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

Joel Robinson

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

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

Lowe Living unveils Middle Park apartment development

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

DVB Projects to launch second Broadbeach apartment tower as demolition commences

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Every First Home Owner Grant for new property by state

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

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

Staff Writer

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

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

alisonwarters@gmail.com

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

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

Ellen Walker

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

New apartment developments with uninterrupted, north-facing views over Perth's Swan River are exceptionally rare.

Recognising just how limited those opportunities are, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/edge-visionary-living">Edge Visionary Living</a>, one of Perth's most respected builder-developers, targeted <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/applecross-wa-6153">Applecross</a>, assembling an unrepeatable 6,342 sqm riverfront site on the corner of Moreau Mews and Canning Beach Road to create one of Perth's only new north-facing apartment developments directly overlooking the Swan River.

Today, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/riviere-residences-applecross-59-canning-beach-road-applecross-wa-6153">Rivière Residences</a> offers buyers a unique opportunity to choose between completed residences ready to move into now and off-the-plan homes in the final stage, Rivière West.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3823]

Across the completed East and Central buildings, residents are already enjoying the development's luxury amenity, while two of the precinct's hospitality venues are now open.

The completed component of the development gives buyers the advantage of experiencing the finished product firsthand, including its uninterrupted river views, while still having the opportunity to secure a residence in the final stage.

"People are wowed by the view and the quality of the apartments,"&nbsp;Edge Visionary Living Sales Executive, Holly McSweeney, says.

"They're looking for the convenience of lock-and-leave living, but they're not looking to downsize on quality."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=3826]

The rarity of the development hasn't been lost on prospective buyers, McSweeney says.

For McSweeney, it all comes back to a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate.

"Location, location, location," she says. "We are nestled right on the front of the Swan River. You can never get built out, so wherever you are in Rivière Residences, you've got views of the river forever."

The unique waterfront position has resonated particularly strongly with local downsizers. McSweeney says many buyers are long-time Applecross residents looking to transition from large family homes into a luxury apartment without sacrificing space, quality or the lifestyle they've enjoyed for decades.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/N_FowNW0wu8?si=vb25XFq1wZ-iufAW" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

A major focus for Edge in recent years has been resident amenity. Across its apartment portfolio, from beachfront developments in Scarborough to luxury towers in South Perth, the developer has increasingly invested in the spaces beyond the apartment itself.

The strategy has largely been shaped by downsizer demand. Many buyers are moving from large family homes with swimming pools and established gardens. While they're looking to leave the maintenance behind, they don't want to compromise on lifestyle.

At Rivière, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hillam-architects">Hillam Architects</a> designed the resident facilities as an extension of each apartment. A 25-metre heated swimming pool takes advantage of the north-facing river outlook, complemented by a large gym, sauna and steam rooms, private dining spaces, residents' lounges, a cinema, games room, and dedicated wine and whisky rooms.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28384 project_image_fid=372542]

The waterfront location has also proved to be a major drawcard. Residents are within walking distance of the Raffles Hotel, South of Perth Yacht Club, the Heathcote Cultural Precinct and the cafés, restaurants and boutiques along Ardross Street.

Beyond the location and amenity, McSweeney says many buyers take confidence from Edge's fully integrated development model.

Having delivered apartments across Perth for decades, Edge now designs, develops and constructs its projects in-house, giving the company greater control over quality, delivery and the finished product.

"What I love is when people walk through their apartment for the first time and say, 'This is better than what we imagined,'" McSweeney says. "We hear that all the time."

