Abadeen has released the whole-floor penthouse crowning its recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/park-residences-cremorne-2-sutherland-street-cremorne-nsw-2090">Park Residences</a> development in Cremorne, bringing the near-300 sqm residence to market for the first time.

Occupying the entire top floor of the boutique Lower North Shore development, the penthouse includes 221 sqm of internal living and a 74 sqm wraparound terrace, with a prized north-facing aspect taking in views across Middle Harbour.

The residence has been completed and fully furnished following a collaboration between Abadeen Executive Chairman Justin Brown and internationally recognised interior designer Jack Freeman, Founder and Managing Director of FREEMAN &amp; CO.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen">Abadeen</a> and Freeman approached the penthouse as a finished home, sourcing furniture, artwork, lighting and objects from Australia and overseas.

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Pieces from Parisian design house Pierre Augustin Rose sit alongside contemporary artworks and bespoke lighting, with Freeman drawing on recent visits to PAD Paris and Salone del Mobile Milano for the final collection.

Brown said the aim was to create a penthouse that felt more like a large-scale private home than a traditional apartment.

"The experience begins the moment the lift doors open. You're welcomed into an elegant dining room before the home opens into an extraordinary living space framed by sun-drenched harbour views.

"Every time someone walks through the front door they pause. It's not just the view, it's the incredible sense of space, the warmth created by the northern sunlight that fills the interiors, and the way every room connects so effortlessly.

"It has all the proportions of a luxury home, while delivering the effortless lifestyle and personalised experience of living in a world-class six-star hotel, combined with the simplicity and convenience of apartment living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378713]

A secure lift provides exclusive access to the penthouse level, opening to a dedicated arrival foyer and dining area before the residence expands into its main living and entertaining spaces.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing runs across the northern side of the home, connecting the interiors with the terrace and Middle Harbour outlook.

The penthouse also features a fireplace and substantial chef's kitchen, while the wraparound terrace has been designed to accommodate both everyday outdoor living and larger-scale entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378720]

Freeman said the interiors had been deliberately kept restrained to complement the scale, natural light and outlook already established by the architecture.

"The penthouse is a serene study in quiet luxury," Freeman said.

"The interior pairs soft, sculptural forms with warm timber, pale stone and a restrained neutral palette. Curated artwork and metallic accents add depth, while abundant natural light creates a calm, effortlessly refined atmosphere. In my world, less is always more."

Freeman said the approach was centred around collecting individual pieces rather than simply decorating the apartment.

"Every material, every object and every piece of furniture has been curated with intention. I am a true believer in collecting versus decorating.

"The architecture already provided extraordinary natural light, remarkable volume and an uninterrupted connection to Middle Harbour. Our role was to complement those qualities with unique one-of-a-kind pieces of fine art and collectible design sourced from recent travels around the world."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=114246 project_image_fid=378694]

Among the collection are solid bronze sculptures by Lorenzo Quinn, alongside a curated crystalware collection and pieces sourced from international design fairs.

Park Residences sits opposite Cammeray Golf Club, Cammeray Croquet Club and Grand Slam Tennis Cammeray, around 300 metres from Neutral Bay Village and its established collection of restaurants, cafés and retail.

Brown said the combination of a whole-floor floorplan, northern aspect and proximity to Neutral Bay was becoming increasingly difficult to find on the Lower North Shore.

"Completed whole-floor penthouses with a sun-drenched north-facing aspect and sweeping Middle Harbour views are exceptionally rare," Brown said.

"Add a quiet position opposite golf, croquet and tennis facilities, a level walk to Neutral Bay Village and only minutes to the CBD, and you have a lifestyle that's incredibly difficult to replicate.

"This is a home that offers the privacy and generosity of a luxury residence together with the convenience of one of Sydney's best-connected harbourside locations."

The penthouse will be exclusively marketed by SRM Residential.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=114246]

Joel Robinson

Abadeen unveils penthouse at Park Residences in Cremorne

New Brisbane developer Dalcott has unveiled Marrone, the first of three residential projects it is planning in and around Browning Street in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marrone-south-brisbane-39-browning-street-south-brisbane-qld-4101">Marrone</a> will comprise 97 predominantly two- and three-bedroom apartments, with larger residences aimed squarely at the owner-occupier market.

The project will sit in a quiet pocket of South Brisbane between South Bank and West End, close to the restaurants, cultural attractions and riverfront amenity that have driven the suburb's continued transformation.

