Gold Coast-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ignite-projects">Ignite Projects</a> has lodged a Development Application for a landmark $120 million precinct set to transform the southern gateway of the much-loved Spit.

Positioned at the most prominent entry point to the iconic peninsula, the project has been designed with a strong focus on architecture, public space, heritage and connectivity, delivering a revitalised parkland setting that invites locals and visitors to engage with the Broadwater.

Central to The Isles proposal is a significantly upgraded public realm, including landscaped open space, a new waterfront café, and a family-friendly park featuring a naval-themed playground, open lawns and improved pedestrian connections.

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="de83a270-6091-4b26-bed0-86f9248e7f9e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%201.jpg?VersionId=vt79HlCOwV9F7eLQe9.Z3bv9JGLMaSP2" />

The design retains and celebrates key elements of the site’s history. The training mast from the vacant and degraded naval cadet building, which forms part of a former Navy minesweeper, will be preserved. The existing Navy Memorial will be relocated and upgraded in collaboration with the RSL, allowing it to be publicly accessible for the first time in years. 
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Heritage-listed Humphreys Boat Shed remnants will remain and be incorporated into the landscape, while the site’s established Norfolk Pines will be retained, reinforcing the area’s character and sense of place. The enhanced parkland will ultimately create a long-term community asset at the entry to The Spit. 
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The Development Application (DA) lodged with Gold Coast City Council includes 28 waterfront apartments across three levels, ranging in size from 145sqm to 383sqm, designed as a feature landmark within the precinct and complement the public domain.

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bbf94e00-b56a-47fb-a15d-3d17b0b1ec76" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%203.jpg?VersionId=A0vmBNE_KohYJo1EoZcmF5IVW4tT5aDo" /> 
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Ignite Projects Director Josh Foote said the project as a whole had been carefully shaped to deliver a meaningful outcome for the wider community, not just future residents. 
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“This is about more than delivering opulent apartments – it’s about creating a welcoming and memorable gateway to The Spit that people can enjoy every day,” Mr Foote said. 
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“We’ve worked hard to ensure the public realm is a central part of the project, from the landscaped parklands and family-friendly spaces through to the preservation and celebration of important local heritage.”

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="443bbde5-8221-45f8-a549-dad2623df20c" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%204.jpg?VersionId=iUl6nc.sHkjMdo_1RigwbwUz_celHJ3H" /> 
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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, The Isles adopts a considered subtropical approach, with the building form shaped to maximise natural light, cross ventilation and views to the Broadwater and surrounding parklands. 
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Architect Rafael Contreras said the design responded directly to its unique coastal setting. 
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“Rather than a typical built form, the architecture has been shaped by performance and experience – from optimising outlook and privacy to creating a strong connection to landscape and climate,” Mr Contreras said. 
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“A central landscaped courtyard allows light, air and greenery to permeate the building, while the articulated façade introduces movement and rhythm inspired by the Broadwater.

“The Isles will create a place where people can gather, relax and connect with the water, while also delivering a refined residential product that responds to its unique setting.”

<img alt="Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1089570d-1120-4302-9900-fb9f75c75c26" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/The%20Isles%205.jpg?VersionId=pl9qmKZNbaL3A7XjmD7sjhLwmXaqzzLZ" /> 
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The DA relates to the residential and public realm components, with a proposed boutique marina to be progressed as part of a future stage, subject to separate approvals. 
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The Isles is being delivered under The Spit Master Plan, a collaborative vision to create a new residential, tourism, leisure, natural environment and cultural heritage hub on the iconic and much-loved peninsula.&nbsp; 
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Ignite Projects has an established track record delivering premium residential projects across the Gold Coast, including The Monaco at Main Beach and Cabana at Palm Beach. 
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Sales for The Isles are expected to commence in coming months from an on-site display suite, with construction targeted to begin later this year, subject to approvals.

Joel Robinson

Ignite Projects unveils exciting details of landmark gateway precinct for the Spit

The Federal Government’s sweeping changes to negative gearing and capital gains tax could trigger an unintended consequence: a surge of investor demand into the new and off the plan apartment sector.

While Treasurer Jim Chalmers has framed the reforms as a way to improve housing affordability and rebalance the tax system, the carve-outs for newly built housing are already positioning off the plan apartments as one of the few remaining tax-effective property investment plays.

Under the changes handed down in the Federal Budget, investors purchasing established properties after budget night will no longer be able to access negative gearing benefits. The Government will also replace the long-standing 50 per cent capital gains tax discount with a new inflation-indexation model and introduce a minimum 30 per cent tax on gains from July 2027.

