Toorak's dress circle St Georges Road, home to some of the city's priciest homes, is set for a rare new apartment development.

Blood Diamond Group, an entity tied to Tina Brandi, wife of David Brandi who has been a prolific bidder on The Block over the years, has filed plans for an ultra-exclusive development across an amalgamated 3,662 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/104-106-st-georges-road-toorak-vic-3142">104 and 106 St Georges Road</a>.

The proposal would replace two existing homes on the riverfront site with a five-level apartment building cascading down the steeply sloping land toward the Yarra River. Designed by Charles Wright Architects, the development has been carefully shaped around the site’s topography and river environs, with the upper levels stepping back to reduce visual bulk from both St Georges Road and the Yarra corridor.

Planning documents describe the proposal as “a site layout and building typology that is consistent with the emerging character of the area and which provides exceptional amenity for future residents without compromising that of neighbouring properties.”&nbsp;

<img alt="First look: Blood Diamond Group unveils riverfront apartment plans for Toorak Pavilion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ea19a17e-7528-4fa8-b727-05f2f7c025e5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Toorak%20pavilion%20a_0.png?VersionId=rZ2IjdoUL_UrRl1sZ4wZHnQXbYUaEmUQ" />

The scheme comprises 12 apartments, including 10 three-bedroom residences, one one-bedroom apartment, and a substantial split-level five-bedroom penthouse. A 624 sqm communal rooftop terrace will crown the building, while three undercroft levels embedded into the hillside will accommodate apartments and basement parking.

The design leverages the site’s dramatic northern outlook across the Yarra River, with living areas and balconies oriented toward the water. A central atrium running the full height of the building is intended to draw natural light deep into the residences and improve internal amenity.

Landscape architecture by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/jack-merlo">Jack Merlo Design &amp; Landscape</a> will play a major role in softening the built form, particularly along the river edge where significant setbacks have been introduced. The proposal includes a minimum 30-metre setback from the Yarra River boundary, preserving a substantial landscaped buffer between the development and the waterway.

While a mature English Oak near the front of the site is proposed for removal, the plans retain a large English Elm closer to the riverfront, alongside other established vegetation in the lower section of the property.

<img alt="First look: Blood Diamond Group unveils riverfront apartment plans for Toorak Pavilion" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ed3bf19b-5bc7-482f-bde7-41f709a13c3a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Toorak%20pavilion%20b.png?VersionId=SG_kBGu4rOaSPY8FtVcmPJfSCrstuOfg" />

Architecturally, the building adopts strong horizontal forms with expansive glazing and curved balcony edges facing the river. Planning documents note the upper levels “adopt a receding form” to ensure the building responds appropriately to the Yarra River environs overlay controls.&nbsp;

The surrounding streetscape is characterised by large contemporary homes embedded into the hillside, many presenting as modest one or two-storey forms to the street before expanding toward the river frontage below. The planning report notes this established pattern heavily influenced the massing strategy for Toorak Pavilion.&nbsp;

Until the recent sale of the landmark Clendon Road mansion Coonac for around $130 million, St Georges Road held the state's most expensive home, the $80,000,088 derelict "Ghost House" mansion that was bought by crypto king Ed Craven.&nbsp;

Blair House, also on St Georges Road, sold for $74.5 million in 2022.

Joel Robinson

First look: Toorak Pavilions slated for dress circle St Georges Road

Six months after a development site on Kangaroo Point’s Shafston Avenue sold for $6.55 million, plans have been lodged for a 23-storey apartment tower.

A company named JMT Mega Capital, understood to be interstate investors when the 1,222 sqm double block traded late last year through Patona Property, is proposing an 84-apartment development in place of the existing low-rise buildings.

The slender tower at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/212-220-shafston-avenue-east-brisbane-qld-4169">212–220 Shafston Avenue</a>, overlooking the Brisbane River, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/aplus-design-group">Aplus Design Group</a>. It will comprise a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments above six basement levels, topped by rooftop resident amenities.

