Repeat buyers are one of the strongest measures of confidence in any apartment development.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/era-newcastle-west-124-126-bull-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">ERA</a> in Newcastle West, some purchasers are returning to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> after living at the developer's One Apartments. Their decision to purchase again was driven by the quality of life they found after moving into their first GWH home.

Keith Wilton had spent years living in a house in East Maitland before deciding it was time for a change. Apartment living had always been on his radar, but he was selective about what he wanted.

<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/FH_1EzB-1vs?si=XScVlP1ERsTDJoME" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

"I had some boxes I wanted to tick," he says.

Keith points to the open-plan design, generous outdoor areas and considered inclusions as key reasons One Apartments worked for him.

“One of those things was a nice indoor open plan area, but also I wanted a nice outdoor open area that I could entertain on in summer or Christmases or birthdays,” he says.

He also found value in the smaller details, from integrated appliances to shared resident spaces including the pool, cinema and rooftop areas.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356818]

After comparing several developments, he chose One Apartments because of GWH's longstanding local reputation and his own experience working with the developer on a commercial project more than a decade earlier.

"I knew that they were local, that the quality of the build was going to be up there. I'd looked at other apartment complexes around and close by, and I just knew that here was a better decision location wise."

Today, Keith says the move has completely changed how he experiences Newcastle.

"I enjoy living in this location because it's more of a lifestyle change. That Newcastle city living where you can walk to restaurants and bars and even beaches and parks and even shopping across the road."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356828]

Beyond the location, he says it's the sense of community that has surprised him most.

"Everyone loves living here because they chose to live here, but everyone looks out for each other. It's a real great community feel here."

For Aimee and Lyle Goodman, the journey started almost by chance.

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The couple happened to be having coffee in Newcastle when they noticed the site where One Apartments was about to begin construction.

"We were aware GWH was planning a development," Aimee says. "We made one phone call and things moved pretty quickly after that."

As busy business owners, they initially thought apartment living would simply reduce the maintenance that came with larger homes. Instead, it fundamentally changed how they spent time together.

"We actually catch up more as a family now," Aimee says.

"We've had homes with big yards and lots of space, but everyone ended up in different rooms. Here we'll have dinner together, the kids can play, and we spend far more quality time together."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356829]

Lyle says their confidence came from GWH's reputation within Newcastle's building industry.

"I know people who've worked across different apartment projects, and whenever GWH came up the feedback was always the same. They're rock solid. They're quality."

That confidence only grew throughout the buying process.

"One of the things that really impressed us with GWH was the whole process, was the communication," Lyle says. "It was consistent, it was regular, there was no problem if we had some weird questions, there was no problems in getting answers."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351104]

Aimee says one moment stood out.

"The project actually finished on time. We realised we needed to hurry up and sell our house because everything was happening exactly when they said it would."

The positive experience at One Apartments ultimately gave all three buyers the confidence to purchase again with GWH, this time at ERA.

Their confidence reflects what many buyers are seeking in today's apartment market. Location remains important, but so too does certainty around delivery, quality and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356822]

ERA builds on those foundations with 280 one, two and three-bedroom apartments across two landmark towers in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Newcastle West</a>.&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">Fender Katsalidis</a>, the project will include more than 2,000 square metres of resident amenities, including a resort-style pool, gym, sauna, private cinema and rooftop entertaining spaces overlooking the harbour and coastline.&nbsp;

The development is also within walking distance of the Newcastle Interchange, Honeysuckle, Darby Street, the harbour foreshore, restaurants, retail and the city’s beaches, continuing the walkable lifestyle that existing GWH buyers say has transformed how they live.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=356826]

For Keith, the appeal remains straightforward.

"You feel at home even before you've moved into your home."

For Aimee, the change is measured in time.

“I just felt like I had more time,” she says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135096 project_image_fid=351102]

Construction at ERA is now underway, with more than half of the residences already sold and limited two and three-bedroom apartments remaining in the East Tower release. Priced from $980,000 for two-bedroom residences and $1.46 million for three-bedroom residences, buyers can secure an apartment with a 10 per cent deposit, with premium homes offering ocean views from Level 8 and harbour views from Level 10.

ERA is also backed by Resilience Insurance's 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy, providing protection against structural or waterproofing defects for 10 years after completion. The project is anticipated to be completed in early 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135096]

Joel Robinson

From ONE to ERA: Why buyers are choosing GWH again in Newcastle West

Virgate Property Group is preparing to commence construction of Verdé, its new apartment development in Melbourne's Arts Precinct at Southbank, following a strong run of sales that has seen more than half of the project's 173 apartments secured.

Verdé has attracted a broad mix of first home buyers, owner-occupiers upgrading from nearby inner-city suburbs and investors, with younger owner-occupier couples aged between 28 and 45 accounting for the strongest enquiry. Many are already living in Southbank, South Melbourne, Albert Park, Port Melbourne, South Yarra and the CBD.

"Verdé is located in one of the most desirable pockets of southern Melbourne," Blair Property Group Director Darren Blair, who is managing sales at Verdé, said.

"It's within walking distance of the Arts Centre, Royal Botanic Gardens, Albert Park Lake, and Southbank's restaurants and retail. It's a great lifestyle location with strong amenity and liveability, which made it a very attractive choice for the project."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372549]

Virgate was already familiar with the precinct, having previously delivered the successful Domain House development in neighbouring South Melbourne. That experience gave the developer confidence to acquire the Coventry Street site and continue expanding its presence in Melbourne's inner south.

