Queensland builder-developer MAYD has revealed the first look at its major North Kirra beachfront development, lodging amended plans that reduce the number of apartments and increase the proportion of larger residences.

The project is planned across a substantial 4,742 sqm amalgamated site spanning seven lots at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/2-6-pacific-parade-bilinga-qld-4225">2-6 Pacific Parade</a> and 27-33 Golden Four Drive in Bilin​ga, directly opposite Nor​th Kirra Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD</a> secured the site for $32.5 million in 2025, in what was one of the Gold Coast's largest property transactions of the year.

The development will be delivered across two stages, with the first stage carrying an estimated gross realisation value of around $360 million.

The latest amendments seek to reduce the overall apartment count and shift the project further toward the owner-occupier market, with larger residences designed for buyers wanting considerably more space than traditionally offered in a beachfront apartment.

The residential mix will include townhomes, oversized two-bedroom apartments, substantial three-bedroom residences and four-bedroom homes.

MAYD has appointed Cera Stribley to lead the architecture and interiors, with the Melbourne-based design practice drawing on the beachfront setting through a series of ocean-facing terraces and heavily landscaped balconies.

Strong horizontal forms and curved balconies will define the exterior, with subtropical landscaping integrated throughout the building to soften the built form and increase the connection between the residences and the beachfront.

The project will also include an extensive collection of resident wellness and lifestyle facilities, continuing the broader shift across the Gold Coast's luxury apartment market toward larger homes supported by resort-style amenity.

<img alt="MAYD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d1bcbb05-e659-4b47-8bd4-1e595315e2ad" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%202.05.03%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=jj0XEud1X1DuLt7_KyElhjMdZGOXmLHP" />

MAYD Founder Todd Mould said North Kirra was increasingly appealing to buyers attracted to the more established, lower-density character of the southern Gold Coast.

"North Kirra presents one of the most compelling luxury residential opportunities currently emerging in Australia, combining absolute beachfront with the character and authenticity that buyers are increasingly seeking, and the same sense of tight-knit community that defined Burleigh and Currumbin perhaps 10 or 15 years ago," Mould said.

"With Gold Coast Airport on its doorstep, it also offers a level of accessibility that broadens its appeal across almost every market demographic."

The project comes as the southern Gold Coast continues to attract an increasing share of high-end apartment development and buyer activity.

Kirra in particular has emerged as one of the region's more tightly held beachfront markets, with its relatively low-density character, established surf and hospitality scene and proximity to Gold Coast Airport differentiating it from the higher-density markets further north.

Mould said those characteristics had informed the approach MAYD and Cera Stribley had taken to the project.

"We've worked closely with Cera Stribley to create a vision that is deeply connected to its surroundings," he said.

"Inspired by the coastline itself, the architecture has been shaped around space, privacy and resort-style living, creating a collection of homes that reflects the next generation of luxury on the southern Gold Coast."

MOTIV Managing Director Carly Cottam, who has been appointed to market the project, said buyer attention had continued to move south along the Gold Coast.

"Purchasers who may once have defaulted to Broadbeach, Main Beach or Surfers Paradise are increasingly recognising the value of a genuine beachfront location that offers lower density, strong amenity and a more established sense of community," Cottam said.

"Kirra has a powerful combination of growing demand and genuine scarcity. Beachfront supply is inherently constrained, the area remains relatively low density, and buyers are increasingly placing a premium on locations that feel established, uncrowded and authentic rather than heavily developed."

Cottam said the proximity to Gold Coast Airport was also proving increasingly important for interstate and second-home buyers.

"Being minutes from Gold Coast Airport makes it particularly compelling for interstate buyers, frequent travellers and second-home purchasers who can access an authentic coastal lifestyle almost immediately after stepping off a flight."

The acquisition takes MAYD's active development portfolio to more than $500 million, with the North Kirra project representing one of its largest undertakings to date.

MAYD is targeting an early 2027 launch.

Joel Robinson

First look at MAYD's North Kirra mixed-use precinct

<main data-perf-region="main">
Castle Hill, the longtime hub of the Hills District, has been one of the major beneficiaries of Sydney's Metro expansion, with improved connectivity helping drive continued population growth, development and buyer demand across the Hills District.

But despite that growth, the suburb has seen relatively few major new apartment projects brought to market over the past 18 months.

