Around 400 additional homes could be built at Southwark Grounds on Port Road, lifting total site capacity from 1300 to around 1700 dwellings.

A recently approved code amendment would allow apartment towers of up to 14 storeys in some areas of Renewal SA’s redevelopment of the former West End Brewery.

Renewal SA Acting Chief Executive Shane Wingard said he welcomed the code amendment, with the increase in heights and homes making a positive impact on the supply of high-quality, well-connected housing close to the city.

“By going higher across some parts of Southwark Grounds, we are adding a substantial number of very well-located homes with little impact on project delivery time or planned open space,” Mr Wingard said.

Since the project officially launched in 2025, Mr Wingard said more than 12,000 enquiries had been received about living at Southwark Grounds.

“The very strong early interest we’ve seen since homes were first released in the precinct reinforces our plans to create more housing opportunities,” he said.

The Southwark Grounds code amendment was launched in December last year, with community engagement undertaken over five weeks from January.

It proposed increasing maximum building heights from eight to 14 storeys on the eastern section of Southwark Grounds, and to 12 storeys across the remainder of the site, with minimum building heights ranging from two to four storeys.

The code amendment was implemented through an Early Commencement policy in late January, allowing developers to quickly explore the viability of increased height and housing yield while other planning processes continue.

One of the first developers delivering apartment sites have already finalised redesigns to increase the number of apartments following the code amendment.

Samaras’ development adjacent to the future Colonel Light Park is now planning to deliver 125 apartments across 11 storeys, significantly greater than original plans of around 50 apartments across four storeys.

The developer is also exploring the potential for additional affordable housing outcomes.

Most of the apartments at Southwark Grounds will be delivered within a master-planned precinct on a large parcel of land on the eastern portion of the site, covering around two-thirds of its 8.4 hectares.

Wingard said detailed precinct planning over the coming months may identify further opportunities to increase yield further that could see total apartment numbers at Southwark Grounds, exceed this number.

Affordable homes at Southwark Grounds will also see a net increase, with Renewal SA maintaining its commitment to a minimum of 20 per cent affordable housing across the development.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Civil works have begun across the site, with construction under way on the first new roads surrounding a townhouse precinct in the south‑west corner of Southwark Grounds. This includes Renewal SA’s 17 Founder’s Row homes, which are on track for completion by Christmas.

“We expect to have people living at Southwark Grounds by the end of the year, so delivering roads and public spaces for those residents is among our highest priorities.”

Construction of 40 townhouses off Anderson Street, known as West Village and being delivered by Contour, is forecast to begin in mid‑2026. Kolabb’s Anderson Lane development will follow shortly after, delivering a further 26 townhouses.

Southwark Grounds is a state government‑led urban renewal project now set to deliver around 1,700 homes over the next decade.

Homes will be supported by a supermarket, a range of retail and hospitality offerings anchored by a revitalised Walkerville Brew Tower, a childcare centre, car parking and well‑connected public spaces.

Joel Robinson

400 new homes planned for Adelaide's former West End Brewery site

Brisbane developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/cavcorp">Cavcorp</a> has lodged plans for a new mixed-use residential development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/55-wyandra-street-teneriffe-qld-4005">55 Wyandra Street</a>, Teneriffe, anchored by an 85-metre public laneway designed to reconnect the suburb’s riverfront with the Gasworks precinct.

The buildings, known as Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane, would replace the existing Queensland Cotton head office site with a 15-storey residential tower transitioning to eight storeys toward Helen Street. The project has been designed by Plazibat Architects and lodged as a code assessable development application for 93 apartments across a 3,401 sqm mixed-use site within the Newstead and Teneriffe Waterfront neighbourhood plan.

Central to the scheme is the transformation of an existing service easement into a publicly accessible cross-block connection linking Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the new laneway will act as both a pedestrian shortcut and a landscaped civic space between the Teneriffe Riverwalk, ferry terminal, and Gasworks precinct.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="26e7f058-b065-4de8-b13d-a2b8cb64dfcc" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/bldg.png?VersionId=sELS0ZKYi361oYipUa1BIKfe_.DLZoFV" />

“The revised proposal delivers a legacy public-realm cross-block link, permanently secured for community use, transforming an existing private easement into a safe, high-quality pedestrian connection between the Teneriffe heritage riverwalk and the Gasworks–Long Island precinct,” the planning report states.

The laneway will sit beneath a large subtropical loggia integrated into the podium levels of the development. The design incorporates deep landscaping, water gardens, lobby spaces, business lounges, and ground-floor apartments to create what Cavcorp describes as a climate-responsive “urban verandah.”