<img alt="First look: 23-storey Kangaroo Point tower planned for Shafston Avenue riverfront precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e17ba9e-553e-42ef-92b6-22081671521a" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/podium_3.png?VersionId=hlVUf99vrOjUs.vhQs0qV0DhOncUy9T8" />

The development has been designed as a vertically articulated tower with recessed balconies, curved façades and planted edges intended to soften its scale within the evolving Shafston Avenue skyline. In the submitted Urban Design Report, Aplus Design Group said the tower had been “shaped with a slender vertical expression, articulated façades, recessed balcony zones, integrated planting and a clearly defined podium relationship, helping to reduce perceived bulk and create a more elegant contribution to the Shafston Avenue streetscape and broader Kangaroo Point skyline.”

The scheme comprises 84 apartments, including 25 one-bedroom units, 34 two-bedroom apartments and 25 three-bedroom residences. A total of 104 car spaces are proposed across six basement levels, including resident, visitor and accessible parking.

Residents will have access to rooftop communal open space and shared amenities, while the development also incorporates deep planting zones and subtropical landscaping throughout the podium and tower levels. The project includes 35 per cent communal space coverage across the site and a 17.5 per cent deep soil zone allocation to support urban greening outcomes.

The application exceeds the mapped building height under the Kangaroo Point Peninsula Neighbourhood Plan and is being assessed under Brisbane City Council’s impact assessment pathway. The design team argues the additional height is supported by the site’s strategic inner-city location, existing high-density zoning, and proximity to transport and employment hubs.

“The design has been developed to make better use of a well-serviced urban site within an established high-density residential setting, while improving the street presentation and overall quality of the public realm interface,” the report states.

<img alt="First look: 23-storey Kangaroo Point tower planned for Shafston Avenue riverfront precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1ab44b1e-ff45-4bf3-8da8-8aa0cd79db33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_10.png?VersionId=tSxeGekZOqj1e9g3PEn_yFoC3taKDp3U" />

The proposal adds to a growing pipeline of apartment developments reshaping Kangaroo Point ahead of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games, with demand continuing to strengthen for new housing supply in well-connected inner-city precincts.

Mosaic has nearly sold out its under-construction <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford by Mosaic</a>&nbsp;and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a>,&nbsp;while Pikos recently completed <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/skye-residences-by-pikos-kangaroo-point-8-river-terrace-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Skye Residences</a> nearby. Pikos is also delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/gaia-kangaroo-point-108-lambert-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">Gaia</a>, over 230 three- and four-bedroom apartments on Lambert Street.

First look: 23-storey Kangaroo Point apartment tower planned for Shafston Avenue riverfront precinct

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.

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

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 commercial investment with a long term tenant in North Melbourne has been sold at auction by Ray White Commercial for $2,140,000.
The ground floor property at 478-482 Victoria Street, North Melbourne was sold under the hammer to a private investor.
The sale by Ray White Commercial Oakleigh’s George Kelepouris on behalf of a private owner reflected a yield of 5%.
Kelepouris said the onsite auction attracted four bidders.
“This approximately 400 square metre building offered a tremendous investment opportunity. It has an established restaurant operator tenant and is returning net rental of approximately $111,136 per annum,” he said.
“The tenant’s current five-year lease commenced in May 2014 and there are four options of five years.”
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

North Melbourne investment sold at auction for $2,140,000

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Property services firm JLL is starting a pilot project at its newest Sydney office, 50 Carrington Street, using a humanoid robot as receptionist.
The 57 cm high robot, named JiLL, will greet and support staff, visitors and couriers with a range of front of house tasks, including check-in for meetings, providing directions, contacting hosts and recording and reporting technology or building maintenance issues.
Phil Clark, JLL’s head of business transformation said JiLL will work as part of the WorkSmart Admin Team but will be the sole ‘front of house’ face.
"This allows JiLL’s human colleagues to support the business operations and to focus on more tactical activity," he said.
"JiLL works in conjunction with a tablet based visitor management system.
"She has in-built facial recognition software to enable her to respond differently to team members than to external visitors.
“This is really about automating those tasks such as greeting guests, providing directions, and assisting staff with administrative tasks in the workplace. JiLL’s duties will continue to grow over the coming months."
Chris Hunt, JLL’s Australasian Head of Integrated Facilities Management (IFM) said the pilot of robotics has started with the IFM team in Australia.
"The addition of JiLL to our Carrington Street office will enable our technology innovation team to monitor how clients and visitors respond to robots and the current levels of technology.   
“We are assessing the opportunities for artificial intelligence in the workplace. We see a future for robots in the workplace and organisations will need to understand what robots can offer for the future workplace and they will need a strategy to integrate humans and robots.  We are taking our first step in this journey by JiLL joining the JLL team.
“This is a trend that is developing fast and is something our clients will need to contend with.  We wanted to trial it first, starting small but thinking big and then be able to advise on how best to implement a robotics strategy into the management of building facilities. 
Introducing ‘JiLL’:
Type:   NAO
Model:  V5/H25
JiLL’s current duties:
Assisting visitors with appointments
Providing directions to washrooms
Supporting deliveries and collections
Assisting with forgotten access passes
Recording and reporting building related faults
Recording and reporting IT faults
Weight/height:  5.4kg / 574mm
Country of origin: France / Japan
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