Hills District developer Reve Group is looking to fill that gap with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nova-r-ve-castle-hill-2-garthowen-crescent-castle-hill-nsw-2154">Nova Rêve</a>, a major new mixed-use precinct on the corner of Garthowen Crescent and Old Castle Hill Road, a short walk from Castle Hill Metro Station and Castle Towers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377679]

The project will comprise three residential towers alongside a hotel, restaurants, cafes and a skybar, more than 1,600 sqm of ground-floor retail and almost an acre of landscaped gardens.

It represents the largest project undertaken by Reve Group, the development arm of the Kassis family, which has been building across the Hills District for more than 30 years through Kassis Homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377675]

Nova Rêve also represents a significant step up from the family's first apartment development, Grand Rêve, which was delivered nearby on Garthowen Crescent.

Grand Rêve introduced larger, house-like apartment layouts and premium inclusions including Wolf and Sub-Zero appliances to the Castle Hill market.

Nova Rêve takes that approach to a precinct scale, combining the residential component with hospitality, retail and substantial public and resident landscaping.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377685]

Reve Group Managing Director Sam Kassis said the project reflected the family's three decades of building in the Hills, which has evolved from trophy homes on quarter-acre blocks to larger-scale apartment development.

"Grand Rêve was our first apartment project here and it showed us what this pocket of Castle Hill could be. Nova Rêve is the refinement of that idea: not just apartments, but a place the whole suburb can use," Kassis said.

A key part of that approach is the hotel, which has been designed to operate as an amenity for the wider Castle Hill community rather than solely hotel guests.

It will include restaurants, cafes, skybars and all-day dining, alongside conference and event facilities catering to business functions, community groups and private events.

At ground level, more than 1,600 sqm of shops and cafes will open onto the surrounding streets and landscaped areas.

Almost an acre of gardens designed by Land and Form Studios will run through the precinct, incorporating pathways, seating, barbecue areas and children's play spaces.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152737 project_image_fid=377680]

Reve Group's Romio Georges said creating an active ground plane had been central to the planning of Nova Rêve.

"There are gardens with pathways, barbecues, seating and play areas, shops and cafes opening onto the street, and a hotel with restaurants and a skybar that anyone in Castle Hill can walk into," Georges said.

The project's elevated position on one of Sydney's highest ridgelines will also provide apartments with outlooks toward the Sydney skyline, surrounding parkland and the Blue Mountains.

More than 80 per cent of the apartments will occupy corner positions, with Turner responsible for both the architecture and interiors.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152737]

<h3 data-end="3697" data-section-id="q3n5ak" data-start="3672">&nbsp;</h3>
</main>

Nova Rêve arrives as Reve Group bets on Castle Hill's next growth phase

A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

National Australia Bank (NAB) has brought forward the timing of the first RBA cash rate cut by three months.

NAB is now expecting a cut in February, in line with ANZ and Westpac, having initially thought a cut wouldn't come until May.

Commonwealth Bank, the nation's largest lender, still thinks the first cut will come in December.

NAB changed its call following the August monthly inflation figures that were released at the end of September, showing it had dropped to 2.7 per cent.

"The risk has been skewed to a first cut earlier in 2025, and today’s change acknowledges the balance of risks has likely shifted sufficiently for the RBA to feel comfortable cutting a little sooner than we earlier expected," NAB noted in its latest update.

They added that the cadence of the cuts may be faster than its central profile.

"Domestic inflation pressures are cooling, but only gradually, and we continue to expect the conditions for a cut will not be in place this year.

NAB believes the easing cycle will end at 3.1 per cent by early 2026, which is five cuts from the current 4.35 per cent cash rate.&nbsp;

CBA also thinks 3.1 per cent will mark the end of the cutting cycle, while Westpac is forecasting 3.35 per cent, and ANZ is the most pessimistic at 3.6 per cent, which would be just three interest rate cuts.