"We had been keeping an eye on the site and the broader precinct for a few months before deciding to move forward with the acquisition," Virgate said.

The project was ultimately secured in 2020 following feasibility studies, planning assessments and due diligence, with the brief centred on delivering "a high-quality, considered design that feels both refined and fit for purpose."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=314259]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bruce-henderson-architects">Bruce Henderson Architects</a>, Verdé comprises 173 one, two and three-bedroom apartments priced from $599,000. The architecture is distinguished by a faceted glass façade that responds to both the site's outlook and Melbourne's changing light conditions.

According to Bruce Henderson Architects, the coloured glazing gives the building a distinctive identity while also providing privacy and solar shading, with residences oriented to capture views across the bay, city skyline and surrounding parklands.

Inside, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/designoffice">DesignOffice</a> has created interiors focused on natural light, efficient planning and enduring materials. Apartments feature engineered oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, floor-to-ceiling glazing and SMEG appliances, while a restrained material palette aims to complement the expansive outlooks rather than compete with them.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4661 project_image_fid=372550]

Resident amenity has also been designed around everyday functionality rather than occasional use. Facilities include a concierge-serviced lobby, residents' lounge with fireplace, library and co-working space, gym, terrace garden with barbecue facilities, ground-floor café, and package delivery management.

The project's location continues to be one of its strongest drawcards. Positioned on Coventry Street, Verdé sits within walking distance of the National Gallery of Victoria, Arts Centre Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens and Albert Park Lake, while Southbank's dining precinct, Sturt Street trams and the new ANZAC Station are all nearby. The surrounding education catchment also includes Melbourne Grammar, Melbourne Girls Grammar, Mac.Robertson Girls' High School and several major university campuses.

The sales team says buyers have responded particularly well to the combination of location, design quality and long-term liveability.

"They're responding really positively to the quality of the design, premium resident amenities and the uninterrupted views. Many also appreciate the location and how connected it is to everything they need."

The ability to secure stamp duty savings before completion has also been a key factor for purchasers, alongside the opportunity to personalise finishes ahead of settlement.

With construction set to commence soon and more than half the apartments already sold, Verdé enters its next phase as one of the Arts Precinct's more established apartment developments, offering remaining buyers an opportunity to secure a residence before construction advances further. Expected completion is scheduled for late 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=4661]

Virgate's Verdé Southbank moves toward construction as sales fly past halfway stage

Downsizer-focused apartment development Kooyongkoot in Hawthorn has been recognised at the 2026 Better Future Melbourne Design Awards, taking home Gold and Silver awards in two categories.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kooyongkoot-hawthorn-1-kooyongkoot-road-hawthorn-vic-3122">Kooyongkoot</a>, currently being delivered by developer PQD and designed by Cera Stribley, received Gold in the Interior Design – Proposed category and Silver in the Architecture – Proposed category.

The dual recognition reflects the design approach behind the boutique development on prestigious Kooyongkoot Road, where the focus has been on creating homes for downsizers seeking the space, quality and functionality of a detached house within a low-rise apartment building.

Rather than maximising apartment numbers, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/pqd">PQD</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> limited the development to just 18 residences, allowing for larger floorplans, greater privacy, generous landscaping and expansive communal spaces.&nbsp;The majority of the apartments also benefit from corner aspects, allowing for dual sources of natural light.

Now around 70 per cent complete and on track for completion in November 2026, Kooyongkoot will comprise a mix of garden residences, ter​race apartments, sub-penthouses, and is crowned by two half-floor penthouses with direct lift access and private rooftop terraces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355297]

The Silver Award for Architecture recognised the way the building responds to its prominent corner position at the ent​rance to Hawthorn's Scotch Hill precinct, one of Melbourne's most established residential neighbourhoods.

Rather than competing with the grand homes that line Kooyongkoot Road, the architectural approach focused on restraint and longevity, using curved brickwork, generous landscaping and carefully considered proportions to integrate with the existing streetscape.

"The form feels fluid and timeless, as though shaped by the landscape itself – architecture that belongs, rather than competes," said Chris Stribley, Co-Founder and Managing Principal of Cera Stribley.

The judging submission also highlighted practical innovations throughout the building, including lift cores servicing only nine homes each, a central landscaped lightcourt designed to bring daylight and ventilation into the building, and fully enclosed private storage rooms with lighting, power and shelving to better accommodate residents transitioning from larger family homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355293]

The Gold Award for Interior Design recognised the project's focus on long-term liveability rather than display-home aesthetics.

According to the awards submission, the interiors were designed from the inside out, prioritising how homes would function over decades of daily use through generous proportions, practical storage, durable natural materials and flexible layouts.

The specification includes natural stone throughout, upgraded acoustic glazing, V-ZUG appliances and fully enclosed storage rooms, alongside an amenity offering focused on wellness, entertainment and everyday convenience.&nbsp;

Residents will have access to a gym and yoga studio, a wellness centre featuring traditional and infrared saunas, a cold therapy shower and treatment room, as well as a residents' lounge and golf simulator/cinema room for entertainment.&nbsp;Kooyongkoot has also considered the everyday convenience of its residents by offering a private carwash and pet wash facilities on site as well as dedicated parcel lockers and oversized fully enclosed storage rooms.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355303]

The project's attention to detail has already resonated with buyers. Earlier this year, Kooyongkoot recorded one of Boroondara's highest apartment sales when an $8 million penthouse was purchased by a Melbourne CEO downsizing from a nearby family home.

