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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Certain Victorian suburbs deemed to have significant local character will be protected from towering apartment developments as part of changes to residential zoning.
Residential zones 1,2 and 3 will be replaced by neighbourhood residential, general residential and residential growth zones.
The 'neighbourhood residential' zone, billed as the strictest zoning in Australia, was created to ensure that any developments in areas with character that are of predominately single and double storey residences “respect the identified neighbourhood character, heritage, environmental or landscape characteristics".
New residential developments will have an eight metre height limit, if there is no other height limit in the area, as well as lot size restrictions.
The zone also allows for easier approval of medical centres and convenience stores to cater to an aging population.
The zone prohibits brothels, cinemas, nightclubs, certain retail premises, offices and others.
The boundaries of the zoning will be revealed with its implementation on July 1.
“This is the first time we will have a zone to genuinely protect neighbourhoods from inappropriate development,” planning minister Matthew Guy told The Herald Sun.
“It provides mandatory controls for councils on the numbers of lot, and on height – it is a very strong zone and it will help communities protect their streetscapes.”
Higher density residential development and office and retail projects will be restricted to the other two new zones – general residential and residential growth.
The reforms may prove unpopular with developers depending on where the boundaries fall.
“Melbourne is home to many important thoroughfares and activity centres which are ideal locations for appropriate housing developments,” Property Council of Australia state executive director Jennifer Cunich told The Herald Sun.
“It is important these areas be zoned correctly in order to provide housing choice for our growing population.”
Guy told The ABC the criteria councils will use to determine the new zones will be developed over the next two months.
"We will work with the Municipal Association and councils to make sure we have a criteria that looks at heritage issues, environmental issues, areas around existing transport links," he said.
The general residential zone will allow moderate housing growth and diversity with a nine metre height limit. The residential growth area will allow for medium density unit developments and will enable minor commercial uses.
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New Victorian zoning rules to keep high-rise developers out of heritage suburbs

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A large crowd of eager bidders and onlookers is expected to gather at the corner of Lygon Street and St Phillip Street this Friday when a rare Lygon Street corner property goes to auction in  Melbourne's Italian food heartland.
Property investors and restaurateurs seeking a trophy retail property asset are likely to be among those bidding for the vacant shop and upstairs residence to be auctioned at noon on March 8.
<img alt="lygonmarch6one" height="351" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/lygonmarch6one.jpg">
"We have received over 100 enquiries and sent out around 15 contracts," says Colliers International agent Tom Noonan who is marketing the property alongside colleague Jeremy Gruzewski.
Noonan expects a price in excess of $2 million.
The 70 Lygon Street property stands at on the corner of Lygon and St Phillip Streets. It comprises 226 square metres of space, of which 75 square metres is ground floor retail on a site measuring 230 square metres. 
The second floor has a three-bedroom residence. 
It has stood vacant since being acquired by the owners of DOC Pizza in late 2010. 
The owners had planned to turn it into a restaurant or café but never went ahead with these plans. 
It previously operated as a florist, which is the signage that remains on the building. 
According to RP Data the property was last listed for rent in October 2010 at $75,000 per annum. 
A sale price of $2 million would equate to a yield of around 3.75% if tenanted. 
In October last year, the historic Lygon Street premises of <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/retail/lygon-street-premises-of-donatis-fine-meats-slices-records-with-emotion-driven-%24289-million-auction-sale/2012103057521">Donati’s Fine Meats</a> sold for $2.89 million at auction, with a private investor paying nearly $1.4 million above pre-auction expectations – a yield of just 2.3% amid “emotionally-driven” bidding. 
Gruzewski and Noonan also marketed the Lygon Street butchery last year. 
“The sale of the Donati’s premises last year represented only the third commercial property to change hands on Lygon Street in the past two and a half years,” says Noonan. 
“The opportunity to be part of the vibrant, popular precinct that is Lygon Street doesn’t come along often, so when it does, interest is high. 
“We are expecting this new listing to attract strong interest from food and beverage retailers keen to be part of the gentrification of this pocket of Melbourne’s northern suburbs. 
“Serious foodies are now venturing into the north, following the lead of quality restaurants and cafes such as Hellenic Republic, Albert Street Food and Wine and Pope Joan.” 
“This is a versatile property suited to an investor, owner-occupier or developer.
“Vacant possession is also beneficial to investors who are looking to lease out the tenancy as it allows for immediate occupation. The location and current configuration would suit a number of tenancy profiles,” says Noonan.
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lschlesinger-FZcF9M3vE6