Dalcott is targeting buyers looking for more space and amenity than has traditionally been offered in the inner-city apartment market, particularly downsizers and professionals wanting to remain close to the city.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=149951 project_image_fid=377072]

Resident facilities will be concentrated around an extensive rooftop amenity offering, including a swimming pool, spa, infrared sauna, warm and cold magnesium plunge pools, private lounge, dining room and outdoor entertaining areas.

Dalcott Managing Director Lachlan Cottee said South Brisbane's combination of lifestyle, connectivity and established character had been central to the approach to Marrone.

“South Brisbane offers a combination of lifestyle, connectivity and character that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere in Brisbane,” Cottee said.

“Our focus has been on creating homes that feel connected to that environment while providing the level of design, functionality and quality that today's owner-occupiers expect.”

The residences will feature an expressive material palette. Italian Calacatta Viola marble, known for its deep burgundy veining, will be paired with aged brass tapware, Chestnut engineered timber flooring and Tuscan Oak joinery.

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b8d833da-3b30-496a-ae30-07bdff371b50" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.35%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=P6DAgOfaQzIXljKKK5j3e5NhWtrHIu9G" />

Bathrooms will feature Nara Japanese ceramics and glass bricks, while clay, walnut and brass lighting will be used throughout the apartments.

Dalcott has appointed Realm Projects, led by Managing Director Shane Foley, to handle sales and marketing following previous sold-out collaborations between the groups.

Foley said the Brisbane apartment buyer had become increasingly focused on the quality of the home itself rather than simply securing an inner-city address.

“We expect to see strong demand from buyers who still want all the advantages of inner-city living but aren’t prepared to compromise on the quality of their home,” Foley said.

“Many will be downsizers looking to leave behind the maintenance of a traditional family home without giving up the space they enjoy, while others are likely to be professionals wanting a residence that reflects the way they live today.”

“Marrone responds directly to that demand, with generous floorplans, exceptional resident amenity and a location that places some of Brisbane’s best dining, entertainment and cultural attractions within walking distance.”

<img alt="Marrone" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="61f7b22f-899e-4c0f-940a-7d3ab1bfb93a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%2010.52.44%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=PvN1JYxBgUpyCB7efKo52WGdSDs9nmim" />

Marrone will be the first project delivered as part of Dalcott's broader investment in the precinct.

It will be followed by La Terra, a boutique project comprising penthouse-style, single-level apartments on a northeast corner site with extensive resident amenity and city views.

Cottee said Marrone represented the first stage of the group's longer-term plans for the area.

Dalcott was established in 2025 by Lachlan Cottee and Ben Dalgliesh, combining development and construction capability under an integrated model and focusing on architecturally considered residential projects.

Marrone will initially be offered through a pre-release registration campaign ahead of its broader public launch.

Dalcott targets owner-occupiers with South Brisbane debut Marrone

Parnell Developments is the latest to seek significant uplift through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority on a Strathfield site previously approved for a much smaller apartment development.

Parnell has sought approval for a 32-storey mixed use tower across&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-lyons-street-strathfield-nsw-2135">3-7 Lyons Street and 18 Parnell Street</a>, a&nbsp;1,857 sqm site around 400 metres from Strathfield Station. The building would yield 160 apartments, 15 per cent of which will be dedicated affordable as per the government mandate for buildings seeking additional uplift.

Approved previously was a nine-storey building back in 2022 with just over 30 apartments. That approval came prior to the project being&nbsp;progressively reconsidered as planning policy shifted toward greater density around transport hubs.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c5af5281-a643-4eb2-b8c4-0081b59c04c7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.16.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=37bd3mI7rHNpThOV_75VO8xsGFwWOi1u" />

Turner has designed the latest building that would replace&nbsp;existing detached homes across the four lots.

The apartment mix comprises 22 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom and two-bedroom-plus configurations, and 31 apartments with three or more bedrooms. The scheme also includes 203 car spaces across six basement levels and 58 bicycle spaces.

The proposal has been designed around a three-storey podium addressing Lyons Street, with the tower rising above and stepping toward its upper levels.

Turner said the podium was deliberately scaled to respond to the existing street, while the taller element has been designed as part of the emerging skyline anticipated around Strathfield Town Centre and the wider Homebush transport-oriented development precinct.

The Lyons Street frontage would have a more active, pedestrian-focused character, incorporating the commercial tenancy, landscaping and a brick-framed podium with an awning.

<img alt="Strathfield" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="14b20874-b8c3-4ac7-bc03-92be9a69fb78" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=av.9TxtqIRTC6v3PkSuu1rL9rreWoe2h" />

Parnell Street, which faces the railway corridor, has been given a different architectural treatment, with double-height breeze blocks, landscaping and communal areas used to soften the interface with the rail infrastructure.