<h2>What would a rate cut in February look like for borrowers?</h2>

According to&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3Du001.IVvjJ-2BPT0A8C3VxtqKc6e3bj5hBuw27WFEYqovsYs7kPsgFulYrdOzeP8gI7CybJOya3_RgrM7qq-2BfK-2FtAHeRBLv5Qrb-2Bii5fzjLeKcP4w-2FkNgJPXygpiRhVUan3WV3QEggcf617UC8Z60RjQJZAqx7PiO7FtVJQSn0D46Zc3iTVP0kAhTTzG51cPpa5hrqz1OkSA-2BiXAxUajQ686MTtiseWBIdMdknd83aB7cOVgXlVTeHCGf3-2BcMHwfvI8TYlkUovqEhn4dj0KXf2eJGpb9-2BBv20hPXdLlPP9yD7DvFFDBM5yrTqxvcCiMfAsW1onD-2FcriL628eYdhNQE7bwzYrxcOYnmaYfRhGl-2FEHQ6eK2uQcLxs6Cbu6Dx0bYvpi5A6enmxMWU5TkcRYrP6Z8GbXZYtc5qSoKu6eWFBQR9K7fsjXwHMmby3D3X6Yx-2BxcDcdRruTG&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1727774368149000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2vK2ujS77CHs9VRvSSXzLC" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.IVvjJ-2BPT0A8C3VxtqKc6e3bj5hBuw27WFEYqovsYs7kPsgFulYrdOzeP8gI7CybJOya3_RgrM7qq-2BfK-2FtAHeRBLv5Qrb-2Bii5fzjLeKcP4w-2FkNgJPXygpiRhVUan3WV3QEggcf617UC8Z60RjQJZAqx7PiO7FtVJQSn0D46Zc3iTVP0kAhTTzG51cPpa5hrqz1OkSA-2BiXAxUajQ686MTtiseWBIdMdknd83aB7cOVgXlVTeHCGf3-2BcMHwfvI8TYlkUovqEhn4dj0KXf2eJGpb9-2BBv20hPXdLlPP9yD7DvFFDBM5yrTqxvcCiMfAsW1onD-2FcriL628eYdhNQE7bwzYrxcOYnmaYfRhGl-2FEHQ6eK2uQcLxs6Cbu6Dx0bYvpi5A6enmxMWU5TkcRYrP6Z8GbXZYtc5qSoKu6eWFBQR9K7fsjXwHMmby3D3X6Yx-2BxcDcdRruTG" target="_blank">Canstar</a>, if there is a cut in February, a borrower with a $600,000 loan today and 25 years remaining would see their monthly repayments drop by $92.&nbsp;

<table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
	<tbody>
		<tr>
			<td colspan="3">
			Impact of 0.25% pt cut in February 2025
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			Current loan size
			</td>
			<td>
			Drop in monthly repayment
			</td>
			<td>
			New monthly repayment
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			$600,000
			</td>
			<td>
			-$92
			</td>
			<td>
			$3,907
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			$750,000
			</td>
			<td>
			-$114
			</td>
			<td>
			$4,884
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td>
			$1M
			</td>
			<td>
			-$153
			</td>
			<td>
			$6,512
			</td>
		</tr>
		<tr>
			<td colspan="3">
			Source:&nbsp;<a data-saferedirecturl="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn%3Du001.xWMOP9hChsvn-2BC9O-2FebBihXIZ4cEzbiuENdxm-2Bx3-2FYEEgYMhZlKWNj5Zzy1YZ56RuASD_RgrM7qq-2BfK-2FtAHeRBLv5Qrb-2Bii5fzjLeKcP4w-2FkNgJPXygpiRhVUan3WV3QEggcf617UC8Z60RjQJZAqx7PiO7FtVJQSn0D46Zc3iTVP0kAhTTzG51cPpa5hrqz1OkSA-2BiXAxUajQ686MTtiseWBIdMdknd83aB7cOVgXlVTeHCGf3-2BcMHwfvI8TYlkUovqEhn4dj0KXf2eJGpb9-2BBv20v2akwr6-2BqLyRrlEgkJ4J-2BCCyY0x189xEHZA4Ylf8c7ChBqNIkhmftZzoFuZKFn43pw3oJVg2o1gumrpdA-2B7MB-2FBtmL2rFCI-2FXORATQHySCLVOMg7Vywv-2BqnnQUAtDz6XkvpwxdHFXh70VwKazzhJsICilEYOvP4ju0sIfi5g6TL&amp;source=gmail&amp;ust=1727774368149000&amp;usg=AOvVaw2qVnp6oqATgqDUi2Frm22q" href="https://link.mediaoutreach.meltwater.com/ls/click?upn=u001.xWMOP9hChsvn-2BC9O-2FebBihXIZ4cEzbiuENdxm-2Bx3-2FYEEgYMhZlKWNj5Zzy1YZ56RuASD_RgrM7qq-2BfK-2FtAHeRBLv5Qrb-2Bii5fzjLeKcP4w-2FkNgJPXygpiRhVUan3WV3QEggcf617UC8Z60RjQJZAqx7PiO7FtVJQSn0D46Zc3iTVP0kAhTTzG51cPpa5hrqz1OkSA-2BiXAxUajQ686MTtiseWBIdMdknd83aB7cOVgXlVTeHCGf3-2BcMHwfvI8TYlkUovqEhn4dj0KXf2eJGpb9-2BBv20v2akwr6-2BqLyRrlEgkJ4J-2BCCyY0x189xEHZA4Ylf8c7ChBqNIkhmftZzoFuZKFn43pw3oJVg2o1gumrpdA-2B7MB-2FBtmL2rFCI-2FXORATQHySCLVOMg7Vywv-2BqnnQUAtDz6XkvpwxdHFXh70VwKazzhJsICilEYOvP4ju0sIfi5g6TL" target="_blank">www.canstar.com.au</a>. Starting rate is the RBA existing average owner-occupier variable rate of 6.36%. Assumes banks pass the cash rate cut on in full the month after the meeting.
			</td>
		</tr>
	</tbody>
</table>

