<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/smith-by-valli-collingwood-224-228-smith-street-collingwood-vic-3066">Smith Collingwood</a> is a new boutique apartment development bringing a refined, design-led approach to one of Melbourne’s most established inner-city neighbourhoods.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pandolfini-architects">Pandolfini Architects</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/lisa-buxton-interiors">Lisa Buxton</a>, Smith by Valli sits on iconic Smith Street and comprises just 22 residences tailored toward owner-occupiers seeking a more considered style of apartment living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140747 project_image_fid=367540]

The design of Smith focuses on a north-facing orientation across all residences, a relatively uncommon feature in dense inner-Melbourne settings. Each apartment has been planned to maximise natural light and outlook, alongside a material palette defined by warm tones, custom joinery, and a full suite of Gaggenau appliances.

The development comprises a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom apartments, with pricing currently ranging from just under $1 million to around $4.85 million for the premium penthouse-level residences, reflecting growing demand for luxury owner-occupier product in Melbourne’s inner urban market.

Residents will also have access to a private rooftop garden designed as an elevated retreat above the city, &nbsp;featuring curated landscaping, veggie boxes, intimate seating areas and spaces for relaxed gatherings. Sustainability has also been integrated into the project through a 7-star energy rating and two secure bicycle facilities for every residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=140747 project_image_fid=367529]

Smith by Valli sits in the heart of one of Melbourne’s most established retail and hospitality strips, within walking distance of venues such as Falco Bakery, Carnation Canteen and Alimentari, alongside parks and everyday services. With a Walk Score of 99, the location reinforces the project’s positioning toward buyers prioritising walkability and access over car dependency.

With only a limited number of residences, Smith reflects growing demand for smaller, highly curated apartment developments that prioritise design quality, liveability, and connection to neighbourhood character.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=140747]

Joel Robinson

Smith by Valli delivers a refined collection of luxury residences to Melbourne’s inner north

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developers/far-east-consortium">Far East Consortium</a>’s 640 Bourke Street stands as a testament to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a>’s ability to bridge its storied past with a bold vision for the future.&nbsp;

Rising above the heritage-listed Eliza Tinsley building, the development reflects a broader shift toward adaptive reuse in the city, where historical assets are retained and reinterpreted as part of new residential development.

Designed by <a href="https://www.urban.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/640-bourke-street-melbourne-640-bourke-street-melbourne-vic-3000">640 Bourke Street</a> incorporates the Eliza Tinsley building as its foundation, housing a grand gallery and lobby space that serve as both a functional and symbolic centrepiece. The heritage façade informs the tower’s design, creating a connection between Melbourne’s past and its contemporary skyline.

"It's a significant asset and wants to be celebrated and experienced by all residents every single time they go in and out of the building," Rothelowman Principal Stuart Marsland said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365684]

Above this historic base, the 68-storey tower will deliver just over 600 residences, a notable reduction from earlier schemes, reflecting a deliberate move toward larger-format apartments and a stronger owner-occupier focus.

Unlike traditional CBD developments that prioritised investor stock, 640 Bourke Street has been repositioned to respond to changing buyer expectations.

"The discussion was all around making 640 Bourke Street the best residence to live in, to be much more focused on the people in the building rather than people looking at the building," Marsland explained.&nbsp;

This shift is evident in the development’s interiors, which emphasise practical luxury with spacious layouts, high ceilings, and floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views of Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay.&nbsp;

“What it's meant for 640 Bourke is we've actually reduced the number of apartments. We've increased the overall size of the apartments. We don't have any studios in here, and what that does for a project is it elevates it," Lauren Sheldon, Far East Consortium’s Director of Sales and Marketing, said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365687]

Rothelowman Associate Jun Chang added, "We were given the opportunity to be more generous. The apartments became bigger and squarer than any other apartments which had been designed in the CBD before that."&nbsp;

Amenities spanning more than 3,000 sqm across multiple levels further reinforce this focus on resident experience. These include a pool, gym, co-working areas, and a range of hospitality-inspired spaces such as a whisky lounge, library, and private dining rooms, many drawing reference from traditional bathhouses and Melbourne’s laneway culture.

"We wanted to make both the pool and the gym area to be absolutely destinational, and when you traverse across to these spaces, there is a gentle familiarity to the beautiful notions of the hammams and the Roman baths, a gentle nod to history," Chang noted.

At street level, the project contributes to the ongoing transformation of the western CBD, with upgrades to Langs Lane and the introduction of retail, hospitality, and gallery spaces designed to activate the precinct and strengthen its connection to the surrounding city fabric.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=509 project_image_fid=365689]

The location places residents within walking distance of Southern Cross Station, Flagstaff Gardens, Queen Victoria Market, and the Docklands waterfront, positioning the development within a rapidly evolving inner-city neighbourhood.

"We believe it's the best site left in the city of Melbourne," Craig Williams, Executive Director at Far East Consortium, said.&nbsp;

640 Bourke Street is Far East Consortium’s 14th building in Melbourne’s western CBD.

"A very elegant designed building. It's going to be a Melbourne statement for many, many years to come."

