A new 25-storey apartment tower proposed for Mercer Street would push Geelong’s western gateway skyline higher, with Morphy Birrell Property Group lodging plans for a project directly beside one of the city’s most significant heritage streetscapes.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">FK</a>-designed development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/65-67-mercer-street-geelong-vic-3220">65-67 Mercer Street</a> has now been referred to Victoria’s Planning Minister. The site sits opposite the Geelong rail corridor and immediately south of the heritage-listed St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church and Ashby Hall precinct.

Rather than compete with the neighbouring ecclesiastical buildings, the proposal adopts a sculpted podium intended to reference the materiality and scale of the heritage context. Planning documents note the design draws cues from the “dark stone brick” church and surrounding masonry buildings, while the tower above transitions into a softer, curved form oriented toward Corio Bay and the Geelong waterfront.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b797d10c-d4a6-47af-b8df-1aeaa3b382be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/public%20square.png?VersionId=QGIpcz1x1hKB6lQLl2iobyHqb6PS2Ztc" />

The development forms “Stage 5” of Morphy Birrell Property Group’s broader Mercer Street precinct strategy, following the completion of the 21-storey Miramar tower on Cavendish Street and several additional approved redevelopment stages nearby. Planning consultants Ratio said the proposal “represents an exemplary development outcome” aligned with the strategic ambitions for Central Geelong’s continued urban renewal.

The mixed-use project would replace an existing low-rise commercial building and surface parking area on the 3,320 sqm corner site. FK’s urban context report describes the proposal as a residential development comprising apartments, resident amenities, commercial space, and integrated landscaping positioned to maximise bay views and northern sunlight access.

Renders show a deeply articulated tower with curved balconies stepping above a lower masonry podium that frames a landscaped forecourt facing Mercer Street. The design intentionally preserves sightlines toward the adjacent church buildings, with the podium scaled to reinforce the heritage edge before the tower recedes upward.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bdca91e-66f7-4ac7-8baa-2f93bd5b564e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/geelong%20site.png?VersionId=QOhbino4ZgzKYw5dW3QE14E.2yq.Sv87" />

The planning report highlights the site’s strategic location within 400 metres of key Geelong destinations including Cunningham Pier, the Geelong Station precinct, Deakin University, and the convention centre. Bus services run directly along Mercer Street, while the Corio Bay foreshore sits around 100 metres north of the site.

The proposal arrives amid accelerating redevelopment across central Geelong, where planning policy continues to encourage higher-density housing close to transport infrastructure and the waterfront. Mercer Street in particular has emerged as a focal point for taller apartment development due to its proximity to Geelong Station, the bay, and major civic infrastructure.

Joel Robinson

Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct

Development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the next residential stage of their $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan, lodging plans for 512 more apartments within the precinct on surplus racecourse land at 110 Wilson Street, Moonee Ponds.

The proposed development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trackside-house-110-wilson-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Trackside Gardens</a>&nbsp;in the planning application, follows the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-hamton-and-hostplus-reveal-sixth-stage-of-moonee-valley-park-masterplan">recent unveiling of the sixth-stage Cox Place Precinct</a> and continues the long-running transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse into one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects.

Positioned on the north-eastern edge of the racecourse adjacent to CityLink, Trackside Gardens will comprise three residential buildings rising between 61.8 metres and 86.4 metres within a heavily landscaped precinct shaped by Hamton’s Nature Based Cities framework.

The project forms part of the broader Moonee Valley Park redevelopment being delivered by Hamton, Hostplus and the Moonee Valley Racing Club, which is reshaping the 40-hectare racecourse site into a mixed-use neighbourhood with housing, retail, commercial space, hotels, parkland and community infrastructure.

Trackside Gardens sits separately to the recently proposed Cox Place Precinct, a five-building stage comprising around 1,100 residences, two build-to-rent buildings, two build-to-sell towers, retail, office space, and a hotel overlooking the racetrack. Together, the projects continue to accelerate housing delivery across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fc1941e-52d3-41c6-abc4-0f13fe8ae5ea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/DA%20Edits%20%281%29.png?VersionId=7qwRHq5dcvXWNot2hNOgoQhN2GIWudNK" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> with landscape architecture by Tract, Trackside Gardens has been conceived as a botanical-style residential precinct prioritising canopy planting, communal green space, and vertical landscaping.

