<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 design-led apartments 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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Residential construction activity remains buoyant across select parts of Sydney, according to one industry expert, despite media discourse about the property market reaching an unsustainable peak.
Savills Australia’s Johnathon Broome, a <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/services-and-sectors/sales-and-investment/metropolitan-and-regional-sales.aspx" target="_blank">Residential Site Sales</a> executive, maintains that strong demand continues for luxury residential development in suburban hotspots near the CBD. 
“The inevitable downturn we are currently witnessing is dampening consumer sentiment regarding the residential sector but forward-looking drivers would suggest otherwise,” he said. 
According to <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/research/australian-research.aspx" target="_blank">Savills Research</a>, Sydney has been the prime beneficiary of the ongoing surge in overseas migration into Australia throughout the past 10 years, boosting the city’s population to 5.1 million people as of August 2018. 
“New South Wales’ population grew at a rate of 1.4 percent throughout the year to March 2018, with approximately 113,000 people added to the state,” Mr Broome said.
“The majority of this was due to the ongoing immigration cycle, with more than 85,000 overseas migrants settling in Sydney over the same period – accounting for about 40 percent of all overseas migrants who settled in Australia.”
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/8/2%20Greenwich%20Road%20Greenwich%20-%20CGI%20-%20aerial%20copy.jpg" alt=""> CGI of 2 Greenwich Road, Greenwich.
Mr Broome went on to say that while net interstate migration for the state has been notably negative, resident migration out of Sydney has been concentrated in three Sydney districts – the inner south-west, the eastern suburbs and Parramatta. 
“Suburbs on the Lower North Shore remain prime destinations for residents and overseas migrants alike, with developments in St Leonards and Crows Nest earmarked for more than 4,600 new dwellings throughout the next five years,” he said.
“Ongoing changes to residential zonings across North Shore suburbs, which have traditionally had low-density zonings in place, mean that these districts remain on the radar for both developers and residents, keeping population growth forecasts for these areas buoyant.
“Developers have remained active in these suburbs, particularly showing strong interest in more palatable boutique development sites, which appeal to the still-thriving owner-occupier market.
“There have been a number of recent off-the-plan sales on the Lower North Shore selling for more than $40,000 per square metre, in addition to the recent sale of a penthouse in Milsons Point for more than $61,000 per square metre.”
Savills Australia is currently marketing two high-end residential development sites on the Lower North Shore. 
The first site is located at 2 Greenwich Road, Greenwich, for circa 70 apartments (subject to council approval), with the majority of apartments from the third floor upward positioned to receive Sydney Harbour Bridge views. 
The second site is located at 26 Ridge Street, North Sydney, a commercial building with the potential to be converted into 10 full or split-level apartments (subject to council approval) with a northerly aspect, and within 300 metres of the new Victoria Cross metro station.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/8/26%20Ridge%20Street%20North%20Sydney%20-%20CGI%20-%20ground%20copy.jpg" alt=""> CGI of 26 Ridge Street, North Sydney.
Mr Broome said North Sydney and its surrounding suburbs were “set to become even more attractive to residents, investors and retailers”, as the multi-billion-dollar construction investment into infrastructure spending on roads and transport hubs increased the precinct’s connectivity to the rest of the city. 
“We have already seen a wave of residential developments in the area inject life into the CBD’s forgotten sibling, with the Ward Street redevelopment plan set to revitalise the suburb’s 100,000sq m retail precinct,” he said.
In the five-year period to 2016, Savills research shows that the population in the Greenwich and North Sydney areas grew by 10 percent and 12 percent respectively, notably more than the growth rate for Greater Sydney. 
“Willoughby and North Sydney councils are positioned to maintain their strong population growth figures over the coming years, and the savvy developers looking to purchase in this market will continue to do well,” Mr Broome said.
“These areas have always attracted younger, more educated, professional workers with median single and family incomes significantly above Sydney’s and the nation’s averages, which has meant that the demand for property has far outstripped supply and will continue to do so in the years to come.”
Savills is a leading global real estate service provider offering the full spectrum of services from strategic advice to managing assets and projects and transacting deals. Johnathon Broome is an Executive in Savills Residential Sites Sales. To learn more about Savills, visit <a href="http://www.savills.com.au/" target="_blank">savills.com.au</a>.