One-bedroom apartments are priced from around $640,000, with 640 Bourke Street targeting completion in 2029.

Renders shown are Artist's Impressions correct as of May 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=509]

Heritage-led design anchors Far East Consortium’s 640 Bourke St, Melbourne

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mayd-group">MAYD Group</a> has set a new residential price record in Queensland with the $30 million sale of the penthouse at its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/one-burleigh-88-the-esplanade-burleigh-heads-qld-4220">ONE Burleigh</a> development in Burleigh Heads.

The sale equates to around $37,500 per sqm.

The two-level, 800 sqm penthouse, featuring five bedrooms, five bathrooms, five car spaces, and a private infinity pool overlooking the Pacific Ocean, was acquired by a Gold Coast-based entrepreneur, highlighting continued demand for ultra-premium beachfront product.

Selling agent Freddie Tehle of PRD Burleigh Heads said the result reflects tightening supply of high-quality, large-format apartments in Burleigh.

“There’s very limited opportunity to secure this level of scale and absolute beachfront position in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/burleigh-heads-qld-4220">Burleigh Heads</a>,” Tehle said.

“Buyers are increasingly seeking apartments that genuinely replace a standalone home, and this penthouse delivers that with its size, privacy, and direct ocean frontage.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323057]

The sale comes as construction progresses on ONE Burleigh, a boutique development of 17 full-floor residences at 88 The Esplanade, scheduled for completion in early 2027.

Developed by MAYD Group and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/mas-architecture-studio">MAS Architecture</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/sici-design">Sici Design</a>, the project has been positioned as a collection of house-sized beachfront apartments, each occupying an entire floor with around 381 sqm of internal and external living space.

When construction commenced, MAYD director Todd Mould pointed to the long-term resilience of premium coastal real estate as a key driver behind the project.

“Real estate, particularly at the premium end, remains one of the most resilient and proven long-term investment avenues,” Mould said.

“Our ambition is that anyone who buys a MAYD-built product can genuinely feel the care, craftsmanship and commitment we bring to every detail.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323055]

Each residence has been configured with four bedrooms, multiple living zones, a private office, and expansive ocean-facing terraces. Interiors draw on a restrained material palette, including travertine stone, timber joinery, and integrated premium appliances.

Interior designer Sici Design said the approach was to reflect the project’s coastal setting through both materiality and spatial planning.

“ONE Burleigh is our vision of luxury living, designed to bring the essence of Burleigh Heads' vibrant coastal beauty into an unparalleled residential experience.”

Residents will have access to a suite of wellness-focused amenities, including pools, sauna facilities, and dedicated relaxation spaces, reflecting a broader shift toward lifestyle-driven apartment design on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146358 project_image_fid=323052]

The project occupies a southern Esplanade site with uninterrupted beachfront frontage, an increasingly rare offering in Burleigh Heads, free from the Norfolk Pines that line much of the coastline and often limit direct ocean outlook.

Mould said the design intent was to balance that outlook with a sense of retreat.

“Living at ONE Burleigh is about how your day naturally unfolds, morning light across the ocean, coffee on the balcony, and being in Burleigh but elevated above the noise.”

The result further reinforces Burleigh Heads’ emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most tightly held and supply-constrained beachfront markets, where boutique, owner-occupier-focused developments are increasingly setting new price benchmarks.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=146358]

MAYD Group sets Queensland record with $30 million penthouse sale at ONE Burleigh in Burleigh Heads

Apartment developers in the Gold Coast are finding new, creative ways to differentiate themselves from competing projects, as new supply starts to flow through up and down the Coast.

Developer BIG Projects brought in the renowned Sydney-based design studio YSG Studio to craft the interiors for The Frederick, BIG Projects' new Mermaid Beach project and YSG Studio's first move into the multi-residential development space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5346]

It was a strategic move for BIG Projects to bring in a Sydney eye to the development.

“Our role is to give our design partners the space and freedom to explore,” says Matt Barrett, Director of BIG Projects.

“We wanted YSG Studio to capture the essence of Nobby’s, to design a building that embraces life, light and connection, while creating a genuine sense of place.”

There are only 39 apartments in The Frederick, including a striking beach house, just 100 metres from the booming Nobby Beach precinct.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5347]

Yasmine Ghoniem, Director of YSG Studio, says their vision&nbsp;for The Frederick "reinvents coastal living."

“Nobby’s has such an iconic energy, it’s one of those rare pockets of the Gold Coast where the community, the beach, and the streets all feel connected,” Ghoniem says.

"Responding to the neighbouring coastline, soothing curves add a relaxing regional overlay, while unique detailing really sets it apart. It’s a place that feels lived in from the moment you step inside.”

A standout feature of The Frederick is its rooftop terrace, an uncommon inclusion for a boutique, low-rise building, where amenity is typically concentrated at ground level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110588 project_image_fid=5360]

Positioned to capture panoramic views from the hinterland to the ocean, the rooftop has been designed as a series of intimate zones. It includes a pool, sauna, sun decks, workspaces and dedicated entertaining areas.