However, there is a major exemption.

Investors buying new builds, including off the plan apartments, will still be eligible for negative gearing and will be able to choose between retaining the current 50 per cent CGT discount or adopting the new indexed model.

That distinction is expected to reshape investor behaviour almost immediately.

For years, established housing has dominated investor purchases because of its perceived lower risk, immediate rental returns and stronger historical capital growth. But with the tax advantages now heavily skewed toward new housing supply, the economics are changing rapidly.

The Federal Government has been explicit about its intent.

“The housing market and tax system are broken,” Chalmers said ahead of the Budget, arguing that existing concessions were disproportionately rewarding speculation rather than supporting housing supply.

The Government says the reforms are designed to encourage investment into new housing rather than established stock, a move aimed at increasing supply during a prolonged housing shortage.

According to the official Budget papers, limiting negative gearing to newly built homes is intended to “better align tax incentives with housing supply objectives.”

For the apartment development sector, particularly the off the plan market, the changes could become one of the strongest investor tailwinds in years.

Developers across Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane have spent the past two years battling elevated construction costs, higher interest rates and subdued investor confidence. Many projects have struggled to secure sufficient pre-sales to commence construction, particularly in markets heavily reliant on investor demand.

The Budget changes may now alter that equation.

Investors seeking tax-effective property exposure will increasingly find themselves funnelled toward newly built apartments simply because established dwellings no longer offer the same benefits.

Commonwealth Bank described the reforms as one of the most significant shifts to residential property investment settings in decades, noting that the package is centred around “limiting negative gearing for residential property to new builds” while replacing the existing CGT framework.

That could have profound implications for the apartment sector.

Off the plan apartments already hold several advantages for investors. Purchasers typically secure a property at today’s price while settlement occurs years later, allowing time for capital growth and reducing the upfront capital burden. Brand-new apartments also generally attract depreciation benefits, lower maintenance costs, and stronger appeal to renters seeking modern amenity.

Now, they may also become one of the only residential property types still offering the full suite of historical tax advantages.

Industry analysts expect investor demand to increasingly migrate toward projects that can clearly demonstrate strong rental demand, transport connectivity and long-term supply constraints.

The shift is likely to be particularly pronounced in apartment markets already underpinned by structural undersupply, including inner Brisbane, the Gold Coast, parts of Sydney’s Lower North Shore and select Melbourne precincts where new apartment commencements have collapsed over recent years.

The reforms also arrive at a time when apartment supply nationally remains critically constrained.

Australia is already struggling to meet the Federal Government’s target of delivering 1.2 million new homes over five years. Construction feasibility pressures have delayed or shelved thousands of apartments across the country, particularly as building costs remain elevated and financing conditions remain tight.

Critics of the Budget changes argue the reforms could reduce overall investor participation in the housing market and place upward pressure on rents by discouraging investment in established housing.

Some economists estimate the measures could reduce housing supply over the longer term if overall investor appetite weakens.

However, the Government is betting that redirecting investor capital into new housing supply will offset those concerns.

“To continue to incentivise construction of new housing, investors building new residential properties will be able to choose either the 50 per cent CGT discount or the new arrangements,” the Budget papers stated.

That wording has been closely watched by the development industry because it effectively positions new apartments as the preferred investment class within residential property.

For off the plan developers, the reforms could become a powerful sales tool.

Projects that have increasingly relied on owner-occupier demand may once again attract investors seeking to preserve the tax advantages still attached to newly built housing before the July 2027 changes take effect.

The reforms are also expected to sharpen the divide between established and new housing markets.

Rather than a broad investor retreat from property altogether, many analysts expect a redistribution of capital toward sectors still supported by Government incentives.

That could create stronger demand for apartment projects in key urban growth corridors and transit-oriented precincts where population growth, migration and rental shortages remain elevated.

The policy direction also aligns with the Government’s broader push toward increasing housing density in established urban areas.

Across Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne, planning reforms are increasingly encouraging higher-density apartment development around transport infrastructure and activity centres. By maintaining tax incentives for new housing, the Federal Government is effectively reinforcing that agenda from a taxation perspective.

For apartment developers who have spent years navigating subdued investor confidence, the changes may ultimately become the catalyst that reactivates parts of the off the plan market.

While the broader property sector is still digesting the long-term implications of the Budget, one thing is already becoming clear.

The era of investors buying established apartments and houses primarily for tax advantages may be ending.

But for off the plan apartments, the investment story may just be beginning.