“The architectural vision for the proposed development centres around buildings in a botanical park setting that champions the important role of nature,” the planning submission states.

“The proposal incorporates principles of biophilic design, with landscape and environmentally sustainable development influencing the ultimate design response of the buildings and prioritising the ground plane to ensure a high amenity for both occupants and visitors.”&nbsp;

Trackside Gardens will deliver 512 apartments across the three buildings, alongside 518 basement car spaces and 523 bicycle spaces. Around 20 per cent affordable housing is proposed across the broader North East Precinct, equating to around 158 dwellings.&nbsp;

The affordable housing component will be concentrated within the Wilson East building, while the remaining apartments are expected to be delivered as build-to-sell residences.

Trackside Gardens has been designed around Hamton’s Nature Based Cities initiative, founded by Executive Chair Paul Hameister OAM in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Urbis, Ark Resources and Tract. The initiative promotes integrating higher-density urban development with significant biodiversity, tree canopy and landscape outcomes.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89353449-7b3c-42fd-8fd8-8bf64a5ef80f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_4.png?VersionId=X8jRt0P2L7fIWjLhfX6gPknXToXIBeLj" />

A comprehensive landscape strategy would introduce deep soil planting, vertical greening, communal gardens, and new pedestrian links throughout the site.

Planning documents state the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, a 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and “Exemplary” Nature Based Cities certification.&nbsp;

The proposal joins an expanding pipeline of approved and proposed buildings within Moonee Valley Park, including the recently launched Eveline apartments and the approved Grandstand North and South towers.

Hamton has increasingly focused on precinct-scale, nature-led communities across Melbourne’s middle-ring suburbs, with projects spanning Hawthorn, Kew, and Moonee Ponds.

Hampton unveils Trackside Gardens, latest stage of $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan

The Paul Gedoun-led <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Group</a> has achieved another milestone in its $1 billion transformation of Rainbow Bay on the southern Gold Coast with the completion of the company’s third project in four years, the $160 million <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a> residences.

Delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, Esprit buyers have now moved into the 94 apartments across two interconnected buildings at 217-227 Boundary Street.

The successful settlement of Esprit marks another astounding chapter in the S&amp;S story, which launched its highly successful Flow apartments three years ago and created its own ultra-luxury branded fingerprint on an area craving new luxury residences.

Most early purchasers have secured gains of well over $1 million since the project launched in 2021.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the completion of Esprit reflects sustained demand for premium apartments in tightly held coastal locations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Esprit has attracted buyers seeking a combination of quality design, considered amenity and a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate,” said Gedoun.

“We identified some years ago that Rainbow Bay is a unique market where supply of luxury residences is limited, and we see the settlements in Esprit further underpinning this thinking - that for both owner-occupiers and investors.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

A key feature of the development is ‘Club Esprit’, a 1,000sqm residents-only rooftop level combining wellness and recreation, believed to be a first for the Gold Coast, and which is fast becoming a signature of the S&amp;S brand.

Positioned to capture views across Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay and the Tweed River, the rooftop includes a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga lawn, sauna and steam facilities, ice bath, private dining spaces, outdoor cinema and landscaped areas for residents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> Director Jayde Pezet, who led the sales campaign for Esprit and S&amp;S’s Flow and Awaken apartments, said the project’s performance reflects both the strength of the product and the depth of demand for premium apartments on the southern Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“In some cases, we’ve seen values double since launch, which is a clear reflection of how tightly held Rainbow Bay has become and the level of demand for well-executed projects in this market,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers recognised early what S&amp;S Projects was delivering here, and that conviction has been rewarded as the project has progressed towards completion.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=214819]

Esprit offers a mix of two- three and four-bedroom apartments and sits within walking distance of the beachfront, cafés and local amenities, reinforcing its appeal as both a lifestyle and investment destination.