“The rooftop was conceived as a collection of spaces where residents can unwind and connect, an extension of the Nobby’s lifestyle,” Barrett says.

Architecture for the project was led by Plus Studio, with landscape design by LDG Landscape Architecture.

SRQ Projects Director Nick Clydsdale, who is handling sales at The Frederick, says the majority of enquiry is coming from South East QLD and Victorian buyers who have been actively searching between Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach for some time.

"They’ve reviewed a number of projects, however this one has stood out for its unique detailing and compelling design,"&nbsp;Clydsdale says.

Site demolition is slated for this month, with construction commencing soon after. BIG Projects is targeting a late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=110588]

Sydney’s YSG Studio makes Gold Coast multi-residential debut with BIG Projects at The Frederick

Melbourne-based property developer ALTA Property has this week achieved planning approval for the adaptive re-use of a former commercial tower into a $200 million, 169-apartment project at 10 Queens Road, one of the last developable sites along the Albert Park Lake-fronting boulevard.&nbsp;

Set within one of Melbourne’s most sought-after precincts and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fraser-partners-0">Fraser and Partners</a>, the illustrious building will offer unparalleled views across Albert Park Lake, Port Phillip Bay and Melbourne CBD.&nbsp;

The mix of 1, 2 and 3-bedroom residences will be complemented by a ground-floor amenity featuring private dining, a lounge bar, gym and wellness spaces, co-working, outdoor communal gardens, and retail.&nbsp;

The 17-storey building is a masterclass in adaptive re-use, with the existing commercial building’s façade, shell and internal structure to be retained, before high-end residences are built from the ground up in a newly built Albert Park facing addition to the building.&nbsp;

Sitting atop the building will be two 320+sqm penthouses with private rooftop terraces, which are expected to be priced between $9 - $11 million.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="aa11211b-5581-43f9-940c-fc84d30a0e61" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/C_04.png?VersionId=Yhf5p_1EgGDu_zOIMFgvA8Ug8j3sTFQs" />

Architecturally, the building will feature a curved, geometric façade that celebrates and elevates the existing structure, with warm, muted tones which were selected to extend the materiality of the existing building rather than contrast it.&nbsp;

Interiors will bring together three metre high ceilings with waffle concrete in some spaces, natural timber, granite and Australian materials, culminating in crafted, generous and considered spaces that are defined by authenticity.&nbsp;

The adaptive re-use means that the Queens Road project will be a sustainability led, high-quality finished product, with a 62% saving in carbon emissions by re-using the existing structure rather than knocking it down and rebuilding.&nbsp;

ALTA Property was launched by Nigel Givoni in 2023, bringing over 25 years of experience in multi level residential delivery.&nbsp;

Melbourne’s property market growth is currently led by apartments. According to RPM VIC Apartments &amp; Townhomes Market Report (April 2026), units are outpacing houses, especially in the middle ring suburbs where median prices hit $757,500 – a four-year high that represents 2.9 percent growth quarter-on-quarter.&nbsp;

<img alt="ALTA Property achieves permit approval for $200 million Queens Road tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="647e13d7-b4bc-433a-9bc9-fe3c3dd4f2ec" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/V_06.png?VersionId=ou4NUCWUgA3NAy.6CQJlEdKX50j3dOk6" />

For ALTA Property Founder Nigel Givoni, this performance speaks to the confidence he has in the Melbourne market.&nbsp;

“Queens Road represents a rare opportunity to continue to shape our presence in the Melbourne market.,"&nbsp;Givoni says.

"With a considered project team and a premier site along one of the city’s most sought-after boulevards, we look forward to contributing to the fabric of this established address.

“Other Australian markets are getting a lot of attention, but I believe the depth of value in Melbourne is being overlooked. The fundamentals are strong, population growth is steady and, based on our preliminary conversations with a leading builder, construction costs are beginning to normalise, creating further opportunity."

Givoni says the project is a&nbsp;highly considered example of adaptive re-use, delivering quality, high-end residences, premium hotel-inspired amenities and an architecturally striking façade, all achieved without the need to remove the existing structure.

"We are really looking forward to the market’s response,” he said.&nbsp;

ALTA Property to deliver $200 million Queens Road apartment tower

Prominent New Zealand apartment and hotel operator, <a href="/developers/safari-group">Safari Group</a>, is offering up a prime investment opportunity for Australians to purchase off the plan in one of the world’s most popular ski destinations.

They recently took to market Mountain Oak Queenstown Apartments, in the growing precinct of Remarkables Park in Frankton, near the airport and at the foot of The Remarkables - the mountain range the locals like to call “The Remarks”.&nbsp;

Sydney investors have shown interest in the one, two and three-bedroom apartments that secure high-season occupancy six months over the year, primarily over summer and winter months.

They average 90 per cent occupancy across their portfolio over January, February, March, August, November and December, while shoulder season months of April, July, September and October are still occupied 70 per cent of the time, with the growing appeal of Queenstown becoming not just a hotspot for the snow, but a lifestyle destination.