The tower itself has been designed as a slender form with recessed floorplates and curved translucent corners inspired by contemporary Japanese architecture. The building height aligns with the Commercial Road precinct controls, which permit towers up to 15 storeys within proximity to Longland Street.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a8a17d40-43b6-4718-b3fd-67676fcbb485" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers%202_1.png?VersionId=i3VwDtp5AmL_8InW7w4qRbDFEpb744Jt" />

The project will comprise a mix of larger-format apartments aimed at owner-occupiers, downsizers, and families. The proposed apartment mix includes 11 loggia apartments across the lower levels, 50 four-bedroom Sky-Terrace apartments from levels three to seven, and 32 Sky-Pool Homes occupying the upper tower levels. The Sky-Pool Homes will feature private thermal plunge pools integrated into oversized balconies.

According to the application, the apartments are intended to reinterpret the scale and character of Teneriffe’s woolstore conversions and Queensland homes within a vertical residential format.

“The sky-pool homes build on Cavcorp’s previous projects and introduce a distinct apartment typology to Teneriffe, informed by both local and international precedent and responding to an identified market demand for enhanced safety, space and amenity,” the planning submission notes.

A major focus of the proposal is its five-level wellness and lifestyle offering, extending from the basement through to the rooftop.

Amenities proposed include a rooftop Swim &amp; Racquet Club with a 25-metre Olympic lap pool and tennis court, coworking spaces and libraries, golf simulators, wine storage, concierge facilities, business lounges, pet wash areas, and rooftop longevity-focused wellness spaces with spas, outdoor fitness zones, and landscaped terraces.

<img alt="First Look: Cavcorp unveils Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane plans for landmark wellness tower in Teneriffe" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="944b352c-49b9-4247-a4c6-5967b4b69fda" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenity.png?VersionId=Ed_qKjAtMwFT.5gfl3jiA9QwdWxSMsaX" />

All parking will be concealed within basement levels accessed from Wyandra and Helen Streets. Cavcorp says the deep-basement engineering approach allows the entire ground plane to prioritise landscaping, pedestrian movement, and active frontage rather than vehicle infrastructure.

The development continues Cavcorp’s concentration in Newstead and Teneriffe, where the Brisbane developer has delivered a number of apartment projects including Lucent, Le Bain, and Luminare, as well as the Long Island Wellness Precinct nearby. Several of those projects have received national design and architecture awards, including recognition under Brisbane’s “Buildings that Breathe” program.

Cavcorp unveils wellness-focused Teneriffe House and Teneriffe Lane apartment buildings

Focus Group Investments has lodged plans for a new apartment development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/64-70-hanover-street-fitzroy-vic-3065">64–70 Hanover Street</a> in Fitzroy, seeking to utilise the Victorian Government’s recently introduced Great Design Fast Track pathway to accelerate approvals for the project.

The proposal is among the latest developments to emerge through the state-led initiative, which was established to fast-track well-designed residential projects in activity centres and transport-connected inner-city locations. The pathway allows qualifying developments that meet elevated design and housing benchmarks to bypass traditional council planning timeframes and instead be assessed directly by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Designed by SJB, the development will comprise a mix of apartments above activated lower levels, with a strong focus on architectural articulation, landscaping, and communal amenity. The design response seeks to balance the industrial character of Richmond’s former warehouse precincts with a more contemporary residential form.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="abea51cc-d85b-479e-9aef-a589f3b37ca7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ground.png?VersionId=e1Kf8EyPWwyiVumtqQ4rM5S4GpOR3CCz" />

Proposed are 63 new dwellings, a wide ranging mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments, and townhouses and duplexes. They will be spread across a part-three, part-eight storey building.

The Planning and Urban Context Report by Tract says the development is of an "exemplary architectural standard" and has been carefully crafted by SJB Architects.

"Dwellings&nbsp;will benefit from excellent access to natural light, cross-ventilation opportunities and extensive communal space," the report noted.

The architectural material highlights the project’s integration of landscaped elements and communal spaces throughout the building. The proposal also incorporates sustainability initiatives aligned with the Victorian Government’s push for higher-performing apartment developments under the fast-track program.

The Great Design Fast Track was unveiled by the Victorian Government in 2024 as part of a broader housing supply strategy aimed at accelerating the delivery of new homes. Projects assessed through the pathway must demonstrate high-quality architecture, sustainability outcomes, and housing diversity while being located close to public transport and existing infrastructure.