Completed apartments in the East and Central buildings are now available to inspect by appointment, while Rivière West, the final stage of the precinct, is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=28384]

North-facing Swan River views drive demand at Rivière Residences in Applecross

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Perth’s median house price has dipped further since the close of June, but rents are holding steady, according to the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia’s (REIWA) latest July property price data. 
The preliminary data from REIWA shows the median price down 0.2% to $540,000. REIWA president David Airey notes that this may be due to weaker market activity in the centre of the metropolitan area.
“Our analysis suggests Perth’s median price for the three months to July looks to have fallen 1.8% from the market peak in the three months to April,” Airey said.
Turnover was also trending downwards by 10% on June and actually close to the April period.
Sales increased in Bayswater and Bassendean in July, by 10 transactions to 84 together. Joondalup also saw an increase, of 11 transactions to 64.
However, these were stand outs.
Belmont saw sales drop by 21 to 37, the western side of the City of Stirling dropped 21 to 114, the City of Swan dropped 21 to 37 and Gosnells dropped 19 to 144.
The western suburbs dropped the most prominently, by 44%. This took the sales down to 62.
Airey pointed to weak first time buyer activity for these soft results.
“Listings fell right across all sub-regions of Perth but the south east region through Armadale and Gosnells saw the strongest drop, with listings falling 11% and removing 167 properties from market,” he said.
Despite this, the rental market is holding steady and has done for three months. Median rent current sits at $450 per week – or $460 per week for a house and $435 per week for an apartment, unit or villa.
The Cities of Canning and Kalamunda both softened by $10 to $440 per week, while South Perth and Victoria Park dropped $20 to $450 per week.
Rental listings across Perth were up 4% with the greatest increase seen in the southeast subregion through Armadale and Gosnells, along with the City of Perth.
“Despite the general increase in rental listings, some areas saw a tightening in these with the biggest fall being noted in the western part of the City of Stirling, down 37 properties to 292,” Airey said.
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Perth median house price drops, but rents holding strong: REIWA

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REIWA is seeking to speed up commission payments paid to Western Australian real estate agents selling off the plan properties.
REIWA recently announced that they are lobbying the government to allow agents selling this stock to receive their commissions closer to the point of contract, rather than after the settlement period – which they note is lengthy.
“The commission process for dealing with pre-sales in the multi-residential market is often frustrating,” they noted in a recent email to members.
“Having to wait for months to be properly remunerated for your work is inconvenient and can hamper your business.”
They noted that in Perth, and some regional areas, they’re going through a strong growth period with units and apartments and said that it is “high time the government reviewed this commission anomaly and updated it to reflect contemporary conditions”.
Property Observer understands that there are no specifics around how this would work as of yet and the process is still in the exploratory stage. However, REIWA are planning to meet with the Minister soon.
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REIWA pushing to speed up off the plan sales commissions 

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The Real Estate Institute of Western Australia has released new statistics on Perth’s property market, with some interesting conclusions.
REIWA’s president David Airey said that the preliminary market information available looked as though the median house price was down by 1%, bringing the March quarter median to $545,000 from $550,000.
A surge in apartment pre-sales was noted and Landgate’s early data is showing stability in the multi-residential median price at $449,500.
“However, in the REIWA analysis we include off the plan pre-sales that take some time to settle, so our figures indicate the median sale price for units and apartments lifting by 5% in the quarter to around $470,000,” Airey said.
Here’s their round up of what is happening in Perth.
First home buyers
<ul>
<li>Rebound in activity 
</li>
<li>Transfer duty changes on 1 July may have had an effect 
</li>
<li>Strong sales activity in $400,000 to $500,000 range</li>
</ul>
Turnover and stock
<ul>
<li>Sales for Western Australia down 6% over the quarter 
</li>
<li>Landgate estimated 11,900 dwellings transacted 
</li>
<li>Downward trend continuing since March quarter 2013 
</li>
<li>June quarter results will but sales 5% below 15 year average in Perth 
</li>
<li>June quarter results will but sales up to 22% below 15 year average in regional Western Australia 
</li>
<li>Stock on market lifts to 8% to 10,872 properties 
</li>
<li>Land listing jumps 12% to 1,449 lots 
</li>
<li>Increase in listings now up almost 25% since last year</li>
</ul>
“REIWA data show that reported sales dropped across most of Perth, with the central area within 10 kilometres’s of the CBD experiencing the biggest drop of 6%. This contributed to the fall in the overall median due to the softening of sales in the $500,000 to $900,000 range,” said Airey.
“However, the western suburbs saw an increase in activity among homes selling for between $1 million and $1.5 million, while the most notable drop in sales was seen through South Perth and Victoria Park with a slump of 31% in the quarter.”
In the outer regions of Perth the picture was a little more mixed, with an increase in sales seen in the north coastal part of the City of Wanneroo.
Overall, most house price changes remained muted at 1 or 2%. In the City of Canning, 4% growth was seen, while the northern part of Joondalup and southern part of Wanneroo saw 4% falls.
Days on market has remained fairly stable, up just one day to 57 days.
DAYS ON MARKET AND DISCOUNTING
“As a consequence, the number of sellers reducing their asking price grew further to almost half, although the variance between asking prices and selling prices tightened a little to just over 5% in favour of the buyer,” Airey said.
And yet it’s the rental accommodation market that has seen the most changes and is worthy of a closer look.
Rental market
<ul>
<li>The vacancy rate has increased to 4.2% 
</li>
<li>Median rent drops $10 to $450 per week 
</li>
<li>Number of rental listings grew by 858 properties over the quarter to 5,824 total</li>
</ul>
“This is a significant increase of 43% on the same time last year, while more current REIWA data shows this has since grown further to more than 6,000 properties by the middle of July,” said Airey.
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Perth update: Prices, first time buyers and rental market