Even in the low seasons of May and June, occupancy levels reach around 40 per cent.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_auto/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Ext_Cam15_Sunny.jpg?VersionId=SJAROUM_1s.Tr5ciMk4EEj5oAt_Vewmv" />

Safari’s Safari Hotels arm can also manage the holiday letting for an investor, from the listing on holiday accommodation websites such as Airbnb and Booking.com to the cleaning and maintenance of the investment. They’ve been in the short stay management business for 15 years and offer 24/7 support for investors, an important convenience benefit for any overseas investor

Another major drawcard for Australians is that New Zealand doesn’t have a stamp duty policy - so the entry price of NZ$639,000 (AU$586,000), is all that is payable on completion.

<img alt="Safari Group’s Mountain Oak Apartments brings new investment potential to Queenstown" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/313_Livingv2_WEB.jpg?VersionId=nV229fM0ZeYpoxOrX372HyGjfwY_LR8c" />

Safari is starting construction of the 141 apartments in Q2 this year, with a two-year build estimated to complete in mid-to-late 2027.<img alt="" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="15" src="https://lh7-rt.googleusercontent.com/docsz/AD_4nXczFpFAb7WuA6f4f9TtKWcqXyNwR8qqtakWv352ERkpqNlP3KwIo8YKxw67jZNHfpjEGIZGv5MQTbnvLZwNt8iu9IVdOrswOjCvBZ4zhSoOOLrpt6etVEZTN1gkBho0r_R72zdHNA?key=yq3daOanqHSb88QFd8jGYKdb" title="Click and drag to move" width="15" />​

The apartments will feature modern amenities and contemporary designs with expansive windows capturing sweeping views of The Remarkables mountain range.&nbsp;

Interiors are equipped with modern finishes, premium appliances, and secure electronic key-locked doors, ensuring a comfortable living experience for residents and guests alike.

With its strategic location near Coronet Peak and Cardrona Alpine Resort, as well as key retail and dining precincts such as Market Street, Five Mile Shopping Centre, and Remarkables Market, Mountain Oak offers a strong proposition for investors seeking high rental yields and capital appreciation in one of New Zealand’s most sought-after locations.&nbsp;

Queenstown’s sustained demand for visitor accommodation and rental properties is underpinned by a shortage of housing options, attracting both local and international buyers.

Safari Group offers low-touch investment proposition in Queenstown’s popular ski fields district

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Hub Australia, Australia’s largest privately owned coworking provider, has opened its third Melbourne CBD coworking space, Hub Parliament Station.
Located at 1 Nicholson Street in the ICI House, also known as the Orica Building, Hub Parliament Station totals 2,757 sqm across three levels (levels 16, 17 and 18)
Hub Parliament Station will accommodate over 500 members with MitchelLake Group, ClearPoint Counsel and The Bravery Trust each leasing space at the coworking site.'
The newly opened location is Hub Australia’s sixth, with its footprint now totalling 23,000 sqm across Australia.
ICI House was constructed in 1958 and considered one of Australia’s first skyscrapers with this year marking its 60th anniversary.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/3/Hub%20parliament%202.jpg" alt="">
Designed by Bates Smart, the space underwent a multi-million dollar refurbishment to create a coworking space with Palm Spring-like influences
Over five tonne of custom breezeblocks are used throughout, in screens, walls and joinery, referencing the existing concrete waffle slab and ground floor lobby brickwork.
Hub Parliament Station offers its members access to a range of workspaces including bespoke offices for up to 14 people, private offices, open plan dedicated and flexible desks, break out areas, high-tech meeting and event spaces.
Additional amenities include a fully serviced café operated by Hub Australia’s dedicated in-house hospitality team, large serviced meeting rooms, member kitchen and lounge, fitness space, end-of-trip facilities with towel service, parent and wellness rooms.
A media studio is also made available to all members which includes a full suite of podcasting equipment as well as the latest in Virtual Reality equipment.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/3/Hub%20parliament%203.jpg" alt="">
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Hub Australia opens first skyscraper coworking space, Hub Parliament Station in Melbourne

