<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.

<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?

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Yachtsman and sailing journalist Rob Mundle is selling his resort-style apartment in Main Beach, Queensland.
The north-facing <a href="/news">Main Beach</a> townhouse-style apartment is set over three levels and comes with a rooftop entertaining terrace with 360-degree views, master bedroom with balcony and ensuite, under-cover security parking, and resort facilities.
McGrath agent Duncan Longmore is looking to sell the property for more than $500,000 at its October 28 auction.
Mundle bought <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.mcgrath.com.au/buy/apartment-main-beach-qld-4217/167139" target="_blank">the property </a>for $500,000 in 2003.
Total outgoings for the property are $7,705 per year.
The apartment is in a boutique block of 16 apartments known as Woodroffe Place. A neighbouring apartment, listed at $380,000, rents for $380 per week.
The last sale in the building was in 2009 when unit six sold for $410,000.
And in 2008 a unit in the building sold for $445,000.
Mundle is the author of Bligh, Fatal Storm, Bond, Sir James Hardy and Ocean Warriors.
He is often referred to as the voice of sailing.
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awalsh-7Ub9EypybQ

Sailor and writer Rob Mundle lists resort-style Main Beach apartment

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The most common commercial property assets that falls into the hands of receivers are development sites in regional Queensland, according to the September quarter update to the LandMark White forced sales monitor.
The monitor tracks all commercial properties that are listed for sale in the print media and counts any that are listed are labelled as a receiver or mortgagee sale as a forced sale.
According to LandMark White, vacant residential development sites in regional Queensland, which accounted for 8% of all recorded forced sales nationally.
Across all asset types, Queensland has accounted for nearly one out of every two (48%) forced commercial properties sales over the past 12 months to September.
Over the September quarter there were 151 commercial properties listed as forced sales, down marginally from 153 in the June quarter, with 43% of these properties located in Queensland.
This was above the national average of 39% over the September quarter.
Of the properties in New South Wales that were advertised in the September quarter, only 16% were distressed sales, compared with the annual figure of 24%.
In Victoria, the proportion of forced sales was only 11%, compared with 13% over the past 12 months.
LandMark White says it is unsurprising that Queensland has the largest share of forced sales over the past year.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/10/landmark.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/10/landmarkthumb.gif"></a>
Recent distressed sales in Queensland include 388 hectares of waterfront land known as Clarkes Cove (pictured below) in Cape Gloucester in the Whitsundays, which sold for $2.55 million at the end of August through Christie Leet &amp; Rob Taylor of PRDnationwide in a mortgagee sale.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/10/clarkescove1.jpg">
The picturesque block of land is bounded by the Dryander National park on three sides and Pacific Ocean on the fourth side and had been targeted for development as a large-scale tourist facility with three resort hotels offering a total of 810 rooms.
It had an open market valuation of $2.98 million in February 1999.
Nationally, development sites accounted for 34% of the total in the September quarter, against an average of 32%, while sites with a holding income comprised 9% of the September results, against an annual average of 10%.
The second most common property type listed for forced sale were vacant residential development sites in regional NSW (5.2%) and third most prevalent were income producing retail properties in regional Queensland, which accounted for 5.1% of all forced sales over the past 12 months.
Across the broad commercial property sectors, office and retail property had the poorest results of the September quarter, as 18% of office and 31% of retail properties were forced sales.
The industrial property sector had the biggest improvement, falling to 19% from 35% in June, which was also below its 12-month average.
Over the 12-month period, 32% of forced sales were in NSW and only 8% in Victoria.
Since the series began 12 months ago, a total of 2,095 properties have been advertised for sale in the national press, and 27% (573) were specifically listed as being in the hands of mortgagees, receivers, or liquidators.
 