The tower itself uses curved and recessed facade elements, with wave-like indentations across the northern elevation breaking the building into three vertical forms.

A palette of grey concrete, brick and breeze blocks is complemented by clay and terracotta accents, while the upper tower adopts a lighter expression through articulated slab edges, vertical fins and recessed glazing.

Residents would have access to 467 sqm of communal open space spread across three levels. The ground floor would accommodate the more active resident areas, including barbecue and group gathering spaces and an internal communal room capable of being used for working from home.

A more passive viewing deck is proposed at level three, overlooking the ground-level landscaping and neighbouring tennis courts, while a rooftop "sunset deck" at level 30 would provide another social and relaxation space.

<img alt="Parnell" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3dce401-a80f-4682-8471-4caa01180880" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%209.17.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Xyo8JVqbOhSJXNy6Ih.1cHL.O6i0bGR." />

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Strathfield has been earmarked for substantial change through the Strathfield Town Centre planning work and the nearby Homebush TOD precinct.

Turner's report says the project has been designed to act as a transition between the existing low and mid-rise development surrounding the site and the taller built form expected to emerge across the town centre.

The proposal is being assessed as State Significant Development under the HDA pathway, alongside the concurrent request to amend the Burwood Local Environmental Plan.

First look: New apartment tower pitched for Strathfield Town Centre precinct

An $18 million penthouse has hit the market in Main Beach as construction tops out on La Mer, the $155 million apartment development rising just metres from the beach.

Spanning around 600 sqm across the top two levels of the 29-storey tower on Main Beach Parade, the four-bedroom penthouse is one of the latest eight-figure residences to test the upper end of the Gold Coast apartment market.

Its launch comes amid continued activity at the very top of the market, following the $30 million off-the-plan sale of a Burleigh Heads penthouse earlier this year, which surpassed the Gold Coast's previous $24 million apartment record set in 2023.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/la-mer-main-beach-3580-main-beach-parade-main-beach-qld-4217">La Mer penthouse</a> has been designed as a private residence in the sky, with 360-degree views spanning the ocean, Broadwater, hinterland and Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378731]

All four bedrooms have ensuites, while the ocean-facing master retreat occupies around half of the upper level and includes its own lounge, private balcony, two walk-in wardrobes and an oversized ensuite with a freestanding stone bath positioned to take in the views.

The residence also features a kitchen designed to accommodate a private chef, a 3.6-metre island bench, expansive butler's pantry, wine cellar and integrated bar.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378732]

A rooftop pool and substantial outdoor entertaining area with its own kitchen sit above the residence, while a grand staircase connects the two internal levels. The penthouse also has its own express lift.

OTP Group Director James Elliott, who is marketing La Mer, said the penthouse was expected to appeal to high-net-worth buyers seeking either a permanent Main Beach residence or Gold Coast holiday home.

“The La Mer penthouse represents exceptional value, considering its quality design, size, privacy and location, not to mention the 360-degree views capturing the beach and Gold Coast Broadwater,” Elliott said.

“We’re anticipating interest from high-net-worth individuals and couples seeking a residence or holiday home in the sought-after village enclave of Main Beach, taking advantage of the unprecedented growth underway in the area and neighbouring The Spit.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378736]

La Mer is being developed by developer-builder ODUS and Nazero, in partnership with funder Metrics Credit Partners.

ODUS Director Byron Sakha said topping out the tower had provided the opportunity to release the project's most significant residence.

“We’ve worked with internationally-recognised studio Sici Design on the penthouse interiors, with a focus on ensuring it isn’t luxury for luxury’s sake. Every element has been thoughtfully designed to enhance quality of life for those who call it home,” Sakha said.

“The views are the hero of virtually every space, but we’ve given equal attention to the fittings and finishes, so every detail exudes elegance and refinement.”

Sici Design Founder and Director Maria Papadopoulos said the extensive views became an integral part of the interior design rather than simply something the residence was designed around.

“The views weren't something we designed around, they became part of the design itself, with the true luxury of La Mer in its feeling of peace, calm and wellbeing,” Papadopoulos said.

“Luxury isn't defined by how something looks, but how it makes you feel, and we believe a luxurious home should be beautiful to live in, not stressful to maintain.”

The interiors combine Austral Dream Dolomite natural stone and travertine with timber flooring and a restrained coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95606 project_image_fid=378734]

Designed by Plus Studio, La Mer is one of the more boutique additions to the rapidly changing Main Beach apartment market.