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Victoria’s new stamp duty laws will create higher operating costs for unlisted property funds and is sending shockwaves through the property industry, an industry body has warned. 
The Property Funds Association (PFA), the peak industry body for the $125 billion Australian unlisted wholesale and retail property funds sector, said that changes to The State Taxation Acts Amendment Act 2019 received royal assent on 18 June 2019 and incorporated significant amendments to stamp duty.
“Victoria’s stamp duty changes have been introduced without consultation and will likely increase costs for unlisted property funds, which may then be passed on to unlisted property investors,” Paul Healy, CEO of Property Funds Association said. 
He said the new rules could impact any property transactions within a fund.
“There are particular concerns over how the new stamp duty rules will apply to property transactions, and how they will apply to fund performance fees, acquisition fees, and disposal fees,” Healy said. 
“PFA believes there needs to be more scope for exclusions or exemptions to ensure funds are able to carry out their business without being unreasonably taxed.” 
Most issues centre around changes to the ‘economic entitlement provisions’ under the Victorian Duties Act. Changes include removing the 50% threshold and moving most of the provisions from the ‘landholder duty’ regime into the ‘transfer duty’ regime. 
Prior to the new provisions taking effect, duty was only imposed under the economic entitlement provisions where the owner of the land was a private or wholesale unit trust, or a private company, and the economic interest acquired was 50% or more of the relevant economic entitlement (e.g. rent, profits, capital proceeds etc.).
PFA says removing this 50% threshold and removing the restrictions in the landholder regime means a much wider range of entities and activities will be caught in the stamp duty net. 
Victoria’s State Revenue Office has issued administrative guidance on these new provisions, but PFA says appropriate exclusions from these new provisions should be legislative, rather than administrative.
“This guidance has limited value to many unlisted property funds and does not provide adequate certainty for taxpayers as it does not have legislative force and only addresses ‘plain vanilla’ circumstances,” Healy concluded.
“In PFA’s view, further legislative amendments are warranted to provide clarification and certainty for taxpayers.”
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Victorian stamp duty changes have shocked unlisted property funds and investors: PFA

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The past financial year saw a roller coaster ride for investors.
Share markets plunged into Christmas only to rebound over the last six months. This note reviews the last financial year and takes a look at the investment outlook for 2019-20.
 A volatile but good year for diversified investors The past financial year saw pretty good returns for investors. 
But it didn’t feel so good around Christmas as a combination of worries – President Trump’s trade war with China, a slowdown in China, Fed rate hikes, an end to quantitative easing in the Eurozone, falling property prices and election fears in Australia saw share markets fall sharply.
In fact, from its September high to Christmas Eve US shares plunged 20%. But in the last six months share markets have rebounded as while the trade threat has run hot and cold and tensions in the Middle East have escalated central banks have turned dovish with many either easing (like the RBA and PBOC) or signalling that monetary easing is likely (such as the Fed and ECB).
This has seen global share markets rebound sharply with Australian shares having their best June half since the early 1990s – helped along by the return of the Coalition Government. So for the financial year as a whole global shares returned 6.6% in local currency terms and thanks to a fall in the Australian dollar they returned 12% in Australian dollar terms.
Australian shares returned 11.6% touching an 11-year high. Cash and bank deposits had poor returns not helped by the RBA cutting the cash rate to a new record low in June.
But bonds had a spectacular turnaround as rising bond yields on the back of Fed tightening a year ago gave way to plunging yields – to record lows in many countries - as inflation subsided and central banks turned dovish resulting in Australian bonds returning 9.6%.
The plunge in bond yields reinvigorated the search for yield and so helped yield-sensitive listed property and infrastructure have strong returns.
Unlisted property and infrastructure continued to do well, despite a rougher ride for retail property. Balanced growth superannuation funds are estimated to have returned around 7% after taxes and fees.
For the last five years their returns have averaged around 7.4% pa, which is not bad given sub 2% inflation.
Australian residential property fared poorly though with average capital city prices down 8%, but signs of stabilisation have emerged recently helped by the election result and rate cuts.
Key lessons for investors from the last financial year
1. Turn down the noise – despite the endless predictions of financial disaster it turned out okay again. 2. Maintain a well-diversified portfolio – while shares had a rough ride, bonds, unlisted assets and exposure to foreign currency for Australian investors provided some stability. 3. Cash is still not king – while cash and bank deposits provided safe steady returns, they remain very low.
The negatives which will likely constrain returns…
There are a bunch of threats which are likely to lead to bouts of volatility and constrain returns. 
First, President Trump’s trade war with China and threats against other countries is adversely affecting business confidence and investment. Trade talks with China have resumed and both sides have a strong incentive to resolve the issue but there is a risk that they may not. 
Second, global growth indicators are well down from their highs at the start of last year. And the yield curve in the US is flashing a recession warning.
Third, the risk of conflict with Iran has escalated after the US ditched its commitment to the 2015 Iran nuclear agreement. As roughly 20% of global oil demand flows through the Strait of Hormuz its disruption would threaten sharply higher oil prices. 
Fourth, US political risk is likely to ramp up with the debt ceiling needed to be increased around September (remember the debt ceiling/US ratings downgrade of 2011!) and Democratic presidential debates highlighting a sharp leftward lurch at a time when the top Democrat nominees are polling ahead of Trump. 
Fifth, Eurozone risks remains with an increased risk of a no deal Brexit which would be a big drag on the UK economy as 46% of its exports go to the EU and a small drag on European growth as 6% of its exports go to the UK. More important for the Eurozone is the ongoing tensions around the still worsening Italian budget deficit. 
Finally, in Australia while house prices are showing signs of being at or near the bottom, rising unemployment risks resulting in a negative feedback loop and another leg down, which in turn would further weigh on economic growth.
…but a bunch of things should keep returns positive
However, there are a bunch of positives providing an offset. 
First, while global growth indicators are soft, there has been a loss of downwards momentum in the Eurozone and globally it still looks like the growth slowdowns of 2011-12 and 2015-16. 
Second, the fall in global inflation has seen central banks move from tightening to easing to various degrees, providing a renewed stimulus to growth. This is a big difference to a year ago when it was thought that the hurdle for central bank easing was high. •
Third, while the US yield curve is flashing red it’s not always reliable, it may be distorted by central bank quantitative easing and it has long lead times. What’s more there is still little sign of the sort of excess that normally precedes recessions – there is still spare capacity globally, growth in private debt remains moderate, investment as a share of GDP is around average or below, wages growth and inflation remain low and we are yet to see a generalised euphoria in asset prices. The current growth slowdown globally maybe seen as extending the investment cycle by delaying the build up of recession driving excesses. 
Fourth, while Trump’s trade wars and maximum pressure on Iran may reflect the pursuit of international relevance at a time when his ability to do anything in the US is constrained (having lost Congress) it is in his interest to resolve both in a non-disruptive way as American’s don’t re-elect presidents when unemployment is rising and oil prices are surging. 
Fifth, share valuations are not excessive. While price to earnings ratios are moderately above long-term averages in developed countries, this is to be expected in a world of low inflation. Valuation measures that allow for low interest rates and bond yields show shares to be fair value or cheap.
Finally, while unemployment is expected rise to 5.5% this year in Australia it should be limited as infrastructure spending remains strong, mining investment bottoms out, export demand holds up with overall growth helped by monetary and fiscal stimulus and the low Australian dollar.
What about the return outlook?
The threats around trade and geopolitical risks along with the tendency for seasonal weakness out to September/October could see a pull back in share markets and returns are likely to be constrained. But easy money and the absence of large-scale economic excess should help extend the cycle and keep returns positive at around 6% over the next 12 months from a well diversified portfolio.
Looking at the major asset classes:
Cash and bank deposit returns are likely to be poor at around 1% as the RBA is expected to cut the cash rate to 0.5% by early next year. Investors still need to think about what they really want: if it’s capital stability then stick with cash but if it’s a decent stable income flow then consider the alternatives with Australian shares and unlisted commercial property and infrastructure still offering attractive yields.
Sovereign bond investors benefit from falling yields but once they stop falling expect returns to slow again as yields are now very low. Bonds are good portfolio diversifiers though. 
Listed and unlisted commercial property and infrastructure are likely to benefit from the ongoing “search for yield” and okay economic growth. 
Residential property still has a bit more short-term downside risk but expect flattish prices through calendar 2020 as an upwards drift in unemployment constrains returns. 
Shares are at risk of a correction into the seasonally weak September/October period, but okay valuations, reasonable economic growth and profits and even easier monetary conditions should see the broad trend in shares remain up.
Finally, the $A is likely to fall to around $US0.65 by year end as the RBA eases, but with significant short positions, the Fed easing too and the sharp 39% $A fall already seen since 2011 it has become a closer call.
Things to keep an eye on:
Global business conditions PMIs for any deeper slowing; the trade war – this needs to be resolved soon; Middle East tensions around Iran; US political risks; risks around Chinese growth; and Australian unemployment and house prices.
Conclusion
Returns are likely to be okay over 2019-20 as conditions are not in place for recession. But expect constrained returns - say around 6% for a diversified fund - and bouts of volatility.
SHANE OLIVER is the Head of Investment Strategy and Chief Economist at AMP Capital 
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2018-19 saw a rough ride for investors but it turned out okay: Shane Oliver