"Every detail feels deliberate, from the overall design down to the smallest touches," the purchaser said.

"The level of quality and refinement is exceptional, but what really sold it was how liveable it felt... It felt like a place where everything had been considered, not just a luxury building."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102717 project_image_fid=355304]

Sustainability also formed a key part of both award submissions. Kooyongkoot is targeting a minimum 7.5-star NatHERS rating across all residences, supported by passive design principles, high-performance glazing, EV charging infrastructure, water reuse systems and a wellness model focused on lower-energy dry facilities rather than pools and large wet areas.

Located within walking distance of Scotch College, Methodist Ladies' College, Koo​yong Lawn Tennis Club, Aubur​n Village and Camberwell Junction, Kooyongkoot continues to target owner-occupiers looking to remain in Melbourne's inner east without compromising on space or quality. A limited selection of two, three and four-bedroom residences remains available, with prices starting from $1.9 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102717]

Kooyongkoot wins Gold and Silver at Better Future Melbourne Design Awards

New apartment supply has become increasingly constrained across <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a> in recent years, with fewer projects progressing through to completion as development conditions have become more challenging.

It makes <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/novm">NOVM</a>'s 2021-completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> one of the most recently completed residential towers on the Parramatta River, and among the newest apartment developments in Sydney's second CBD.

With the project largely completed before the sharp escalation in construction costs and inflation following the pandemic, The Lennox is now offering pricing that would be difficult to replicate in a comparable new development in Parramatta today, or across much of Western Sydney.

The majority of the 413 apartments at The Lennox sold before and shortly after completion. A limited release of the remaining apartments has recently been brought to market by capital partner <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Equitifund</a>, with entry-level pricing from $700,000 and two-bedroom apartments available from under $1 million.

Rising above the Parramatta River at 12 Phillip Street, The Lennox comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, appealing to first home buyers, young professionals, families, downsizers and interstate investors seeking a completed apartment in one of Australia's fastest-growing economic centres.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=372394]

Rather than positioning Parramatta as an alternative to Sydney's CBD, Equitifund believes the city has reached a point where it stands on its own merits.

"Parramatta is no longer simply an alternative to Sydney CBD, it's becoming a destination in its own right," Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said.

"The Lennox captures that evolution with a level of quality and amenity that's difficult to match at its price point."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=953]

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, the tower responds directly to its riverfront setting through expansive glazing and open-plan layouts that maximise views across the Parramatta River and city skyline. Interiors feature engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops, stainless steel appliances and floor-to-ceiling glazing, while generous balconies extend the living spaces outdoors.

Marchese Partners says the project was conceived to balance high-quality apartment living with practical, long-term functionality, pairing larger, efficient floorplans with amenities more commonly associated with five-star hotels.

That emphasis continues through the resident facilities, which include a 20-metre rooftop swimming pool, fully equipped gym and wellness spaces, full-time concierge, a residents' lounge, function room, private lifts, secure basement parking and rooftop communal areas overlooking the Parramatta River. Ground-floor boardwalk retail and dining further activate the riverfront and integrate the building into the surrounding public realm.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

Australian housing and finance group Equitifund has secured the remaining apartments, believing there are few completed apartment opportunities in Parramatta that offer the same combination of location, amenity and pricing.

Equitifund National Sales Director Ben Hamblett says buyers are increasingly recognising that premium apartment living no longer needs to come with Sydney CBD pricing.

"The Lennox is where aspirational living becomes attainable," Hamblett said.

"Wake to river and mountain views, step into Sydney's Second CBD, and arrive home to resort-calibre amenities, all without the harbour price tag."

Hamblett says owner-occupiers are also attracted by the convenience of having Westfield Parramatta, Church Street's dining precinct, Parramatta Park, Riverside Theatres, Western Sydney University and major transport connections all within walking distance.

"At The Lennox, lifestyle is not an afterthought, it is the foundation."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=5374]

The Lennox places residents within walking distance of Parramatta Square, Westfield Parramatta, Church Street Eat Street, Parramatta Station, the ferry wharf, Light Rail, the future Sydney Metro West, Parramatta Park and CommBank Stadium, reinforcing Parramatta's position as one of Australia's most connected metropolitan centres outside Sydney's CBD.

Equitifund says buyers visiting the display suite consistently comment on the quality of the finishes, generous floorplans, river and skyline views, and the walkability of the location. The project has attracted a broad mix of local professionals, upsizers, downsizers, buyers relocating from Sydney's inner suburbs and interstate investors seeking long-term growth opportunities.

That demand aligns with Parramatta's continued evolution as an economic powerhouse. Equitifund Research and Market Insights specialist John Bekiaris says sustained population growth, infrastructure investment and expanding employment opportunities continue to support long-term housing demand across the city.

"Parramatta has evolved from a satellite city into one of Australia's most important economic centres. Population growth, infrastructure investment and employment are all supporting sustained long-term housing demand."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

The apartment price gap drawing Sydney buyers west

A luxury beachfront apartment at Rainbow Bay has more than doubled in value since it sold off the plan six years ago, setting a new local apartment record in the process.

The three-bedroom apartment in the Flow development on Petrie Street, the first of four new projects locally by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects, has sold for $7.4 million, after originally selling for $3.27 million when the project launched in 2020.

The seventh-floor apartment, comprising 187 sqm of internal living space and a 54 sqm balcony overlooking Froggies Beach and Snapper Rocks, was purchased by a local family.

