<p>The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.</p>

<p>Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.</p>

<p>The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.</p>

<p>The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.</p>

<p>Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.</p>

<p>The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.</p>

<p>The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.</p>

<p>Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.</p>

<p>Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.</p>

<p data-end="345" data-start="110">The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.</p>

<p data-end="689" data-start="347">Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.</p>

<p data-end="689" data-start="347">Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.</p>


Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

<p>Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.</p>

<p>The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.</p>

<p>The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.</p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.</p>

<p>The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" /></p>

<p>SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.</p>

<p>“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.</p>

<p>The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.</p>

<p>“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" /></p>

<p>The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.</p>

<p>Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.</p>

<p>The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.</p>

<p>COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" /></p>

<p>“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.</p>

<p>The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.</p>

<p>The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.</p>

<p>Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.</p>

<p><em>Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a></em></p>


First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<p><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.</p>

<p>The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.</p>

<p>The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" /></p>

<p>Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.</p>

<p>SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”</p>

<p>The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" /></p>

<p>The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.</p>

<p>A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.</p>

<p>Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.</p>

<p><img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" /></p>

<p>The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.</p>

<p>Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.</p>

<p>The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.</p>


First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

<p>Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."</p>

<p>Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;</p>


Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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<p data-end="157" data-start="0">The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.</p>

<p data-end="459" data-start="159"><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.</p>

<p data-end="459" data-start="159">[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]</p>

<p data-end="651" data-start="461"><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.</p>

<p data-end="950" data-start="653">Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.</p>

<p data-end="1081" data-start="952">“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.</p>

<p data-end="1081" data-start="952">[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]</p>

<p data-end="1307" data-start="1083">Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.</p>

<p data-end="1522" data-start="1309">The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.</p>

<p data-end="1522" data-start="1309">[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]</p>

<p data-end="1714" data-start="1524">Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.</p>

<p data-end="1945" data-start="1716">The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.</p>

<p data-end="1945" data-start="1716">[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]</p>

<p data-end="2220" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node="" data-start="1947">More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.</p>
</section>
</section>

<p>[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]</p>


SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

<p>Roberts Co has entered a new phase of growth following its acquisition by Arada, one of the world’s fastest-growing property developers in Australia.</p>

<p>The acquisition is supported by a $50 million capital injection into Roberts Co’s Australian balance sheet, consisting of the previously announced $25 million recapitalisation and an additional $25 million in new funding from Arada.</p>

<p>This investment strengthens Roberts Co’s financial position, stabilises operations, and provides the foundation for strategic expansion beyond its New South Wales base, with a focus on new opportunities in Queensland, including the Brisbane and Gold Coast regions.</p>

<p>With Arada’s international resources and financial backing, Roberts Co will broaden its portfolio across residential, commercial, and infrastructure sectors, reinforcing its strong market position in New South Wales and setting itself to capture growth in one of Australia’s most dynamic construction markets.</p>

<p>Ahmed Alkhoshaibi, Group CEO of Arada, said Roberts Co has a proud Australian heritage, an outstanding delivery record, and a strong reputation for collaboration with clients and partners.</p>

<p>"By combining this expertise with Arada’s global scale and financial capacity, we are creating a platform for sustained growth in the Australian market,"&nbsp;Alkhoshaibi said.</p>

<p>“Our $50 million capital injection, including new funds from Arada, underlines our commitment to both stabilise and expand Roberts Co’s operations, particularly into the fast-growing Queensland market. We see significant potential in South-East Queensland’s pipeline and are confident Roberts Co is well placed to deliver lasting value for clients and communities.”</p>

<p>George Kostas, CEO of Roberts Co, said Queensland, and particularly South-East Queensland, is one of the most active and opportunity-rich regions in Australia right now.</p>

<p>"The lead-up to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games will bring unprecedented investment across housing, transport, and infrastructure. Roberts Co is eager to play a major role in that transformation and secure a meaningful share of this fast-growing market.”</p>


Arada pours more funds into Roberts Co, flags expansion into South East Queensland construction market