The project is the third completed by S&amp;S Projects in Rainbow Bay, following Flow Residences and Awaken Residences, which together have contributed to the suburb’s emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after coastal pockets. &nbsp;

S&amp;S Projects is continuing its investment in the area with Radia, a $215 million development currently under construction.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

Gedoun said the completion of Esprit signals continued confidence in the southern Gold Coast market.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen strong interest in well-located, high-quality apartments, particularly in areas where future development opportunities are limited."

“That’s been a key factor in the performance of Esprit and the broader Rainbow Bay market”.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Owners move in as Esprit completes at Rainbow Bay

Few developers can boast a portfolio across South East Queensland's luxury markets quite like <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a>.

The builder-developer, founded in 2004 by Managing Director Brook Monahan, has projects in planning, on the market, and under construction, from Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach to Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane.

With a pipeline exceeding $2 billion, Mosaic remains highly selective when it comes to development sites, having spent years refining its strategy around feasibility research and product planning. The group is set to continue growing into 2026 and beyond.

In Brisbane, Mosaic currently has three projects in the market. It is in the final release stage at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford</a> in Kangaroo Point, which is approaching complete sellout ahead of its late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328123]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, The Bedford comprises 128 two- and three-bedroom residences. A selection of ultra-luxury Masterpiece Series Skyhomes, positioned across the top levels, offer expansive floor plans and sweeping views of the river and city.

High-end inclusions, such as natural stone benchtops, bespoke cabinetry, and Miele appliances, feature throughout all apartments, alongside the Rooftop Recreation &amp; Retreat Sky Terrace. This includes a resort-style pool with sun deck and loungers, spa, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room, private dining room with a full kitchen, residents' lounge, multiple barbeque and relaxation zones, an outdoor viewing deck, and landscaped gardens with water features, all oriented to sweeping city and river views.

A gym with indoor and outdoor zones, and a golf simulator, further enhances recreational choice within the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328119]

A defining feature of the development is its integrated mixed-use component, which will deliver Kangaroo Point's first major supermarket, alongside a café and liquor store, bringing long-awaited convenience to the peninsula.

Monahan says The Bedford represents the culmination of a near-decade-long journey, after first identifying the A-grade Prospect Street site in 2016. While they came close to acquiring it at the time, the site was ultimately purchased by Woolworths' development arm, Fabcot. The opportunity resurfaced in 2024 when the site, vacant for nearly three decades, was brought back to market.

Monahan says Mosaic projects often begin years before any formal plans are drawn. Their new South Brisbane development is no exception, with the site first earmarked in 2018.

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan says. "Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141711 project_image_fid=353495]

A similar story unfolded at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a> in Kangaroo Point, opposite The Gabba. Like The Bedford, it is also approaching sellout of its 125 two- and three-bedroom apartments. The majority of sales are attributed to returning customers and referrals, with a balanced mix of investors and a strong majority of owner-occupiers.

BDA Architecture was again engaged to design the 22-storey building, which will feature a suite of wellness and lifestyle amenities, including a golf simulator and cinema, a commercial-grade gym, and a rooftop recreation level with a pool, steam room, sauna, cold plunge, teppanyaki bar, private dining spaces, and landscaped terraces.

Construction is on track for completion in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Mosaic's latest offering is its most ambitious yet, boasting a rare, north-facing riverfront position on Montague Road in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale by Mosaic</a> is a 39-storey tower comprising just over 200 residences and Masterpiece Series Sky Homes. Designed in partnership with Bureau Proberts, it will feature nearly 3,000 sqm of genuine, internationally benchmarked six-star, hotel-style amenities, including a wellness precinct, pool, gym, massage and treatment rooms, cinema, golf simulator, and extensive outdoor dining areas across a two-level rooftop deck.

Early works are underway, with full construction expected to commence in the second half of 2026, and an anticipated late 2029 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Since 2012 alone, Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects and is set to deliver another $2 billion worth of developments, comprising hundreds of luxury apartments, each defined by Mosaic's signature standards of quality, detail, and delivery.

"We never arrive, there is no finish line," says Monahan. "Our ambition is to keep evolving what luxury means, creating design- and lifestyle-led residences in incredible locations, places people genuinely aspire to and want to live, homes that are loved deeply and endure long beyond their moment."