The transaction was negotiated by Pezet Matheson director Kerry Pezet and equates to more than $30,000 per sqm.

Pezet said the sale reflected the limited opportunities to buy into the boutique beachfront development.

"The sale highlights the rarity of opportunities within the boutique beachfront development, where residences seldom become available," Pezet said.

"Flow is one of the Gold Coast's most tightly held buildings. Buyers from our database move quickly when residences become available, and achieving an off-market sale at $7.4 million demonstrates the depth of demand for property of this calibre."

<img alt="Flow" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c585b206-2130-4eee-a50c-3f27c51a7c70" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-07-06%20at%208.33.25%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=m3pHRDV62Y3fvN.XQuQHq.52ilTWpRLf" />

Flow was the first of four luxury apartment developments delivered by Paul Gedoun's S&amp;S Projects at Rainbow Bay and was completed in 2023.

Positioned on the beachfront overlooking Snapper Rocks, the residence includes three bedrooms, three bathrooms, a powder room and views stretching north along the coastline towards Surfers Paradise.

Pezet Matheson Residential principal Mitchell Lambert said buyers continued to prioritise quality beachfront apartments in tightly held locations.

"Flow Residences offers a rare combination of elevated beachfront positioning, architectural excellence, comprehensive resident amenity and premium finishes, which is exactly what discerning purchasers are seeking," Lambert said.

"The transaction further reinforces Rainbow Bay's reputation as one of Australia's premier coastal lifestyle destinations, where limited supply and growing demand continue to support strong market performance."

Pezet Matheson originally marketed and sold out Flow off the plan, making the latest transaction a return to one of the project's original buyers.

Paul Gedoun is selling his third project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/radia-rainbow-bay-271-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Radia Rainbow Bay</a>, after recently completing, and selling out, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a>. He has plans for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-s-s-projects-proposes-88-apartment-wellness-tower-at-coolangattas-boundary-street">fourth building</a>, 88 apartments on <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Boundary Street</a>.

Rainbow Bay apartment doubles in price since off the plan sale during pandemic

Australia Post is one of the country’s most trusted institutions, powering one of the largest delivery networks in Australia. As online shopping continues to scale, Australians spent a record $82.6 billion online in 2025, with nearly one in four retail dollars now spent online.

That scale of eCommerce activity has fundamentally changed expectations around how and when parcels arrive, and what happens when someone isn't home.

<h3>Problem solved with Parcel Lockers</h3>

The traditional alternatives to home delivery are far from ideal. Buildings can rely on reception teams to manage deliveries, which introduces ongoing staffing costs and liability concerns. Parcels can be left in common areas, which creates security and aesthetic issues. Or residents are redirected to nearby Post Offices for collection, which shifts the inconvenience rather than solving it.

<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/dVG5ChLHf7E?si=D9hQRGCBuzlSQBqK" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

The data behind that frustration is significant. Nationally, around 9 per cent of deliveries are carded, meaning the recipient was not home and must collect the parcel from a Post Office. That figure reflects the national average reported between November 2025 and January 2026. In Melbourne, that figure rises to 20 per cent. In high-density living, it climbs again to 28 per cent. In other words, more than one in four deliveries in Melbourne apartment buildings results in a failed first attempt.

<h3>How Parcel Lockers work</h3>

The mechanics are simple. When a parcel arrives, the resident receives a notification either through the Australia Post app or via SMS. They scan a QR code, use their one-time PIN and the compartment opens. The parcel is secure, accessible and removed from the lobby floor.

Located in thoughtfully chosen, easily accessible areas, including external building interfaces, mixed-use precincts or shared communal zones, Parcel Lockers enhance convenience without requiring internal building access or additional operational oversight.

<h3>The scale of the network</h3>

This expansion represents Australia Post's largest investment in parcel infrastructure to date, building on momentum that began in 2011 when the first 24 Parcel Locker sites were introduced.

Today the Australia Post Parcel Locker network spans over 1,400 locations and more than 105,000 individual compartments, with major investment already underway to significantly expand the network further.

<h3>What it means for developers and building operators</h3>

A Parcel Locker bank is free to install and free for residents to use. That removes one of the primary barriers to adoption and shifts the conversation from cost to integration.

Australia Post's preference is to engage with developers during the design phase. That allows Parcel Lockers to be located in a considered, publicly accessible space that works for residents and the broader community. Retrofit is possible, and existing buildings can be assessed, but the strongest results occur when Parcel Lockers are treated as part of the core services plan rather than a bolt-on solution.

While the iconic Australia Post red is widely recognised, Parcel Lockers can also be delivered in more muted palettes such as beige or green to align with architectural intent.

For developers, they offer a tech-forward amenity that meets modern expectations, a reduction in courier congestion and building-management load supporting lower emissions and better ESG outcomes, and a meaningful marketability advantage in high-density, eCommerce-active areas, all at no cost for installation and maintenance, with Australia Post funding the program aside from power access.

<h3>Who's using them</h3>

Generational shopping behaviours show strong, sustained growth across all cohorts. Millennials (27–43) led online spend in 2024, contributing nearly $25 billion. Baby Boomers (60–78) increased their online spend by 17.6 per cent, becoming the fastest-growing adopters. Gen Z (13–26) and Gen X (44–59) continue to lean on delivery services as part of their everyday shopping habits.

Internationally, uptake is even more pronounced. Overseas markets are seeing rapid adoption by both developers and consumers, positioning Parcel Lockers as standard infrastructure in many new residential projects. For Melbourne's development community, this signals a shift in baseline expectations. Just as secure bike storage and dedicated parcel rooms have become more common, integrated Parcel Locker networks may soon be viewed as part of the essential service mix.