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Regional Queensland development sites top list of most distressed commercial assets: LandMark White

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Local resident and property adviser Andrew Winter is a tad premature in saying it's a done deal, but a Coomera River estate widely regarded as among Sanctuary Cove's most iconic homes is close to sale.
Its estimated selling price has ranged between $6 million plus - which was its 2006 purchase price - through to Winter's $10 million plus forecast.
<a href="https://twitter.com/andrewtwinter" target="_blank"><img src="/images/stories/2012/10/wintertweet.jpg"></a>
Listed as having grandeur, opulence and absolute style, the luxury Gold Coast  residence sits on a 2,362-square-metre block.
It's under conditional contract – which prompted its withdrawal from its recent scheduled Ray White auction.
It comes with five bedrooms, six bathrooms and an office.
"The realistic vendor wants it sold at auction if not prior," said its marketing material by listing agent <a href="https://raywhitesanctuarycove.com.au/qld/sanctuary-cove/841593/" target="_blank">Matt Gates at Ray White Prestige Property</a>.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/sanctuary-cove-mansion-sale-sets-new-reputed-%2412-million-record/2012053054896" target="_blank">There was a $12 million sale in May</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Tweet of the day: Sanctuary Cove awaits confirmation of another $10 million mansion sale

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Property investors should take a good look at the remote, historic Queensland outback town of Cloncurry, about 770 kilometres west of Townsville, according to hotspotting.com.au's Terry Ryder.
The town is the birthplace of the Royal Flying Doctors service and maverick independent MP Bob Katter.
Cloncurry is one of just three mining hotspots picked by Ryder – the others being coal seam gas-rich the Galilee Basin (inland from Townsville and Gladstone) and Broken Hill in outback NSW, where there are $7 billion in mining projects.
Ryder's mining town recommendations come with the warning that all mining towns are high-risk property investments – though with the potential for strong gains –  and only suitable for those investors with a high-risk appetite.
In Cloncurry's favour is the fact that it is the focus of a number of mining projects but also has ties to the grazing industry and to outback tourism.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/10/cloncurrymap.jpg">
“Cloncurry is not essentially a mining town, but a regional town of just 3,000 people far north-west Queensland near Mt Isa,” said Ryder in a Property Observer webinar.
“It services the grazing economy around it and the tourism industry, as it is quite a historic town.
“Mines are starting to spring up around it and are entering the construction phase.
“The good thing is they are not iron ore mines or coal mines (where commodity prices have fallen), but copper and zinc mines."
Major mining projects include Xstrata’s $580 million expansion of Ernest Henry mine (named after the founder of Cloncurry), which produces copper, gold and magnetite.
Other mining projects include the Cudeco copper mine just outside Cloncurry, where blast-hole drilling and other pre-blasting activities are now complete, MMG’s Dugald River project – one of the world’s largest and highest grade known undeveloped lead-zinc-silver deposits and Xstrata’s Mt Margaret mine, which will produce around 30,000 tonnes of copper per year over the next five years. 
At the same time a multi-user rail facility is being built to service all those mining companies and due for completion in mid-2014.
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
The median house price in Cloncurry is around $260,000, making it one of the more affordable mining hotspots.
Ryder points out this is well below the median house price in other mining towns in Queensland, such as Moranbah and Dysart, where the median price is around the $700,000 mark.
“We are potentially going to see growth in prices and rents in Cloncurry as these mining projects create housing demand from those workers involved,” he says.
Houses in Cloncurry are not pretty, but recent sales show the potential for capital gains.
They include <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-cloncurry-108078636">this four-bedroom fibre cement house</a> (pictured below), which sold through Elaine Raffin from RealWay Property Consultants Mount Isa for $245,000 in January this year.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/10/burke.jpg">
The property last sold for $130,000 in February 2006.
It is listed for rent at $500 per week a gross yield of 10.6%
Another relatively recent sale was a <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-cloncurry-108836946" target="_blank">three-bedroom wood panel house</a> (pictured below) sold by Jean Rutherfurd also from RealWay Property Consultants Mount Isa.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/10/palmer.jpg">
The house sold for $300,000, having been listed between $275,000 and $325,000.
Cloncurry Shire Council sold the 914-square-metre block of land for $21,000 in November 2005.
Assuming rent of around $400 per week would equate to a yield of around 7%.
The majority of 1,300 dwellings in Cloncurry are houses, and two-thirds of these are three and four-bedroom houses according census 2011.
A high percentage – 52% of dwellings in Cloncurry– are rented, with only 22% of residents owning their homes outright.
In 1861 Burke and Wills with King and Gray were the first Europeans to come into the area on their ill-fated expedition to the Gulf of Carpentaria. Burke named the river “Cloncurry” for his cousin, Lady Elizabeth Cloncurry of County Galway in Ireland.
The Australian Aerial Medical Service (known more commonly as the flying doctors) took off on its first flight from Cloncurry on May 15, 1928.
The service made use of a de Havilland DH.50 aircraft hired from the then small airline Qantas.
A Royal Flying Doctor Service museum is situated in the town.
The town also includes the Mary Kathleen Memorial Park and Museum, with its notable memorabilia being a water bottle used by famed explorer Robert O'Hara Burke, who led the ill-fated Burke and Wills expedition from Melbourne to Gulf of Carpenteria and who died, alongside Wills and five other explorers, on the return journey.
Traces of copper were discovered at Cloncurry in the 1860s by John McKinlay, while searching for Burke and Wills, with pastoralist Ernest Henry discovering the first copper lodes six years later.
To listen to all of Terry Ryder’s tips for property investors looking to benefit from the mining boom, <a href="/news">view Property Observer’s free webinar here</a>
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Remote Cloncurry, Queensland, a hotspot with high yield potential: Terry Ryder