<img alt="First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Richmond apartments" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="afdbe834-8dc4-4a77-a943-ba07bc927348" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/site_11.png?VersionId=0J657j.TaChAZfp93wqJYBTqSsnREJx2" />

Focus Group, founder and led by Paul De Lutiis, is increasingly active across Melbourne’s inner suburbs, targeting well-connected urban renewal locations suited to medium and higher-density residential development. The Fitzroy proposal continues that strategy, leveraging the area’s strong transport links, established retail amenity, and proximity to the CBD.

Fitzroy has been one of the most popular spots for developers and buyers in recent years. The likes of PACE Development Group, SMA Projects, Crema Group and Chapter Group, currently selling projects in the suburb.

First look: Focus Group Investments taps Victoria’s Great Design Fast Track for Fitzroy apartments

The Gold Coast Planning Committee has supported the preliminary approval for the Benowa Gardens Urban Village project following an extensive community consultation and assessment process.

The proposal will now proceed to a full council vote on June 2.

The application sought approval for a masterplanned urban village on the existing Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre site, combining new housing, retail, dining, health and lifestyle amenities within a walkable, integrated precinct.&nbsp;

The proposed redevelopment includes around 413 apartments integrated above a revitalised mixed-use centre featuring a full-line supermarket of 4,000 sqm, 6,000 sqm of specialty retail and dining space across around 30 retailers, a 7,000 sqm health and wellness precinct, and roughly 9,630 sqm of office and medical suites.&nbsp;

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb36ae47-80bc-45f0-9914-31b0c7b6007d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C4%201121%20FI.jpg?VersionId=6mRKk2uU4r67TmTt39DKGUlvFRbTVqWa" />

The broader masterplan also includes very significant traffic and transport improvements, wide pedestrian walkways, upgraded pedestrian and cycle connections, and enhanced public areas designed to create a more connected and walkable community environment.&nbsp;

Centre owner Patrick Lu said the milestone reflected months of detailed planning, technical assessment and ongoing communication with local residents, businesses, schools and stakeholders.

“We appreciate the time, consideration and care Council officers and the Planning Committee have given this proposal throughout the assessment process,” Lu said.

“We also sincerely thank the local community for engaging with us, sharing feedback and participating in the consultation process over many months.

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="32fd1fc3-d0e6-485f-ac57-9916c9bcb818" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/PR26576%20Ashmore%20Road%20C5%201121%20FI_2.jpg?VersionId=fz8qQKDBLQ7MyFRc856Zccfbh9nFwLOe" />

“We understand projects of this scale bring questions and concerns, which is why we have worked hard to listen carefully, provide information transparently and continue refining elements of the proposal where possible.

“Our vision has always been to create a well-designed, community-focused urban village that responds to the changing needs of the Gold Coast, while delivering improved amenity, housing diversity, healthcare access and local lifestyle benefits.

“This proposal is about creating a genuine live-work-play environment where residents can access everyday services, schools, healthcare, dining, shopping and green space within walking distance, while also supporting local jobs and economic activity.”

<img alt="$1b Benowa Gardens Urban Village moves to Full Council following Planning Committee support" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50dfbd04-590e-4fc6-983b-766880947867" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Dining%20Day%20Time%20-%20High%20Resolution.jpg?VersionId=BP7ZoKJ0DdL_8iRkkC8VVx99moICV6kg" />

Lu said the proposal had evolved significantly through consultation and technical review, particularly around traffic, pedestrian and student safety and neighbourhood connectivity.&nbsp;

Melissa Griffin, Director at Urbis, said the recommendation recognised the strategic importance of delivering more housing and services within established urban areas already supported by infrastructure.

“This proposal represents the type of thoughtful, integrated growth that planning frameworks across South-East Queensland are encouraging,” Ms Griffin said.

“The project seeks to place housing, retail, healthcare and employment opportunities together in a highly accessible location close to schools, transport and existing services.

“Importantly, the process has involved significant technical assessment and community engagement to ensure local issues and feedback were properly considered throughout the planning pathway.”

$1 billion Benowa Gardens Urban Village heads to council vote following Planning Committee support

Surfers Paradise is officially set for its first new residential development with a 45-storey skybridge connecting the two towers.

John Camilleri’s Celestino Developments has been given the green light by the Gold Coast City Council to develop its major beachfront precinct across its huge 4,000 sqm oceanfront site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/63-79-garfield-terrace-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">63–79 Garfield Terrace</a>, just five months after its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/first-look-exclusive-billionaire-winx-breeder-s-bold-two-tower-surfers-paradise-play-with-45th-storey-skybridge">submission in late 2025</a>.