<h3>The bigger picture</h3>

Parcel Lockers aren't just a logistics fix. Developers invest heavily in lobby design, materials, lighting and landscaping to shape first impressions. Yet a stack of unattended parcels can undo that effort in an instant. Embedding parcel infrastructure early allows projects to respond to how people actually live today, supporting resident satisfaction, reducing operational strain and aligning with broader community and ESG outcomes.

As Belinda Quinn, Senior Transaction Manager – Retail &amp; Out of Home at Australia Post, puts it, residents increasingly expect delivery solutions that align with real life, are flexible, secure and available whenever they need them.

How Australia Post is solving the parcel problem for apartment living

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Veteran estate agent John McGrath has joined Twitter.
His 28th tweet caught Property Observer’s attention – McGrath commenting on a kitchen with bright white cupboards contrasting with the yellow splashback tiles. And the great yellow kickbacks too, he added.
He’s subsequently posted ?the must read: 10 Ways to Warm up Your Home for Selling.
<a target="_blank" href="https://twitter.com/johnmcgrath100"><img src="/images/stories/2012/09/mcgtweet.jpg"></a>
<a target="_blank" href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=1484373&amp;l=245dc4d589&amp;id=265665123466132"><img width="470" src="/images/stories/2012/09/yellowkitchen.jpg"></a>
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

John McGrath's bright outlook, yellow kitchen included: Tweet of the day

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Eco Trendee Homes, the developer of a recently purchased Bribie Island site, has lodged development plans with Moreton Bay Council.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/bribie2.jpg">
Ty Wardner, the Sunshine Coast-based developer, recently<a href="https://www.realtor.com.au/cgi-bin/vgmsg/vgqld/propview.p"> </a>paid about $4 million in a receivership sale for the 42-hectare block of land on Bribie Island, 50 kilometres north of Brisbane.
The subdivision site was bought with preliminary development approval for 544 lots.
The $100 million plans, which date back to 2007, include 10 proposed stages of traditional housing lots, medium-density and retirement developments.
<img style="margin: 5px; float: left;" width="300" src="/images/stories/2012/09/bribie.png">
The existing approval for the development will lapse in 2013.
The Eco Trendee plans were drafted by urban planners and architects The Helibronn Group.
The site, at <a target="_blank" href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-residential+land-qld-bongaree-200165486">69 Coolgarra Avenue in Bongaree</a>, attracted formal offers from nine groups when offered through a public tender campaign by Ray White Special Project Queensland directors Mark Creevey and Tony Williams.
Williams says there was strong interest from developers before its sale earlier this year.
"There is definite demand for developers looking for good sites to acquire.
"Broadly across south-east Queensland there’s a limited quantum of sites a reasonable distance from Brisbane with a capacity and size like this. There are a handful in hands of larger developers."
"It varies from asset to asset, but by and large with a stereotypical site with advanced planning you’ll get good interest," Williams says.
It was sold under instructions of McGrathNicol, the receivers and managers of Dux Property Group.
Williams says the land is close to the surf beach and golf courses.
“The area is well serviced with amenities, with the Bribie Island Shopping Centre containing Woolworths and 30 specialty shops.
The proposed development includes a 7.65-hectare lake as a central water feature.
The 148-square-kilometre island is the most northern of the three major islands forming the coastline sheltering Moreton Bay and is the only island linked to the mainland by bridge.
In 2009 Dux Property Group took exception to the government’s 2004 valuation of the site at $17.35 million and took the Department of Natural Resources and Water to the Land Court of Queensland.
By  June 2012 the site was valued at $8 million.
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Eco Trendee Homes lodges development plans for Bribie Island block

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Australian dwelling starts rose by 4.6% in the June quarter to 34,116 – the first rise in five quarters – boosted by a 19% rise in apartment starts, which reached 13,011, according to new ABS figures.
However, in the more depressed detached new housing sector, starts fell 1.7% to 20,523 to be at their lowest level in more than a decade (June 2001 quarter).
New housing starts are down 10.7% year-on-year, while unit starts are down 4.9% year-on-year.
Over the year to June 139,349 dwellings were commenced down 2.7% on the prior year.
The 11-year low for new housing starts comes a day after the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/queensland/the-%2415000-queensland-first-home-owner-construction-grant-what-first-home-buyers-need-to-know/2012091156510" target="_blank">Queensland state government introduced a new $15,000 first home owner construction grant</a> taking effect today.
A similar scheme will take effect in NSW from October 1.
“The announcement of additional assistance to Queensland’s housing construction sector in the 2012?13 State Budget is likely to see a sustained increase in Queensland housing construction,” says Commonwealth Bank economist James McIntyre.
“Our broader housing construction outlook already incorporates a recovery in Queensland activity levels.”
Peter Jones, chief economist at Master Builders Australia (MBA), which successfully lobbied the Queensland government to introduce the new $15,000 construction grant, says the June figures are cold comfort for builders who continue to face very difficult operating conditions.
“Builders are struggling and with little joy in the forward indicators there is an urgent need for policy action at all levels of government.
“Further rate cuts from the Reserve Bank are needed to turn consumer pessimism around and ensure that demand recovers.
“Removing policies that work to restrict supply must be a focus for all governments. Policies that prevent the residential building industry meeting the serious undersupply of housing must be addressed. Poor land release strategies and inefficient developer charges should be the first place to start.
“The housing sector has been underbuilding for the past seven years and it is crucial that Australia’s residential building industry now embarks on a major growth phase to overcome the housing shortfall.
“Urgent reform is required to address supply bottlenecks otherwise a strong industry response to meet underlying demand cannot eventuate. This will exacerbate Australia’s housing affordability crisis, increasing rents and house prices as people chase less stock,” says Jones.
On a state-by-state basis, dwelling commencements increased by 25.9% in New South Wales, 2.8% in Victoria, 8.1% in Queensland and 68.8% in the Northern Territory.
HIA chief economist Dr Harley Dale pointed out that improvements in the June quarter were "narrowly based, primarily occurring in the non-detached dwelling segments of New South Wales and Victoria, which recorded impressive increases of 64.5% and 15.8%, respectively.
“This reflects the market’s response to policy changes in these two states," says Dale.
Seasonally adjusted dwelling commencements fell by 9.3% in South Australia, 6.1% in Western Australia, 5% in Tasmania, and 1% in the ACT.
The HIA says the June quarter figures confirm that Australia’s new home building sector fell back into recession in 2011-12
"To lift dwelling commencements off a GFC-equivalent low from 2012-13 requires policy reform and investment from federal and state governments, augmented by further interest rate deductions," says Dale.
"Too few governments in Australia are implementing the policies required to stem the negative consequences a persistently weak new housing sector is having on tens of thousands of Australian businesses and many more labour market participants.”
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Unit starts boost residential construction in June quarter but house starts fall to 11-year low: ABS