Vacant Lygon Street shop goes to auction with $2 million plus hopes

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Investors who placed funds in investment property schemes associated with former South Yarra property developer Mark Ronald Letton may soon receive their first payments since the appointment of receivers more than three years ago.
KPMG joint receivers and managers Damian Templeton and Philip Hennessy, appointed by a Federal Court to properties associated with Letten schemes in February 2010, have notified investors and other claimants that they intend to declare an interim distribution. “It is not yet clear what amount, if any will be available for distribution,” said Templeton in a notice placed in today's The Age and Herald Sun.
ASIC believes that more than 1,000 investors placed more than $100 million in the projects managed by Letten and promoted through a number of companies associated with Letten, particurlarly LGH Administration Pty Ltd and LGH Holdings Pty Ltd.
The investments were made between 1998 and 2010.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/melbourne-property-developer-mark-ronald-letten-facing-criminal-charges-over-alleged-unregistered-investment-scheme/2011121452844">Schemes managed by Letten</a> include the Healesville Walk Shopping Centre Joint Venture in Victoria, Reef House Resort in Palm Cove, Queensland and the Yarra Valley Golf Joint Venture in Chirnside Park.
The possibility of investors receiving a payment follows the receivers selling a number of properties in joint venture schemes operated by Letten.
Properties sold by administrators include 167-173 Flinders Lane, a five level office and retail building on the corner of Hosier Lane, which sold for $13.31 million in July 2010, the Glen Centre, retail and offices on Glenferrie Road in Hawthorn, which sold in August 2010.
Investors and claimants must submit a formal proof of claim or investment confirmation form to the receivers by March 25 (or have done so in the past) to participate in the possible interim distribution.
Letten, an accountant and director of LGH Holdings Ltd, is alleged to have promoted and sold investments in commercial property joint venture projects that were required to be registered as managed investment schemes under the Corporations Act.
He is facing 21 counts of operating unregistered managed investment schemes, one count of carrying on a financial services business without an Australian Financial Services (AFS) licence, and 15 counts of obtaining financial advantage by deception involving approximately $1.4 million.
He has been granted conditional bail to appear at the Victoria Country Court on March 20, 2013 for a directions hearing.
Action against Letten dates back to February 2010, when the Federal Court appointed Damian Templeton and Phillip Hennessy of KPMG as receivers and managers to the property of the 18 unregistered managed investment schemes and their related companies and ordered that the schemes be wound up.
The court orders follow an application made by ASIC to the Federal Court on February 2010 for the schemes to be declared unregistered and for receivers to be appointed to the properties in the schemes.
Detailed information for investors can be found on a <a target="_blank" href="https://www.kpmg.com/AU/en/services/Advisory/Transactions-Restructuring/Restructuring/Letten/Pages/Default.aspx">dedicated KPMG - Letten website.</a>
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Interim payment likely for Mark Letten property scheme investors: KPMG receivers