JLL tasks robotic JiLL as receptionist at new Sydney office

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As investment capital becomes more global in its search for returns and diversification, the Savills/Deakin University World Office Yield Spectrum 2H/2016 attempts to compare yields in cities across the world through a standardised set of indicators.
Methodology 
Market Yields 
This yield is derived by capitalising current market rents (Net Face) against current capital values for office buildings. The Net Face rent is the rent payable by the tenant excluding both statutory and operating outgoings (recoverables) and includes the value of any incentive paid to the tenant by way of fitout, cash, rental rebate or rent free. The capital value is calculated to be for the office component only and excludes retail, excess car parking, signage, storage and other “non-office” sources of income. 
<a href="/images/2016/10/04/Officemarket1.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/04/Officemarket1.png" alt="">
Effective Yields 
This yield is derived by capitalising current market rents (Net Effective) against current capital values for office buildings. The Net Effective rent is the rent payable by the tenant excluding both statutory and operating outgoings (recoverables) and excludes the value of any incentive paid to the tenant by way of fitout, cash, rental rebate or rent free. The capital value is calculated to be for the office component only and excludes retail, excess car parking, signage, storage and other ‘non-office’ sources of income. 
<a href="/images/2016/10/04/Officemarket2.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/10/04/Officemarket2.png" alt="">
 
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World office CBD Grade A market yields: Savills 

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Shippies, the 1840s Hobart hotel premises are currently for sale at Battery Point.
<img src="/images/2016/10/05/600_ships.jpg" alt="">
The property at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-tas-battery+point-502127254">29 Trumpeter Street</a> is a Hobart institution.
<img src="/images/2016/10/05/Screen%20Shot%202016-10-05%20at%201.03.50%20PM.png" alt="">
The Shipwrights Arms Hotel is tenanted for four years from 2015 with a four year option.
It has a land area of 1,460 sqm fronting three streets and is part of Hobart's history in the prestigious Battery Point area.
<img src="/images/2016/10/05/Screen%20Shot%202016-10-05%20at%201.04.46%20PM.png" alt="">
Its net rent is around $234,000 p.a.
It is offered through Knight Frank agent Ian Reed with expressions of interest closing on November 3.
<img src="/images/2016/10/03/29%20Trumpeter%20Street.jpg" alt="">
The property last sold in 2006 at $2 million. It previously sold in 1992 at $772,000.
Construction is brick with suspended timber floors and galvanised iron roof. Ceilings are plasterboard and lathe and plaster; windows are timber and aluminium. A single lift and stair well provide access to the upper level with a fire escape at the rear.
The property has two bars, commercial kitchen, extensive dining area, nine accommodation rooms and recently refurbished manager’s residence. The property also has a sealed car park with 20 spaces. 
<img src="/images/2016/10/05/Screen%20Shot%202016-10-05%20at%201.06.11%20PM.png" alt="">
The hotel's reputation is as an authentic maritime village pub, the closest thing to an old English Corner Pub.
It marketed itself as "No Pokies, No TAB, No Tofu, No Keno, No Live Music, No Bok Choy."
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-tas-battery+point-502119426" target="_blank">The local post office</a> is also for sale.
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Shippies, Battery Point hotel premises for sale