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<p>A new land release was launched at the Ashbury Estate development last weekend.</p>
<p>The Stage 13B was released Saturday, 9 September with a variety of land sizes available.</p>
<p>The 1,400-lot residential project is in the new Geelong suburb of Armstrong Creek.</p>
<p>The project is a 10-minute drive from both the Geelong CBD and beaches at Torquay and Barwon Heads.</p>
<p>Currently, in the area there is 4,000 homes with an expected 13,000 to be built in the next 20 years.</p>
<p>According to Australian Bureau of Statistics data, the median age of buyers in Armstrong Creek is 28 years old.</p>
<p>Justin Bridges bought land in Stage 7 and is about to commence building his new home.</p>
<p>“A great location at a great price, I love the strong sense of community at Ashbury,” Bridges said.</p>
<p>“I know that it is going to be the perfect place for my young son to grow up, thanks to all the planned future playgrounds, parks and sporting facilities.</p>
<p>“Plus, I am especially excited by the new State Primary School proposed within the estate which means that he is going to be able to walk to school down the track.”</p>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

New land released at Ashbury Estate near Geelong

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<p>A new land release of 34 blocks at The Hermitage, Gledswood Hills is taking registrations of interest.</p>
<p>The Sekisui House project is adjacent to a Greg Norman signature golf course, which is set to open in 2020.</p>
<p>The release includes lot sizes ranging from 450 square metres to 629 square metres, with prices starting from $463,000.</p>
<p><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/2018/8/3/GLEDSWOOD%202.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The masterplan for the community includes more than 150 hectares of green open space, including dedicated parklands and 27 holes of golf among the total 307-hectares.</p>
<p>There is also a proposed mixed-use precinct which would include a grocer, cafés, swim school, healthcare, Country Club and restaurants.</p>
<p><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/2018/8/3/GLEDSWOOD%203.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>Craig Barnes, Sekisui House Sales, Marketing &amp; Customer Relations Manager, Development &amp; Communities said that initial interest from prospective purchasers has been strong, with several hundred expressions of interest already registered.</p>
<p>“I don’t believe that there has been such a distinguished or exclusive “vacant land” offering delivered to the Sydney market in recent times and the initial response from prospective purchasers tends to indicate the same,” said Barnes.</p>
<p>“Gledswood Greens offers an unsurpassed opportunity for land purchasers looking to reside in an idyllic and peaceful environment, with convenient access to a broad range of facilities.</p>
<p>“Whether an avid golfer or not, the adjacent future Greg Norman signature golf course provides the ultimate back drop for future residents.”</p>
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Sekisui House release new land at project next to Greg Norman-designed golf course