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Residential construction activity remains buoyant in Sydney

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<a href="http://petewargent.blogspot.com/2018/10/highway-jobbery">E</a>XPERT OBSERVER
<div>A year ago annual infrastructure project activity was forecast to peak at about $16 billion in 2019.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>But the government has anticipated the slowdown in apartment building and will use borrowed funds to plug the gap. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Now the peak for infrastructure build is forecast to hit 3 years later and some 40 per cent higher at more than $22 billion across a raft of billion-dollar projects. </div>
<div> </div>
<div><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gUfoi6QR7pY/W7m2cmgjQFI/AAAAAAAAsP8/cEKF4XF9oA0t8XZ6D-DMS82o1EX_L8OdACLcBGAs/s640/IA.jpg" width="640" height="416" data-original-height="759" data-original-width="1166"></div>
<div> </div>
<div>High-rise apartment construction, then, is set to be replaced by roads, rails, tunnels...and the odd level crossing removal.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The obligatory cost overruns will also help spur the economy, of course. The Coalition love is free, and the freeway's long!</div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Infrastructure extended by government spending: Pete Wargent

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GDI Property Group has moved to sell 50 Cavill Avenue following its completed refurbishment.
They have secured a 97 percent occupied office tower with lower leasing incentives than other major centres.
Comprising an NLA of 16,625sqm over 22 levels with 446 secure car parks, the tower is the Gold Coast’s largest A-grade office building.
It hosts many groups including but not limited to the Mantra Group, Regus, Nine Network Australia, Ray White Group, Bell Potter, PWC and McCann World Group, as well as CBRE’s Gold Coast headquarters.
Following its purchase of the tower in 2016, GDI Property Group completed several renovations, including new energy efficient air-conditioning, high speed destination control lifts, ground floor retail and end of trip facilities.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2018/10/4/Cavs%202.JPG" alt="">
CBRE have an expressions of interest campaign for the corporate tower.
Investors are being told it offers both the benefit of continued rental growth and low future capex requirements given the limited competition of A-grade commercial space in the strengthening Gold Coast market.
CBRE advised there are no new significant projects in the pipeline.
Offers are due November 13.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Gold Coast's largest A-grade office building hits the market

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A shopping centre in the Sunshine Coast town of Yandina has hit the market.
Yandina Shopping Centre, on the corner of Old Gympie Road and Farrell Street, is anchored by a 1,000 square metre IGA supermarket and also has a mix of specialty stores.
A separate adjoining 1.214 hectare title, which is approved for development, is also included.
The centre has a net income of $988,583 and a Weighted Average Lease Expiry (WALE) of 6.34 years.
The property is being marketed by CBRE agents Rem Rafter, Brendan Robins, Michael Hedger and Joe Tynam through an expression of interest campaign.
“It’s a high performing centre with development land, as well as the main trading precinct’s only supermarket,” Rafter said.
“The centre’s future development, which would see it more than double its current size, will only further capitalise on the growing catchment and provide a critical retail centre for decade.”
Expressions of interest close on Wednesday, 31st October 2018 at 4pm.
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Yandina Shopping Centre on Sunshine Coast hits the market 

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Austral Bricks has divested two adjoining industrial land parcels in Riverwood in a $41 million sale and leaseback deal. 
The properties at 62 Belmore Road and 111 Bonds Road were sold to a private buyer.
The buildings occupy 90,466 square metres, split across two titles.
Austral has committed to a partial leaseback of 13,263 square meters for a 10-year term with a five-year option.
CBRE’s Ryan Jennings and Jason Edge inked the sale and negotiated the partial leaseback.
Edge said the site held potential for redevelopment and asset repositioning.
“The property is one of the south-west market’s largest infill holdings and, thanks to the size and lexibility of the asset, options for use are many and varied,” Edge said.
Jennings said owner occupiers and tenants had been migrating down the M5 from South Sydney.
“Owners and occupiers are targeting opportunities in Riverwood ahead of the long-awaited Belmore Road motorway ramps,” he said.