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Western Australia’s Onslow will see the first large scale residential land sale release in the area in 20 years, with local residents to be given preferential first dibs to the property.
The plan is to evolve the Pilbara town by bringing locals into the new Barrarda Estate, explained Lands Minister Terry Redman.
“Unprecedented demand for new housing due to increased resource industry activity around <a href="/news">Onslow </a>makes this land release crucial,” Redman said.
Onslow’s current population is just 700, with a total 3,300 residents expected over the next eight years due to increased oil and gas activities. This includes Chevron’s Wheatstone Project.
“Property prices have escalated dramatically in Onslow in recent years with land in short supply until now.”
This is a pre-release that will see locals buying off the plan before the titles are issued next year.
Locals who reside in employee housing or who do not own a house in Onslow will be able to buy.
“Applicants will be required to have lived, been employed or owned a business in the town for the previous 12 months,” he said.
Landcorp’s Barrarda Estate’s stages 1A and 1B are being released, including 86 single lots of which 44 are house and land packages, with builders including Fleetwood Pty Ltd, McGrath Homes, DA Burke Builders, BGC Modular and Megara.
General public sales will be later this year, with interest able to be registered from now.
Following the local release, sales to the general public will be available later this year. Interested parties are <a href="https://www.landcorp.com.au/Residential/Onslow/Land-for-sale/" target="_blank">encouraged to register their interest now</a>.
Lot prices start at $230,000 with sizes spanning from 390 square metres to 774 square metres.
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Onslow, WA locals given first dibs to residential lots as resource activity grows

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Perth’s construction of apartments and its surrounds has recently increased significantly, says RE/MAX WA managing director Geoff Baldwin.
However, he says that beliefs there is an oversupply coming are overstating the problem and are unlikely to come true.
“The property development industry is now much more regulated and sophisticated than it has been in past cycles and this has come about through hard lessons learned, not only by the developers themselves, but by the lenders that finance these projects,” said Baldwin.
“Prior to the global financial crisis lenders were much more liberal in their financing of prospective developments however today it is almost impossible to achieve financing without the developer having substantial equity in the project and certainly not before a majority of the apartments are sold off the plan on unconditional contracts.”
He notes that without 60% or 80% unconditional presales, the developments will not begin construction, and so, unlike in the past, developments that do not have the associated demand will not come to fruition.
He also noted that with most developments, they are sold out completely prior to construction leaving no flood of new stock to the market.
“It also must be taken into account the massive shift towards high density, low maintenance, secure living that is seeing an increasing number of people move away from the suburbs and into an apartment closer to the city.”
{module Do you believe an apartment oversupply is coming to Perth?}
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Is Perth’s oversupply of apartments “overstated”?