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Oxford Hotel, a consistent top 100 freehold gaming pub in Drummoyne, NSW, has been sold to publican Arthur Laundy.
Mr Laundy purchased the property for $42 million, marking an $8.5 million increase on its 2015 sale price of $33.5 million.
It was offered by Dan Dragicevich, Sam Handy and Andrew Jolliffe of HTL property.
Set on a 947 sqm block, Oxford Hotel at 195 Victoria Rd &amp; 15-17 Lyons Road features 30 EGM's, a recently approved 4am liquor licence, and D.A. lodged gaming room extension with 30% increase in size plus direct service or access points. 
The outdoor areas come with additional scope to activate a roof top beer garden with CBD, harbour and bridge views. 
There are solid existing food and beverage revenues.
The site also offers further redevelopment and site amalgamation potential. 
It was the first freehold gaming pub publicly offered to market in 2019.
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Oxford Hotel in Drummoyne sold to publican Arthur Laundy

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The Clifton Hill warehouse of Schots Home Emporium has been listed for sale given their closure plans next year.
Schots have opened newer stores in Geelong and Moorabbin in Melbourne's South.
The landmark red brick building at <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/%20https:/www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-clifton+hill-503241878" target="_blank">380-406 Hoddle Street</a> is leased to Schots until April 2020, with options for only two x one month extensions.
Schots bought the building with 5,305 sqm floor space for $613,000 in 1994. It's expected to fetch upwards of $20 million.
It was built as a shoe and boot factory in 1913.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/7/2/Schots%20Hoddle%20Street%20Clifton%20Hill%202.jpg" alt="">
The building sits on a prime 2,140 sqm plot described as an island site by Colliers International agents Peter Bremner, Ted Dwyer and Andrew Ryan given it has four street frontages to Hoddle, Noone and Parslow Streets, as well as a rear lane.
The three storey building has been called "the most exciting opportunity to hit the market in the Melbourne City Fringe so far in 2019" by the Colliers team.
It will be sold with a short-term holding income of $800,000 per annum until the end of the lease in April. 
 