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Investors to flood off the plan apartment market?

Adding to Chatswood’s growing skyline, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-anderson-chatswood-54-56-anderson-street-chatswood-nsw-2067">The Anderson</a> is grounded in a simple principle: apartment living in a major centre does not have to come at the expense of space and outlook.

Set on Anderson Street in the heart of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chatswood-nsw-2067">Chatswood</a>, the new residential tower, a collaboration between developers <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/changfa-group">Changfa Group</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huirong-group">Huirong Group</a> with architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ajc-architects">AJC Architects</a>, will introduce 122 apartments that prioritise generous proportions, considered orientation, and a strong connection to the surrounding heritage precinct.

The design originated from a Design Excellence Competition, where AJC proposed a building that combines suburban-style apartment scale with the density expected in a transport-rich centre. The development will include more than 1,800 square metres of retail and commercial space at street level, landscaped communal roof terraces, and a ground-floor pocket park framed by canopy trees. Together these elements aim to create a building that integrates with Chatswood’s evolving streetscape while maintaining a strong residential focus.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353250]

A key driver behind the architecture was the desire to deliver family-sized apartments rarely seen in the Chatswood market. The Anderson includes a mix of one to four-bedroom apartments, with around 35 per cent of the residences configured as three or four-bedroom homes. At the top of the building, two double-storey penthouses span approximately 200 square metres each, reinforcing the project’s emphasis on scale and long-term liveability for both downsizers and intergenerational households.

Orientation and outlook were central to the planning of the building. The apartments are positioned to maximise views to the north and east across Chatswood’s heritage precinct, with upper levels capturing glimpses of the Pacific Ocean. South-facing apartments gain distant views toward the Sydney CBD and Harbour Bridge, while the building’s configuration intentionally reduces western exposure at lower levels to minimise overlooking toward the nearby railway corridor.

The external design references the character of the surrounding conservation area without replicating it directly. A brick podium anchors the building to the street and introduces a series of architectural portals that draw inspiration from the nearby Chatswood Presbyterian Church. Above this base, the tower shifts to a lighter, more open expression defined by horizontal lines and carefully detailed balconies that balance privacy with outward views.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353254]

Toward the top of the tower, AJC introduces a distinctive lantern-like element formed by sliding screens. These screens provide both solar shading and privacy while also creating a visual marker for the building within the Chatswood skyline. The feature reinforces the architectural intent of the project, a structure that is visually refined while still responding to the practical requirements of apartment living.

Inside the residences, interior architecture focuses on clear spatial flow and practical everyday use. Open-plan living areas connect directly to large balconies, extending the internal living spaces outward and allowing natural light to move deeper into the apartments. Kitchens are designed as central working spaces with premium appliances and carefully selected materials, positioned to serve both daily living and entertaining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151353 project_image_fid=353256]

Bathrooms follow a similarly restrained design language, using refined fixtures and materials to create calm, functional spaces, while wardrobe areas adopt a gallery-style layout with integrated lighting and generous storage. These elements reflect a broader design approach that prioritises clarity, functionality, and durability over decorative gestures.

Positioned just a short walk from Chatswood Interchange, residents will have direct access to rail, metro, retail, and dining. The Metro extension allows travel from Chatswood to Martin Place in approximately 11 minutes, placing the CBD within easy reach for residents while maintaining the convenience of a walkable North Shore neighbourhood.

One-bedroom apartments at The Anderson start from $1,022,000.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=151353]

How AJC designed The Anderson to bring oversized apartment living to Chatswood

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/bridgewell-development">Bridgewell Capital</a> has lodged plans for a major mixed-use apartment development in the heart of Maroubra, seeking a significant uplift in height and density controls to deliver 120 apartments and a 120-place childcare centre near Maroubra Junction.

The State Significant Development application, filed through the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority pathway, covers a 3,270 sqm amalgamated site at 251-257 Maroubra Road and 133-135 Garden Street. The proposal includes a concurrent rezoning that would increase the maximum building height from 12 metres to 35.6 metres and lift the floor space ratio to 4.02:1.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bka-architecture">BKA Architecture</a>, the project would replace a mechanic’s workshop and several detached homes with a 10-storey residential building above four basement levels.

The scheme comprises 120 apartments, including 27 affordable housing units to be managed by a community housing provider for 15 years, alongside 203 basement car spaces and 92 bicycle spaces. A childcare centre occupying nearly 900 sqm of floor area would sit at ground level and be capable of accommodating 120 children and 22 staff.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="038a0639-f9e4-4303-8fcc-d43e73fa480f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20pers.png?VersionId=eGBElxmNqJW.YF3JFYgHTnPgAstdyXR3" />

According to the Design Report, the project has been conceived as a “gateway proposal” that responds to Maroubra’s evolving urban character and its proximity to the town centre.