Mosaic's Midas Touch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> (Urban) has broken ground at Keira Place, its new major mixed-use residential precinct in the heart of Wollongong CBD.

Held at 120-122 Smith Street, the groundbreaking marked the commencement of construction on Stage 1 of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, with the opening of the new display suite. 
&nbsp; 
Keira Place is a State Significant Development that will deliver new housing supply, affordable homes and inclusive living options within walking distance of Wollongong’s CBD, coastline, transport, hospital and education precincts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369868] 
&nbsp; 
Stage 1 is now under construction and will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, along with activated ground-floor retail and commercial space. 
&nbsp; 
Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the groundbreaking represented a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected Urban’s long-term commitment to regional cities.

“Today’s groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong’s city centre,” Elias said. 
&nbsp; 
“Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369869] 
&nbsp; 
Hon. Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Member for Wollongong said Keira Place is exactly the kind of development Wollongong needs – delivering new homes close to transport, employment and services, while supporting the continued growth and renewal of the CBD.

"This project reflects the Minns Labor Government's commitment to increasing housing supply in well-located areas." 
&nbsp; 
Wollongong Lord Mayor Cr Tania Brown said Keira Place would deliver lasting community benefits for the city. 
&nbsp; 
"Keira Place is a welcome addition to Wollongong's CBD delivering new housing, affordable homes and activated street-level spaces that will benefit our community for years to come," Brown said. 
&nbsp; 
"Urban Property Group's investment reflects the confidence that quality developers have in Wollongong's future, and I look forward to seeing this precinct come to life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369867] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/dko">DKO,</a> Keira Place prioritises liveability and long-term performance, with landscaped shared spaces, generous apartment layouts and a pedestrian-friendly streetscape along Smith Street. 
&nbsp; 
Residents will have access to landscaped podium areas, communal rooftop amenities with views to Mount Keira and the Wollongong skyline, and convenient ground-level retail.

The development will have 10-year Latent Defects Insurance by Resilience Insurance.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144442]

Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD

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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Tenant contraction in Macquarie Park is not expected to continue, according to Colliers International’s latest Metro Office report.
“While Macquarie Park has experienced tenant contraction over the last six months, we don’t expect this to continue as tenants continue to be priced out of North Sydney and Chatswood leading them to consider Macquarie Park as a viable alternative.
"After a decade of next to no net effective rental growth over the last six months, net effective rents have increased 9.8 per cent and 13.6 per cent for A and B Grade respectively.
"Underpinning current and future rental growth is the ongoing residential rezoning taking place in peripheral suburban markets such as Epping and Frenchs Forest, as displaced tenants seek alternative accommodation within Macquarie Park,” the report stated.
Colliers says that Macquarie Park is able to outcompete Chatswood for office tenants.
“Despite Chatswood being seen as a direct competitor for office tenants, the floor plates offered are restricted by size and Macquarie Park is able to accommodate tenants looking for larger, more efficient floor plates.
"The next two years should see 90,000sqm of office space supplied at 45 Waterloo Street (25,000sqm is precommitted to the NSW Government) and we expect this to satisfy demand for larger floor plate users that are unable to secure such space in denser metro markets,” the report advised.
Macquarie Park is expected to be the centre of office organisations Colliers says.
“Furthermore, Macquarie Park is expected to become a primarily residential and office centre as organisations begin to shift their industrial function to dedicated western and south western industrial markets.
"According to the PCA, vacancy increased from 7.1 per cent to 7.5 per cent in the six months to January 2017 with net absorption registering -7,475sqm for the period,” the report stated.
A 90 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-macquarie+park-502164638">32 Dehli Road</a>, Macquarie Park (above) has been listed for $575,000.
Similarly a 214 sqm office at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-pymble-502349046">Suite 11 19 Bridge Street</a>, Pymble (below) has been listed for $800,000.
<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/2017/05/02/Suite%2011%2019%20Bridge%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Tenant contraction in Macquarie Park expected to not continue: Colliers