“Expected to open in 2019, the two east-facing ramps will offer Riverwood direct access to the M5 South West Motorway – a $32 million project, over 20 years in the making.
“Overall, we have seen more purchasers seeking to invest in the Riverwood area, where they have previously not been looking.
 “The deal was struck following a competitive Expressions of Interest campaign, which had amassed 11 offers at the close of round one – underscoring the increased activity in the area.”
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Austral Bricks sells Riverwood property for $41 million with partial leaseback

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
Australia is moving through the peak of an unprecedented boom in apartment construction.
Over the twelve months ending March 2018 there were almost 97,000 medium to high density dwellings that completed construction across Australia; a year earlier there were 105,300 projects that finished construction (84% higher than the decade average).
As at March of this year there were still 155,275 medium to high density projects still under construction.
The majority of this construction work has been centered around the inner city areas of our largest capital cities, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that population densities have surged higher across many inner city areas of our largest cities.
Based on an analysis of population data at the SA2 level (an SA2 region is a standard geographical classification roughly the size of a suburb in the cities or a town in regional areas), the highest density area in Australia is now Melbourne.
45,231 people reside within the 2.4 square kilometre area, equating to a population density of just over 19,100 people per square kilometre.
The population of the area has increased from 7,644 in 2001 – an increase of almost 500% over 16 years.
Apartment values in the area are relatively low with a median of $444,000, providing a relatively low cost entry point to a housing market located right in the middle of one of Australia’s largest working populations.
Back in 2001, the Melbourne SA2 region ranked 114th in the country with a population of only 3,229 and a population density of 7,644 persons per square kilometre.
Potts Point – Woolloomooloo showed the highest population density, followed by Surry Hills.
In fact, back in 2001, the top 12 areas of highest population density were all located in Sydney, with St Kilda East recording the highest population density outside of Sydney (6,259 people per square kilometre).
The 20 most densely populated areas of Australia are all confined to Sydney and Melbourne. Fifteen of the top 20 areas are in Sydney and five are in Melbourne.
While high density living may not be everyone’s cup of tea, it makes sense for many, especially for students and young professionals who work and play in and around the city centre.
Focusing on the Melbourne SA2 area again, two thirds of the resident population are aged between 20 and 34, with the most significant age group being 20-24 year olds (31% of the population).
High density living generally involves less time commuting, lower housing prices and plenty of choice for amenities.
Of course there are going to some downsides to high density living, like the potential for noise pollution, tight living spaces, elevator congestion at peak times, overcrowded or poorly maintained communal areas and limited access to green space.
The latest small area population numbers from the ABS are already a year old, and, considering the record number of apartments under construction across Australia, our inner city areas are going to increase in density further from here.
Densification makes sense from a town planning perspective – it reduces urban sprawl and the necessity to continually invest in transport infrastructure linking the outer fringes of the cities.
From a livability perspective, some people will thrive in a high density environment, while others will crave the peace and quiet of the burbs. Lucky Australia has such as broad range of housing options.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/4/density%201.jpg" target="_blank">Click to open in new window</a> 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/4/density%201.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2018/10/4/density%202.jpg" target="_blank">Click to open in new window</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/4/density%202.jpg" alt="">
TIM LAWLESS heads up the CoreLogic RP Data research and analytics team and can be contacted<a href="https://blog.corelogic.com.au/author/timlawless/" target="_blank"> here.</a>
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The highest density living options in Australia: Tim Lawless

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Stockland is progressing with its development pipeline of $83 million of logistics assets across Western Sydney, having signed up new tenants Silk Contract Logistics, Daikin, Orora and Colette.
Stockland's Yennora Distribution Centre spans 70 hectares and operates as an intermodal rail terminal, connected to the Main Southern Rail Line. 
It recently completed a a $26 million development at Yennora which expanded the centre to more than 300,000 square metres.
Silk Contract Logistics signed a lease which comprises a 13,597 square metre high clearance office/warehouse building, as well as 19,582 square metres of dedicated container rated hardstand, providing direct rail access to Port Botany.