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<p>Lendlease have opened a new display home in Yarrabilba that showcases design solutions and products that decrease the need for heating and cooling by up to 60%.</p>
<p>The company utilised the services of a social enterprise that provides opportunities to the area’s long-term unemployed and disadvantaged groups to build the home.</p>
<p>The Logan-based Access Employment Services(AES), which is operated by Access Community Services, helped build the 139.9 square metre energy-efficient home.</p>
<p>The three-bedroom, two-bathroom home with single-car garage was designed by <a href="https://www.arkistruct.com/">Arkistruct</a> and home and land packages at the project are priced between $375,000 and $390,000.</p>
<p>Techniques used in the home include passive solar heating and cooling, insulation, polished concrete flooring and glazed windows.</p>
<p><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/2018/8/3/Lendlease_160718_Yarrabillba_Sustainable_Display_Home_018.jpg" alt=""></p>
<p>The home boasts an 9-star NatHERS rating, according to Arkistruct Managing Director, Daniel McGrath.</p>
<p>“It’s been a fantastic opportunity to work alongside Lendlease to design Yarrabilba’s sustainable display home and demonstrate to home buyers what’s possible when using the latest technology to save time, energy and money,” McGrath said.</p>
<p>“The display home has been designed to take advantage of natural heating and cooling to increase residents’ comfort and importantly reduce power consumption.”</p>
<p>He also praised the construction’s used of disadvantaged people.</p>
<p>“With each build, we’re addressing barriers among people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, growing opportunities for collaborative communities whilst fostering a sense of inclusion and empowerment for newly arrived migrants and refugees.” </p>
<p>Lendlease Communities Managing Director, Matthew Wallace said that the home showcases how it is possible to reduce costs associated with sustainable living and building.</p>
<p>“The home has been constructed from carefully chosen materials that minimise waste and environmental impact, and has been designed to reduce and re-use water inside and out with features such as a rainwater tank,” Wallace said.</p>
<p>“Lendlease is proud of its expertise in areas such as community enterprise, education, economic development, environmental initiatives and the development of a wide range of innovative and affordable housing.</p>
<p>“Our objective is to help ensure a balance between economic, environment and social outcomes to provide greater benefits to all, now and into the future.”</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;" lang="EN-AU">Lendlease have opened a new display home in Yarrabilba that showcases design solutions and products that decrease the need for heating and cooling by up to 60%. </span></p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;" lang="EN-AU">The company utilised the services of a social enterprise that provides opportunities to </span>the area’s long-term unemployed and disadvantaged groups to build the home.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The Logan-based Access Employment Services(AES), which is operated by Access Community Services, helped build the 139.9 square metre energy-efficient home.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The three-bedroom, two-bathroom home with single-car garage was designed by <a href="https://www.arkistruct.com/">Arkistruct</a> and home and land packages at the project are priced between $375,000 and $390,000.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Techniques used in the home include passive solar heating and cooling, insulation, polished concrete flooring and glazed windows.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">The home boasts an 9-star NatHERS rating, according to Arkistruct Managing Director, Daniel McGrath.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“It’s been a fantastic opportunity to work alongside Lendlease to design Yarrabilba’s sustainable display home and demonstrate to home buyers what’s possible when using the latest technology to save time, energy and money,” McGrath said.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“The display home has been designed to take advantage of natural heating and cooling to increase residents’ comfort and importantly reduce power consumption.”</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">He also praised the construction’s used of disadvantaged people.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>“With each build, we’re addressing barriers among people from culturally and linguistically diverse communities, growing opportunities for collaborative communities whilst fostering a sense of inclusion and empowerment for newly arrived migrants and refugees.” </p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Lendlease Communities Managing Director, Matthew Wallace said that the home showcases how it is possible to reduce costs associated with sustainable living and building.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“The home has been constructed from carefully chosen materials that minimise waste and environmental impact, and has been designed to reduce and re-use water inside and out with features such as a rainwater tank,” Wallace said.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Lendlease is proud of its expertise in areas such as community enterprise, education, economic development, environmental initiatives and the development of a wide range of innovative and affordable housing.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">“Our objective is to help ensure a balance between economic, environment and social outcomes to provide greater benefits to all, now and into the future.”</p>
<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;" lang="EN-AU"> </span></p>
<p> </p>
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Lendlease launches new sustainable display home in Yarrabilba 

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<p>The South Australia State Commission Assessment Panel (SCAP) has given its approval for Starfish Development’s land subdivision application for Dock One.</p>
<p>It forms the first phase of the project, comprising townhouses and apartments.</p>
<p>Starfish is billed as the first developer to reach this stage in the re-invigoration of Port Adelaide.</p>
<p>Starfish managing director Damon Nagel said the plans envisaged a reduced number of cars, turning the main street through the centre of the development allowing a lineal park and communal garden.</p>
<p>It has opted to retain the former Marine and Harbours building for residential and commercial use, along with the old Customs House.</p>
<p>Remediation and early earthworks have already begun on site and scheduled to be completed by the end of the year when Starfish plans to release the townhouses and apartments onto the market.</p>
<p>Work on roads and other infrastructure is expected to commence early next year, before construction on the townhouses in the second quarter.</p>
<p>The new train link to Dock One will give access to the city centre.</p>
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Starfish Developments given subdivision approval for Port Adelaide residential project 