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Sydney’s retail market has grown substantially over the past 12 months, according to a recent Herron Todd White report.
The property valuation firms says that the retail market in Sydney has seen substantial growth over the past 12 months as a result of increased demand for good investment assets, growth in rental income and generally lower vacancy rates.
The next 12 months look set to follow a similar trend. Increased demand from investors will continue to drive the market.
Properties with established retail tenants will be popular this year.
“Late in 2016 we saw some strong sales which showed tight capitalisation rates for assets with strong lease covenants, including some with sub 5% capitalisation rates in the Sydney CBD,” the report stated.
The demand for CBD assets remains strong as the buzz around infrastructure improvements continues.
Generally rents look likely to remain stable this year, HTW noted although an increase in prime locations was evident in 2016 with a strong probability of this continuing in 2017.
"Recent media coverage of failing fashion retail chains may have some impact on demand from tenants.
"However food and beverage outlets seem to be going strong in most locations, with demand for these types of retail properties likely to continue.
"Suburban retail assets with good lease covenants have also seen growth over the past 12 months.
"This is likely to continue as investors look for strong performing assets with future growth potential."
Strip retail with a history of good retail trade such as King Street, Newtown; Darling Street, Balmain; and Crown Street, Surry Hills have all seen an increase in sales activity which looks set to continue in an upward trend in 2017.
Looking ahead, the outlook for retail in Sydney overall remains positive for 2017, HTW added.
“We expect prime locations to continue to perform well along with properties perceived to have growth or redevelopment opportunities in the future.
"That said we are of the opinion that the market is reaching the peak of the cycle and any tightening of monetary policy or increase in the cost of debt will result in the prevailing investment yields not being sustainable.
"For the time being though, all signs are that 2017 will be a good year for retail assets,” the report stated.
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Sydney retail market rises while rents remain steady: HTW

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A number of indicators suggest that Melbourne’s strong run of price rises may be nearing an end.
There’s no doubt the Melbourne market overall is strong and currently one of the most buoyant in the nation. Some research sources have Melbourne house price growth ahead of Sydney now, although others in the land of dodgy data still have Sydney leading. 
An analysis by Performance Property Advisory finds that the key indicators, while slightly mixed, suggest that Melbourne is now coming to the end of its growth cycle.
Indicators which point to a moderation in price growth include the firm’s affordability index, the level of rental yields, the high price growth in the past three years relative to longer-term trends and a decline in the influence of foreign investors.
Director David McMillan says: “From an investment point of view, Melbourne is showing all the signs of a market running out of steam.”
He says the firm’s Affordability Index (AI) is currently sitting at 43 percent and historically the Melbourne market has struggled to grow past this point.