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 Greenfield suburbs – the fastest-growing parts of our cities – must be built to meet the needs of future generations, not just initial residents, according to  the Grattan Institute.
Launching the Grattan’s new report, Tomorrow’s suburbs: building flexible neighbourhoods,  Jane-Frances Kelly, the cities program director at the institute, suggested within a generation these new developments would have residents with very different profiles and needs.
"If these suburbs are to thrive in the long term we should make them flexible and able to change right from the start."
"Yet greenfield suburbs are overwhelmingly dominated by family-sized detached houses when they are first built.
"If, unlike older areas, these suburbs can't change over time, they will lack the flexibility to meet the changing life circumstances of their residents.
"If a suburb cannot change as households change, then residents' quality of life will be diminished," she says.
Kelly saus that flexible suburbs contain land that can be used for different purposes, shopping centres that suit a range of businesses and shops, and buildings and homes that can be adapted as people’s needs change over time.
"But the communities being established in greenfield areas lack these qualities – even when they work well for current residents," Kelly says.
Instead, land tends to be strictly separated into commercial and residential uses, shopping centres lack diversity and offer limited scope for setting up local businesses, and there is a predominance of similar lot sizes with detached houses built on them, often right to the edges of the lot.
"A uniformity of housing options can make it difficult for residents to move house – into a smaller home, for example – as their needs shift over time," Kelly.
"If housing cannot adapt, a suburb may struggle to attract new residents, and new businesses. It will miss out on the process of renewal that is essential to successful cities."
Grattan’s report recommends ways to make new suburbs, shopping centres, buildings and homes more adaptable. It shows how a capacity to change has proved enormously valuable in existing urban areas, especially the older core of our cities.
"By pure chance, certain characteristics of these older areas made inner urban renewal easier," Kelly says.
"We are not saying we can reproduce these qualities in greenfield areas, but we can plan for flexibility right from the start."
The five suggested measures for new suburb developments that will enhance adaptability are recommended as:
<ul>
<li> a joint sale option that lets owners sell their land together if at least 90 per cent of them agree, starting 25 years after the initial purchase</li>
<li>town centres that can grow and change, surrounded by a variety of buildings that face the street</li>
<li>a 15-year limit on restrictive covenants</li>
<li>broader, mixed-use zones, with regular reviews of zoning across the city</li>
<li> new standards for connectivity based on how long it takes residents to get to a mix of jobs, shops and services.</li>
</ul>
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Adapting to demographic change will be the key to greenfield suburb longevity: Grattan Instititute

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Sustainable House Day is celebrating its 11th anniversary on September 9 across Australia.
More than 200 sustainably built homes will be open to the public.
“It provides a unique opportunity for people to meet with home owners who have ‘been there, done that’ and are able to provide unbiased advice, ideas and inspiration via their own personal experience,” says event organiser Pia Vogrin.
One <a href="https://www.smarthomefamily.com.au/sustainable-house-day-at-the-smart-home">open house in Newington</a>, NSW (pictured below), will show a waterless Australian native garden, trial the next generation of Sydney’s Smart Meters and provide recycling ideas like a Coke bottle bench.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/smarthome.jpg">
Councils are also having sustainable events like the Green Family Life Festival in Richmond, in Melbourne, to inspire families towards sustainability as well as market stalls and games for kids.
Each year the average Australian household contributes 13 tonnes of greenhouse gas to the atmosphere and uses an average of 73,000 buckets of water a year, the equivalent of 12 baths a day.
<a href="https://auses.org.au/" target="_blank">Australian Solar Energy Society</a> started <a target="_blank" href="https://www.sustainablehouseday.com/">Sustainable House Day</a> in 2001 to show the public they can save on energy bills while helping to save the environment.
“With the ever-increasing cost of living, sustainable solutions such as solar power systems can not only help reduce your emissions, but also wipe out your electricity bills,” says Nick Brass, co-owner of Energy Matters.
One of Sydney's open houses uses LED lighting as the norm in the timber House of the Future (pictured below).
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/sustain.jpg">
The United Nations has established 2012 as the Year of Sustainable Energy.
The Subiaco Sustainable Demonstration House in western Perth (pictured below) was built to educate people and will be one of the leading open houses on Sustainability House Day. The house is designed for cost efficiency, passive solar principles, energy and water efficiency and adaptability for universal access. It is designed to suit diverse occupants and lifestyles.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/subisustain.jpg">
“Sustainable House day is all about action rather than words,” says Vogrin. “You can view an open house or search ideas online.”
Sustainable House Day has a <a href="https://www.sustainablehouseday.com/competitions.php" target="_blank">competition</a> to win one in three $1,000 Australian Ethical Managed Funds.
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Green homes to open to the public across Australia for Sustainable House Day's 11th anniversary