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About one out of every four households in Western Australia is a rental property, representing approximately 200,000 dwellings.
The proportion of renters has been reasonably steady at around 28% of all households for over a decade, although there is a change occurring in the mix of private and public housing tenants with the proportion of private sector tenants growing.
Most rental properties are located in the inner suburbs. For example, over 75% of all metropolitan rental properties are located within a 15 kilometre radius of the CBD.
Suburbs with the highest concentration include <a href="/news">East Perth</a>, <a href="/news">Karawara</a>, <a href="/news">West Perth</a>, <a href="/news">Northbridge</a>, <a href="/news">Highgate</a>, <a href="/news">Bentley</a>, <a href="/news">Glendalough</a> and <a href="/news">Victoria Park</a>. Rental properties can account for up to 70% of all dwellings in these areas.
Surprisingly, most tenants live in houses and not flats or units. Census result continue to show that up to 60% of tenants live in traditional houses, although it’s true that around half of all strata dwellings exist as rental properties.
In WA the most common age group for renters is between 20 and 34. Typically, these are people in transition to home ownership. Not surprisingly then, the most common home ownership and buying age group is around 34 to 44.
Most tenants prefer a short lease, with the more common lease being six months. Tenants clearly like the flexibility of a short lease, however more than half of all such leases are renewed for a further six months when the initial lease expires.
The median rent for accommodation in Perth is now $450 per week if you include units, apartments, villas and houses in the equation. Houses alone are generally higher with a median of around $460 per week.
Darwin remains the most expensive capital with houses renting for around $650 per week, while Canberra and Sydney are similar to Perth at around $450. Adelaide is the cheapest at $330 per week.
The average rent for three bedroom homes across all eight capitals is around $405 per week. Seen in this context, Perth is about 15% above the overall Australian rental average for a house.
However, rents in Perth have been slowly coming down since 2013 with the median weekly rent dropping $25 from $475 around this time last year.
This is due to a slow-down in population growth but also from large numbers of renters having taken advantage of very low interest rates to buy a home of their own, enabling them to leave the rental system.
This in turn freed up more properties for rent and is a key reason why Perth’s current vacancy rate is now a third higher than average, sitting at 4% or 5,600 properties.
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dairey-MVZf5ZguQC

A look at Perth’s rental market

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Three people were arrested in Johannesburg earlier this week, following a five months investigation by the Major Fraud Squad of the Western Australia Police.
Working with the Australian Federal Police and South African authorities, the Major Fraud Squad have arrested and charged Asanda Zimkhitha, 28, of South Africa and Magnus Ikechukwu Kama, 38, and Nbubusi Sunday Okeke, 34, both of Nigeria with fraud, forgery and uttering.
The trio allegedly emailed a <a href="/news">Mandurah</a> real estate agency, which was managing a property owned by a South African person, pretending to be the owner.
After convincing the agency to change the owner’s contact details to their own, the three individuals allegedly asked to sell the property, communicating electronically and signing the agreements with forged signatures.
The property was put on the market and an offer accepted by the group, still pretending to be the owner. Hard copy documents were sent to the real owner’s real address in South Africa by post and the true owner contacted the agent, telling them the sale was unauthorised. The police were then contacted.
Last year, a separate fraud attempt occurred when Ntuen Promise Ekenmini collected documents regarding a fraudulent Falcon home sale (near Mandurah), also owned by a South African. Ekenmeni allegedly collected the document at a Lagos courier office, using a fake driver’s licence.
Detective Senior Sergeant Dom Blackshaw of the Major Fraud Squad of the West Australian police acknowledged the work of South African authorities and the Australian Federal Police.
“This successful outcome could not have been made possible without the excellent support and cooperation of the AFP and local authorities in South Africa,” said Blackshaw.
“This spirit of cooperation means that offenders who attempt these frauds can’t hide behind international borders, and we will be working effectively and cooperatively to make sure they are identified and caught.”
He also told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) that the trio won’t be extradited from South Africa.
"We won't prosecute for the attempt here because they will be adequately dealt with in that country and obviously save that large cost and the time spent trying to bring people into our country to try and prosecute,” Blackshaw told the ABC.
"We're hoping that these three, that are now going to be interviewed by the South African authorities, will even throw more light on how they are operating and the extent of the group,” he continued.
West Australian Commissioner for Consumer Protection Anne Driscoll said real estate and settlement agents must be wary of fraud attempts.
 “Unfortunately these fraud attempts will undoubtedly continue so all agents need to be vigilant at all times and have the processes in place to detect these fraud attempts at an early stage,” said Driscoll.
“It is an essential part of the identity verification procedures for any change of contact details by an owner to be confirmed by the real estate agency by sending a notification to the original addresses, both physical and electronic, that are on file. This will alert the real owners at an early stage if their details are being changed fraudulently,” she said.
“This confirmation should occur before any documents are sent which could give criminals even more information about the real owners and the property they are trying to sell. Requests to change details by owners of WA property living in Africa should raise a red flag and warrant special attention to property managers.
“There have been two successful and now six attempted real estate frauds reported to us in the past six years and all except for one of those cases have involved owners in South Africa. The other owner resided in Nigeria. Property managers who receive change of contact details and agents who receive sale requests from South African and Nigerian owners should apply intense scrutiny,” said Driscoll.
Under the Codes of Conduct, real estate and settlement agents have an obligation to make sure they carry out sufficient identity checks and compare all signatures against originals. If they fail to comply, they may be subject to disciplinary action.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Three arrested in South Africa after WA home sale scam