The approved scheme will deliver two towers rising 55 and 48 storeys, connected by a skybridge positioned on level 45 that will house a range of resident-only wellness and entertainment spaces.

In its notice of approval, the Gold Coast City Council said the&nbsp;proposed overall built form has been designed to complement the scale, intensity and protect the adjacent amenity and surrounding streets through the use of varied setbacks, site cover and architectural elements.

<img alt="First look exclusive: Billionaire Winx breeder’s bold two-tower Surfers Paradise play with 45th-storey skybridge" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-30%20at%209.53.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=ADyPJ_TFbJvSU9wZFOiCBnlPtgF7VWqW" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dbi">DBI</a>, the development will comprise 275 apartments across the two towers, including a mix of two-, three-, and four-bedroom residences, as well as several penthouses. The apartments will sit above a landscaped podium featuring more than 90 metres of beachfront pool frontage, private resident lawns, lounges, and wellness spaces.

DBI said the design draws heavily from the movement and form of the coastal environment, with curving balcony lines and sculpted façades intended to soften the scale of the towers while maximising ocean outlooks and passive shading outcomes.

“The project occupies a rare, uninterrupted oceanfront site and has been shaped by a design philosophy that merges architectural elegance with environmental responsiveness and a carefully curated lifestyle experience,” DBI said in planning documents submitted to the Gold Coast City Council.

The most distinctive element of the approved project is the skybridge linking the two towers at level 45. The elevated communal space is planned to include executive lounges, formal dining areas, wellness facilities, and panoramic ocean-facing outlooks.

“The skybridge enhances the identity of the development, promotes social interaction, and delivers a lifestyle experience not found elsewhere on the Gold Coast,” DBI said.

At podium level, residents will have access to a suite of resort-style amenities, including resident lounges, private dining rooms, a yoga lawn, gymnasium, plunge pools, and treatment spaces. The beachfront pool has been designed with separate lap, lounge, and children’s areas extending across the width of the site.

The project will also introduce new food and beverage offerings along the Enderley Avenue and Oceanway frontages, contributing additional activation to the beachfront precinct.

First look: Winx billionaire’s beachfront Surfers Paradise apartment development greenlit

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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Billionaire Lang Walker told Bloomberg  last week that property prices in Sydney and Melbourne have climbed too much.
It was in part an explanation to why his focus is increasingly Malaysia.
“Sydney is a little too hot at the moment,” Walker, executive chairman of Walker Corp, said in an interview in Singapore.
“Melbourne has gone through a period of intense growth and that’s plateaued off.
"The residential market in Brisbane, in Queensland state, still has some potential, he said.
Walker is converting land, previously used for prawn-breeding farms, into swanky apartments, the Bloomberg report said.
 The Johor project in southern Malaysia is expected to be valued at about $US7.5 billion along with an adjoining plot it will develop with a Singapore-based company.
Walker Corp made its foray into Asia in 2008 to develop <a href="https://www.senibongcove.my" target="_blank">Senibong Cove, a waterfront residential project</a>.
Walker said he is looking to increase investments in the Johor region after putting in about $2 billion in the Senibong Cove project. 
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Walker Corp pursuing more Malaysian residential projects

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A Chinese developer has paid $36 million for the former Matilda Bay Brewery in North Fremantle.
The light industrial site in the Perth suburb is a 2.9-hectare holding.
The 130 Stirling Highway site was a Ford factory before it was a brewery. 
It is expected to hold between 350 and 400 ­apartments, as well as retail and commercial property, subject to council approval and design guidelines, Knight Frank’s WA managing director John Corbett suggested.
It previously sold at $2 million in 1988. 
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Chinese developer pays $36 million for former Matilda Bay Brewery site