Canstar Data Insights Director, Sally Tindall, says if core inflation continues to track in the right direction, or unemployment starts to accelerate significantly, we could well see a cash rate cut as early as February of next year.

“All four big banks now believe the RBA will be ready to cut the cash rate in just over four months’ time, if not before, in the case of CBA.

“However, the outlook for both inflation and unemployment is still highly uncertain. A couple of wobbly sets of inflation data could see the RBA holding for longer, particularly if unemployment remains relatively steady."

&nbsp;

Commonwealth Bank, the nation's largest lender, still thinks the first cut will come in December.

NAB bring forward first RBA cut to February 2025

<html><body>
National Australia Bank has followed the Commonwealth Bank of Australia and Westpac in cutting the interest rate on its standard variable home loan rate by 25 basis points.
It is the full amount of the RBA's cut, taking its standard variable rate to 5.63%.
This equates to a $62.50 a month saving for the average loan customer, said Gavin Slater, NAB's head of personal banking. 
National Australia Bank also reported unaudited cash earnings of $1.65 billion for the quarter, up 6% on the prior period.
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

NAB cuts to 5.63% standard variable rate

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVATION
Though markets had somewhat priced in an Australian interest rate cut yesterday, many analysts and commentators were still left surprised.
The rate had not been cut for 18 months. Over that period commentary varied over the entire gamut of the need for both increased and decreased rates. But the markets have until this point been largely satisfied with the expectation of little change.
This time the markets were concerned. The falling value of the Australian dollar showed their uncertainty about the likelihood of a move (although the direction was fairly well expected).
What can we learn from the market reactions and the extent of the cut?
Norwegian economist Tore Ellingsen and Swedish central banker Ulf Söderström <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.jstor.org/discover/10.2307/2677943?sid=21105778703003&amp;uid=2&amp;uid=3737536&amp;uid=4">have argued</a> that the behaviour of the <a href="https://www.investopedia.com/terms/y/yieldcurve.asp">yield curve</a> following a rate cut clearly indicates the nature of the surprise experienced by the market. To sum up, if the yield curve simply shifts this represents the extent to which the change in the interest rate reflects changes in the economic environment as assessed by the central bank. On the other hand, if the yield curve rotates this represents communication of changing preferences over the economic aims of the central bank.
This simplification of their theoretical model is useful in the current context. First of all, it is very evident that the Australian yield curve did not rotate in reaction to the news yesterday. There is no evidence the central bank has changed its preferences in relation to its economic aims. The rhetoric in the bank’s statement and the market actions as a result do not show any inconsistency with the policy concerns that all players in the market are familiar with. This should be comforting.
The fact that the yield curve shifted means the markets were surprised by the action to some extent. One mechanism of surprise can be that the markets are waiting for validation of the expert view in the market from the central bank in the face of considerable uncertainty – and this may well be the most compelling argument for the current action.
Many academic economists (myself included) <a href="https://cama.crawford.anu.edu.au/rba-shadow-board/outcome/2015-02">supported</a> a continuation of the 2.50% rate as the most appropriate path last week. However markets were unsure; in this case the cut seems to have served to increase transparency about policy and the economic situation, helping to anchor expectations. Taken to its extreme the transparency argument suggests that a central bank with strong rhetoric will almost never surprise financial markets, as expectations will be managed via other communication means.
So how does the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) perform in communicating its policy intentions in general?
New research in collaboration with former Treasury economist Edda Claus (based on a <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1538-4616.2012.00539.x/abstract;jsessionid=5A56AE7055E885361CBBEAEDA6877597.f03t01?deniedAccessCustomisedMessage=&amp;userIsAuthenticated=false">methodology we developed</a>), compared the policy surprises generated at the RBA, Bank of Canada and the US Federal Reserve over the last two decades, and found the RBA is less likely to surprise.
The RBA appears to be particularly good by international standards in providing clear policy guidance to markets and sticking with a consistent policy agenda. Even during periods of significant market stress, the changes in policy preferences and direction do not surprise the market to the extent evident in Canada and the US.