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Perth is not actually a mine site, and it’s time to shift the thinking of “Asian investors and prospective immigrants” who overlook the capital as a result, according to RE/MAX WA managing director Geoff Baldwin.
Baldwin said that because of the continual talk of Perth being a mining and resources centre, rather than a beautiful evolving city, it seems some are taking it literally.
“In recent talks with an expert Asian immigration advisor about how Perth is seen in the eyes of many in China we were informed that many Chinese picture Perth itself as the centre of actual mining and associated industries and that this is a barrier to investment and immigration,” Baldwin said.
“Because we live here we assume that people in other countries know that it is only the headquarters of mining companies that are located in Perth itself and not the actual operations of those companies, but unfortunately that is often not the actual perception.”
He said that where Melbourne and Sydney are accepted automatically as large convention cities worthy of investment, “we have found that it is not until the prospective overseas buyer does some research or arrives and sees our city for themselves that they recognise it is not a mine site”.
“In recent years Perth has been widely promoted as the mining and resource capital of Australia however we must consider that it is easy for this to be interpreted literally and for it to give a completely opposite picture to the reality,” he said.
“Actual knowledge of Perth is scant in many Asian countries so it is important that it is promoted more widely and with more detail about it’s beauty, scope and lifestyle if we are going to compete with the more accepted eastern states capitals.”
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Asian investors getting the wrong idea about Perth: RE/MAX WA