 
 
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Schots Home Emporium list their Clifton Hills store

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A private investor is offering a Surry Hills creative office conversion on the Sydney city fringe.
Previously operating as the Sydney Technical College, it has hit the market for the first time in over 30 years.
It operated as the STC from the 1950's to late 1980’s.
Following the departure of the latest occupier, Chef’s Warehouse, the property has undergone a multimillion-dollar refurbishment.
CBRE’s City Fringe Team of Gemma Isgro, Nicholas Heaton and Nick Wheatley have been appointed to market the 970 sqm space at 111-115 Albion Street.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/13/A.04-FIRST%20FLOOR.jpg" alt="">
Ms Isgro stated, "the property’s B4 Mixed Use zoning allows for a range of uses, however, we believe the highest use will be creative office space, given the unprecedented demand in areas like Surry Hills where we are seeing A-Grade rents achieve up to $1,100 per square metre, gross." 
“The former warehouse has been architecturally designed by renowned architect ACME to accommodate open-plan workspace while paying homage to the building’s industrial past,” she said.  
The property spans three levels featuring windows on three sides and a rooftop garden.  
“The building would make a great headquarters for a creative firm or provide an incoming investor with a strong and stable income, underpinned by blue-chip real estate,” Mr Heaton said. 
111-115 Albion Street is being offered for sale via an expressions of interest campaign closing Wednesday, July 3, 2019.
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Former Sydney Technical College premises offered after 30 years

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Things Adorable, an overseas children’s toys and clothing retailer, and Melbourne Laser Clinic have both taken up leases on South Yarra's famous Chapel Street.
Fitzroys Agency Executive James Spencer negotiated the respective leases, at 539 Chapel Street and 552 Chapel Street, South Yarra on behalf of private investors.
Things Adorable will open their Melbourne flagship store at number 539 (pictured below), positioned between fashion labels Seed and Witchery.
The lease they signed was $95,000 per annum net for the 150 sqm space.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/11/539.jpg" alt="">
The two-level retail building has undergone a shopfront upgrade and is positioned in a high pedestrian traffic location near Toorak Road, opposite The Colonnade and Zimmermann.
Meanwhile, Melbourne Laser Clinic, which has an existing GP in the CBD, has committed to the 165 sqm space at 552 Chapel Street (pictured below) on a long-term lease of 10 years.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/6/11/552.jpg" alt="">
James Spencer said, "both properties generated interest from fashion retailers, hospitality operators and services operators alike."
Both properties leased by Spencer are located just metres from The Jam Factory, which is set to transform into a major $1.25 billion retail, cinema and office complex.
Projects are also underway at 402 Chapel Street, and 627 Chapel Street.
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Two fresh leases begin on Chapel Street retail offerings

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After dipping down in May, The Data App estimate trend cap rates rose to 6.66% in June; an increase of 13 basis points on last month. and 62 basis points higher than a year earlier, according to Rob Ellis, Director of The Data App (TDA).
Mr Ellis said, "this means cap rates, in trend terms, have risen to their highest level since June 2016.”
“From their low point in March 2018, <a href="https://thedataapp.com/" target="_blank">The Data App</a> calculate trend cap rates for commercial retail assets have now increased by 96 basis points.”
“While retail assets continue to be brought to the market, there is little doubt demand is becoming more subdued," he noted.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/1/TDA%201.JPG" alt="">
Trend estimates for June show:
<ul>
<li>The value of shopping centre transactions was the lowest since April 2017 and;</li>
<li>The volume of gross lettable area (GLA) transacted during the month was the lowest since April 2012; over seven years ago.</li>
</ul>
TDA conservatively estimates around 1.3 million square metres of gross lettable area (GLA) is currently up for sale.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/1/TDA%202.JPG" alt="">
Mr Ellis said, "current trend cap rates (6.66%) are still well below their long-run average (7.42%). Simple mean reversion would point to some further upside, while cyclically weak consumer demand, the impact of internet shopping as well as a number of AREITs being net sellers of shopping centres, would suggest scope for even higher cap rates.”
"Pulling in the opposite direction, commercial retail property is offering increasingly attractive yields, especially when compared to other asset classes. This value attraction will eventually encourage buyers back. For now, the balance of risks to shopping centre values remains skewed to the downside,” he concluded.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/7/1/TDA%203.JPG" alt="">
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Commercial retail cap rates reach three year highs: The Data App 