The tower comprises just 24 full-floor, three-bedroom plus multipurpose room apartments below the two-level penthouse, giving the project a considerably lower density than many of the larger towers being developed across the Gold Coast.

Residents will have access to a pool and spa, gym, sauna, barbecue facilities, private sun lounges, yoga lawn and outdoor beach shower.

The penthouse has been released as part of the final collection of residences at La Mer, with remaining apartments priced from $4.3 million.

Construction is expected to complete later this year, with a fully furnished display apartment now open on level four.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95606]

ODUS releases $18 million penthouse crowning La Mer Main Beach

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a> is preparing to commence construction on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> this October, marking the next milestone for the Melbourne CBD development and its higher-end Eliza Collection.

Spanning levels 44 to 68 of the 68-storey <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>-designed tower, the Eliza Collection has been conceived as a lower-density offering within the broader development, with only five apartments on each floor, dedicated lift access and a collection of resident spaces reserved exclusively for Eliza Collection residents.

The Eliza Collection forms part of Far East Consortium's broader move toward larger-format residences at 640 Bourke Street, where the number of apartments was reduced from earlier plans as apartment sizes increased.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365685]

"What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Far East Consortium Director of Sales and Marketing Lauren Sheldon said.

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang said the design process provided an opportunity to create more generous floorplans.

"We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368869]

That thinking carries through to the Eliza Collection, where the residences have been designed around the space and functionality associated with a larger home, but positioned high above the centre of Melbourne.

Kitchens are equipped with Gaggenau appliances, a butler's pantry, temperature-controlled wine cabinet and sculptural pendant lighting, while engineered timber flooring, stone and porcelain finishes and custom cabinetry feature throughout the broader interiors.

Privacy and security are another point of distinction. Eliza Collection residents have dedicated lift access, while 640 Bourke Street will provide concierge services and secure resident parking. Short-stay accommodation, including Airbnb, will not be permitted within the development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

Eliza Collection residents will also have exclusive access to selected amenity spaces across levels one and three of the restored Eliza Tinsley building. These include the Salon with grand piano, an art therapy room, private dining rooms and treatment rooms.

They sit within more than 3,000 sqm of amenity planned across 640 Bourke Street, alongside facilities including a pool, gym, whisky lounge and further social and wellness spaces.

The Eliza Tinsley building itself is central to the wider project's identity. Rather than treating the existing Eliza Tinsley façade as a separate element, Rothelowman used it as a starting point for the architecture of the new tower, with the historic building to accommodate the project's gallery and lobby.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=368872]

The tower will rise behind the retained heritage building at 640 Bourke Street, placing residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market and the Docklands waterfront.

With construction scheduled to begin in October, Far East Consortium has established an onsite display gallery at 640 Bourke Street, including fully built apartments that allow the project's layouts, materials and finishes to be inspected at full scale.

A fully built Eliza Collection apartment is also available to view at the display suite by appointment ahead of the planned October construction commencement.

Eligible purchasers who buy before construction commences can secure the full available off-the-plan stamp duty savings, subject to eligibility and applicable conditions.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Far East Consortium brings Eliza Collection to 640 Bourke Street ahead of October construction start