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A striking new glass rooftop with an outdoor terrace and an enlarged inner atrium to bring in more light are the main elements Macquarie Group will add to 48-50 Martin Place, in Sydney CBD.
Macquarie plans to turn the historic banking chamber into its state-of-the-art headquarters.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/macquarie3.jpg">
The diversified financial services giant has lodged an $82.8 million development application with the City of Sydney, with the rooftop plans part of a revised design of an already approved development proposal launched by previous owner the Commonwealth Bank.
The enlarged atrium would be topped by a “high-performance glazed elongated dome roof structure” to be used as a bespoke reception, meeting and event and function space with direct access to the terrace.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/macquarie1.jpg">
The rooftop has hosted a number of different structures over the 84 years it has stood in the Sydney CBD, with historical photos included in the application showing a range of large habitable structures dating back to when the original building was first opened in 1928. The photos include the current cream-coloured structure  (pictured above) added by the Commonwealth Bank in the 1980s.
The new headquarters will have about 26,000 square metres of space, with the ground floor banking chamber leased to the Commonwealth Bank and 10 office floors to house 2,000 Macquarie staff.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/macquarie2.jpg">
The proposal is seeking a six-star green star environmental rating for the building.
It will also seek to reduce its carbon footprint, with the number of car spaces halved to just 15 but the number of bike racks increased to 93.
JBA Urban Planning Consultants, which prepared the modified application on behalf of Macquarie Group, has likened the atrium to the glass dome atop the Reichstag in Berlin, designed by renowned UK architect Sir Norman Foster.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/macquarie4.jpg">
“This glazed structure will significantly increase the daylight (and in some instances sunlight) penetration into the enlarged atrium and the office floors below," says JBA.
“By curving and glazing the rooftop addition, dramatic light-filled meeting spaces and a modern and sustainable workplace are created."
Under the design proposal, the main atrium will be widened from 6 meters to 10.5 meters with the report noting “low daylight levels and the limited outlook” are major shortcomings of the office floors as it currently stands.
“The key to overcoming these difficulties is to increase daylight from above by opening up the ‘throat’ of the atrium at the rooftop levels and widening the main atrium.
“The enlargement of the void also dramatically exposes the original structural grid and atrium layout, which can be readily interpreted  notwithstanding the modifications made to widen the space,” says the JBA report.
The design by architects Johnson Pilton Walker and Clive Wilkinson Architects does not propose any changes to the exterior of the heritage-listed building - apart from the roof.
It was constructed between 1925 and 1928 for the Commonwealth Bank and is regarded as one of the finest 20th Century bank buildings in Australia and one of the most important examples of the inter-war Beaux-Arts architectural style.
Macquarie acquired the building from the Commonwealth Bank earlier this year for $130 million.
Between 1984 and 1990, the Commonwealth Bank undertook an extensive program of conservation works to the interior and exterior of the building. 
Macquarie currently has its much larger headquarters at 1 Martin Place.
The application is currently on exhibition until September 18.
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Macquarie Group to let the light shine into Martin Place headquarters with $83 million makeover

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There could be a severe shortage of housing stock in Perth over the next 20 years as the population grows faster than the city's supply of residential land, according to a report by Knight Frank.
A further 280,000 dwellings will be required over the next 20 years, but developers’ stock of lots with conditional approval is just 43,000, according to the Knight Frank englobo land report.
Australian Bureau of Statistics suggest an average annual population growth of 1.85% in the greater Perth region over the next 20 years, pushing the population up 727,000 to 2.49 million people by 2031.
<img src="/images/stories/2012/09/kfsept6.gif">
Source: Knight Frank
Knight Frank director John Corbett says there is an increasing gap between englobo land parcels (undeveloped land zoned for closer settlement growth with potential for subdivision) reaching the market and the demand for housing, with the median price for residential land up more than 10% over the last 12 months.
“The availability and development of englobo land has slowed in recent years and will lead to increased prices and significantly increased rents in established residential properties,” Corbett says.
“The many factors that have restricted residential land releases don’t appear to be abating. A tightening of credit and a softening in sentiment because of economic uncertainty in Europe are holding back the market, however, pressure is building for prices to increase”.
He says the current demand for housing lots is putting increasing pressure on government and developers with northern and southern suburbs such as Yanchep, Baldivis and Byford continually expanding to meet demand.
Baldivis, Yanchep and Byford are the top three suburbs for conditional approved lots, with 7,834 proposed lots between them.
The report says the supply of new land for residential development in WA is constrained by variations between councils on developer contributions; a constrained sand supply; environmental considerations and approvals; rising price and time costs associated with infrastructure; and access to reliable water supplies.
There is up to five years worth of potential future land supply with the current stock of lots, the report finds.
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Perth could face severe land shortage in next 20 years: Knight Frank