“Properties become unaffordable in Melbourne when the market’s AI rises to around 45 percent,” he says. “Melbourne’s AI is hovering around the 43 percent mark, indicating that properties are approaching a natural ceiling. The most likely outcome is a low-growth environment over the next 2-3 years.” 
McMillan says that from 2009 to 2016, incomes rose approximately 15 percent while house prices rose 79 percent.
“The out-performance of house prices against incomes is, in our view, unsustainable and this is a negative for future price growth in Melbourne,” he says.
“It is clear that the three-year price movement is well above trend at 12.96 percent per annum. On that basis it could be said that the Melbourne market is likely to slow down in the short term.” 
McMillan also notes that Melbourne has the second lowest yields among the major cities, with only Sydney lower. “Due to an out-performing median house price, we have seen yields progressively deteriorating, which is a negative for both investors and first-home buyers,” he says. 
The report says total foreign investment in Victoria has quadrupled in the last three years, from around $6.6 billion to $26.6 billion, but is expected to decline in the coming year.
“While we encourage foreign investment, the phenomenal rise has led to over-speculation and over-building in some pockets of Melbourne – the consequences of which are yet to be fully understood by the market.
“Given that the banks have now ceased lending to foreigners, we expect that this number will reduce as much as $10 billion in the 2017 financial year. The large swings in foreign investment have distorted normal market cycles and are expected to lead to increased supply.”
But price decline is not expected, as there are counter-balancing positives for the Melbourne market. They include a high level of proposed infrastructure spending by the federal and state governments, the low rate of unemployment, relatively low levels of stock for sale, a low “Days On Market” indicator, and strong levels of population growth (both existing and projected future rises). 
“Victoria has gone from being a loser from Net Interstate Migration in the 1990s, to a fairly neutral position during the 2000s, to being a winner since 2010, which has been a key factor of the price growth we have seen since 2009.”
Performance Property does note, however, that there has been a level of oversupply in B and C grade housing and apartment stock.
It recommends that investors avoid the off-the-plan apartment market and I wholeheartedly endorse that. “This market is showing no value and price falls in the short term are possible,” McMillan says. “There are no fundamentals that support price growth in the short term. 
But he does see some value opportunities in the Lifestyle and Middle Ring housing markets. 
“This is really a tale of two markets, with house-and-land packages on the metro fringe and inner-city off-the-plan property over-supplied, while the established school belt areas of Melbourne are in short supply,” he says.
Terry Ryder is the founder of <a href="https://www.hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="mailto:%20%3Cscript%20type='text/javascript'%3E%20%3C!--%20var%20prefix%20=%20'ma'%20+%20'il'%20+%20'to';%20var%20path%20=%20'hr'%20+%20'ef'%20+%20'=';%20var%20addy38821%20=%20'ryder'%20+%20'@';%20addy38821%20=%20addy38821%20+%20'hotspotting'%20+%20'.'%20+%20'com'%20+%20'.'%20+%20'au';%20document.write('%3Ca%20'%20+%20path%20+%20'/''%20+%20prefix%20+%20':'%20+%20addy38821%20+%20'/'%3E');%20document.write(addy38821);%20document.write('%3C//a%3E');%20//--%3E/n%20%3C/script%3E%3Cscript%20type='text/javascript'" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter.</a>
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Melbourne’s strong run of property price rises may be ending