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GUEST OBSERVATION
While the overall retail sector continues to face headwinds, there are three reasons why regional shopping centres may be investors’ pick.
<ol>
<li>
One-stop shop: the DNA of regional shopping centres is shifting Many regional centres are boosting their appeal to consumers, stores and investors by changing the way they do business. What could once be described as clusters of specialty and discount retail stores are now emerging as thriving town centres, where key healthcare services including doctors, dentists and optometrists are finally seeing the value in setting up shop. It’s not just local service businesses making a lunge for metropolitan centres either, with international chains such as Zara and Aldi rolling out stores across the major regionals. These big brands may tackle Woolworths and Coles for the anchor position in metro centres, increasing their overall traffic. 
</li>
<li>
Mall traffic will boom when residential developments close in The golden investment opportunity lies in regional shopping centres with great residential potential. As the make-up of regional malls continues to shift towards being a one-stop goods and services shop, over time we can expect to see retirement villages, student accommodation and residential developments built on the boundaries (or on top) of these hubs. CBD centres won’t necessarily have these same residential opportunities but there are key exceptions. A good example of this is David Jones on Elizabeth Street in Sydney, where there are plans for a residential tower to be built above the store. 
</li>
<li>
Regional investment no longer a developer’s nightmare Over the past seven years, supply of new regional mall space has lagged below the long-term average of 2.5% of existing stock. It’s not surprising – the GFC caused developers to fear faltering tenant demand for space, the sustainability of yields overall and therefore the value proposition of adding space. The demographics, however, are in their favour. Australia has the highest population growth in the developed world and with the changing make-up of regional malls we’re starting to see the pipeline strengthen for refurbishments and new developments. Where is this investment activity taking place? South East Queensland is fast emerging as a retail investment hot spot. In 2015-2016, the Queensland retail investment splash will hit Mt Gravatt, North Lakes, Chermside and Pacific Fair. While the overall level of retail activity may not be rosy in the short- to medium-term, these improvements are likely to buttress gains in the longer term. Other major redevelopments in the pipeline include Miranda in New South Wales and Booragoon in Western Australia.
</li>
</ol>
Julia Forrest is REIT portfolio manager at <a href="https://www.btim.com.au" target="_blank">BT Investment Management</a>.
 
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The three reasons to invest in regional shopping centres

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NAME: Jack Hoffmann<img src="/images/2014/08/20/hoffman-aug-20-profile.png" alt="" style="float: right;">
COMPANY: Satterley Property Group
POSITION:  General manager for Victoria and Queensland
OFFICE LOCATION: 5 Queens Road, Melbourne 
How long have you been in the industry? 
I’ve been in residential development for around 12 years including close to four years at Satterley Property Group.
What’s happening in the area you specialise in?
In Victoria, Satterley is launching new communities in Point Cook and Tarneit later this year, which represents a major investment in Melbourne’s west. These two new communities join the company's existing projects; Coburg Hill and Riverstone at Plenty River. At the same time, we’re always looking for new opportunities to grow our business in Victoria.
Describe the most interesting property you have worked on? 
One of the most interesting sites I’ve worked on is Satterley’s development of Coburg Hill. It’s on the old Kodak factory site which means it came with its own unique set of challenges. The high profile nature of the site intensified both the design challenges and interest from the local community. The development is very diverse and includes the full gamut  - conventional housing lots, medium density housing townhouses and a shopping centre.
What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?
Hard work definitely plays a part as well as keeping a close eye on the market and responding to trends accordingly. I’m also lucky to have a great team working at Satterley; we work hard but we also enjoy what we do.
What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?
I enjoy the community building aspect whereby we literally start with a paddock and build it into a thriving community. As a developer of new communities, we’re always mindful of the legacy that we’re leaving. This is front of mind in all of the planning that we do.
Where would you invest a spare $750,000?
I’d invest in a townhouse at Satterley’s Coburg Hill development. The townhouses are large enough to accommodate a family whilst having the added benefit of requiring very little maintenance. Perfect for owner-occupiers and investors.
Which football team do you support?
Hawthorn
What’s your favourite app or techno gadget?
iPad and mobile phone.
How do you use social media?
I use social media mainly to keep in touch with friends or as another way to stay in contact with colleagues from the industry through platforms like <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://au.linkedin.com/pub/jack-hoffmann/51/aa3/196" target="_blank">LinkedIn</a>.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

In profile: Satterley Property Group's general manager, Victoria and Queensland, Jack Hoffmann