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A five-bedroom, four-bathroom home in Brighton has sold at auction for $6.2 million.
The home, on 1467 square metres across two titles, attracted just the two bidders. Its auctioneer Leigh Hallamore started the auction of the Victoria Street offering by accepting a $4.9 million offer according to the James Buyer Advocates attendee Kristen Hatt.
<img alt="brightonmarch5one" src="/images/stories/2013/03/brightonmarch5one.jpg" width="470" height="313">
Then followed a $5 million second bid.
Announced as on the market around $5.8 million, bidding slowed at $6,000,000 with the second bidder offering another $20,000.
<img alt="brightonmarch5two" src="/images/stories/2013/03/brightonmarch5two.jpg" width="470" height="313">
Then followed another $180,000 taking the sale price to $6.2 million through <a href="https://www.buxton.com.au/?page=why_us&amp;title=Why%20us" target="_blank">Buxton agent Brian Devlin</a>. It had been listed unsuccessfully in early 2012. The expansive family/informal dining and living room had sliding glass walls opening out to Japanese-inspired gardens with tennis court, pool and entertaining area. The last acquistion cost $1.51 million in 2003. It came with parking for five cars.
<img alt="brightonmarch5three" src="/images/stories/2013/03/brightonmarch5three.jpg" width="470" height="313"> 
Below is a list of the ten most expensive sales in Australian capital cities in the past week, as recorded by RP Data.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/26_victoria_street_brighton_vic_3186/10024489" target="_blank">26 Victoria Street, Brighton, VIC, 3186</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by Buxton Real Estate Brighton for $6.2 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/778_orrong_road_toorak_vic_3142/13587970" target="_blank">778 Orrong Road, Toorak, VIC, 3142</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by Marshall White Real Estate Armadale for $3.615 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/4_lachlan_avenue_sylvania_waters_nsw_2224/6645593" target="_blank">4 Lachlan Avenue, Sylvania Waters, NSW, 2224</a>, five-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by Ray White Sylvania Waters for $3.47 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/53_shirley_road_roseville_nsw_2069/5961523" target="_blank">53 Shirley Road, Roseville, NSW, 2069</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by McConnell Bourn Estate Agents Lindfield for $3.415 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/4_cooper_street_paddington_nsw_2021/5263895" target="_blank">4 Cooper Street, Paddington, NSW, 2021</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by GoodyerDonnelley Real Estate Woollahra for $3.23 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/1173_barrenjoey_road_palm_beach_nsw_2108/5301608" target="_blank">1173 Barrenjoey Road, Palm Beach, NSW, 2108</a>, three-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by McGrath Estate Agents for $3.2 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/47_york_street_st_kilda_west_vic_3182/13287147" target="_blank">47 York Street, St Kilda West, VIC, 3182</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by Marshall White Real Estate Armadale for $3.13 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/4_glenbrook_avenue_malvern_east_vic_3145/11591950" target="_blank">4 Glenbrook Avenue, Malvern East, VIC, 3145</a>, six-bedroom house, sold at auction on March 2 by RT Edgar Booroondara for $2.97 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/126_bellevue_road_bellevue_hill_nsw_2023/1367147" target="_blank">126 Bellevue Road, Bellevue Hill, NSW, 2023</a>, four-bedroom house, sold at auction on February 26 by Real Estate Redefined Double Bay for $2.755 million
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.myrp.com.au/property-overview/14_liguria_street_south_coogee_nsw_2034/6255697" target="_blank">14 Liguria Street, South Coogee, NSW, 2034</a>, four-bedroom house, sold on February 27 by Black Lifestyle Property Randwick for $2.65 million
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Brighton's $6.2 million offer tops the week's sales 