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Victorian construction company New Dimension Homes has entered administration, with Glenn Crisp of Jirsch Sutherland appointed as administrator.
New Dimension Homes had a turnover last year of around $7 million and previously traded as Icon Designer Homes.
Its website describes New Dimension Homes as "one of Victoria's top builders", offering single and double-storey homes and house and land packages.
Crisp told SmartCompany the business went into administration earlier this week, by which stage all of its 15 or so employees had left.
"It ceased trading about a month ago so we are dealing with a shell of a company," says Crisp.
"The company does not have any cash and does not hold a builder's licence to build any homes. "We had a meeting with the Housing Industry Association to work out how to get the homes finished for the home owners who are affected at the home owners' insurers would not deal with us."
Crisp says around 50 home owners have been impacted across Melbourne.
He believes the home owners have warranty insurance and the voluntary administration process triggers their right to claim under that insurance, but Crisp warns there will "certainly be delays" in finding new builders to complete the homes.
Creditors of New Dimension Homes are owed "quite a few million dollars" according to Crisp, with Westpac Bank as the major creditor and a number of suppliers such as Bunnings as large creditors.
The first creditors' meeting will be held on Friday, September 7, where creditors will have the opportunity to retain or replace the existing administrators.
The administration is the latest in a string of collapses in the Australian construction industry, with the <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/industry-news/unpaid-sub-contractors-trigger-nsw-government-reform-inquiry-into-construction-industry-collapses/2012080955934">NSW government announcing an enquiry</a> earlier this month to try to address the problems in the troubled sector.
This article originally appeared on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/index.php">SmartCompany</a>.
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Victorian builder New Dimension Homes in administration

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Property development can encompass many activities including renovating an existing dwelling or building, demolition of buildings and/or building new and subdividing or changing the use of land.
Developing property can be risky and not for everyone. There are many things that can go wrong, so it is important to really do your due diligence and understand the many facets involved.
I’ve compiled what I think are the top three things to do first when embarking on a property development. <a target="_blank" href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/land/the-first-step-when-getting-involved-in-property-development-choose-the-right-location-jo-chivers/2012081656083">Step one is finding the right location.</a> Step two is finding the right site. Step three is assembling your property development team.
Who will I need in my property development team? 
Your property team should consist of: 
<ul>
<li>
Property accountant – It’s very important to have the correct structures in place before you buy. My accountant is a key member of my team and well worth her weight in gold (that’s how much she charges me! Of course, accounting fees are tax deductible). </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Property lawyer – Every property transaction is different, and even the simplest contract should be looked over by someone with experience. My lawyer is like a father to me, and I thoroughly trust his judgment and advice. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Finance broker – It is vital to use a broker with a strong understanding of construction finance. Establish a close relationship with your broker so she understands your individual situation and be able to fast-track the sometimes tedious process of obtaining development finance. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Architect/draftsman – A local architect will have an understanding of the council requirements but always have your builder check over the plans before you lodge your DA to get a construction perspective. Some small changes by the builder can make a big difference in building costs. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Builder – A close working relationship with your builder is important. They need to be flexible and accuracy in their pricing with enough clout be offer economies of scale with their buying power of materials. Some builders may have existing designs for villas or duplexes that will save you money not having to engage an architect. You can usually make minor changes to these plans. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Surveyor – He or she will have a strong knowledge of the local area and has often conducted surveys or subdivisions on land in the area. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Quantity surveyor – important to maximise tax rebates on completion of your development. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
Project manager/development manager – If it’s your first development, an experienced project manager will hold your hand through the process and you’ll learn what’s involved so you can then manage your next development. A good project manager will also bring discounted rates and other advantages to the project. </li>
</ul>
This is a nutshell of information on what to consider as you get started. Sometime is will seem a lot easier just to buy existing property but if you really want fast-track your portfolio and create some equity along the way, then property development may be for you.
 Jo Chivers is director of <a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/">Property Bloom</a>, which manages property development.
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The third step when getting involved in property development: Assemble your property team

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Property developer and fund manager Peet has reported a 76% fall in net profits for the 2012 financial year in what it described as challenging market conditions, with Victoria the toughest market where it has projects under development.
Net profits for the year to June were $20.3 million, just ahead of earlier market guidance of $15 million to $20.2 million.
Earnings in Peet’s residential development operations declined 50% compared with the 2011 financial year to $20.2 million as lot settlements for the year declined to 395 from 598.
A further $40 million worth of contract are due to settle by December 2012.
Contracts on hand fell from 1,125 in 2011 to 788 in 2012 – worth $788 million – with Peet attributing this to “market weakness, substantially reduced capital investment in certain Victorian projects and difficulty of buyers obtaining finance”.
In particular it reported a slow-down in sales at its $293 million Aston residential development in Craigieburn, where more than 1,500 lots ares still available on Melbourne’s fringe. Its $131 million Ardan development in Greenvale featuring 558 lots has been deferred.
The developer expects market conditions to remain challenging in the 2013 financial year.
However, it says positive signs are emerging in WA and Queensland is also poised for recovery, with housing finance growth and building approvals improving.
Peet’s biggest residential project is Flagstone City, 45 minutes south-west of Brisbane in Jimboomba, which has a gross development value of $1.87 billion and is due to begin in 2013. It features 1,500 lots and is proceeding as scheduled.
In total Peet has a lot pipeline of 34,600 worth $6.2 billion.
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