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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Victoria's most expensive suburbs experienced a slow market during the school holidays, with only one property securing a spot on RP Data’s top 10 expensive sales list.
In the week ending Sunday April 7, New South Wales accounted for the other nine sales.
Located on the Esplanade in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Mornington</a>, the three-bedroom home sold at auction on April 7 for $1.9 million.
Dean Phillips of McEwing Partners Real Estate secured the sale.
Situated on a 978-square-metre block, the property includes two bathrooms, an upstairs timber kitchen and a balcony that stretches the length of the house.
It last sold in 1999 for $825,000.
The top sale for the week was actress <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/new-south-wales/actress-susan-hannaford-s-balgowlah-heights-harbourfront-fetches-%24315-million/2013040860238" target="_blank">Susan Hannaford’s Balgowlah Heights harbourfront property</a>, which sold at auction for $3.15 million.
The five-bedroom home sold at auction on April 6 by Mark Novak of Novak Real Estate.
There were a total of 443 auctions in Victoria last week, with 286 properties selling and 157 being passed in.
“The volume of auctions in the cities most expensive suburbs drops significantly in the school holidays,” says Robert Larocca from Real Estate Institute of Victoria.
“It’s interesting to note that this trend is only present in the inner east and inner south eastern suburbs, as they are the city's most expensive.”
“This causes the overall value of sales to drop.”
“This is not an issue with the market or its health, rather it’s a particular trend in some suburbs and it will correct itself after the holidays,” says Larocca.
The REIV expects around 570 auctions this coming week.
The most expensive sales for the week ending April 7 are as follows.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/30a_beatty_street_balgowlah_heights_nsw_2093/1229317" target="_blank">30A Beatty Street, Balgowlah Heights, NSW, 2093</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on April 6 by Novak Real Estate for $3.15 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/1_thompson_street_tamarama_nsw_2026/6666941" target="_blank">1 Thompson Street, Tamarama, NSW, 2026</a>, three-bedroom house, sold at auction on April 6 by Ray White Double Bay for $2.962 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/16_queens_avenue_mcmahons_point_nsw_2060/4169475" target="_blank">16 Queens Avenue, McMahons Point, NSW, 2060</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on April 6 by 1st City Hasemer &amp; Caldwell.Eyles Double Bay for $2.1 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/25_loch_street_freshwater_nsw_2096/2365014" target="_blank">25 Loch Street, Freshwater, NSW, 2096</a>, three-bedroom house, sold at auction on April 6 by Parnell Partners Estate Agents for $2.025 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/7_albyn_road_strathfield_nsw_2135/6478297" target="_blank">7 Albyn Road, Strathfield, NSW, 2135</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on April 6 by Devine Real Estate Strathfield for $2 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/36_crows_nest_road_waverton_nsw_2060/7378123" target="_blank">36 Crows Nest Road, Waverton, NSW, 2060</a>, three-bedroom house, sold at auction on April 6 by Raine &amp; Horne Crows Nest for $1.95 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/16/26_melrose_parade_clovelly_nsw_2031/1863718" target="_blank">16/26 Melrose Parade, Clovelly, NSW, 2031</a>, three-bedroom unit, sold on April 2 by McGrath Edgecliff for $1.95 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/81_grove_street_birchgrove_nsw_2041/1445222" target="_blank">81 Grove Street, Birchgrove, NSW, 2041</a>, three-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on April 6 by Raine &amp; Horne Montano for $1.902 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/835_esplanade_mornington_vic_3931/11969265" target="_blank">835 Esplanade, Mornington, VIC, 3931</a>, three-bedroom house, sold at auction on April 7 by McEwing Partners Real Estate Mornington for $1.9 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property/49_robert_street_freshwater_nsw_2096/2366002" target="_blank">49 Robert Street, Freshwater, NSW, 2096</a>, five-bedroom house, sold prior to auction on April 4 by L J Hooker Seaforth for $1.8 million
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Victoria's most expensive suburbs slow during school holidays: RP Data

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Jutting out like a ship's prow, a four-bedroom home on The Strand in Williamstown has been listed for sale with price expectations over $5 million.
The home was built in 2008 by local architect firm George Bourakis and Associates.
The building and design company began in 1981.
Situated on a 321-square-metre block, the ground floor features three bedrooms, including the master bedroom.
A Miele-equipped imported Italian Bontempi kitchen is located on the upstairs level with a living/dining area and a fourth bedroom.
The living area opens up to an outdoor terrace offering views over the bay.
The basement boasts a home cinema, a billiards room with a bar and wine cellar and polished concrete floors throughout.
It is the first time the home has been offered for sale.
<a href="https://greghockingrealestate.com.au/real-estate/property/635516/for-sale/house/vic/williamstown-3016/48-the-strand/" target="_blank">The property is listed by Leigh Melbourne and Wayne Elly from Greg Hocking Elly Partners.</a>
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Striking Williamstown home with cinema asks $5 million-plus

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Ercildoune Homestead, the Victorian property has been listed with $4 million-plus hopes. The restored heritage-listed, Scottish baronial-style granite Burrumbeet property dates back to 1838 when built by brothers Thomas and Somerville Learmonth.

Its other owners have included pastoralist and later British MP Sir Samuel Wilson and Sir Alan Currie, a former chairman of the Victorian Racing Club who in 1930 innovated with the installation of a hydro-electric power scheme drawing on the natural spring and interconnected lakes. The series of waterways was where Sir Samuel Wilson developed his fish hatchery, believed to be one of the first trout hatcheries in Victoria.

Sir Samuel Wilson was the owner of the property from 1873 to 1920 and Sir Alan Currie lived at the property from 1920 until his death in 1942. Lady Currie continued to live there until her death in 1962.

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After Sir Alan's passing Ercildoune was somewhat neglected until purchased by the current owners in 1999.

Set on 73 hectares about 30 kilometres west of Ballarat, the two-storey homestead has nine bedrooms, and features ballrooms and a library.