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Houses in Perth sold for a median price of $544,500 in the quarter to May, according to RP Data-Rismark.<a href="https://myrpdata.com" target="_blank"> </a>
Quarterly house prices dipped 0.8% from the month before.
Property Observer looks at recent sales in Perth to see what $544,500 will get you.
<ol>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-yanchep-116276255" target="_blank">39 LONGFIN VISTA, YANCHEP</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/23/a.jpg" alt=""> This house was sold through Ray White Sun City for $545,000. All four bedrooms come with built in or walk in robes. The home was built by Scott Park in the outer Perth suburb of <a href="/news">Yanchep</a>’s Lagoon Estate development. Sharing the 659 square metre block is a self-contained brick granny flat. Price: $545,000 Bedrooms: Four Drive to CBD: One hour 
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-victoria+park-115057519" target="_blank">51 Sunbury Road, Victoria Park</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/23/b.jpg" alt="">
A three bedroom home on a 300 metre strata block sold for $539,000 through Terry McBratney and Associates <a href="/news">Victoria Park</a>, who advertised the home as “in need of a renovation”. The vendors made a loss on the home, which they purchased for $680,000 in 2008.
Price: $539,000
Bedrooms: Three
Drive to CBD: 14 minutes
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-greenwood-116679915" target="_blank">19 Damson Way, Greenwood</a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/23/c.jpg" alt="">
Sold through Force Real Estate Duncraig, this home secured $542,000 earlier this month. The three bedroom, one bathroom solid brick and tile house at <a href="/news">Greenwood</a> was built in 1975, and is set on a block with a backyard, double carport and shed. The vendors purchased the house for $315,000 in 2005.
Price: $542,000
Bedrooms: Three
Drive to CBD: 35 minutes
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-morley-116475643" target="_blank">17 Telstar Drive, Morley</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/23/d.jpg" alt="">
Another three bedroom, one bathroom house sold around city’s median price this month, with this <a href="/news">Morley </a>home securing $545,000. The house, sold through Sammut Rosh &amp; Associates is set on a 739 square metre block, with potential to develop on the substantial rear portion of the plot. The vendors more than tripled the $171,000 purchase price with this sale. They bought the home in 2002.
Price: $545,000
Bedrooms: Three
Drive to CBD: 29 minutes
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-success-114820315" target="_blank">3 Mariposa Gardens, Success</a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/23/e.jpg" alt="">
This three bedroom, two bathroom <a href="/news">Success </a>home was sold through De Freitas and Ryan Cockburn for $535,000. Prior to sale the house was rented out for $500 per week, giving the property a yield of 4.86%. In seven years, the vendors managed to secure more than double their purchase price – they bought the home for $219,000 in 2007.
Price: $535,000
Bedrooms: Three
Drive to CBD: 35 minutes
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</ol>
To see what Perth's median asking rent will get you, click below.
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 Asking rents have softened across Perth since reaching highs in April last year, according to <a href="https://sqmresearch.com.au/graph_median_rent_weeks.php?region=wa%3A%3APerth&amp;type=c&amp;t=1" target="_blank" style="line-height: 1.3em;">SQM Research</a>. 
The asking rent for a three bedroom house in the West Australian capital has dropped 7.4% in the last 12 months, though rents are up 6.8% on a three year basis. The median asking rent for a three bedroom house in the city is now $504.10 per week.
These three bedroom houses are all available to rent at around $500 per week:
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<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-mullaloo-405313114" target="_blank">12 Angle Place, Mullaloo</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/23/f.jpg" alt=""> This home in <a href="/news">Mullaloo</a> is available to rent through Primus Realty for $500 per week. Purchase price: $614,000 Yield: 4.22% 
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<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-southern+river-413349739" target="_blank">69 Elkhorn Avenue, Southern River</a> <img src="/images/2014/06/23/g.jpg" alt=""> Located in the south eastern suburb of <a href="/news">Southern River</a>, this house is available to rent through Primus Realty for $500 per week. Purchase price: $232,000 Yield: 11.2%
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<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-wa-manning-413313923" target="_blank">4A Welwyn Avenue, Manning</a>
<img src="/images/2014/06/23/h.jpg" alt="">
This house, 11 minutes drive from the CBD, is available to rent later this month for $500 per week, through Access Property Management South Perth.
Purchase price: $555,000
Yield: 4.68%.
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</ol>
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What can you buy for Perth’s median house price?

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Local Port Hedland property developer Megara, along with the local council, are undertaking a cashless joint venture project to help build property for staff of the town. It is a first for Western Australia.
Limited capital infrastructure funds in Port Hedland had Megara proposing the build of eight apartments in exchange for the right to sell house and land packages on single residential lots in South Hedland’s Catamore Court.
The sales behind the residential lots should be enough to fund the construction. There will be six two bedroom and two three bedroom apartments.
Since the commencement of sales in October 2013, 80% of the house and land packages have been sold, explained Megara’s director Matt Pickford. They are also responsible for constructing on this land – owning a separate building company that will build the houses.
“We expect to sell all 11 lots in the next few weeks which means we will then commence construction of the Town of Port Hedland apartment complex,” said Pickford.
“The business model is particularly positive as it directly helps the town retain staff through providing housing for them, therefore benefitting the Port Hedland community as a whole,” he said.
The mayor of the Town of Port Hedland, Kelly Howlett, said that they’re pleased to have come to this solution to provide affordable housing for staff.
“The project will also contribute to the normalisation of the local housing market which is one of the town’s strategic goals,” Howlett said.
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