Daikin has signed as a core tenant to Stockland's $96 million Coopers Paddock Logistics Park in Warwick Farm (pictured below). Colette fashion accessories and Orora Packaging have also leased tenancies at the site.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/Warwick%20Farm%202.jpg" alt=""> 
The$50 million second stage of the Ingleburn Logistics Park has also been finalised with two new warehouse facilities of 15,494 square metres and 21,350 square metres.
This follows the completion of stage one last year, a 29,050 square metre facility that is now fully leased to Next Logistics and TIFS.
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/Ingleburn%202.jpg" alt="">
Tony D’Addona, General Manager – Workplace and Logistics, at Stockland, said the group’s styrategy is to grow its national workplace and logistics portfolio to greater than 25 per cent of total assets.
“Our vision is to create modern, functional and connected logistics centres, supporting local employment to meet Western Sydney’s growing demand for new warehousing and manufacturing space,” he said.
“We made a decision to develop over 110,000 square metres across our Warwick Farm, Yennora and Ingleburn assets which has proven to be a great opportunity with strong leasing activity across 2018. 
“Together these developments are contributing approximately 650 new jobs for Western Sydney today, with significant potential for future employment growth. 
“The demand for high quality logistics assets has been driven by a robust NSW economy and consistent, record infrastructure investment, including the new Western Sydney Airport, offering a great opportunity to develop high quality assets in connected locations.” 
D’Addona said Stockland’s national Workplace and Logistics business includes a $600 million national development pipeline and comprises 34 properties, currently valued at approximately $3.7 billion.
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New tenants sign up at Stockland Western Sydney logistics centres

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Small business confidence and creative thinking by CBD landlords have driven a 235% increase in demand for small office space in Melbourne, says Colliers International.
The firm reported a year-on-year increase in demand for sub-300 square metre office suites in the Melbourne CBD.
“This accelerated demand highlights the strength in sentiment among small business owners,” Colliers International’s Milly Stockdale said.
“We received 748 enquiries for small suites over the past financial year FY 2017/2018, compared to 318 enquiries from FY 2016/2017. This equates to 2.3 times the demand, year on year.
“This demand has also flowed through to leasing activity, with Colliers International concluding over 100 deals for space under 300 square metres in Melbourne’s CBD year to date, compared to less than 70 at the same time last year.
“Over the next 12 months, there is only 115,000 square metres of new supply space and over 81,000 square metres of backfill space due to be added to the Melbourne CBD market. This means vacancy rates will continue to tighten, providing competitive tenant conditions.”
The lack of upcoming supply is causing tenants to commit to space to ensure that they don’t miss out on a quality address, it says.  
Strong population and job growth in Melbourne is supporting rental growth and a healthy environment for small businesses to expand.
In the recent deal, a2m Consulting secured its first CBD office, leasing 132 square metres at Suleman Group’s 470 Collins Street in a deal negotiated by Stockdale and colleague Brigitte Doupe. 
“Many iconic CBD buildings are choosing to execute a small suite strategy on vacant whole floors, due to the uptake in the market and effective net rental growth and minimal downtime,” Doupe said.
“Recent activity at 470 Collins Street – where we have negotiated 10 sub-400 square metres leasing deals in the last eight months – is a prime example of this.”
“This trend has also been recently demonstrated at 360 Collins Street, where Colliers International has secured 23 tenants under 400 square metres in the last 18 months for Dexus Property,” Colliers International’s Adam Davy said.
“This growth in demand can be attributed to several factors, including the strength in sentiment among small businesses, and the Melbourne economy supporting small business growth.”
Doupe said small businesses were jumping at the chance to secure CBD space which would see them benefit from easy access, quality of amenity and proximity to clients and stakeholders.
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/9/28/151013_470_Collins_st_071.jpg" alt="">
Additional leases at 470 Collins Street have included:
-          Cherub Consulting (45.4 square metres)
-          Javadi (52.3 square metres)
-          Efex Group (40 square metres)
-          Endeavour Conultants (63.4 square metres)
-          Australian Institue of Engineering &amp; Technology (139.1 square metres)
-          Jaythorm (147.80 square metres)
-          United Almonds (100.4 square metres)
-          Austudy (209 square metres)
-          Egali (85 square metres)
-          Unify Solutions (96.4 square metres)
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Demand for small office space in Melbourne CBD skyrockets 

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EXPERT OBSERVATION
Mid-sized companies and international shares have out-performed ‘Mums and Dads’ stocks over the past five years.