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Midwaters, a 1,232-square-metres residential development site on Main Beach on the Gold Coast, has been sold.
The $5 million-plus sale through Mark Witheriff and Lachlan Harris of CBRE was a year after <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/raptis-boutique-gold-coast-site-in-receivership-listing/2011100451804">its listing through other agents</a>. It was to be the site of a $48 million tower by veteran development group Raptis.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/raptis.jpg">
The property attracted interest from Chinese developers, with three buyers short-listed from the offers received. The buyers' identity has not been disclosed but is understood to be a south-east Queensland developer.
“We understand that the purchaser plans to proceed with the existing development application on the site,” Harris says.
The Midwaters site has development approvals in place for a 17-level apartment building configured for 16 apartments.
Raptis Group secured development approval for the site in 2008, and the approval is in place until 2014.
The property was placed on the market on behalf of funds manager Wellington Capital, which purchased all the shares in Octaviar Investment Management Limited, which was a lender to the Raptis Group.
The Midwaters site backs on to an arm of the Nerang River.
It currently has an ageing three-storey walk-up, known as Midwaters, that has lain dormant for years.
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Raptis Gold Coast development site sells 

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The former boss of Billabong, Matthew Perrin, has appeared in the Brisbane Magistrate’s Court on charges of defrauding the Commonwealth Bank of Australia of $13.5 million.
The court took Perrin's passport, potentially thwarting plans to marry his fiancée Belinda Otton in a Thailand wedding in December.
Police allege Perrin, 40, provided false documents and a guarantee relating to mortgages taken out on a Gold Coast home in 2008.
Perrin allegedly forged the signature of his now ex-wife, Nicole Bricknell.
Perrin was granted bail and though he argued he was not a flight risk, he had his passport confiscated.
Perrin’s lawyer, Peter Shields, indicated Perrin would plead not guilty.
His appearance in court comes after a three-year investigation by the Queensland Police’s corporate crime division.
The former millionaire and BRW Rich List regular wanted to go to Phuket to be married.
Magistrate Anne Thacker found there was no compelling reason for Perrin to leave and ordered he surrender his passport.
Perrin is now forbidden from contacting three witnesses, including his ex-wife.
The case goes back to court in November 26, and Perrin must stay at his Bundall address.
Perrin, the man who floated surfwear company Billabong, was once worth $150 million, but three defunct companies and a failed marriage later, he is is bankrupt and facing criminal charges.
Perrin lost most of his Billabong fortune in China in 2005, propping up a failing business. The GFC gave him an additional hit, and he filed for bankruptcy in March 2009.
After filing for bankruptcy, Perrin’s marriage to Nicole, the daughter of former bookmaker Laurie Bricknell, fell apart when it emerged Perrin had an affair with his current fiancee Belinda Otton.
Victoria Bricknell <a href="/news">listed the seven-bedroom property for sale in January</a> this year after a failed attempt by the Commonwealth Bank to repossess the home.
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Billabong's Matthew Perrin in court over alleged mortgage fraud