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The total number of new listings in Melbourne has increased, according to CoreLogic’s latest report.
The property data firm says new listings in Melbourne are up by 6.4 percent over the same time last year to 8,010.
However the number of total listings has declined slightly by 0.6 percent to sit at 28,788.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/05/22/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-22%20at%2012.19.52%20pm.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</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/2017/05/22/Screen%20Shot%202017-05-22%20at%2012.19.52%20pm.jpg" alt="">
This is in contrast to Perth where the total number of new listings have declined by 5.1 percent compared to the same period last year.
A month ago there were 7400 new listings across Melbourne.
 
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/10/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-10%20at%2011.48.24%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</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/2017/04/10/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-10%20at%2011.48.24%20am.jpg" alt="">
A two bedroom apartment at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-melbourne-125524614" target="_blank">G17/61 Mackenzie Street</a>, Melbourne (above) has recently been listed for between $760,000 to $830,000.
Similarly a three bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-vic-attwood-125524294" target="_blank">56 Ardlie Street</a>, Attwood (below) has recently been listed for an estimated price reserve of between $700,000 to $750,000.
<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/2017/05/22/56%20Ardlie%20Street.jpg" alt="">
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Melbourne new listings spurt to 8,010: CoreLogic

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Melbourne’s industrial markets are likely to benefit from ongoing economic and population growth, strong retail trade and proposed infrastructure projects, according to Cushman &amp; Wakefield's latest report.
Given the strong fundamentals and limited available stock in general, competition to secure investment assets will remain strong over the near term which may prompt further, though modest, yield compression, the report advised.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/18/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-18%20at%209.30.26%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</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/2017/04/18/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-18%20at%209.30.26%20am.jpg" alt="">
"Melbourne’s occupier market remains active, driven by manufacturing, logistics, and, postal and warehousing sectors.
Available space in the East/South East markets remains tight, as such most of the larger scale leasing activity has been in the Western market.
Anmar and Isuzu trucks have most recently committed to a purpose-built facility (37,000 sq m) in DEXUS’ Industrial Estate on Foundation Road, Laverton North," the report stated.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/18/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-18%20at%209.30.37%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</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/2017/04/18/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-18%20at%209.30.37%20am.jpg" alt="">
"In reflection of limited vacant space, prime net face rents in the East and South East markets have shown strongest rental growth, increasing by 11% and 12% over the last six months to $90-$100 and $85-$95 per sq m respectively for assets &lt;4,000 sq m and &lt;6,000 sq m.
Melbourne industrial investment totalled $200m in Q1 2017, a considerably stronger result than the $95m recorded in Q1 2016," the report commented.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/18/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-18%20at%209.30.53%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</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/2017/04/18/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-18%20at%209.30.53%20am.jpg" alt="">
Rolling annual investment volume increased 12% q-o-q, largely as a result of investment in the West being above the longer-run average over the past twelve months.
"The West recorded the largest investment volume for the second consecutive quarter, with much of the $115m in Q1 underpinned by Deutsche Asset Management’s acquisition of 45 Fulton Drive, Derrimut for $36.1m, coupled with Cache Logistics Trust’s purchase of 217-225 Boundary Road, Laverton North for $22.2m.
In light of strong investment into the West, prime yields in this market have tightened 25-50 bps over the past six months to 6.25%-6.75%," the report stated.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/04/18/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-18%20at%209.31.02%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</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/2017/04/18/Screen%20Shot%202017-04-18%20at%209.31.02%20am.jpg" alt="">
However, yields remain tightest in the South East, reflecting strong competition for limited quality stock.
 
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Ongoing economic growth contributing to Melbourne's industrial market

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Throughout 2016 Townsville’s retail market remained patchy, according to Herron Todd White’s recent report.
The property valuation firm says that the total transactions of all properties have equalled to $5 million.
"Quality properties with strong lease covenants transacted, several high profile neighbourhood shopping centres changed hands and a number of smaller showrooms, bulky goods centres and convenience centres also transacted at around the $5 million mark," the report commented.
This indicated a strong improvement for quality assets in regional areas at investment yields of circa 7%, demonstrating the yield disparity when compared with similar style assets in the southern metro markets.
"The year ahead for the retail sector is likely to remain patchy, with quality property with strong lease covenants continuing to attract interest.
However the balance of the market is likely to remain in a holding pattern at the bottom of the market cycle," the report warned.
The Cairns retail market passed through the bottom of the cycle during the course of 2014, but the limited recovery thus far means that the retail property market remains relatively flat.
"It must also be said that retail property sales in Cairns are extremely sporadic, with most sales involving retail property of mixed use retail and office buildings or tenant buyout of single premises.
High exposure CBD retail space remains reasonably well occupied, but vacancies are more noticeable in the lesser exposure locations and on the CBD fringe.
Rents have remained generally stable, showing ranges of $600 to $800 per square metre per annum for prime CBD space and $1,000 to $1,500 per square metre per annum in key tourist precincts such as the Cairns Esplanade," the report stated.
"Blue chip retail located within the main Esplanade tourist strip as well as the central business district shows reasonably low vacancies, although there is also limited demand from new businesses.
"There remains good investor demand for well leased properties which rarely come onto the market.
"Though the economic conditions in Cairns are likely to improve through buoyant tourism activity, little change is expected in retail market conditions during 2017."
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Townsville retail market begins to improve while Cairns remains flat: HTW