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Mirvac has spent four decades developing its client base and branding, as much as its impressive residential property portfolio.
Now it has launched a project-specific brand loyalty-royalty scheme for their returning or new clientele.
Their offering, Black Label by Mirvac, accompanies Mirvac’s Array apartment tower at Yarra’s Edge. The campaign comes complete with a one-off, Array-inspired couture garment; Reflection, created for Array by Bowie, with the gown aiming to reflect the architectural beauty of the tower, and to capture the movement and evolving moods of the Yarra, which spelt backwards is Array.
<img height="620" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/mirvacmarch4one.jpg" alt="mirvacmarch4one">
Mirvac launched its on-going loyalty program set for purchasers suggesting it presented a gateway to a "lifestyle of culture, fashion and luxury" through collaborations with premium brands.
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.arraybymirvac.com/black-label">The </a><a target="_blank" href="https://www.arraybymirvac.com/black-label">Black Label by Mirvac</a> partners include furniture and design powerhouse, Coco Republic, which will deliver a range of bespoke interior design services for Array purchasers during March. The March buyer will received a $20,000 choice of fitout.
The other major partners include BMW, Bang &amp; Olufsen, Mont Blanc, Georg Jensen, De’Longhi, Moet Hennessy and Tag Heuer, which will offer Array purchasers access to style, design and VIP experiences extending well past the initial March offering.
<img height="268" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/mirvacmarch4three.jpg" alt="mirvacmarch4three">
The fusion of  fashion and architecture comes in an eight kilogram Swarovski crystal dress design collaboration with the Paris-bound couture fashion designer, Bowie Wong, who is known for his high-end couture aspirational signature garment designs.
"Mirvac has always been an aspirational developer," says Mirvac residential chief, John Carfi.
"It is through collaborating with leaders in culture and design that are synonymous with Mirvac’s reputation for elegance, style and luxury that we’re able to create a value offering that’s completely unique to Array."
<img height="430" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/mirvacmarch4four.jpg" alt="mirvacmarch4four">
The loyalty offering program, officially launched last week, runs throughout March with the current other, with later offers to be available for its participants. To date, <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/developments/half-of-apartments-in-mirvacs-array-development-in-docklands-sold/2013021459351">50% of apartments at Array have sold</a>, with works on site now underway. Full settlement is expected in 2015. While more than half the sub-penthouses have been sold, its two $8 million penthouses remain on the market.
Buyers get to decide on their fitouts with the apartments labelled various aspirational cities including the Paris, London or New York options.
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Nothing backward about Mirvac's Black Label loyalty offering at Array

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<div>
An expatriate Neighbours fanatic living in the UK paid $867,000 to secure his second 'Ramsay Street' house at weekend auction.
</div>
Andrew Whitney, who directs a private jet and helicopter charter flight company in the UK, outbid seven for the Pin Oak Court, Vermont South offering.
Also known as 30 Ramsay Street, the home of Jarrod 'Toadie' Rebecchi, it was offered through <a href="https://www.barryplant.com.au/property.cfm?propertyID=2272561" target="_blank">Barry Plant Real Estate</a>.
The former Blackburn North resident bought another Pin Oak Court house 16 years ago before moving to the UK.
Mr Whitney told the Herald Sun that he knows the street better than anyone.
"I record every episode of Neighbours," he said.
It was sold by the downsizing vendor Faye Pierce, with the buyer able to join the other court residents who are paid a substantial annual fee by the show's producers in agreeing to avoid changes to their facades without consultation and allowing external regular filming.
<a href="/news">The four-bedroom home was built with her husband in 1973</a> with its expansive covered rear deck having elevated views over Billabong Park.
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Neighbours fanatic buys second 'Ramsay Street' house