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There are some signs of a recovery in the Brisbane property market, but it still remains firmly in a downswing , with investors seeking bargains in the unit market as new apartment projects are completed, says WBP Property Group.
WBP places the Brisbane housing and unit market at five o’clock on the property clock.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/clock-generic.jpg">
<ul>
<li>At 12 o’clock the market is at its peak (demand exceeds supply)</li>
<li>At 3 o’clock the downswing has set in (an evenly supplied market)</li>
<li>By 6 o’clock it has bottomed out (an oversupplied market).</li>
<li>At 9 o’clock the market is rebounding (supply tightening)</li>
</ul>
“The housing market within Brisbane is considered to be nearing the bottom with no obvious signs of recovery,” says WBP.
The valuation and advisory firm says that while recent changes in state government legislation, in particular stamp duty concessions, have improved sales activity and enquiry, Brisbane market conditions will remain as they are until the end of the year.
“Potential buyers and investors are keeping an eye on the effects of the mining boom, which continues to fuel growth, and also public sector job cuts announced by the Newman state government.


<hr class="system-pagebreak">
WBP says future market factors to watch out for include changes in pricing within the commodities sector and cost cutting within the government.
Looking more closely at the unit market, WBP notes that there are a number of new unit developments in Brisbane that are nearing completion and due to settle.
“Many purchasers who have bought off the plan have seen prices come off from original date of contract. Investors still remain wary as to when the bottom will be and are on the lookout for a bargain buy,” says WBP
“This market trend is due to continue till the end of the year and perhaps into 2013.
“The Queensland government has introduced a $15,000 concession for first-home buyers looking to buy a new property.
“The unit market in the sub $400,000 range still continues to be strong amongst professionals looking for lifestyle, inner-city locations,” it says.
In his property clock assessment, Michael Yardney, director of Metropole Property Investment Strategists, said the Brisbane inner-city apartment market was heading into a downswing<a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/residential/brisbane-units-market-heading-into-downswing-on-property-clock-due-to-too-many-off-the-plan-projects-michael-yardney/2012091656604"> </a>due to the large numbers of off-the-plan projects currently being marketed in the Brisbane CBD and surrounding suburbs.
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Brisbane property market stuck in a downswing as investors seek unit bargains: WBP Property Group

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The outlook for property markets closely linked to tourism has brightened, with prices set to rise by between 3% and 6% in 2013, according to SQM Research’s Boom and Bust report.
The extent of the recovery is heavily dependent on the Australian dollar and further rate cuts.
The outlook is also brighter for the beleaguered tourism-dependent Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast property markets with both areas “showing signs of bottoming out”.
Under a base case scenario, property prices in holiday locations are expected to rise by between 3% and 6% – a brighter outlook than Canberra (1% to 4% rise), Hobart (2% to 5%) and Melbourne (2% to 5%) and almost on a par with Brisbane (3% to 7%).
This scenario is based on terms of trade falling and then stabilising, the cash rate being cut by 50 basis points and the Australian dollar hovering at parity to the US dollar.
<a target="_blank" href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/">According to SQM</a>, the best case scenario for holiday locations would be a crash in the terms of trade, a 100-basis-point cut in the cash rate and the Australian dollar falling below 90 US cents.
If this were to occur, SQM forecasts holiday location property markets to rise by between 7% and 13% – outperforming all capital city markets.
In line with these healthier outlooks, SQM says its previous pessimistic opinion of Queensland’s Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast has begun to shift somewhat in recent months.
“Emerging from extended periods of oversupply and severe price corrections, these regions are now looked upon less negatively, and potentially the worst could be over for these localities.
“Nevertheless, there are still risks going forward, one of the main risks being that the Australian dollar could appreciate in value compared to the US dollar, which would have serious additional ramifications for the local economy.”
 