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A number of positive factors are at play in the Newcastle office market according to valuation firm Herron Todd White in their April report, which puts the NSW city approaching the peak of the market position.
The January PCA Office Market Report has recorded an audited net absorption in the 12 months to January of 12,183 square metres.
This is the highest rate since 2009. The additional stock of 11,140 square metres in this time comes primarily in the form of 168 Parry Street and 18 Honeysuckle Drive. 
The developer at 18 Honeysuckle Drive is prepared to double down on the success of this mixed-use development on the harbour front site across the road.
The Newcastle Herald reports that the Hunter Development Corporation’s acting general manager Valentina Misevska said the concept for the 21 Honeysuckle Drive site was designed by Sydney firm SJB Architects and comprises three buildings with a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, individual townhouses and some retail activation on the ground floor. It is understood the NLA provided in the Lee Wharf Stage 4 and 5 will be circa 22,000 square metres. 
Property Observer found office spaces advertised for lease at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-nsw-newcastle-501202199" target="_blank">18 Honeysuckle Drive</a> through Colliers International. The office spaces belong to the Doma Group. The 6,500 sqm A-grade commercial office tower has four plates of  approximately 1,284 sqm to choose from.
<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/2017/04/21/HTWNewcastle.jpg" alt="">
Office rents are in a relatively stable environment, with new stock and demand generally on par. We’re still seeing very strong owner-occupier interest from self managed super funds on the small to mid sized strata office market in the inner city and inner suburbs. Interest around the new Wickham transport interchange is particularly hot and values along the new light rail or where a retail outlet may be able to open out into the Honeysuckle Precinct from Hunter Street are also on a strong upward surge. 
"We have now entered a stage in the local office market where we are seeing very low yields and while interest rates remain low, the market may be able to sustain these. However when we see interest rates rise, so too will the yield expectations of the market," say HTW.
"Rental growth has not kept up with capital growth in the CBD and while direct vacancy rates across the total market sit at 8.5%, with a mooted 22,000 square metres potentially hitting the market in the short term, we may see macro and micro factors combine shortly to push office values down once the market peak has been breached."
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Newcastle office market enters low yield phase: HTW

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A new office and warehouse dual occupancy in Melbourne’s south-east suburb of Huntingdale has been sold to a private investor.
The two units were 308 square metres each, with street frontage and secure on-site parking, built on a 1388 square metre industrial 1 zoned site.
38 Shafton Street sold for $1.15 million, while 32 Hargreaves Street sold for $905,000.
Both are destined for a self-managed super fund, according to Savills associate director Daniel Kelly, who brokered the deal.
Kelly said the were sold with three year leases at a total rental return of $118,000 per annum net plus GST and outgoings.
He said tax advantages available to SMSFs and low interest rates were advantageous for buyers.
“Having the tenancies in place on new leases and the quality of the product coupled with substantial depreciation benefits is an easy fit for a self-managed super fund,’’ Kelly said.
The vendor was a local developer.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Dual office warehouse units in Huntingdale sold for $2.05 million

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A 500 square metres of building area on a 654 square metre site in Deepdene, Melbourne has sold to a local investor for $3,532,000.
The 68-72 Whitehorse Road property is zoned Commercial 2 and includes 13 metres of street frontage to Whitehorse Road, 48 metres on Barnsbury Road and rear laneway frontage of 13 metres.
Marketing agents Tom Maule and Adrian Boutsakis of Teska Carson said they received 80 bids from eight separate bidders for the property.
They said the property offered development potential and was sold subject to three leases with a total rental of $114,510 per annum on a 3.24 percent yield.
The tenancies include a large retail showroom, a two bedroom residence, and warehouse space.
Boutsakis said the property was close to public transport, recreational facilities, several of private and public schools, and quick access to major arterial routes.
He said both investors and developers saw the location as an attractive investment due to increasing demand from a growing population.   
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Deepdene mixed use property sells for $3,532,000

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A showroom/office building on Church Street, Hawthorn has been slated for auction with $2.7 million plus expectations.
Located at 33 Church Street, the 520 square metre site, zoned Commercial 1, has nearly 17 metres of street frontage.
The property comprises a 427 square metre, double-fronted, brick showroom/office building with on-site parking for approximately seven cars.
According to marketing agents, Teska Carson’s Matthew Feld and Michael Taylor, the property will be sold subject to a short term lease to a tenant trading as The Kitchen Place at $72,000 per annum + GST and outgoings.
Feld said the property has development upside and a short term lease in one of Melbourne inner-east’s most popular retail and residential precincts.
“The property has great potential for any number of uses and will appeal to a broad range of buyers looking for assets in Melbourne’s best locations,’’ he said.
Taylor said the locality continued to see an upsurge in popularity due to high profile residential and commercial developments that have been completed in recent years as well numerous projects that are currently under construction or in the planning stages.
“The area has seen extensive residential and commercial development in recent times and that will continue, driven by Melbourne’s strong population growth, and property owners in the area will be the beneficiaries,’’ Taylor said.
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