“Designed to complement the character of Maroubra’s town centre, this gateway proposal features a building scale that matches its surroundings,” the report stated.

“It integrates residential units above a ground-level childcare centre, fulfilling the strategic objectives of the Randwick City Council Masterplan.”

The apartment mix is weighted toward larger residences aimed at families and downsizers, reflecting changing demographics in the Randwick LGA and increasing demand for medium-density housing close to transport and amenity.

BKA Architecture said the proposal seeks to reinforce Maroubra Road as a civic spine while improving the pedestrian experience around the site through landscaping and upgraded public interfaces.

“The design capitalises on the following site opportunities: reinforcement of Maroubra Road as a civic spine, enhancement of pedestrian pathways and the public interface via new landscaping, and strong market demand for two and three-bedroom apartments to support families and down-sizers,” the Design Report noted.

<img alt="First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ee509779-3c7e-4918-b03d-761c785459d0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Bridgewell%20site.png?VersionId=eZC4Ruyn.C7O.Qwfr1SVeP5.ds1c5.66" />

The building has been designed with setbacks and articulation intended to transition between the commercial intensity of Maroubra Junction and the surrounding lower-scale residential neighbourhoods. Communal open space is proposed on level one, while upper-level apartments would secure views towards Port Botany, Maroubra Beach and Sydney’s eastern suburbs.

The development sits around 200 metres east of the Maroubra Junction intersection of Anzac Parade and Maroubra Road, within one of Randwick’s identified strategic centres. The site is close to Pacific Square Shopping Centre, major bus routes, schools, parks and future cycling infrastructure proposed under the Maroubra Junction Masterplan.

The Maroubra proposal aligns with broader NSW Government initiatives encouraging higher-density housing near established centres and transport corridors, particularly where affordable housing is incorporated.

Bridgewell is also working on a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/goldfields-sets-the-stage-as-quartet-milton-launches">new 55-unit project in Killara</a>.

First look: Bridgewell plots 120 apartments and childcare centre in Maroubra town centre

National diversified developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/goldfields-group">Goldfields</a> has launched its latest Brisbane apartment project, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/quartet-milton-33-manning-street-milton-qld-4064">Quartet Milton</a>, marking its entry into the sought-after inner-city suburb just two kilometres from the CBD.

The circa $100 million development will rise 18 storeys and deliver 131 apartments, offering a mix of one, two-, and three-bedroom residences.

Ideally located on Manning Street, Quartet residents will be within 300 metres of Milton Station, 500 metres from the Milton Ferry Wharf, and a short walk to Milton Markets, the iconic Park Road, as well as a range of breweries and cafés.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367993]

Designed by architecture firm <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a> and brought to life by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a>, the building features a simple, gridded façade paired with generous glazing to enhance views, maximise aspect, and capture both sunrises and sunsets from within the apartments and their generously sized balconies.

Residents will have access to a 1,000 sqm rooftop, curated to balance wellness and entertaining, in response to increasing demand for wellness-focused shared spaces.

"We've approached Quartet Milton as a complete lifestyle offering, not just apartments, but a place where the design, amenities, and location all work together in a meaningful way," says Goldfields Managing Director Lachlan Thompson.

"Buyers are looking for that sense of confidence, knowing the vision has been carefully thought through not just by us as developers, but by all our consultants appointed to bring this together, and that it will be delivered to the standard they expect."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=368000]

Cera Stribley Co-Founder and Managing Principal Domenic Cerantonio said the rooftop is designed to feel like a place "you'd genuinely use every day."

"A 25-metre pool framed by city and mountain views, wellness areas, and private dining spaces for evenings with friends create a setting designed for year-round comfort and effortless Brisbane living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367999]

In addition to the 25-metre pool, the rooftop will include a sauna, cold plunge, fully equipped gym, and zen gardens, all complemented by panoramic views of the city and river.

While the building is expected to appeal predominantly to owner-occupiers, Goldfields anticipates interest from investors seeking strong rental returns, driven by the project's design, location, and the city's projected capital growth in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108736 project_image_fid=367991]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/milton-qld-4064">Milton</a>, widely regarded as one of Brisbane's most desirable inner-ring suburbs due to its lifestyle offering and proximity to the CBD, has experienced a shortage of new apartment supply in recent years.