It is useful for investors to understand how different asset classes are performing as it may highlight opportunities.
Smaller returns from major Australian companies
Many Australians got their start in the share market through privatisations and demutualisations. That is, companies like Telstra, AMP, Colonial, Commonwealth Bank, Suncorp, Qantas and state betting agencies like TAB (NSW). Some retail investors have held on to these stocks over time and perhaps added modestly to their holdings with positions in other domestic companies. For others, the initial investment may have sparked broader interest with investors adding to their portfolios with domestic and international investments and perhaps positions in options and futures.
In 1999, CommSec devised an index called the Mums and Dads index to highlight the performance of retail investors who got their start in the share market through demutualisations, privatisations or ‘household names’ like Woolworths. The current composition of the CommSec Mums and Dads index is Telstra, Commonwealth Bank, Woolworths, Qantas, AMP, Tabcorp, Suncorp, IAG and Wesfarmers.
Until around five years ago, total returns on the CommSec Mums &amp; Dads index (share prices and dividends included) closely tracked total returns on the broader index – the All Ordinaries accumulation index. But over the past five years, the All Ords accumulation index has lifted around 82% while the CommSec Mums and Dads index has lifted by just 35%.
Mid-sized companies gain favour
One of the out-performing areas over the past five years has been the mid-tier companies. Since mid-2013 the MidCap50 accumulation index has doubled in value. As noted above, over the same period the All Ords accumulation index lifted by around 82% while returns on the CommSec Mums and Dads index rose by just 35%.
The MidCap50 includes a number of ‘new wave’ stocks as well as ‘disruptors’ – companies challenging those with far bigger market size or capitalisation – that is, the ‘big cap’ companies. Notable mid-tier companies include A2 Milk, Dominos, Flight Centre, JB Hi-Fi and Resmed.
On a shorter-term comparison, since the start of 2018 the All Ordinaries accumulation index has lifted by 6% (ASX 200 accumulation +5.9%) while the MidCap50 accumulation index has lifted by 6.6%. By comparison the CommSec Mums and Dads index has risen by just 1.6%.
However just as investors constantly need to track the performance of their domestic portfolios – especially the influence of new themes or paradigms – there is also the need to take a broader perspective. Considerations include the differing performance of domestic industries or sectors to those abroad.
Global shares have certainly performed strongly over recent years. The US Dow Jones and S&amp;P 500 indexes have hit record highs in the past month. And the Japanese Nikkei 225 index hit 27-year highs yesterday.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/commsec%201.jpg" alt="">
Global shares
Five or 10 years ago it was more difficult for retail investors to invest in individual companies that were listed on overseas share markets. To gain overseas exposure, investors tended to favour managed funds.
Today, retail investors have much more flexibility to invest in individual companies on overseas exchanges, or via exchange traded funds (ETFs) and managed funds. Australia accounts for just 2% of world share market capitalisation, so there is a raft of opportunities outside our borders. One complication is the need to take into account currency fluctuations. Since the currency was floated, the Australian dollar has fluctuated on average by US14 cents a year against the greenback, although there has been less volatility in recent years
One way of measuring the performance of the ‘world share market’ is by reference to an index. And one of the best known indexes is that compiled by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI).
The MSCI World Index, is described as: “A broad global equity index that represents large and mid-cap equity performance across 23 developed markets countries. It covers approximately 85% of the free float- adjusted market capitalisation in each country and MSCI World Index does not offer exposure to emerging markets.” 
The world MSCI can be tracked through finance websites on a daily basis as well as wire services and adjustments can be made for dividends and currency fluctuations.
Over the past five years the world MSCI in US dollar terms has risen by 41% with total returns (measured by the accumulation index) up by 56%. By comparison, in Australian dollar terms the MSCI Australian index rose by 17% and 42% respectively over the period.
But when you adjust the world MSCI for currency changes – convert the index to Australian dollar terms – the out- performance is enhanced even further. Over the past five years the world MSCI has lifted by 83% in Australian dollar terms with total returns up 101%.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/commsec%202.jpg" alt="">
Shorter-run returns
As always the time comparison chosen may affect the results obtained. And with international shares, changes in the value of the US dollar can significantly impact the results.