The global leadership of the US markets may explain some of the greater evidence of surprise in Fed actions, but the comparison between Canada and Australia is of considerable interest. Studies that use institutional factors to measure transparency clearly favour the Bank of Canada as more transparent than the RBA. Yet, the market evidence, which directly addresses the question of “do the markets understand the actions?”, clearly favours the strategies of the RBA.
The actions of the RBA in reducing the cash rate, accompanied by the rhetoric in the press release, seem to be part of the RBA’s consistent moves to clarify its current assessment of the economic situation for the market. This has reassured the market that there is no departure from its policy aims and agenda.
The reassurance that monetary policy is well in hand is likely to be a calming influence in what are unsettled international conditions over which Australia has no control. This has to be a good thing.
Mardi Dungey is professor of Economics and Finance, Associate Dean of Research, Tasmanian School of Business and Economics at University of Tasmania
This article was originally published on <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>.
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Why it's good for markets to second-guess the RBA: Mardi Dungey

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Westpac has trumped the Commonwealth Bank (CBA), sort of.
It has cut by 0.28%, with its variable home loans now at 5.7% standard variable rate (SVR).
Despite its 0.28-percentage-point reduction to its standard variable rate, it remains higher than CBA's 5.65%.
Westpac has held the highest SVR of the big four for several years.
“Today’s rate reduction is good news for home owners and will improve the faith in Australia’s economic outlook and provide a necessary boost to consumer and business confidence,” said Jason Yetton, the bank’s group executive of retail and business banking.
The ANZ will make its decision by Friday as part of its monthly interest rate review.
Both CommBank and Westpac said their new rates will come into effect on February 20.
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Westpac cuts by 0.28%, but not the cheapest of the Big Four

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The Commonwealth Bank (CBA) today announced it will reduce interest rates on its standard variable rate (SVR) by 0.25% per annum.
Its three year and five year fixed rate products will also be reduced by 0.25% and 0.30% respectively.
The new SVR will take effect from 20 February 2015.
Standard variable rate (SVR) mortgage cut by 0.25% to 5.65%
<ul>
<li>Five year fixed rate mortgage reduced by 0.30% to 4.69%</li>
<li>Three year fixed rate mortgage reduced by 0.25% to 4.69%</li>
</ul>
The new SVR rate of 5.65% is the lowest since April 2009.
"Our fixed rates are now the lowest we have ever offered," said CBA's group executive retail banking services, Matt Comyn.
“As the nation’s largest lender, we are always seeking to deliver value to our 1.6 million home loan customers and today we are pleased to pass on the full benefit of the RBA’s recent interest rate reduction,” said Matt Comyn.
“Our new reduced standard variable rate of 5.65% is the lowest we have offered in five years, but beyond price, we are committed to ensuring our customers have the right tools, support and advice that will give them the best home buying experience.”
By reducing the standard variable home loan rate by 0.25%, home owners will save $48 a month, based on the average mortgage of $300,000.
CommBank has reduced its variable rate on home loans by 2.16 percentage points since 1 November 2011, equating to a saving of $430 in monthly repayments and an annual saving of $5,160 on a home loan of $300,000.
The Bank of Queensland has also announced it will pass onto its customers the full Reserve Bank cut, as hot competition to win borrowers is anticipated.
But it's decision has yet to be widely matched, other then ME Bank's quick announcement and ING.
The BoQ will lower its variable home loan and business term-loan rates from 24 February.
ING DIRECT will lower the interest rate on its variable mortgages by 0.25%, effective 20 February. 
Following this reduction, the rate on ING DIRECT's Mortgage Simplifier product will be 4.97% per annum.
ING DIRECT has a mortgage book of $38 billion.
BoQ’s Clear Path mortgage product’s variable home loan rate will be 4.62%, its standard variable-rate home loan at 5.76% and its variable rate on business term loans with residential security down to 7.25%.
Newcastle Permanent advised the 25 basis points represented a ­saving of $43 a month for $300,000 home loan holders with 25 year loans.
The non-bank lender Australian First Mortgage announced fixed rate cuts on two of its full-doc Flexible range products, just prior to the official RBA cash rate call yesterday. Its four year fixed rate is down by 0.41% to 5.12%, and the five year fixed rate it is down by 0.26% to 5.22%. <a href="https://www.brokernews.com.au/tools/company/afm/121294/"> </a>
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Rate war looms: CBA, BoQ, Newcastle and ING cut rates after RBA decision