Goldfields is already active in the Brisbane residential market through its Ripley Valley masterplanned community, Hayfield. The 109-hectare neighbourhood is already home to more than 300 families and features a large community park.

Plans for the precinct include a 4 km running track, future schools, and retail and commercial amenities, all within a 35-minute drive of the Brisbane CBD.

Goldfields also plans to deliver a new mixed-use tower at 88 Robertson Street in Fortitude Valley, within the James Street precinct. The project will include 16,000 sqm of boutique commercial space, a level of wellness facilities, and a rooftop restaurant and event space, akin to Goldfields House in South Yarra, its flagship mixed-use development on Chapel Street, which is crowned by the Beverly Rooftop bar, one of Melbourne’s best-known venues.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108736]

Goldfields sets the stage as Quartet Milton launches

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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A three-level office building in Brisbane’s inner western suburb of Toowong is up for lease after being given a splash of artwork.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-qld-toowong-501803262" target="_blank">555 Coronation Drive</a> office has been given a face lift, with artwork by an Australian artist splashed across the walls of each tenancy.
Four new fitouts are available for lease through Savills and CBRE, who have been jointly appointed on behalf of Centuria. 
Leasing agent Peter Dodd of Savills  said they are looking to provide tenants with a ready-to-go workplace.  
“The four tenancies would suit aspirational smaller business that don’t want to be confined by what a traditional office should look like,” Dodd said. 
Each tenancy features oversized artwork of the familiar famous faces of Audrey Hepburn, David Bowie, Muhammad Ali, and Prince.
<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/2017/10/13/BowieSuite.jpg" alt="">
<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/2017/10/13/AliSuite.jpg" alt="">
<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/2017/10/13/PrinceSuite.jpg" alt="">
The office spaces range from 145 sqm to 228 sqm, all including boardrooms, kitchen/breakout areas, and 12-17 work stations.
The four office spaces have been designed and furnished to reflect different themes: ‘detailed, fresh, enliven’, ‘enticing, uplifting, contemporary’, ‘welcoming, journey, textured’, and ‘quirky, daring, collaborative’. 
“The artwork was completed by Scott Marsh, and we were really excited when Centuria said they were commissioning him to do some art in each tenancy,” Dodd said. 
Marsh’s work is known for using a mixture of enamels, acrylics and aerosol, which explores the growing crossover between graffiti and high art, pop culture and the cult of the celebrity. 
Earlier this year, Forbes Online cited a research conducted by Exeter University’s School of Psychology that found artwork in the workspace can have a direct impact on employee productivity. 
“A painting can alter the mood of a meeting room or a piece of unusual artwork can provide a talking point in a bland corporate space,” Dodd said.
The office site has views of the Brisbane River.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Arty office spaces in Brisbane await tenants 

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Sydney is the most attractive Australian market for investment into the student accommodation sector, according to Savills.
The total development pipeline in Sydney for student accommodation has increased to 5,435 beds in 2017 from 3,665 beds in 2016, according to the recent Student Accommodation Market Report from Savills.
The supply and demand imbalance, world class universities and status as a global city are the main factors that are driving student accommodation in the Harbour City. 
However, there are significant barriers to entry, the report notes. 
The value of land associated with competing land uses, primarily residential in CBD fringe locations, continues to be an issue for private sector developers. 
This has led to developers seeking locations outside of the CBD, primarily around transport hubs. The University of Sydney continues to be a significant participant within the Sydney market, with several new developments proposed. 
The most significant purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) completed this year has been Urbanest (picture above), delivering the first stage of their accommodation within the Darling Square precinct comprising 634 beds. 
Their second stage of that project comprising 664 beds is programmed for completion during 2018. This will be the first off-campus fully catered accommodation available to the market. 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/10/16/SydStudent1.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/16/SydStudent1.png" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/10/16/SydStudent2.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/16/SydStudent2.png" alt="">
Analysis of the development pipeline by room type indicates that approximately 30% of the new accommodation will be provided in the most expensive form of accommodation, which is self-contained studios. 
The remaining accommodation will be provided in shared apartments, with approximately 34% of the pipeline in dormitory style rooms which is primarily influenced by the University developments.
“The affordability of student rents influencing the financial viability of delivering new accommodation will continue to be a critical issue for the Sydney market throughout the next 12 months,” says the report.
“Delivering new student accommodation within mixed use developments, such as Central Park and Darling Harbour will, in our opinion, be the main source of new opportunities in Central Sydney.”
Read the report <a href="https://www.savills.com.au/services-and-sectors/student-accommodation.aspx" target="_blank">here</a>.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Sydney most attractive for investing into student accommodation: Savills