Looking back since the index was constituted in May 2000, and assessing returns in Australian dollar terms, returns on the ASX 200 have risen four-fold whereas returns on the world MSCI have doubled. So on a long-term basis the Australian share market has out-performed global shares.
However, looking over the past decade, Australian dollar returns for both the ASX 200 and the world MSCI tracked closely, especially up to 2014. But in the past four years the world MSCI broke away, lifting by 68% while the ASX 200 has risen by only 39%.
Further, since the start of 2018, the world MSCI accumulation index in Australian dollar terms has lifted by around 14%, well ahead of returns of around 6% for the Australian market.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/commsec%203.jpg" alt="">
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The US out-performs
The Dow Jones index is probably the best known of the US equity indexes. Other indexes include the S&amp;P 500, Nasdaq Composite and Russell 2000. And while the price index – the Dow Jones Industrial average (DJIA) – is commonly quoted, there is also a total return index for the Dow.
Up until the end of September the DJIA rose by 7% and total returns (includes dividends) lifted by 10% while returns on the index in Australian dollar terms have lifted by around 18%.
By comparison, in local currency terms the ASX 200 rose by 2.3%, the All Ords lifted 2.6% and total returns on Australian shares have increased by around 6%.
Certainly the US economy has performed strongly with annual economic growth sitting at 4.2%, unemployment near 18-year lows and inflation sitting at just 2%. However the old adage applies for the share market – past performance is no guarantee of future returns.
The US Dow Jones has made solid returns – especially over the past two years, averaging annual growth near 22% and well out-performing the Australian market.
While the US economy is performing strongly, the budget deficit remains high, the Federal Reserve is still in the process or ‘normalising’ interest rates and the US is engaged in trade disputes with a raft of economies such as China and the European Union.
In addition some would cite relatively expensive valuations for US shares with prices around 17.8 times forward earnings, well above the longer-term average of around 14.5 times earnings.
 <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/commsec%205.jpg" alt="">
What are the implications for investors?
Global share markets have made solid gains in recent years reflecting economic recoveries after the global financial crisis. In this respect, the US has had one of the stand-out economies and share markets.
Australian investors can now embrace a broader range of opportunities than in the past, whether they are domestic companies and sectors or opportunities across global economies. While there may have been good reasons in the past for investors to stick with blue-chip ‘Mums and Dads’ investments, better performing investments locally and globally argue for a fresh look at portfolios.
Investments in international shares and small and mid-sized Australian companies provide scope for greater diversification in investor portfolios.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/commsec%206.jpg" alt=""> 
Craig James is the chief economist at <a href="https://www.comsec.com.au/default.aspx" target="_blank">CommSec</a>. 
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'Mum and dad' stocks are underperforming: CommSec's Craig James

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Byron Bay continues to perform well on the back of improving tourist numbers, the relatively compact nature of the CBD and the lack of any large shopping centre facilities, according to the latest Herron Todd White (HTW) commercial report.
The valuation firm took a look at the changing face of the retail sector across the nation in the report. 
"Construction of the new centre at Byron Plaza South is likely to create an additional supply, however the traditional CBD’s proximity to the beach is likely to maintain its strength," the valuer suggested. 
Alternative styles of accommodation for retail uses are being utilised within the industrial area, located approximately three kilometres to the west of the CBD, which are a reflection of affordability and the marrying of unapproved/illegal residential and retail components.
A current listing is a 87 square metre retail space priced at $190,000 (pictured above).
The shop situated at<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-byron+bay-502944882" target="_blank"> 1-3/52 Jonson Street </a>features large shopfront window displays, track lighting throughout and exposure with a constant stream of passing foot traffic. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2018/10/2/byron%20bay%202.jpg" alt="">
Another 90 square metre retail space located in the Byron Bay Industrial Estate has been listed for lease with the price of $620 per week (pictured above).
Located at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-byron+bay-502961282" target="_blank">2/1 Banksia Drive</a>, the property consists of lower level open plan with amenities, small storage room, and a good size mezzanine area upstairs with kitchenette and oven.
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