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Despite continued headwinds about electric vehicles entering the mainstream private car market, there has been a strong development pipeline of new petrol stations across Australia, according to a recent report from CBRE.
A new CBRE market review highlighted that 186 new petrol stations will be built nationally over the next 12 months, including 38 in Western Australia.
CBRE’s WA petrol station specialist Anthony Del Borrello said that the development supply pipeline was being driven by Perth’s changing road networks and strengthening investor demand.
Mr Del Borrello said, "service stations present a compelling investment opportunity, based on their strong tenancy profiles – anchored by national operators such as 7-Eleven, Caltex and Viva Energy – and long leases.”
“These tenants are at the forefront of the emerging electric car industry and their confidence in the long-term expansion of their existing network in WA is providing investors the confidence that there will be no market disruption in the medium term.”
The report notes, over the past six months, more than $62 million of petrol station investments sold across Western Australia, with tenancies including 7-Eleven, Caltex and Coles Express resulting in an average yield of 6.2%.
In WA, 38 petrol stations are mooted this year, with an additional 26 earmarked for construction across the state in 2020.
While the proportion of electric vehicles in production in Australia is expected to reach 50% by the 2030s, translating to less than 14% of cars being electric, there will be a continued need for petrol filling stations into the future.
BP Sawyers Valley is one of the latest service stations to hit the WA market.
Completed in June this year, the 5,295 sqm property is anchored by a 15-year lease to Epic Petroleum (with additional options).
The property is situated on the corner of Great Eastern Highway and Sawyers Road.
“This property represents the first BP service station to be offered for sale in Perth in at least three and a half years. On the back of continued momentum in the service station investment market, the opportunity to acquire this long-leased asset is expected to generate competitive buyer interest,” Mr Del Borrello added.
WA service station transactions between June 2018 – June 2019:
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/6/26/Petrol%20Stations%202019.JPG" alt="">
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186 Australian petrol stations set for completion in 2019: CBRE

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GUEST OBSERVATION
The latest data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics confirms household wealth has fallen, on the back of falling house prices, in the past year.
But it’s not all bad news. There are signs of hope in the portents for the next six months.
During the first quarter of this year, the net worth of all Australian households rose 0.2% to A$10.2 trillion. Total household net worth in March 2019 was 0.7% lower than in March 2018, largely because of steep falls over the final six months of 2018.
The per capita annual decline was larger, falling by about 2.4%, because of population growth. This means the average wealth of Australians dropped by about A$9,500, from A$414,400 to A$404,900.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/281542/original/file-20190627-76734-mgok7i.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/281542/original/file-20190627-76734-mgok7i.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
(Source: ABS)
This household “balance sheet event” – defined as an annual decline in household sector net wealth – is the third in the past 30 years. The other two were through the Global Financial Crisis of 2008 and immediately after.
Housing (land and dwellings) comprises 52% of household-sector assets. Superannuation comprises 24%. Property values fluctuate with real estate prices, while superannuation is highly exposed to volatility within the financial markets.
Consumer spending
The next chart highlights the relationship between changes in household net worth and spending on discretionary items and durable goods.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/281543/original/file-20190627-76705-1x1u3cv.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/281543/original/file-20190627-76705-1x1u3cv.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a> 
(Source: ABS)
But what is interesting is that consumer sentiment has not been significantly affected.
The following chart shows household net worth vs Westpac’s consumer sentiment data. This is the first major downturn in household net wealth in 30 years that has not coincided with weaker consumer sentiment.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/281544/original/file-20190627-76743-j7e3bv.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/281544/original/file-20190627-76743-j7e3bv.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
(Source: ABS &amp; Westpac)
It’s hard to know for certain why consumer confidence has remained relatively steady, but two things stand out.
First, the consumer financial adjustment has been orderly and deliberate as opposed to rapid and forced. It appears people have consciously adjusted spending and savings patterns to achieve long-term savings goals.
Second, there has been ongoing strength in the labour market. Despite falling wealth, people still have jobs and this reinforces confidence.
Shares and housing stocks
It is safe to say consumers will start spending more once they feel their asset position has stabilised.
Strong equity markets have played a big role in shoring up household wealth since the start of this year. As the next chart demonstrates, they could continue to do so over the period ahead.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/281545/original/file-20190627-76701-g5i77p.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/281545/original/file-20190627-76701-g5i77p.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
(Source: ABS &amp; Bloomberg)
But the big swing factor is house prices – specifically land values. The Reserve Bank’s interest rate cuts should help stabilise house prices over the second half of 2019.
Our last chart suggests this appears to have started, with auction clearance rates improving in recent months.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/281548/original/file-20190627-76722-ruuein.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/281548/original/file-20190627-76722-ruuein.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
(Source: ABS &amp; CoreLogic &amp; Bloomberg)
This all suggests household wealth could start growing again in the second half of the year. That should go a long way to stabilising the economy.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/119001/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
Warren Hogan, Industry Professor, University of Technology Sydney.
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/australian-household-wealth-has-taken-its-biggest-dive-since-the-gfc-but-things-are-looking-up-119001" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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