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
 
SQM Research managing director Louis Christopher says while he has been “very bearish” on the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, there is now evidence of a pick-up, with stock-on-market levels coming down.
In February this year <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/hotspots/kochie-s-right-stay-away-from-the-gold-and-sunshine-coasts-sqm-director-louis-christopher/2012020153218">Christopher said he agreed with financial analyst and TV presenter David Koch'</a>s dire assessment of the Gold and Sunshine coast markets, pointing out at the time that three of the top four most discounted homes in Australia are in Queensland. Kochie came under fire from local estate agents and media for his gloomy assessment of the Queensland market last year. <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/hotspots/kochie-s-right-stay-away-from-the-gold-and-sunshine-coasts-sqm-director-louis-christopher/2012020153218" target="_blank">Kochie refused to back down from his assessment</a> that the Sunshine and Gold coasts are “catastrophes” and says investors should not trust the views of local estate agents and journalists.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept26.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept26thumb.gif"></a>
Christopher says a falling Australian dollar would help these markets as fewer Aussies would take their holidays overseas, while the weaker dollar would attract more international tourists.
Further rate cuts would also help.
Click to enlarge
<a href="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept261.gif" rel="shadowbox" title="Click to enlarge"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/sqmsept261thumb.gif"></a>
But he warns that these holiday markets are not for the "novice investor", who should stick with properties in the suburbs and avoid holiday apartments.
The report also notes that a “gradual rebalancing away from mining and resources back to tourism and manufacturing would be very beneficial over the long term for this country”.
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SQM Research more positive on Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast property markets

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Former rugby league star and once high-flying Queensland property developer Jarrod McCracken, who appeared on the BRW Young Rich List in 2009 worth an estimated $34 million, is considering appealing a federal magistrate decision to place him in bankruptcy.
McCracken was officially declared bankrupt on September 17, according to the Insolvency and Trustee Services of Australia, the government department that oversees bankruptcies.
“As far as I am concerned I can’t see how anyone could go bankrupt with an unquantifiable order against them,” McCracken told The Australian Financial Review.
McCracken has until Friday next week to make his appeal.
The bankruptcy ruling followed just three days after a Federal Magistrates Court ruled he was liable for a $2 million debt to a Townsville construction company, Phoenix Constructions Pty Ltd, following a six-year legal battle.
In June 2011 the Brisbane Supreme Court awarded damages in favour of Phoenix Constructions in the amount of $1.9 million.
The Townsville Bulletin reported on September 15 that McCracken’s assets had been seized to pay costs in the long-running case over the construction of the Watermark complex on the Townsville waterfront.
McCracken told the paper the judgment would be suspended as soon as an appeal was lodged.
"I'm seeking advice next week," he said.
His financial problems reportedly stemmed from a $6.25 million “handshake” loan made to fellow property developer Harry Kakavas, who says he lost the money gambling in Las Vegas and on bets for the AFL and NRL grand finals.
McCracken told a court hearing that he had borrowed the money from "some people in Sydney who are very heavy" and on-loaned it to Kakavas, the Daily Telegraph reported.
McCracken, who hails from New Zealand and is the son of  former New Zealand rugby league international Ken McCracken, played for the Canterbury Bulldogs, the Parramatta Eels and Wests Tigers before a spear tackle ended his career 12 years ago.
He turned his attention property development in 2001, starting off on the Gold Coast before undertaking a number of redevelopment projects in the Townsville CBD.
He first made the BRW Young Rich List in 2005 with a personal fortune of $15 million. He was aged 35 at the time and made his last appearance in 2009.
BRW reported that McCracken had made a string of “canny property purchases” including the local shopping centre, a hotel and the $30 million Waterside Apartments.
In 2009, when BRW estimated his fortune at $42 million the magazine reported that it had been a rough year for McCracken, after he pleaded guilty to “assaulting an ex-business partner on the Gold Coast on his wedding day after a multimillion-dollar deal went sour”.
McCracken and his wife also faced courts after they directed contractors to clear 13 hectares of waterfront rainforest for a house and horse paddock at their large property holding on the Whitsundays just north of Airlie Beach.
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Former NRL star and rich lister Jarrod McCracken considers appealing his bankruptcy