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Today's rate cut won't be the only one for 2015, according to AMP Capital head of investment strategy and chief economist Shane Oliver.
<img src="/images/2015/02/03/Picture%2022.png" alt="">
The Reserve Bank today cut the official cash rate by 25 basis points, from <a href="/expert-insights/finance/rba-cuts-rates-to-record-2-25-low-at-february-2015-meeting">2.5% to 2.25%</a>.
Shane Oliver, predicting another rate cut to <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://twitter.com/ShaneOliverAMP/status/562475605979979777" target="_blank">2% around April</a>, says he believes the Australian dollar should sit at around US$0.75.
Shortly after the Reserve Bank's announcement, it was at US$0.77.
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Tweet of the day: More rate cuts to come, predicts Shane Oliver

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Today, the Reserve Bank Board decided to lower the cash rate by 25bps to 2.25%.
This has been Westpac’s forecast since 4 December when it became clear that demand conditions in the Australian economy had deteriorated more sharply than we expect the Bank had anticipated.
The Governor’s statement confirms this assessment when he refers to growth as being below trend but more importantly “domestic demand growth overall quite weak”.
The Bank has also clearly revised down its growth forecasts and the exact extent of these revisions will be known in the Statement on Monetary Policy to be released on 6 February (we expect that forecast growth in 2015 will be reduced from 3% to 2.5%). It refers to “output growth will probably remain a little below trend for somewhat longer and the rate of unemployment peak a little higher than earlier expected” (the Bank does not provide specific unemployment forecasts).
It is also likely that the Bank will lower its inflation forecast. Recall that in November when the oil price was US$86/bbl, underlying inflation for 2015 was forecast at 2.75% (midpoint of the range). The Governor now refers to underlying inflation currently running at 2.25% and it is reasonable to conclude that he is implying that that low read will continue for some time.
The most popular argument against cutting rates continues to be around overstimulating housing. In that regard, the Governor points out that dwelling prices continue to rise strongly in Sydney whilst recognising that other cities have had more variable performance. As we anticipated the new macroprudential policy around containing growth in loans to investors to 10%pa is deemed by the Bank as an effective insurance policy to contain any housing bubbles. In that regard the statement specifically refers to the Bank’s work with regulators.
Another argument against the rate cut was that the Australian dollar had fallen sufficiently. However the Bank points out that even though the Australian dollar has declined noticeably against the US dollar its performance against other currencies has been more robust. Once again it is stated that the Australian dollar “remains above most estimates of its fundamental value” and the statement calls out for a lower currency.
In the all-important final paragraph it is concluded that based upon assessments of the economy and in particular the updated forecasts, which will be released in the Statement on Monetary Policy, a cut in the cash rate was appropriate. The language in the final sentence which might have referred to “a period of stability” or “scope to cut further” takes a more neutral stance making the obvious point that “this action adds some further support to demand”. This gives the Bank full flexibility to determine its next policy move without making any commitment to the market.
Westpac’s forecast which was released on 4 December, 2014 included not only a 25bp cut in February 2015 but a follow up move of 25bps in March. Our reasoning is that the Bank would not have disturbed such a long period of interest rate stability for just one move. The case to move rates after such a long period would need to be convincing.
We believe that the forecasts that will be released in the Statement on Monetary Policy will depict an economy expected to grow markedly below trend in 2015, barely back at trend by 2016 and with core inflation holding near the bottom of the 2-3% band in 2015. Under those circumstances we think it is justifiable to expect another move with March being the best timing.
Our forecast last December was for rates to then remain on hold for the rest of the year and we are comfortable with that view.
Bill Evans is chief economist of <a href="https://www.westpac.com.au/" target="_blank">Westpac</a>.
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One more, then rates on hold: Westpac's Bill Evans