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A heritage-listed hotel in Queensland’s West Ipswich has just changed hands for $770,000 through Ray White Commercial.
City View Hotel at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-qld-west+ipswich-501677405" target="_blank">277 Brisbane Street, West Ipswich</a> was built in 1908 and was designed by architect Brockwell Gill.
Distinguishable for its two-storey octagonal tower, the building demonstrates the characteristics of a Federation-era provincial hotel. 
The hotel includes two function rooms, bars and nine rooms currently being used for accommodation. It also has a manager’s residence and other amenities. 
The hotel is on a 1,444 sqm block of land. It enjoys good traffic exposure and the zoning is CBD Residential High Density (mixed use). 
Other features include a grand timber stairway with balustrade , pressed metal ceilings and stained glass windows.
The property was sold by Ray White Commercial’s Morrie Marsden and Les Svensson. 
The hotel is being renovated into accommodation for backpackers by businessman Hamish Parker.
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Heritage hotel in Queensland’s Ipswich changes hands

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In times of economic uncertainty retail property is largely regarded as a defensive investment due to the large percentage of non-discretionary spending supporting income streams, such as food.
Over the past 25 years, shopping centres have been increasingly acquired by institutional owners who could actively manage, develop and maintain these centres. The global financial crisis severely curtailed the purchasing power of institutions and allowed other buyers to enter the market.
A sub regional shopping centre is generally defined in the industry as a local shopping centre comprising at least one full line supermarket, a full line discount department store and around 40 or more specialty shops.
The total gross lettable area of retail  floorspace will typically range between 10,000 and 30,000 square metres. The key features include convenience and an expanded range of food, fashion and services, located in residential areas servicing many immediate neighbourhoods. Trading hours will generally be extended and will cater for basic day-to-day retail needs.
Clearly, a number of important factors impact the performance of a sub regional shopping centre. The performance of the supermarket and discount department store has a very strong bearing on the returns of the centre. The supermarket and discount department store can be impacted by the range on offer, the price point, the ratio of car parking and opening hours. This, in turn, can impact the performance of the adjoining specialty stores.
The catchment area also impacts the performance of the centre. The road system, the points of access and competition are important factors. Critically, the size and age of the population as well as capacity for growth in population over the long term can have a material impact on centre performance. Increasingly, ethnic factors are playing a role as centres need to deal with strong levels of immigration.
Employment
The retail sector always faces cyclical and structural issues. Some cyclical issues are starting to move in its favour.
Employment is growing strongly in four or five sectors and shrinking in four or five sectors and the jobs gained and lost are not necessarily in the same physical place. This means certain catchment areas are doing it tough and some are doing well.
The size and shape of the workforce has a profound impact on retail property because wages determine spending and jobs de ne catchment areas. Australia is almost unique in the world as being one of very few countries that have expanded their workforce over the last decade. The size of the Australian workforce continues to grow and unemployment edges down.
This has occurred partly because wages growth has been insipid allowing more workers to be hired than may otherwise be the case. Asset price inflation has bolstered household wealth whilst household income growth has been subdued. Positive contributions to household spending capacity have come in the form of lower interest rates, lower petrol prices and greater comfort around job security. Nevertheless, growth in household disposable income remains below average.
The newly arrived population has a profound impact on property because they need somewhere to live and goods to put in their homes. Instant housing and bulky goods demand. Less people leaving the country means fewer houses freed up for those arriving.
With the size of the workforce growing and more people coming into the country (and less leaving), it is little wonder that a record level of housing construction is underway. A moderation in bank lending coupled with changes to taxation on foreign investors and stringent planning rules has seen a recent fall in dwelling building approvals. This leads us to believe we are at, or near, the peak in housing construction for this cycle. 
Consumer spending
Changes in consumer spending patterns since 2007 appear to have had an adverse effect on department store, apparel and discretionary retailing turnover generally.
This has impacted tenants in regional and some sub regional shopping centres. Some sub regional shopping centres have been immune from this. The ABS turnover statistics in the accompanying table show strong growth over a long period in most of the retail categories found at a sub regional shopping centre. Supermarkets have been enjoying strong turnover growth as have their associated liquor stores.
Discount department stores dealing in electronics, household goods including furniture and discount clothing have also enjoyed strong turnover growth. Associated specialty stores such as a chemist, a take away food store, a bakery, a newsagent and other local service providers such as a dry cleaner may be found in the tenancy mix.
<a href="/images/2016/09/29/National%20Retail%20Turnover%20Growth%20by%20Category%20Seasonally%20Adjusted%2012%20months%20to%20May%202016.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/29/National%20Retail%20Turnover%20Growth%20by%20Category%20Seasonally%20Adjusted%2012%20months%20to%20May%202016.jpg" alt="">