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<div>A subsidiary of co-working giant, WeWork, has pre-committed to a 10 year lease of the heritage-listed, 66 King St building</div>
<div> </div>
<div>They have pre-committed to leasing the entire building (pictured above), which is owned by Sydney-based developer Mr Phillip George.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Mr George is undertaking a $50 million upgrade to the more than 70 year old building, through Taylor Constructions, and will be tenanted by the WeWork owned Gravity co-working brand following completion of the renovation in late 2019.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Owned since 2007 by Mr George, the 14 level building, located between on the corner of King and York Streets, will cover 7,300 square metres of A Grade commercial and retail space and works have now commenced.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The art-deco building is heritage listed and described as "an example of art deco-modern American commercial gothic architecture, with two major light wells and a rooftop terrace, to be converted to a bar and restaurant."</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Mr George said “The building is perfect as a co-working environment as it is well located in the middle of the city, close to major transport links and featuring versatile, dynamic spaces well suited to the Gravity brand."</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“The building’s many heritage features, including a marble entrance, stairway and light wells, will be refurbished to create a truly A Grade boutique building in the heart of Sydney’s CBD”, he concluded.</div>
<div> </div>
<div><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/2018/8/8/66%20King%20Street.jpg" alt=""></div>
<div> </div>
<div>CBRE’s Stuart McSorley and Nick Read who negotiated the lease said they believe the refurbishment of the building was pivotal to securing the lease.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>“Upon completion, the building will include new end of trip facilities, rooftop terrace and refurbishment and restoration of the existing heritage features,” Mr McSorley said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The site will also feature three retail shops and an underground basement space suited for a bar or other venue for the many office workers now congregating in the centre of the city where there are improved transport links and retail outlets.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Having sold Mrs Crocket’s Food Group in 2004, Mr George transitioned and is now a property owner and developer with a wide range of residential, industrial and commercial projects worth more than $750 million across Australia.</div>
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WeWork to take up a 10 year lease at refurbished King St building

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<p>EXPERT OBSERVER</p>
<p>The backdown by the NSW Government on it’s Planned Precincts along the Sydenham to Bankstown corridor is yet another pre-election move that will put new housing on hold.</p>
<p>For some years the NSW Government has been promoting the redevelopment of land around proposed new metro stations along the Sydenham to Bankstown line as the correct approach to provide new housing for Sydney's booming population.</p>
<p>The government committed to Priority Precincts around rail stations which sent signals to the private sector that these precincts were where new development should occur.</p>
<p>Many private developers purchased land to help realise the government's vision.</p>
<p>We now hear from the media that the government has done a backflip (to use the media's term) and is handing the planning powers back to the local councils.</p>
<p>The media comments from representatives of the Canterbury Bankstown and Inner West councils are now saying that the decision puts an end to high rise development around the stations.</p>
<p>The same councils also complained about the NSW Government's new Housing code for town houses and terrace houses and the NSW Government quickly allowed the two councils to delay the code for over a year.</p>
<p>Clearly the NSW Government is spooked by community concerns about the extent of development that the government's own planning rules proposed.</p>
<p>Rather than taking an advocacy role to explain to the community that 725,000 new homes will be required over the next 20 years in Sydney, and that development around stations on a new metro rail line is good planning, the government seems to be moving away from its leadership role.</p>
<p>With an election 9 months away it is clear that the government is happy to put the planning for new housing on hold.</p>
<p>This will only lead to a collapse in housing supply in a few years’ time which will push house prices up again.</p>
<p>The Premier's rhetoric that the solution to housing affordability is for more supply has clearly been replaced by putting supply on hold.</p>
<p>What were called Priority Precincts to help with supply then became Planned Precincts at the end of last year and are now seen by the suppliers of new housing as being 'Paused Precincts'.</p>
<p>On 25 June 2017 Anthony Roberts, NSW Planning Minister, issued a Media Release on the Sydenham to Bankstown corridor where he said: 'It is fundamental that we harness the benefits of the Sydney Metro.Supply was the key to tackling housing affordability in Sydney and growth strategies such as the Sydenham to Bankstown corridor will make a positive impact.'</p>
<p>He also announced that Canterbury, Campsie, Lakemba and Belmore have been made priority precincts. A year later it seems that the benefits of the metro have been diminished and that supply of new housing is not the key to housing affordability.</p>
<p>The Urban Taskforce is keen to work with the councils along the Sydenham to Bankstown line to ensure that development opportunities for new housing are still available.</p>
<p>Chris Johnson is the CEO of Urban Taskforce</p>
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cjohnson-8xfqfuuCSq