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In what was the first of the expected lender announcements, ME Bank will pass on today’s full 0.25% RBA rate cut to customers.
ME Bank’s Standard Home Loan variable interest rate will drop to 5.13% per annum and its member package rate will fall to 4.93% per annum.
The new home loan rates are effective 20 February 2015.
Last month ME Bank cut its five-year fixed rate home loan by 25 basis points to 4.69% per annum.
Their three year fixed rate loan is at a record low of 4.59%, which brings both their three year and five year offerings to the cheapest on the market, according to ME Bank CEO Jamie McPhee.
“The cost at which ME Bank borrows in the fixed rate market has been falling. In turn, we can pass on these savings to customers,” he said.
“Unlike the majors, we’re keen to pass these opportunities on to customers and continue our aggressive position in the home loan market.”
McPhee said that, as well as their competitive rates, they recently made the decision to extend home loan offers to all borrowers, both members and non-members of Industry Super Funds and unions.
APRA statistics saw ME Bank boosting investor lending by 39.1% and owner occupied lending by 11.5% during the 12 months to 30 November 2014.
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ME Bank cuts first after February RBA announcement

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The Reserve Bank of Australia has cut rates to a new record low of 2.25%.
It was the most eagerly debated decision among economists for some time.
The RBA noted credit growth picked up to moderate rates in 2014, with stronger growth in lending to investors in housing assets. 
"Dwelling prices have continued to rise strongly in Sydney, though trends have been more varied in a number of other cities over recent months."
"The Bank is working with other regulators to assess and contain economic risks that may arise from the housing market.
It was only a few months ago the majority of experts expected a rate increase. 
Australian Property Monitors’ <a href="/expert-insights/finance/domain-groups-andrew-wilson-predicts-rba-will-cut-rates-further">Andrew Wilson was among the first to lean towards a cut</a> coming, though he didn't tip it in the <a href="https://ht.ly/Io0xt" target="_blank">finder.com.au survey</a>.
The rate of 2.5% had been stable throughout 2014.
The cut suggests the bank does not have an obsession with Sydney house price directions.
"The decision by the Reserve Bank to cut the cash rate by 25 basis points is likely to take the typical standard variable mortgage rate down to 5.7% and discounted variable rates to 4.85%; the lowest cost of mortgage debt since July 1968," Tim Lawless, the head of research at CoreLogic RP Data said.
"Lower mortgage rates have the potential to add some fuel to what are already strong housing market conditions (dwelling values Australia’s capital cities have already increased by 19.6% since interest rates started falling back in November 2011), however the stimulus from lower rates may not be as influential on housing market conditions as what we have seen in the past.
"Lower consumer confidence, stricter serviceability requirements for borrowers, tighter lending conditions for investors, affordability challenges and low rental yields are all factors that may contribute to the moderation in housing market conditions over 2015.
"The ideal outcome for the Reserve Bank under the new interest rate setting would be that housing market conditions continue to moderate back to more sustainable levels, but housing demand remains strong enough to keep dwelling construction at the current high levels and new home sales relatively high.
"The challenge for the Reserve Bank is to stimulate stronger economic growth without over stimulating the housing market," Lawless suggested.
Photo courtesy of Newtown grafitti/<a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/" target="_blank">Creative Commons</a>.
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RBA cuts rates to record 2.25% low at February 2015 meeting