There's also a self-contained three-bedroom residence in the former maid's quarters along with numerous outbuildings.

<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-other-vic-ballarat-7529427" target="_blank">Peter Hawkins, of Pat Rice &amp; Hawkins, is handling the sale in conjunction with Charles Stewart</a>.

The Leathmonth brothers had been part of an unsuccessful exploration mission into the interior of the colony in 1837, and embarked on another reconnaissance in 1838, which resulted in them running sheep over lands extending from Mt Buninyong to the foothills around where the township of Learmonth is now located, according to Heritage Victoria.

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It has been listed by Melbourne legal identity John Dever and his wife Christine.

The baronial style manor surrounded by traditional English gardens, 80 hectares of farming land and restored farm cottages including stables and shearers’ quarters, last traded in 1999, will be auctioned on May 18.
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Ercildoune Homestead, the Victorian property listed with $4 million-plus hopes

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Victorian planning minister Matthew Guy has received two further development applications for high rise towers in Melbourne's inner city precinct.
His department his received applications for a 49-storey tower on Ferrars Street, <a target="_blank" href="/news">South Melbourne</a> and a 43-storey tower on City Road, Southbank, Fairfax Media has reported.
The Ferrars Street development could be the first of many – if approved – for the Fishermans Bend Development area, the largest urban renewal area in Australia.
Port Phillip council mayor Amanda Stevens said the council was working closely with the state government urban renewal authority, Places Victoria, on a strategic framework for the area.
Mr Guy said he would not approve any development in the area until a strategic framework is in place.
He has been eagerly approving high-rise projects in and around the CBD over the past year with his vision to transform the Melbourne skyline into something resembling Manhattan.
His press release announcing the approval of Australia 108 last month had as its headline "Melbourne, moving upward".
"Melbourne’s skyline will take a dramatic turn upward following the Victorian Coalition Government's approval of the Australia 108 tower," said Guy.
Mr Guy approved plans to build <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/tallest-building-in-southern-hemisphere-approved-for-melbourne/2013031759915" target="_blank">Australia 108, the tallest highrise in the southern hemisphere</a>, despite concerns it will cast a shadow over the Shrine of Remembrance and later revelations that its height infringes on the flight path into Essendon Airport.
In late 2012, he gave the go-ahead for <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/melbourne-cbds-tallest-residential-tower-crown-tussle/2013022858541" target="_blank">CEL Australia’s $170 million Tower Melbourne </a>which will boast 555 apartments (and townhouses) across 71 storeys.
A third high rise project, the 72-level Vision tower was approved by Mr Guy in April last year. The Brady Group's proposed 226-metre tower is due to stand at 500 Elizabeth Street, near Queen Victoria Market. </body></html>

Two more Melbourne high-rise towers seek Matthew Guy's tick of approval

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Retirees could unlock hundreds of thousands of dollars by downsizing within their own neighbourhoods, according to research published by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria.
The REIV has published <a target="_blank" href="https://reiv.com.au/Property-Research/Census-research/Downsizing">interactive maps</a> which reveal how much money retirees could return to their bank accounts by moving to a smaller home in the same area.
<img height="250" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/04/downsizingapril5one.jpg" alt="downsizingapril5one">
According to their data, moving from a three-bedroom house in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Brighton East</a> into a nearby two-bedroom unit would unlock $453,750.
In <a target="_blank" href="/news">Mornington</a>, moving from a three-bedroom unit to a two-bedroom unit would unlock $232,500. In <a target="_blank" href="/news">Beaumaris</a>, moving from a four-bedroom house to a three-bedroom house would unlock $290,000.
The study found the suburbs with the greatest downsize potential were those in the inner to middle Melbourne suburbs such as <a target="_blank" href="/news">Kew</a> and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Ivanhoe</a> as well as those along the bay such as in <a target="_blank" href="/news">Sandringham</a> and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Beaumaris</a>. It found those suburbs have a high share of retirement-aged, lone-person households as well as relatively higher house prices.
By downsizing from a four-bedroom home to a three-bedroom home, residents would unlock, on average, $145,000. <a target="_blank" href="/news">Beaumaris</a> was the top in this category, followed by <a target="_blank" href="/news">Parkdale</a>, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Northcote</a>, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Caulfield South</a> and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Williamstown</a>.
Those downsizing from a three-bedroom house to a two-bedroom unit stand to unlock $220,000 on average. Top suburbs for this were <a target="_blank" href="/news">Malvern East</a>, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Essendon</a>, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Williamstown</a>, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Ivanhoe</a> and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Brighton East</a>.
Those downsizing from a three-bedroom unit to a two-bedroom unit stand to unlock $159,000 on average with the top suburbs being <a target="_blank" href="/news">Malvern East</a>, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Mornington</a>, <a target="_blank" href="/news">Kew</a> and <a target="_blank" href="/news">Bentleigh</a>.
REIV CEO Enzo Raimondo said that through downsizing retirees could increase their incomes and remain in the same area they had been living.
“Retirees can take advantage of the 25 or 30 years spent paying off their home loan by downsizing. This research will give them the tools to weigh up the options.
“By downsizing not only do they unlock the wealth generated over 25 or 30 years but they can also access a simpler lifestyle.”
He says downsizing isn’t for everyone, but those that do can access funds to help boost their retirement income.
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REIV's interactive maps show where downsizers could unlock hundreds of thousands of dollars