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Commercial investment activity in Australia in the third quarter remained strong with $8.8 billion invested over the quarter, amounting to a total investment of 23.3 billion so far this year, according to Cushman &amp; Wakefield.
This follows an exceptionally strong second quarter in which $9.2 billion was invested involving a flurry of large deals late in the quarter, according to the commercial real estate company’s latest research. 
The number of deals and average deal size remain broadly flat quarter on quarter at 186 deals at an average of $47 million. 
The total investment volume of $23.3 billion has increased from the $20.3 billion recorded at the same point last year. 
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<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/13/Q3TotalInvest.png" alt="">
“With 10 assets at an estimated value of almost $2.4 billion on the market in Sydney CBD alone, the fourth quarter of 2017 looks likely to continues in the same vein as the start of the year,” it said.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/10/13/Q3InvestbySector.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/13/Q3InvestbySector.png" alt="">
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<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/13/Q3DomesticVsForeign.png" alt="">
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<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/13/Q3ForeignInvestment.png" alt="">
Annual investment volume is expected to exceed $30 billion for the fourth consecutive year and could go close to the peak of $35 billion recorded in 2014. 
Unlisted funds continued their run of strong buying activity, ending the quarter at $1.5 billion in net purchasing.
In contrast, REITs retuned to net selling at $120 million in the red. 
Foreign investment slowed quarter on quarter to $2.5 billion, representing 29% of total investment. 
So far this year, foreign investors have committed $8.7 billion (37%).
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<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/10/13/Q3Transact.png" alt="">
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Commercial investment could exceed $30 billion in 2017: Cushman & Wakefield

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Brisbane-based Sentinel Property Group has acquired an industrial site with development potential within the Australia TradeCoast precinct at Pinkenba in Brisbane’s east for $48.5 million.
The acquisition adds to Sentinel’s pooled Industrial Trust portfolio which includes properties at Mayfield in Newcastle, Oxley in Brisbane and Paget in Mackay.
Recently, it purchased a fully leased office building in Cairns for $8.5 million.
The 69 Tingira Street site spans 140,006 sqm and has a waterfront bulk storage industrial facility located there.
It was purchased in a leaseback arrangement with listed industrial chemical company Incitec Pivot Pty Ltd (ASX:IPL). 
IPL will continue to run its fertiliser distribution centre from the site and will lease nearly 11.5 ha of the property with 2.5 ha on Soutter St available to Sentinel for further development. 
The site benefits also from an adjoining wet lease of 15,370 sqm with associated wharf infrastructure.
The deal was negotiated by Anthony White and Simon Beirne of Colliers International.
Sentinel managing director Warren Ebert said this was a tremendous opportunity to acquire a major industrial facility in Pinkenba at a strong investment yield above what prime industrial assets are currently trading for, as well as benefitting from development upside.
“This site offers unique ongoing investment potential with core bulk storage and liquid storage assets in low supply throughout Brisbane, particularly when coupled with direct river access,” he said.
Yields for recent sales of industrial facilities have been in the range 5.5-7.5 per cent. 
The passing net yield for the Pinkenba site was 8.2 per cent, he said.
“This is also one of very few sites with wharf access in Brisbane that can accommodate Handymax class vessels of up to 188m long and 34m wide and capable of both liquid and bulk cartage.”
Ebert said it was an ideal time for Sentinel to purchase in the Australia TradeCoast precinct as it is a tightly held market due to the lack of available land.
“The proximity to Brisbane Airport, Port of Brisbane and major transport infrastructure continues to drive demand in this precinct. 
“The Port of Brisbane is one of Australia’s fastest growing container ports and Queensland’s premier multi-cargo port, handling almost $50 billion in trade annually.”
Colliers’ Anthony White said he expected the increased sale and leaseback activity, particularly from corporates, in the TradeCoast precinct to continue.
Sentinel Property Group has a total national portfolio of more than 40 retail, industrial, office, land, tourism infrastructure and agribusiness assets in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Western Australia, the Australian Capital Territory and the Northern Territory with a total value of more than $1 billion.
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Sentinel buys industrial site in Brisbane for $48.5 million