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There's three serious highrises now competing for buyers in Melbourne.
None are struggling for attention as they are all the highest in their own right.
It follows the late 2012 go-ahead for CEL Australia’s $170 million Tower Melbourne which will boast 555 apartments (and townhouses) across 71 storeys.
The 220-metre tower will be the tallest residential building in the central business district, though not the tallest in Melbourne.
The proposed plan for the corner of Bourke and Queen streets has an an expected completion date in 2016. 
The Tower Melbourne skyscraper (pictured below) has been designed by local architects at Elenberg Fraser and features thin, undulating glass construction. The building is set to be just shorter than the iconic blue glass Rialto Tower, which rises to 250 metres at the Southern Cross station end of Collins Steet.
<img src="/images/stories/2013/03/towermelbournemarch1.jpg" width="470" height="460" alt="towermelbournemarch1">
Architect Callum Fraser from Elenberg Fraser describes Tower Melbourne as “a city-defining project” in a marketing video.
Already Tower Melbourne has been heavily marketed to “cashed-up Chinese investors”, who consider Melbourne a safe place to park new-found wealth.
The developer CEL Australia, a subsidiary of Singapore-based Chip Eng Seng Corporation Ltd, is using real estate agents with networks in the Chinese investor market.
Sunny Lu from Professionals City told The Age her customers in China viewed super-high-rise buildings as prestigious.
Property Observer reported on the Tower Melbourne project back in October last year, when Melbourne lord mayor Robert Doyle called the Singaporean developer “a bit cheeky” after it began marketing before the project was approved.
Doyle, labeling it “too big”, opposes highrise for the sake of high rise records.
The lord mayor was back in the news this week labelling the ambitious Australia 108, the touted tallest highrise in the southern hemisphere, as too high.
Raising concerns it could overshadow the Shrine of Remembrance, Cr Doyle, a Shrine trustee, said the mooted 108-storey Southbank apartment and hotel tower exceeded the city council's height limits. The council's Future Melbourne committee is to consider a report on Australia 108 next Tuesday.
Architects Fender Katsalidis, who designed the nearby Eureka Tower, are behind the Australia 108 project, which would be the world's 18th tallest building at 70 Southbank Boulevard.
On its November unveiling, Property Observer noted its had <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/australia-108-has-a-few-hurdles-to-overcome-before-its-the-southern-hemisphere-s-highest/2012111157754" target="_blank">a few hurdles to overcome </a>before fruition.
It's scheduled for mooted late 2015 completion and it doesn't actually have planning approval, but the developers of the Australia 108 tower (picture below) in Melbourne's Southbank precinct are inviting buyer registrations at $1,000 a pop. Prices are already been released starting at $425,000 for one-bedroom apartments and from $575,000 for two-bedroom apartments. Its three bedrooms are priced from $775,000.
<img alt="australia108march1" height="478" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/australia108march1.jpg">
<a href="https://australia108.com.au/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">The 108-storey project</a> will be 388-metre skyscraper high above Melbourne's Yarra River.
At the northern end of town, the developer Brady Group is currently marketing its proposed 226-metre tower at 500 Elizabeth Street, near Queen Victoria Market.
The proposed 72-level tower gained approval for its current design in April last year. 
Marketing for the 524-apartment complex is in full swing, with advertisements being placed online and at the site. Prices for apartments ranged from $381,000 to $3 million. Vision (pictured below) has mostly three-bedroom apartments and penthouses with only a small number of one-bedroom apartments.
<img alt="visionmarch1" height="940" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/03/visionmarch1.jpg">
The Eureka Tower in Southbank is Melbourne’s tallest tower, rising to 297 metres.
“When Tower Melbourne is completed it will be just one of 12 buildings above 200 metres in the central Melbourne area. Thus any suggestion of it being too tall is somewhat perplexing,” suggested minister Matthew Guy earlier this year.
For more on the allure of Australian property to Asian buyers, <a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/free-ebook-australias-allure-for-asian-residential-property-investment" target="_blank">download our free eBook. </a>The eBook is also available for<a href="http://propertyobserver.com.au/ebooks/australias-allure-for-asian-residential-property-investment-free-ebook" target="_blank"> free download in Chinese.</a>
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Melbourne CBD’s tallest residential tower crown tussle

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<div>
The Melbourne Lord Mayor Robert Doyle has concerns Australia 108, the touted tallest highrise in the southern hemisphere, could overshadow the Shrine of Remembrance. 
</div>