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Surrey Hills has been crowned Melbourne’s hottest suburb for property this quarter, according to data released by realestate.com.au.
The report lists the top suburbs in Melbourne based on the amount of online clicks per property tracked through the realestate.com.au website.
Surrey Hills soared up the list from ninth place three months ago, to the number one spot.
“Demand for the Surrey Hills area has grown dramatically over the last few months,” says Toby Parker from Hocking Stuart in Balwyn.
“The clearance rate for property in the area earlier in the month was 100%.”
The median house price in Surrey Hills is $1,095,000 million.
“It’s a leafy, tree-lined, family orientated suburb which offers all the amenities close to hand,” says Parker.
Moving from seventh place to second this quarter was Blackburn North.
The median house price in Blackburn North is $597,500.
Realestate.com.au’s Victoria state manager Ben Auchettl says if you live in one of the top ten suburbs now might be the time to sell.
“We have more than 18.5 million visits to the realestate.com.au website every month, which gives us a solid indication of where people are looking to buy,” says Auchettl.
“The top suburbs are ranked by the number of people looking per listing in an area, which for these suburbs means a high level of buyer competition for each individual home listed in the suburb.”
“A high level of competition indicates an increase in market participation a few months down the tracks,” says Auchettl.
Park says Hocking Stuart Balwyn sold a four-bedroom property in Scheele Street for $370,000 above the reserve price last month.
Robert Larocca of Real Estate Institute of Victoria told The Herald Sun that median house prices in Surrey Hills are 20% below peak, which may be a key reason why more confident consumers are bidding strongly at auction.
The top ten list
<ol>
<li>Surrey Hills</li>
<li>Blackburn North</li>
<li>Fitzroy North</li>
<li>Bulleen</li>
<li>Carlton North</li>
<li>Hampton East</li>
<li>Chadstone</li>
<li>Croyden South</li>
<li>Wonga Park</li>
</ol>
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Surrey Hills crowned Melbourne's most sought after suburb: realestate.com.au

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The $1.8 million sale of a townhouse in <a href="/news">Glen Iris</a> has set a record price for townhouses in the area.
Located on Peace Street, the <a href="https://www.domain.com.au/Property/For-Sale/Townhouse/VIC/Glen-Iris/?adid=2010286214" target="_blank">340-square-metre brand new home</a> went under the hammer on March 16 through Jason Brinkworth and Leonard Teplin of Marshall White with three hopeful buyers competing.
The townhouse features four bedrooms and three bathrooms and boasts a miele-equipped kitchen, oak floors, high ceilings and a landscaped outdoor area.
It stands in a cul-de-sac close to Gardiners Creek parkland.
The townhouse is also connected to the National Broadband Network (NBN).
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Glen Iris townhouse sale sets suburb record at $1.8 million

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A local developer has snapped up a residential site on High Street, Preston, for $1.13 million.
The 711-square-metre site has a permit for a six-storey development consisting of 81 student apartments, basement car park and ground floor retail.
“The high number of buyer enquiries illustrated the market’s hunger for boutique development sites,” says CBRE selling agent Paul Tzamalis.
“The property was sold to an established local developer after generating interest from a wide range of buyers, including developers and land bankers.”
<a target="_blank" href="/news">Preston</a> is located nine kilometres north of the Melbourne CBD and has a median unit price of $382,194.
The median asking rent is $350 per week – offering a 4.8% yield.
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Local developer snaps up Preston site for $1.13 million