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A recently upgraded Victorian building in Richmond Hill in Melbourne’s inner east was sold to a Melbourne based investor for $1.15 million.
The 3.48 per cent yield brokered by Teska Carson’s Fergus Evans and Tom Maule was for the <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-richmond-502485230" target="_blank">410 Church Street</a> property which has three street frontages, is well connected by transport and close to Richmond’s major retail and entertainment precincts.
The two-storey 400 square metre, Victorian building in excellent condition throughout as a result of recent improvements and features an open plan layout providing purchasers with an abundance of options.  
It is currently leased to a skin and laser clinic on a two year term with a two year option at a current net annual rental of $44,995 plus GST.
It last sold in 1988 at $298,000.
The Neighbourhood Residential zoning aims to manage and ensure development respects the identified neighbourhood character, heritage, environmental or landscape characteristics.
The marketing agents are Teska Carson said the area is arguably, Melbourne’s best and most sought after city-fringe precinct with vacancies at an all-time low, and a number of commercial developments with pre-lease agreements are underway.
Nearby a Melbourne based private investor has paid $2.6 million at a Teska Carson auction for a freehold investment property, the recently updated 316 Church Street property which comprises a two storey, 400 square metre, Victorian building on a 290 square metre site with three street frontages including nine metres frontage to Church Street, 30 metres to Darlington Parade and access via a rear laneway.
It sold last year at $2,585,000 and at $2.25 million in 2015.
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Victorian building in prestigious Richmond Hill sold on a 3.48 per cent yield

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Sydney’s Bayside Council has launched a public campaign through Savills Australia to solve the parking squeeze in Brighton Le Sands.
Any property-based solution may or may not incorporate the existing council carpark at 1–7 The Boulevarde, according to Savills.
Accordingly, industry players are being sought for a shortlisting process for a Request for Proposals (RFP) process in late 2017 or early 2018.
The Rockdale City Council (now Bayside Council) commissioned a Brighton Le Sands Parking Strategy report in June 2014 as the first stage of the Brighton Le Sands Masterplan.
The report identified a shortfall of 211 car parking spaces in the Brighton Le Sands core area.
The council-owned Boulevarde car park in Brighton Le Sands was identified in the implementation plan as a Council asset that could be upgraded and considered a car parking solution in the town centre.
The 2,186 sqm site at 1–7 The Boulevarde currently provides a total of 250 car parking spaces, SP3 Tourist Zoning with permissible FSR of 3:1 and height of 28 metres and is located in the heart of Brighton Le Sands’ vibrant entertaining village precinct.
<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/2017/10/13/Brighton2.jpg" alt=""> 
Surrounding zoning is a mix of B4 and R4, high density mixed use and residential, 28 to 51 metre height and permissible FSR ranging between 3:1 and 4:1.
There are a total of 2,595 car parking spaces within Brighton Le Sands, including a number of clearway parking spaces on The Grand Parade. Of these, 2,168 car spaces are located on-street and 427 spaces are located off-street within the Cole’s car park and The Boulevard car parking station. 
In addition, some 336 spaces are provided within the privately operated car park associated with the Novatel development located on the northwest corner of The Grand Parade/ Bay Street intersection.
 
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Sydney’s Bayside council seeks to expand car park to meet shortfall: Savills

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NBN Co, which is at the centre of the debate on the success of the broadband rollout across Australia, has taken a lease at 100 Mount Street, North Sydney, the shiny new office building under construction.
The building is owned jointly by Dexus and Dexus Wholesale Property Fund.
NBN has leased 20,364 sqm, representing 48% of the building, and is consolidating its office space from various locations across Sydney. 
The company joins Laing O’Rourke, the building’s anchor tenant, taking pre-commitment to 60% prior to the completion of construction, which began in 2016 and expected to be over by 2019.
It was reported earlier that NBN was eyeing two new top-end office headquarters in Sydney and Melbourne.
<a href="https://100mountstreet.com.au/" target="_blank">100 Mount Street</a> is a 35-level office tower development that will span 42,134 sqm. It will have views of Sydney Harbour towards the Sydney CBD. 
The building will feature amenities including end-of-trip facilities, concierge, and smart building connectivity designed to provide customers with flexibility. The development will target 5 star Green Star and 5 star NABERS Energy ratings.
“We are pleased to have enabled NBN to consolidate from multiple Sydney and North Sydney locations into one, and meet the needs of an innovative and growing group through incorporating smart building technology in our newest Dexus Workspace,” Dexus CEO Darren Steinberg said.
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NBN to move into new office in North Sydney