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An increasing percentage of recent Gold and Sunshine Coast home buyers would get less than what they paid for homes if they were to sell them now, according to the latest RP Data Value Accumulation report.
The quarterly report compares the original purchase prices with the current estimated value of property as at June 2012 to provide a measure of value accumulation.
Around 18.3% of Gold Coast properties are now worth the same or less than their original purchase price, compared with 16.8% in the March quarter.
On the Sunshine Coast the proportion of properties worth the same or less than their original purchase price increased from 14.3% to 16.7% from the March quarter to the June quarter.
Nationally, the percentage of homes worth less than or the same as their purchase price increased from 5.4% of homes in the March quarter to 5.9% in the June quarter 2012.
“Of course many homes purchased over the past year would be worth less, with values having fallen by 3.6% across the combined capitals over the 12 months to June 2012,” noted RP Data.
The Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast maintained their second and third place rankings respectively on the list of locations with greatest proportion of homes worth the same or less than their purchase price, but both have worsened on this metric since the March quarter report.
Properties currently listed for sale on the Gold Coast below their previous purchase price include this three-bedroom townhouse (pictured below) on Central Street in Labrador, being marketed by Peter Jarmer of Smart Real Estate and seeking offers above $279,000. The property last sold for $295,000 in January 2008.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/centralst.jpg">
Another property listed for close to its previous sale price is this four-bedroom house  on Hobwee Street, Veresdale, in the Gold Coast hinterland near Beaudesert, which is seeking offers above $299,000. It last sold for $295,000 in May 2008. The property is being marketed by Andrew Patrick from Elders Jimboomba.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/veresdale.jpg">
 
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The top position on the RP Data list of locations with greatest proportion of homes worth the same or less than their purchase price was retained by the far north Queensland market, which includes heavily tourism-dependent Cairns, Palm Cove, Port Douglas, Innisfail, Weipa and Atherton, with just under one in five homes (19.9%) worth less than their purchase price as of June 2012.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/rpsept21.gif">
Source: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/">RP Data</a>
However, while a greater proportion Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast properties slipped into the red, the far north Queensland valuation position remained unchanged since the March quarter.
RP Data notes in the report that "coastal and lifestyle markets, which had previously been supported by a strong tourism sector and the ‘sea-change’ phenomenon, have tended to be the weakest performers”.
“Nine of the 10 regions with the greatest proportion of value declines adjoin the coast, with these regions accounting for 9.6% of the national population. Noticeably, none of the capital city housing markets appear on this list,” RP Data says.
RP Data says the housing market in north Queensland has been “noticeably weak and has felt the full brunt of the economic downturn”.
“Prior to the onset of the financial crisis, this region was benefitting from surging demand due to a high level of population growth, with property values subsequently rising strongly.
“As a result, the majority of home owners that have purchased since 2008 are likely to have a current value that is lower than the purchase price.”
 
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Another market that weakened noticeably was West Moreton, which recorded the greatest quarterly increase of 4.2 percentage points, with 11.8% of homes now worth less or equal to their original purchase price.
West Moreton occupies the entire rural western portion of south-east Queensland and includes the electorates of Lockyer, Beaudesert, Ipswich West and Nanango.
At the other end of the spectrum, Canberra retained its position as having the lowest proportion of homes worth less than their purchase price, with just 2.2% fitting into this category.
Outside of Canberra, no other capital city housing markets feature on the list.
“Most of the regions detailed are characterised as being regional and linked either to the mining and resources sector or agriculture,” says RP Data 
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/rpsept211.gif">
Source: <a target="_blank" href="https://www.myrp.com.au/">RP Data</a>
On a state-by-state basis, Queensland has the greatest percentage of properties that have recorded a decline or no change in value since their purchase at 9.6%, but down from 11% at the end of 2012.
Western Australia also has a relatively high instance of homes worth less than or the same as their purchase price at 6.8%, down from 7.9% of homes last quarter.
On the other hand, the Australian Capital Territory (2.1% down from 2.5%) and Victoria (3.3% down from 4%) have relatively few properties worth less than or the same as their initial purchase price.
According to RP Data, Australia’s residential housing market was worth an estimated $4.83 trillion at the end of June 2012. This is more than three-and-a-half times the value of the Australian equities market, which has a market capitalisation of $1.2 trillion.
“The amount of equity in one’s home is often a key factor that a bank will assess when deciding whether or not to lend money. Australians have increasingly relied on equity, which is simply the value of the home less the amount of debt held against the property, as a vehicle to leverage into other investments,” notes RP Data.
Over the 10 years to June 2012, capital city home values have increased by about 73%.
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