Sydenham to Bankstown planning backdown will be bad for future housing supply: Chris Johnson

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<div>EXPERT OBSERVER</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Melbourne's median lot value increased by another 41 per cent year-on-year to a record $359,000, according to HIA figures. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>That's up from just above $200,000 five years ago.</div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZCsu9VpbuE/W1rx_-Uc-VI/AAAAAAAArPY/YZBBVJ_sGiQOaw6zqM6yq0yrXO97uQsEACLcBGAs/s1600/HIA1.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3ZCsu9VpbuE/W1rx_-Uc-VI/AAAAAAAArPY/YZBBVJ_sGiQOaw6zqM6yq0yrXO97uQsEACLcBGAs/s640/HIA1.jpg" width="640" height="352" data-original-height="578" data-original-width="1050"></a></div>
<div> </div>
<p><span>In Sydney the median lot value sits just below its peak at $469,500.</span><br><br></p>
<div class="separator"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l_7zcmy45gY/W1ryAXV4WBI/AAAAAAAArPc/Z_Iyx7t366A-1PSwHuammLsDttc3tFs6ACLcBGAs/s1600/HIA2.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l_7zcmy45gY/W1ryAXV4WBI/AAAAAAAArPc/Z_Iyx7t366A-1PSwHuammLsDttc3tFs6ACLcBGAs/s640/HIA2.jpg" width="640" height="370" data-original-height="605" data-original-width="1046"></a></div>
<p> </p>
<div>Lot sizes have been shrinking over time too.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Indeed, on a price per square metre Sydney's land price was more than 8 per cent higher than a year earlier. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>A 700sqm block in Kellyville sold for $1,200,000 this week, some 36 kilometres from the CBD and located close to the M7 motorway.<br><br>
</div>
<div class="separator"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uB3ffLyZCQk/W1rzBrapBaI/AAAAAAAArPs/Io4s_-lFocwwt4z-H7mLAevdkTfQcwP7gCLcBGAs/s1600/HIA3.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uB3ffLyZCQk/W1rzBrapBaI/AAAAAAAArPs/Io4s_-lFocwwt4z-H7mLAevdkTfQcwP7gCLcBGAs/s640/HIA3.jpg" width="640" height="380" data-original-height="621" data-original-width="1043"></a></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Sales volumes have declined significantly, which combined with rising prices suggests limited availability on the market. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Overall, it's been another strong decade for land prices.</div>
<div>
<br><em>PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of AllenWargent property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>.</em>
</div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Melbourne's house and land values continue to rise: Pete Wargent