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At its meeting today, the Board decided to lower the cash rate by 25 basis points to 2.25 per cent, effective4 February 2015.
Growth in the global economy continued at a moderate pace in 2014. China's growth was in line with policymakers' objectives. The US economy continued to strengthen, but the euro area and Japanese economies were both weaker than expected. Forecasts for global growth in 2015 envisage continued moderate growth.
Commodity prices have continued to decline, in some cases sharply. The price of oil in particular has fallen significantly over the past few months. These trends appear to reflect a combination of lower growth in demand and, more importantly, significant increases in supply. The much lower levels of energy prices will act to strengthen global output and temporarily to lower CPI inflation rates.
Financial conditions are very accommodative globally, with long-term borrowing rates for several major sovereigns reaching new all-time lows over recent months. Some risk spreads have widened a little but overall financing costs for creditworthy borrowers remain remarkably low.
In Australia the available information suggests that growth is continuing at a below-trend pace, with domestic demand growth overall quite weak. As a result, the unemployment rate has gradually moved higher over the past year. The fall in energy prices can be expected to offer significant support to consumer spending, but at the same time the decline in the terms of trade is reducing income growth. Overall, the Bank's assessment is that output growth will probably remain a little below trend for somewhat longer, and the rate of unemployment peak a little higher, than earlier expected. The economy is likely to be operating with a degree of spare capacity for some time yet.
The CPI recorded the lowest increase for several years in 2014. This was affected by the sharp decline in oil prices at the end of the year and the removal of the price on carbon. Measures of underlying inflation also declined a little, to around 2¼ per cent over the year. With growth in labour costs subdued, it appears likely that inflation will remain consistent with the target over the next one to two years, even with a lower exchange rate.
Credit growth picked up to moderate rates in 2014, with stronger growth in lending to investors in housing assets. Dwelling prices have continued to rise strongly in Sydney, though trends have been more varied in a number of other cities over recent months. The Bank is working with other regulators to assess and contain economic risks that may arise from the housing market.
The Australian dollar has declined noticeably against a rising US dollar over recent months, though less so against a basket of currencies. It remains above most estimates of its fundamental value, particularly given the significant declines in key commodity prices. A lower exchange rate is likely to be needed to achieve balanced growth in the economy.
For the past year and a half, the cash rate has been stable, as the Board has taken time to assess the effects of the substantial easing in policy that had already been put in place and monitored developments in Australia and abroad. At today's meeting, taking into account the flow of recent information and updated forecasts, the Board judged that, on balance, a further reduction in the cash rate was appropriate. This action is expected to add some further support to demand, so as to foster sustainable growth and inflation outcomes consistent with the target.
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Varying house price trends across cities: RBA Governor Glenn Stevens' rate cut statement

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Low inflation and a still-subdued growth outlook give scope to ease policy, the ANZ Research department thinks.
They now publish The ANZ Heatmap (click to open in new window):
<a href="/images/2015/02/02/anz-feb-2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/02/02/anz-feb-2.jpg" alt=""></a>
Source: ANZ Research
After the decision the ANZ suggested the forward guidance is not strong but with the period of stability reference now gone, we would expect further cuts in the months ahead.
The tone of the Statement is quite dovish with obvious concern for underlying growth in domestic demand. Our initial reading is the RBA could well follow up today’s move in March and it therefore does raise the possibility, at least for market expectations, of a cash rate below 2% this year.
After almost 18 months on the sidelines the shift back to easing is likely to generate more than just one 25bp cut. So March is certainly live.
We will wait for Friday’s Statement to review the RBA’s new forecasts for inflation and growth. This will be the key to gauging the extent of further monetary stimulus the RBA is currently contemplating.
In the Statement there is more emphasis on growth being weak than inflation providing the scope to ease.
The RBA notes that housing remains strong in Sydney and comment: “The Bank is working with other regulators to assess and contain economic risks that may arise from the housing market.”
The final paragraph from the Statement provides no formal guidance.
“For the past year and a half, the cash rate has been stable, as the Board has taken time to assess the effects of the substantial easing in policy that had already been put in place and monitored developments in Australia and abroad. At today's meeting, taking into account the flow of recent information and updated forecasts, the Board judged that, on balance, a further reduction in the cash rate was appropriate. This action is expected to add some further support to demand, so as to foster sustainable growth and inflation outcomes consistent with the target.“
The above is an immediate post number reaction. An economic update will be forthcoming with more detailed analysis, views, charts and tables.
 
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