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A Singaporean-based developer plans on building 1,000 apartments on the site of Melbourne’s former Carlton &amp; United Breweries where a wall collapse killed three people last week.
Chip Eng Seng’s high-rise development will be built on a 2,927-square-metre block on the southwest corner of the site, incorporating a two-storey, heritage-listed bluestone building.
It will include a street level retail space, a number of podium levels of secure parking and two levels of basement car parking, according to information released on the Singapore Stock Exchange this week.
It recently bought the parcel of land from Grocon for $32 million.
The purchase is subject to review by the Foreign Investment Review Board.
The company recently posted record profits of SIN$81 million for the year ending December 31 2012.
It has been quite active in the Melbourne market, with its local arm CEL last year selling out its 338-unit MacKenzie Street development, 33M, and construction due to start on its <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/melbourne-cbds-tallest-residential-tower-crown-tussle/2013022858541">$170 million 71-storey development, Tower Melbourne, at 150 Queen Street</a> in the middle of the year.
CEL bought the MacKenzie street block for $20.2 million in 2010 and the Queen Street development for $25.5 million in 2011.
The MacKenzie Street development sold out in eight months. Construction of the 555-unit Tower Melbourne is due to finish in 2016.
Tower Melbourne was the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/singapore-developer-cheeky-for-selling-unapproved-melbourne-cbd-high-rise-project-off-the-plan-lord-mayor/2012101657194">subject of some controversy</a> with the developers marketing properties before it had received development approval.
The wall collapse last week, which some parties blamed on excessive signage, was on Grocon’s part of the CUB site. The site has remained undeveloped for almost 30 years with Grocon’s $800 million development, Swanston Square, struggling to get off the ground.
Building was due to begin in July last year.
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Singaporean developer to build tower at Melbourne's CUB site

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The historic Victorian regional city of Ballarat is demonstrating above average capital growth in comparison to the rest of Victoria despite slugglish transaction activity, says a new a report from PRDnationwide. 
PRDnationwide <a target="_blank" href="/news">Ballarat</a> principal Neil Jens says developer and consumer confidence is currently very strong despite the drop in sales activity, with enquiries having increased since the start of 2013.
PRDnationwide research analyst Angus McLean says research indicates that sentiment in the region remains positive. 
"With increased consumer confidence the Ballarat area is witnessing a consistency in the housing market which will see home buyers and prospective investors return, setting the scene for a positive 2013," McLean said. 
According to McLean, while residential house and unit purchasers currently remain in a state of flux, the Ballarat Area rental market has become increasingly reliable for investors since June 2012 due to the simultaneous settlement drop in the housing and unit sales numbers. 
"This is in addition to an increase in local investment in the Ballarat Area with $156 million of development expected to be completed by July 2013."
In October last year, the Ballarat West Precinct Structure Plan (PSP) was granted approval by the state government with around 1,300 hectares to be transformed into residential property to support the region's growing population.
The project will see the development of road and community infrastructure to support the 30,000 people who will call the area home once completed.
McLean says the Ballarat area has witnessed consistent capital growth in all residential markets over the past 10-year cycle, although house and unit sales numbers have dwindled 18% and 30% respectively since October 2011.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/">Hotspotting.com.au</a>'s Terry Ryder picks  <a target="_blank" href="/news">Ballarat </a> and <a href="/news">Bendigo</a> as standout investment opportunities not only within the state of Victoria, but on a national basis.
"They rank nationally as boom towns with strong future prospects," Ryder wrote in a recent <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/ballarat-and-bendigo-provide-golden-opportunities-for-property-investors-terry-ryder/2013011658807">column for Property Observer.</a>
"The B cities have a lot in common: gold rush histories, strong local economies with ample diversity, proactive councils, plenty of infrastructure development, strong business communities, prosperous tourism industries, lots of real estate investment and generous supplies of affordable dwellings.
"Both have major redevelopments of their hospitals in prospect. Both have significant education sectors, and both have manufacturing businesses that are defying the national trend of downturn in that sector. New roads are being built and airports are being upgraded. National retailers are expanding in both places. There’s even impact from the resources sector, with gold mining undergoing a revival with the benefit of modern technology.
"Both have significant numbers of residents who commute to work in Melbourne. Both will be enhanced by the $5 billion Regional Rail Link, which will shorten the gap (in travelling times) between them and the state capital," he says.
According to PRDnationwide, the Ballarat Area vacant land market has also reportedly seen encouraging interest from developers since April 2012 despite a decline in sales figures.
"With these economic growth indicators as well as increase in enquiry levels in the Ballarat Area and the announcement of the Victorian government offering an additional $16,000 in potential savings for all potential Victorian first-home buyers, including existing homes, the increased likelihood of the Ballarat Area property market stabilizing with expected total sales and median price growth is predicted toward the end of 2013," McLean said.
Photographs of Ballarat courtesy of Tourism Victoria and Flickr.
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