing peak construction workforces and demand for accommodation has eased significantly”.
In May this year, Hotspotting.com.au's Terry Ryder <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/rocky-on-the-rise-as-gladstone-stumbles-terry-ryder-hotspotting-rockhampton-gladstone/2013052261590">noted that</a> Gladstone was seeing a decline in vacancy rates, but investors should "avoid any feelings of panic" as the city has a strong future as Australia's top industrial city. 
Still, he called for investors to be cautious, as much as anywhere else.
REIQ chief executive Anton Kardash expects the Queensland sales market to see an increase in activity, therefore reducing tenant demand.
“Queensland’s property market as a whole is undergoing a more steady sales recovery but we are starting to see some very positive results,” Kardash said.
“What is interesting to note is the flow-on effect this is appearing to have on our rental market with responses to our September survey clearly showing an increase in investor activity here, especially in the southeast.
“Additional comments indicate the departure of some tenants and investors from the rental market into the sales market however it is too early to tell if this is a trend which will increase significantly as the months roll on,” he added.
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Brisbane vacancy rates easing but landlords biggest rental challenges in Queensland mining regions: REIQ

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There are many reasons to consider buying in Cairns. But a grandiose plan for a $4.2 billion resort complex should not be one of them.  
Earlier this year, Hong Kong businessman Tony Fung announced his plan for the biggest tourism property development Australia has seen. Aquis will have nine hotels with 3,750 rooms plus 1,200 apartments, a sports stadium, a convention centre, an 18-hole golf course and an aquarium clustered around an aquatic paradise. The artist’s impression looks like something you might expect to see in Dubai or Macau.  
Queensland Premier Campbell Newman got quite excited about it and promised to wave it through the approval processes as only a conservative Queensland government can.  
And, according to reports, many developers and investors are excited, too. Suddenly Cairns is on the radar screen, in a way that hasn't happened since the frothy days of Japanese mega investment in the eighties. There's been a surge in building applications which the council says is inspired by the Aquis proposal.  
Frankly, it's all rather ridiculous; a $4.2 billion resort development in a regional city of 150,000? I'll believe it when I see it.  
There are, however, good reasons to consider investment in Cairns - reasons grounded in reality.  
Money is being spent on infrastructure. A $450 million hospital project is under way. The Cairns International Airport has completed a $200 million upgrade and further major improvements are planned. Various highway upgrades are happening and there is a $110 million expansion in the pipeline for the port.  
Other proposals include a $94 million performing arts centre, a $117 million tropical medicine project, a $35 million aquarium and an $85 million shopping centre.  
The Cairns region has a resources economy, rather surprisingly given an image mostly associated with the reef, the rainforest and all things touristic.  
The resources sector is the third biggest industry in the region, after tourism and agriculture. There is also a substantial number of local residents who work in the resources sector is distant locations as fly-in-fly-out workers. The resources boom in Papua New Guinea is having spinoffs for Cairns as well.  
The city council is seeking to generate development and local jobs by offering to waive major fees for developers. It says $400 million in local construction projects were fast tracked after if reduced its headworks charges.  
It's all part of the Cairns fight back, after hovering too long in the shadow of Townsville, the much larger and economically stronger city to the south.  
Cairns realises it needs to generate economic diversity, while recognising that tourism is and probably always will be its bread and butter.  
Tourism is rebounding strongly, helped along by an upturn in visitors from China. There are now direct flights to Cairns by Chinese airlines, as well as growing markets between Cairns and Japan, PNG and Hong Kong. Cairns is now ranked the No.1 regional destination in Australia for international conventions.  
And with tourism comes investment.  
It's presumably the motivation for the grand resort plan of Tony Fung.  
For residential investors who like Cairns’ prospects, there is some pretty good buying right now, especially in the unit market. This is because values have dropped considerably in recent years. The Cairns market has been one of the poorest in Queensland for capital growth in the past five years. The median unit price for Cairns City has dropped 10% in the past 12 months.  
So it's possible to buy well - but whether it's good buying or not depends on whether Cairns can do better in the next five years than it did in the past five.  
Indications are that it will, based on improvements in core industries like tourism, increasing spending in infrastructure, and efforts to broaden the economic base and encourage local development and employment.

<hr>
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" rel="nofollow" style="font-size: 14px;">hotspotting.com.au</a> and you can contact Terry via <a href="https://mailto:%20ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email</a> or on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank" style="font-size: 14px;">Twitter</a>.
 
 
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There's many reasons to invest in Cairns, but a grandiose resort complex is not one of them

<html><body>Australian Property Monitors (APM) has released a list of auction results in Brisbane for the weekend of November 2. <a style="font-size: 14px;" target="_blank" rel="nofollow" href="https://www.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Brisbane.pdf">Click here</a> for the auction results, and click on each street address to see the property's marketing.</body></html>

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APM's Brisbane auction results for November 2 weekend