Cr Doyle, a Shrine trustee, said the mooted 108-storey Southbank apartment and hotel tower exceeded the city council's height limits. The council's Future Melbourne committee is to consider a report on Australia 108 next Tuesday.
<img height="421" width="316" src="/images/stories/2012/11/australia108.jpg" alt="australia108">
"There are a couple of things that are sacrosanct - one is the Shrine and the other is the Yarra - and there are rules in the planning scheme to prevent that sort of overshadowing," Cr Doyle told The Herald Sun.
"If something is getting that big that it's overshadowing the Shrine, you'd really have to say, 'What are we gaining through that height?' "
Architects Fender Katsalidis, who designed the nearby Eureka Tower, are behind the Australia 108 project, which would be the world's 18th tallest building at 70 Southbank Boulevard.
On its November unveiling, Property Observer noted its had <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/australia-108-has-a-few-hurdles-to-overcome-before-its-the-southern-hemisphere-s-highest/2012111157754">a few hurdles to overcome </a>before fruition.
<img height="306" width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/11/australia1083.jpg" alt="australia1083">
But today's report has the Shrine CEO Denis Baguley saying he has no concerns after the Planning Department provided images of shadows moving across the city on Anzac Day and at the winter solstice.
"From my observation, I don't believe there are issues of overshadowing that will concern us," he told the Herald Sun.
"In our view, the effect is minimal - no more than (from) existing buildings and our own trees, and (it's) only late in the day, when there are no services," he said.
"I'll be advising my trustees of that."
<img height="324" width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/11/australia1082.jpg" alt="australia1082">
Planning Minister Matthew Guy, who has final approval, has previously been positive about the tower, saying that it underlined a confidence in Melbourne and showed that Australia was "coming of age".
But Cr Doyle said: "It's no good just saying that height equals landmark. Some of the finest buildings in the world, some of the finest architectural solutions, are not great big towers."
<img height="264" width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/11/australia1081.jpg" alt="australia1081">
The Victorian planning minister Matthew Guy, who has final approval, has previously been positive about the tower, suggesting the proposal underlined a confidence in Melbourne and showed that Australia was "coming of age".
But Cr Doyle told the Herald Sun: "It's no good just saying that height equals landmark. Some of the finest buildings in the world, some of the finest architectural solutions, are not great big towers."
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Shrine of Remembrance overshadowing concerns arise from Australia 108 tower proposal

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Alannah Hill, a star among the Melbourne fashionocracy, is selling her South Yarra abode, Risby.
The chic 1880s Victorian residence sits within the Domain precinct across from Fawkner Park.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/stories/2013/02/hillfeb27one.jpg" alt="hillfeb27one" width="470" height="351">
It is expected to fetch $4 million-plus when auctioned next month, before Hill's intended bayside move.
The two-storey house with retained period features has been listed through Marshall White agent Marcus Chiminello.
The boom-style terrace with three bedrooms and a formal lounge, wraparound terrace, double garage and pool, cost a reported $4.31 million in 2010.
It was sold in 2010 by Virginia Monahan, who imports fine cashmere from Scotland to make into sweaters, and her husband Brad who'd listed it with $3.5 million-plus hopes.
<a href="https://www.marshallwhite.com.au/?pagecall=property&amp;propertyID=2279301" target="_blank">The auction is scheduled for March 2</a>.
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Alannah Hill lists South Yarra boomtime terrace, Risby

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One of Melbourne's leading residential real estate project marketing agencies says owner-occupiers outnumbered investors three-to-one in its 2012 apartment sales.
CBRE Residential Projects' managing director Andrew Leoncelli says the average sale price of apartments sold last year by CBRE was $589,000.
"The split between owner occupiers and investors was approximately 75/25, as local owner-occupiers made a quality product offering their number one search criteria," he said.
<img height="305" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/02/cbrefeb27one.jpg" alt="cbrefeb27one">
Mr Leoncelli cited <a target="_blank" href="https://www.emporialiving.com/">Emporia in Commercial Road, Prahran</a> (pictured above) and <a target="_blank" href="https://www.studioninerichmond.com.au/">Studio Nine, Richmond</a> (picture below) as success stories for CBRE in 2012.
<img height="271" width="470" src="/images/stories/2013/02/cbrefeb27two.jpg" alt="cbrefeb27two">
"These two projects offered a level of finish not seen for many years across the local market.”
Andrew Rice, of Property Development Analysis, says investor locations - such as the CBD and Southbank - are measured with a different set of requirements than their local precinct counterparts such as those in Prahran, Richmond, Fitzroy and South Yarra.
In such areas, he says, owner-occupiers are typically attracted by the closeness to services and amenities which compliment lifestyle and workplace.
"Buyers have been patiently waiting for projects with a certain level of quality before they buy," Mr Rice said.
"Projects that offer a unique level of finish through design and use of superior materials not only set themselves apart from the rest of the market but have enjoyed great results in 2012 and we expect this trend to continue into 2013."
Mr Leoncelli says the early part of 2013 has been promising for property trends, with online enquiries up 40% from this time last year and strong interest in all of CBRE’s currently advertised projects.
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