The structural issues facing retail are more formidable but not insurmountable. Savills expects the retail sector to evolve to take advantage of the structural issues rather than be over-run by them. The ageing of the population will continue to create challenges for retailers as they jockey for the dollars of retirees.
Retirees can be expected to prefer services over goods and will not necessarily continue to dwell in their traditional catchment areas. Internet retailing has already changed the face of retailing for certain categories of goods and will no doubt continue to evolve and challenge more categories over time. New business models are establishing themselves.
<a href="/images/2016/09/29/Change%20in%20Moving%20Annual%20Turnover%20by%20Category.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/29/Change%20in%20Moving%20Annual%20Turnover%20by%20Category.jpg" alt="">
Sales activity
Savills recorded $1.9 billion of sub regional shopping centre transactions nationally in the 12 months to June 2016, commensurate with $1.9 billion in the previous year and up on the five-year average of $1.6 billion.
In the year to June 2016, 20 sub regional shopping centres were sold against 23 the previous year and is commensurate with the five year average of 20 sales per annum.
<a href="/images/2016/09/29/Sub%20Regional%20Property%20Sales.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/29/Sub%20Regional%20Property%20Sales.jpg" alt="">
There are several factors at work in the capital markets which are having an impact on asset prices. First, there is an abundance of debt and equity available to purchase prime commercial assets on current metrics; second, the pricing of debt and equity domestically, and especially overseas, continues to fall; third, investment fundamentals are sound with no oversupply, little vacancy and good rental growth; and, finally, catchment area fundamentals remain appealing with strong population growth, low unemployment and stable to rising household incomes.
<a href="/images/2016/09/29/Sub%20Regional%20Property%20Sales%20by%20State.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/29/Sub%20Regional%20Property%20Sales%20by%20State.jpg" alt="">
Institutions remained active in the investment market for the 12 months ended June 2016, purchasing 77% of all sub regional shopping centres sold. Foreign investors continue to pursue sub regional shopping centres purchasing 9% of sub regional shopping centres sold. Conditions for Australian institutions have continued to improve and so private investors are increasingly finding themselves unable to compete.
<a href="/images/2016/09/29/Sub%20Regional%20Property%20Sales%20Buyer%20Profile.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/29/Sub%20Regional%20Property%20Sales%20Buyer%20Profile.jpg" alt="">
The average initial yield analysed from transactions of sub regional shopping centres in the year to June 2016 was 6.84% and compares to 7.47% the previous year. The average equated market yield analysed from transactions in the year to June 2016 was 6.97% and compares to 7.49% the previous year
<a href="/images/2016/09/29/Sub%20Regional%20Property%20Sales%20Vendor%20Profile.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/29/Sub%20Regional%20Property%20Sales%20Vendor%20Profile.jpg" alt="">
 . Prime neighbourhood yields at 6.75% in 2006, softening 100 basis points to 7.75% during the GFC and firming 200 basis points to 5.75% currently
. Prime sub regional yields were also at 6.75% in 2006, softening 50 basis points to 7.25% during the GFC and firming 150 basis points to 5.75% currently
. Prime regional (excluding super regional) yields were at 4.75% in 2006, softening 100 basis points to 5.75% during the GFC and firming 100 basis points to 4.75% currently
<a href="/images/2016/09/29/Sub%20Regional%20Property%20Sales%20by%20State%20graph.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/29/Sub%20Regional%20Property%20Sales%20by%20State%20graph.jpg" alt="">
Given the falling costs of both debt and equity and the adopted “lower for longer” view of Savills Research we believe there is more yield compression to come.
Nationally, shopping centre investment yields have continued to firm as highlighted in the both the chart below and in the tables of recent transactions. Sub regional shopping centres continue to transact across a broad range of yields in line with the characteristics of the individual properties.
<a href="/images/2016/09/29/Buyers%20and%20Vendors.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/29/Buyers%20and%20Vendors.jpg" alt="">
Sub regional shopping centre yields as at June 2016 currently range between 5.75% and 7.00%. Typically, yields have firmed from the trough in 2010 by 160 basis points for sub regional shopping centres.
<a href="/images/2016/09/29/Market%20Yields%20by%20Centre%20Type.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2016/09/29/Market%20Yields%20by%20Centre%20Type.jpg" alt="">
Outlook
Australia has been enjoying strong population growth for over a decade and this policy of immigration retains bi-partisan support at Federal Government level.
The history of wealth (and real estate wealth in particular) is the history of immigration. Australia, and Australian capital cities in particular, is forecast to enjoy the fruits of strong immigration.
Retail property can be expected to be a beneficiary of strong population growth. Clearly, some catchment areas will do better than others and this will continue to present the greatest challenge and greatest opportunity for investors.
Catchment areas that can grow their populations through new land release or infill development or pro-active planning policies, should show dramatic increases in turnover especially if the ability to increase retail floorspace is limited. Conversely, those catchment areas that cannot grow their populations with limited available new land supply, draconian or archaic residential planning systems and the capacity for expanded retail competition should deliver below average increases in turnover.
Savills is of the view that interest rates will be “lower for longer” and, combined with a weight of investment capital, should continue to see assets keenly sought after and strong yields given prevailing catchment area fundamentals.
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Many factors in play for sub-regional shopping centre success: Savills