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A new strata retail space in one of Melbourne’s eating hotspots is up for auction on October 27 through Colliers International. 
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-vic-prahran-502570970" target="_blank">18 &amp; 20 Chatham Street Prahran</a> space is leased to Lillie Espresso Eatery, the operators from the team behind Denis the Menace, St Edmonds and the Grange Road Egg shop.
They have an eight-year lease for the shop. It earns a net income of $140,608 p.a.
“Situated in the heart of the thriving Chapel Street retail precinct, these brand-new ground floor retail premises represent an exceptional opportunity for all levels of investors,” said listing agent Jeremy Gruzewski of Colliers International. He is selling the property with his colleague Ben Baines.
<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/2017/10/16/Prahran1.jpg" alt="">
“Prahran is renowned for being one of Melbourne’s most in demand eating precincts, and is supported by a high number of residents and businesses who take advantage of the immense variety of retail.”
The property is situated next to the Cato Street car park, which is due to undergo a $60 million redevelopment, which once completed will deliver more than 9,000 sqm of open spaces.  
“An investment right opposite this open-air plaza is sure to thrive now, and well into the future, ensuring your investment dollar will grow,” said Ben Baines. 
Prahran is in one of Melbourne’s sought-after suburbs, situated in the heart of the Chapel Street retail/ entertainment precinct approximately 4 kilometres South East of the Melbourne CBD.
 
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Lillie Espresso Eatery in Melbourne's Prahran on the market

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<div>AFG released its mortgage index for the September 2017, and it too showed a switch towards first homebuyers. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>First homebuyer activity has been buoyed by stamp duty concessions in New South Wales and Victoria. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The average mortgage size rose to an all-time high of $491,952, up from $479,101 a year earlier.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>However, regulatory intervention has slowed the pace of the increase. </div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cDne2REAVJI/WeBUKQ-ez0I/AAAAAAAAmmI/56Y6ViVGspc7IB05l26LtM7zEAeqhF8awCEwYBhgL/s1600/AFG2.jpg"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cDne2REAVJI/WeBUKQ-ez0I/AAAAAAAAmmI/56Y6ViVGspc7IB05l26LtM7zEAeqhF8awCEwYBhgL/s640/AFG2.jpg" width="640" height="384" data-original-height="830" data-original-width="1380"></a></div>
 
<div>The increase in mortgage size was driven by Victoria, Queensland, and South Australia.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Elsewhere, macroprudential measures have evidently slowed the mortgage market.</div>
 
<div class="separator"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-10_x__ClhRU/WeBULX4Q45I/AAAAAAAAmmQ/cIzsSH9pYfUExKK7Xc1yWqfkHP76ANnnACLcBGAs/s1600/AFG1.jpg"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-10_x__ClhRU/WeBULX4Q45I/AAAAAAAAmmQ/cIzsSH9pYfUExKK7Xc1yWqfkHP76ANnnACLcBGAs/s640/AFG1.jpg" width="640" height="392" data-original-height="826" data-original-width="1345"></a></div>
 
<div class="separator"> </div>
<div>The figures for total lodgement volumes at the state level are necessarily seasonal, but simply underscore the sheer strength of the lending growth in Victoria. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Victoria appears to be the only state where cooling measures have not had a material impact. </div>
 
<div class="separator"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PgbEKU0aL5c/WeBULOvd8AI/AAAAAAAAmmM/f9ZXSkoQD5geXz_-Sp6VXvi7UUlHDkC4wCLcBGAs/s1600/AFG3.jpg"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PgbEKU0aL5c/WeBULOvd8AI/AAAAAAAAmmM/f9ZXSkoQD5geXz_-Sp6VXvi7UUlHDkC4wCLcBGAs/s640/AFG3.jpg" width="640" height="386" data-original-height="819" data-original-width="1353"></a></div>
 
<div>There has been a massive shift away from investors, down to just a 29 per cent market share, from above 40 per cent at the peak.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The other notable trend was the shift away from the major market lenders.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Market share was down to 64.4 per cent for the main players, the lowest such result since the global financial crisis. </div>
 
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

The return of the first home buyer: Pete Wargent

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A development site in Sydney’s Inner West suburb of Burwood is set to go under the hammer on October 14.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-nsw-burwood-502558998">4 George Street</a> site has an area of 266 sqm and is in a mixed use Development Zone and a maximum building height of 70 metres.
The prime location means there are good growth prospects, particularly with the continued private and government investment in Burwood, says its description.
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The site is a stone’s throw from Burwood train station. 
It also benefits from its proximity to schools and shopping centres.
The site changed hands in 2011 for $580,000, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
The listing agent is Giampaolo Iarossi of Zoom Real Estate. 
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