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<p>GUEST OBSERVATION</p>
<p>Studies indicate spending time in nature brings physical, mental and social benefits. These include stress reduction, improved mood, accelerated healing, attention restoration, productivity and heightened imagination and creativity.</p>
<p>Increased urbanisation has made it more difficult to connect with nature. And members of lower socioeconomic and minority ethnic groups, people over 65 and those living with disability are less likely to visit green spaces. This could be due to inaccessible facilities and safety fears.</p>
<p>A gardening program for disadvantaged groups, running in New South Wales since 1999, has aimed to overcome the inequity in access to green spaces. Called Community Greening, the program has reached almost 100,000 participants and established 627 community and youth-led gardens across the state.</p>
<p>Our independent evaluation explored the program’s impact on new participants and communities in social housing by tracking six new garden sites in 2017. Around 85% of participants told us the program had a positive effect on their health and 91% said it benefited their community. And 73% said they were exercising more and 61% were eating better. One participant said engaging in the program even helped them quit smoking.</p>
<p>These insights have advanced our understanding of how community gardening improves the mental and physical health of Australians living in social housing communities in our cities.</p>
<p><strong>Our study</strong></p>
<p>Trends towards urbanisation and loss of green space have sparked concerns about population health and well-being. This has led to a growing body of research on the impact of community gardens on children and adults.</p>
<p>The Community Greening program is supported by the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney in partnership with Housing New South Wales. Anecdotal feedback gathered by the botanic garden over the past two decades has shown gardening improves well-being and cohesion, fosters a sense of belonging, reduces stress and enhances life skills.</p>
<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/V-feCm1FDF8?wmode=transparent&amp;start=0" frameborder="0" width="440" height="260"></iframe></p>
<p><em><span class="caption">Community Greening provides gardens for people in social housing.</span></em></p>
<p>Based on this understanding, Community Greening aims to:</p>
<ul>
<li>improve physical and mental health</li>
<li>reduce anti-social behaviour</li>
<li>build community cohesion</li>
<li>tackle economic disadvantage</li>
<li>promote understanding of native food plants</li>
<li>conserve the environment</li>
<li>provide skills training to enable future employment opportunities</li>
<li>share expert knowledge of the garden.</li>
</ul>
<p>Our research investigated these outcomes in participants, and whether they changed during the course of the program. We collected data using questionnaires over seven months (before and after participation). We also conducted focus group interviews with participants and open-ended questionnaires with staff working at the community sites.</p>
<p>Of the 23 people who completed both questionnaires before and afterwards, 14 were female and nine were male. They had an average age of 59, ranging from 29-83. Fifteen participants were born in Australia while the rest came from Fiji, Iran, Poland, New Zealand, Philippines, Chile, Afghanistan and Mauritius. One participant identified as an Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander and five people (22%) reported English was not their first language.</p>
<p>Initially, 27% reported they had never gardened prior to the program. At the post-test questionnaire, the frequency of attendance improved for many of them. Over 40% gardened once a week and 22% every day.</p>
<p><strong>Gardening benefits</strong></p>
<p>Overall, we found participants felt a sense of agency, community pride and achievement. The gardening program helped encourage change and community development. Some were happy to learn a new hobby.</p>
<p><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/228673/original/file-20180721-142405-1snyawc.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></p>
<p><em><span class="caption">Community Greening participants found a lot of benefits to gardening.</span> <span class="attribution"><span class="source">Research infographic/Screenshot</span>, <span class="license">Author provided</span></span></em></p>
<p>Gardening also served as an opportunity to socialise with neighbours. In previous years within some social housing communities, it was commonplace for residents to simply stay inside their units without interacting with anyone.</p>
<p>Many participants said they saw a marked improvement in their health and well-being. One participant remarked:</p>
<p>"I suffer with a lot of health problems, and a lot of times I’ve been sitting at home, been depressed and not been happy about my illness, and since I’ve become more involved with the garden it helped me to not worry about my health so much like I used to and it actually improved my eating habits. It has changed my life positively. I don’t have time to feel sorry for myself anymore…"</p>
<p>Some described the gardening experience as calming and cathartic – especially those who suffered from depression and anxiety. Some spoke of the positive aspect of having something to do each day and their feelings of achievement.</p>
<p>Another participant said:</p>
<p>"Going outside gives me not only physical exercise, but it provides a certain amount of joy in that you’re seeing the benefit of your hard work coming through in healthy plants. Whether it’s vegetables or a conifer, you’re seeing it grow and you’re seeing the benefit…"</p>
<p>Additional improvements in social health included a genuine enthusiasm for working in a team, with increased co-operation and social cohesion between staff and tenants. The housing managers and social workers work alongside tenants helping to foster trust, co-operation, social collaboration and healthy relationships.</p>
<p><img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/96707/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">More importantly, this research has provided validation that Community Greening has aligned with contemporary social-housing priorities. These include supporting health and well-being, nurturing a sense of community, enhancing safety and developing a sense of place.</p>
<p><em><strong>Tonia Gray</strong>, Associate Professor, Centre for Educational Research, Western Sydney University</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Danielle Tracey</strong>, Associate Professor, Adult and Postgraduate Education, Western Sydney University</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Kumara Ward</strong>, Lecturer, Early Childhood Education, Western Sydney University</em></p>
<p><em><strong>Son Truong</strong>, Senior Lecturer, Secondary Education, Western Sydney University</em></p>
<p><em>This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/gardening-improves-the-health-of-social-housing-residents-and-provides-a-sense-of-purpose-96707">original article</a>.</em></p>
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Gardening improves the health of social housing residents and provides a sense of purpose