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An office property close to Sydney’s Central station and well suited for a medical/law firm has sold for a very affordable $355,000.
The corner property is located at 5/330 Wattle Street, Ultimo and comprises partition rooms plus a reception area and also offers one parking space in the building. It is currently tenanted.
The floor area is 109 square metres.
The deal was brokered by Stella Geng of Nexus Property.
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Office space in Sydney's Ultimo sold

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An office suite in North Sydney CBD is available for a new tenant paying a gross rent of $280 per week plus GST.
Suite <a href="https://www.rhcommercial.com.au/properties/107-walker-street-north-sydney-2060-new-south-wales" target="_blank">106/107 Walker Street</a> has a floor area of 49 square metres and is minutes from North Sydney train station, banks and other amenities. The suite could prove useful to a small business or startup. 
The fit-out consists of two offices, one meeting room, an open plan area and a kitchen. 
The listing agent is Adam Cardenas of Raine &amp; Horne Commercial.
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Affordable North Sydney office suite up for lease 

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A South Melbourne office offering has been listed for sale with five levels up for grabs.
The property at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-offices-vic-south+melbourne-502061490" target="_blank">190 Coventry Street</a> has a land size of about 120 square metres, with floor areas of between 70 square metres to 120 square metres.
The building is a five level strata office development with rooftop terrace with car parking facilities included.
<img src="/images/2016/10/03/190%20Coventry%20Street.jpg" alt="">
It offers a view of Albert Park Lake and the Melbourne CBD skyline.
It is offered through CBRE agents Tim Last, Nick Lower and Tom Tuxworth.
The building is set to be completed in three months.
Lower recently put an estimated price of $600,000 upwards on each of the floors and suggested owner-occupiers have been looking to purchase through their self-managed super funds.
<img class="aligncenter size-large wp-image-23428" src="https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/news/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/190-coventry-5.jpg" alt="Side cutaway of the 190 Coventry Street building. Photo: Supplied" width="640" height="516">
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Off the plan South Melbourne office levels hit the market

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A retail showroom in NSW’s Weston leased to a leading fashion brand has changed hands for $560,000 through Burgess Rawson.
The freestanding retail building at <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-retail-nsw-weston-502073762" target="_blank">94-96 Cessnock Road, Weston</a> is on a three-year lease until December 2018 to Millers Fashion, which is wholly owned by retail giant Specialty Fashion Group.
The single-tenanted investment property earns a net income of $40,615 per annum, plus GST.
The selling agent was Rhys Parker of Burgess Rawson.
<img src="/images/2016/10/03/Hunter2.jpg" alt="">
It sits on a land area of 1619 square metres.
Weston is in the Cessnock LGA in the Hunter Region.
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