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Six small far-north Queensland-based steel manufacturers have come upon a novel solution to compete with the larger companies that dominate construction, mining and infrastructure in their area.
Recently, number of large projects in the area have gone to overseas companies to meet their steel capacity, despite this adding to the regulatory and management risk of projects. But currently, the six companies that formed joint venture Australian Steel Fabricators do not have the capacity to bid for the state's largest projects.
So, in Townsville yesterday, Industrial Laser Cutting, Total Fabricators, APG, Fitzroy Steel, Thomas Steel Fabricators, and Cairns Steel Fabricators announced a new joint venture, that'll see the six companies join together to bid and deliver major infrastructure projects in far-north Queensland.
“We've got major projects that are happening in our backyard, but are getting manufactured either overseas, or from some of the bigger southern companies,” Australian Steel Fabricators director Marcel McLeod said.
“We want to compete in that marketplace, so that's why we've come together.”
Coming up with the solution wasn't easy. The companies involved in the venture compete the rest of the time.
It took eight months from first approach to yesterday's launch. McLeod said a lot of the effort pre-launch went into building the relationship between the leaders of the firms, many of whom hadn't had much to do with each other before.
“We'd crossed paths at conferences and the like, but the relationship had to be built, and is still being built.”
A lot of time went into choosing the companies that would be involved in the joint venture.
“There's always a mindset that you are competitors. But when you're focused on the goal, and on the vision, the conversation itself is quite easy to have.
“In the past, there have been other attempts to get something happening along these lines, but that competitiveness... stepped in, and it didn't eventuate. We're one of the first companies to do this in this industry, and it does take a special group of people. You need common values, common goals and common interests.”
The way the joint venture will work is through having a director of each of the representative companies on the board, with an independent chairman. Australian Steel Fabricators will tender bids for major projects, but if it wins one, the parent companies best able to deliver the service will then form a new joint-venture specifically for that project. This is intended to resolve situations where not all the companies involved can commit to working on a particular project.
“We want to show companies it can be done,” McLeod says. “Competitors can come together for a larger cause.”

<hr>
This article first appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au">SmartCompany</a>.
 
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Six small Queensland steel manufacturers band together to compete for major projects

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A waterfront bungalow on the Whitsunday Islands will go to auction without a reserve next month, for the first time ever recorded.
Marketing agent, Steve Marks, Ray White Whitsundays, pointed out that it provides buyers a chance to get a good deal for the one bedroom, one bathroom bungalow.
It is, however, likely to prompt enough interest that there should be some competition.
"There is no doubt it my mind it won’t sell. If the one and only bid is for $1, then that’s what it will sell for," said Marks.
"Our vendors asked us how we can guarantee a sale and our answer was to have no reserve," he said.
This type of auction is uncommon due to the lack of control the vendor has over the outcome.
"With a no reserve auction the agent is 100% responsible for the sale. I have sold this way once before in the past," he said.
"About five years ago I auctioned a piece of Whitsunday land with no reserve. The first bid started at $5,000 and suddenly the room went quiet. I thought I was going to be sick. It sold for $130,000. A scary, yet exciting sales process."
Over the past 10 years, Palm Bay had been managed by Peppers Resort and recently changed.
The bungalow, <a target="_blank" href="https://raywhitewhitsunday.com.au/qld/airlie-beach/1045188/">13 Palm Bay Street, Airlie Beach</a>, located on Long Island mid-way between mainland Australia and Hamilton Island, is a beachfront position near pools and resort facilities.
The auction will be held at Coral Sea Resort on 18 November at 6pm.
 
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Airlie Beach waterfront bungalow with no reserve at auction this month

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Popular sushi eatery Armanogawa Sushi Noodle Bar has secured 130 square metres of retail space in the Toowoomba CBD - south-east of Queensland.
The lease, at 517 Ruthven Street, is for five years with a five year option, at a rental rate of about $40,000 per annum.
Ray White Commercial Toowoomba’s Mark Wynhoven and John Smith negotiated the lease.
"This retail outlet is located in one of the busiest sections of Ruthven St and is directly opposite two hotels in the CBD," said Mr Smith
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Armanogawa Sushi Noodle Bar coming to Toowoomba

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A private registered training company has secured an office/warehouse property at Murarrie in Brisbane’s east. EIM Training took out a three plus three year lease, at 16/17 Rivergate Place, for a net rental industry sources estimate to be about $50,000 per annum.
The deal was negotiated by Ray White Industrial Milton’s Alex Smith.
EIM Training leased the property for its Brisbane campus. EIM Training also has campuses on the Gold Coast and in Cairns.
Mr Smith said the property had about 222 square metres of office/classroom space and an 84 square metre warehouse.
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EIM Training secures Murarrie office/warehouse lease

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Gladstone Regional Council will receive $12.5 million from the Royalties for the Regions program to upgrade the Kin Kora roundabout.
The Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning, Jeff Seeney, said the funding would go towards upgrading the roundabout to a four-way signalled traffic intersection.
“Gladstone has experienced significant growth as a result of new residents servicing the resources sector, which has caused traffic congestion to worsen,” Seeney said.
“This project will address traffic congestion and improve safety at the junction of Philip Street and the Dawson Highway.
“The entire project will cost around $25.4 million, and Royalties for the Regions will inject $12.5 million.”
Seeney has championed the Royalties for the Regions program designed to give communities a fair share of royalties from resources for the first time. It is used to improve local amenities and services.
“I am proud of the program, as well as the Newman Government, for helping local governments and regional communities manage the impacts of rapid growth in the resource sector,” he said.
Gladstone Council will submit a business case for the project to have the funding confirmed by the end of the year.
Royalties for the Regions will spend $495 million over the next four years on community infrastructure, roads and flood works.
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