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<div>
<div style="text-align: left;">ServiceSeeking has pinpointed their website's top tradie, a Melbourne builder specialising in property maintenance, renovations, demolitions and fit-outs, who brought home over $372,000 in FY18.<br> <br>He made more than many top earning doctors and lawyers, based on the latest median income stats from the ATO. <br> <br>The top 10 tradies on ServiceSeeking took home a combined $1.2 million over the last financial year. <br> <br><img src="https://d15k2d11r6t6rl.cloudfront.net/public/users/Integrators/929cb090-e779-401a-b06c-c629ff6b0fea/ap-serviceseeking2/Top%20Tradie%20v%20Median%20Income_1.png" alt="Image" width="733" height="432" data-imagetype="External"><br> <br>Australia wide, removalists enjoyed the highest charge out rates in FY18 versus FY17 while handymen were the biggest mover in terms of percentage change, with an increase in charge out rates of 11.97%. <br> <br><img src="https://d15k2d11r6t6rl.cloudfront.net/public/users/Integrators/929cb090-e779-401a-b06c-c629ff6b0fea/ap-serviceseeking2/AUS%20wide.png" alt="Image" width="718" height="410" data-imagetype="External">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br>NSW removalists have been awarded the title of Australia’s Richest Trade Profession for 2018.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> <br><img src="https://d15k2d11r6t6rl.cloudfront.net/public/users/Integrators/929cb090-e779-401a-b06c-c629ff6b0fea/ap-serviceseeking2/Rich%20List%202.png" alt="Image" width="719" height="391" data-imagetype="External">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">Builders from Queensland increased their prices by the largest percentage this financial year, 32.73% with the national rate sitting at $88.63/hr.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">This pushes them into the top 10, coming in at 6th place.<br><span style="font-size: 12.16px;"><br></span>The survey noted overall the Tradie Rich List for 2018 consists of only a few industries that are characterised by onerous licensing regimes or high start up costs (removalists for example are running expensive work vehicles and paying high insurance premiums). </div>
<div style="text-align: left;"> </div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<div>In FY18, hourly rates grew faster than the year prior by 1.78%, hourly charge out rate growth in FY18 was 5.78% compared to 4% in FY17.<br> <br>This rise in hourly rates also greatly exceeded the recently published CPI figures of 0.4%. South Australia saw the greatest rise in rates at 8.57% while Victoria was the only state to post negative growth at -1.94%.<br> <br><img src="https://d15k2d11r6t6rl.cloudfront.net/public/users/Integrators/929cb090-e779-401a-b06c-c629ff6b0fea/ap-serviceseeking2/State%20Growth%20Rates%20FY18.png" alt="Image" width="685" height="452" data-imagetype="External"><br> </div>
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Removalists earn the highest hourly rate among Australia's Tradie Rich List

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<p><span>A North Richmond ready to build parcel of land with views back over to the mountains has been listed for sale.</span></p>
<p><span>It comes with $485,000 to $515,000 price guidance.</span></p>
<p><span>It first sold in August last year at $485,000.</span></p>
<p><span>It is offered by Nicole King and Jacob Bennett from Bennett Property.<br></span></p>
<p><a href="http://bennettproperty.com.au/1P2178" target="_blank">Positioned at 3 Summit Ridge</a>, the Redbank Estate <span>is accessed from the Grose Vale side of the development.</span></p>
<p><span>It has a total of 988sqm of land.</span></p>
<p><span>The estate will offer <span>the complete lifestyle with great parks, over 14km of walking and bike trails and a small shopping village to be completed</span></span></p>
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