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GUEST OBSERVATION
My career in real estate began as an interest. I had bought and sold a couple of properties personally, lived overseas, raised two small children and took it up as what I called ‘my fun, little part-time job.’ Back then, I loved getting into a suit three days a week and going off to work, doing open homes, doing call backs, organising my boss and helping her find business and winning listings. I loved it.
While I was doing this, I learned as much about real estate as I could, not because I wanted to be a gun agent but because I loved it. When you love something it's pretty normal behaviour to want to know as much about it as possible - I guess I get pretty passionate about things.
A career in sales is not for everyone, but for those who excel in it, it can be a very rewarding occupation. Starting off in real estate can be very daunting and as a ‘newbie,’ looking around and admiring all the top agents in the area often leaves people thinking, "could I possibly be as good as them?” There is so much to learn and this job is so varied. 
My light bulb moment came one day after being with the company for more than five years. After seeing so many mediocre agents out there in the industry I wanted, and chose to be, one of the good ones.
How was I going to be a successful real estate agent? I was lucky enough to work (and continue to do so) with a great team of sales experts and watched and listened and learned from all of them. In fact, I’m still learning and in this occupation, you can never stop learning.
I also had a strong belief that I could put my six years of experience into practice - one step at a time. For six years I had told everyone I knew that I was in real estate, so when I was ready I made it known to them again. My database had grown, my kids went to the local primary school and I started sponsoring the school and working my little patch.
From day one I have believed that if you treat people really well for their benefit, it all comes back to you, time and time again. Most importantly, I believed in myself.
Each year I would set a goal and I knew I was the only one accountable for this. Each sale I made, I ran with it, dropping my ‘just solds’ around the whole area, ringing around my database. One sale at a time. For the first year I never once looked at my debit/credit – whether I was actually making any money. Each year my goal was to sell one more property (not based on earnings). This is still my goal.
When I look back at my career and advise younger agents, there are three clear attributes that successful real estate agents generally possess.
<ol>
<li>Pick the area you want to work in for the rest of your career and become the area specialist, the communities trusted advisor. Own your patch, work your patch and aim to become the agent of choice. Always deliver on a promise, and return all enquiries on the same day. If you are good to people (honest, fair and provide exceptional service), they'll be good to you. Connect with as many people as you can as you’ll only ever reach as far as your network allows. </li>
<li>Set realistic goals and work hard to achieve them. Don't get caught up looking at the dollar signs, focus on how many listings you can get. Slow and steady wins the race, working on improving your skills and building your listings is the path to success. Goal-setting is crucial. Success doesn’t happen overnight and you may not start making money for a year or two. Take a long-term approach. </li>
<li>Success takes dedication and sacrifice. Be disciplined and set your own winning formula. Constantly think of ways to improve. Work harder than anyone else when you are new. Be confident. Be humble. Don't waste time, be adaptable. It will be a hard slog to begin with but if you aim to build momentum and continue to work hard you will succeed.</li>
</ol>
Stephanie Hearne has been awarded <a href="https://www.century21.com/" target="_blank">Century 21</a>’s top Australian salesperson for the past three consecutive years.
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The three common traits of successful real estate agents

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Economic wellbeing declined during the second quarter of 2014, with preservation of lifestyle becoming the chief concern of 47% of those surveyed, according to ING DIRECT’s Household Financial Wellbeing Index.
The five top concerns
<ol>
<li>Maintaining current lifestyle (47%, but increased to 56% for baby boomers)</li>
<li>Managing new costs from Federal Budget (45%)</li>
<li>Meeting large on-off costs, e.g. home renovations or car maintenance (31%)</li>
<li>Job stability (25%, but up to 40% of Gen Y households)</li>
<li>Increasing debt (18%, but totalling 25% of Gen Y households)</li>
</ol>
Source: ING DIRECT
This has led to the financial ambitions of Australians surveyed being larger about reducing spending and holding onto funds. A total of 44% wanted to save more, with 63% of Gen Y putting this as their priority.
Reducing the cost of living (41% overall, 50% of baby boomers), cutting back on discretionary spending (32%), getting a better paying job (18% overall, 30% of Gen Y) and earning more by working longer hours (10% overall, 20% of Gen Y) were the top finance ambitions.
The trend towards maintaining, rather than improving, lifestyle came as a worry to ING DIRECT executive director of customer John Arnott, who noted that costs are rising faster than incomes.
“On the plus side, households are taking responsible steps to preserve and even improve their financial wellbeing, with many looking at ways to actively cut costs rather than relying on increased debt, which can lead to greater financial pain further down the track,” said Arnott.
The Household Financial Wellbeing Index measures sentiment across debt, income, investments, savings and ability to meet household bills.
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Australians' top five financial concerns: ING

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A Queensland fast food franchise that has been operating for 27 years has collapsed into receivership.
A notice lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission shows Jonathan Paul McLeod of MacLeod &amp; Partners was appointed as administrator of Brodies Mealmakers on July 29, with Michael McCann and Graham Killer of Grant Thornton appointed receivers and managers.
Brodies Mealmakers currently operates 11 fast food restaurants in Queensland, with the stores a mix of company-owned and franchised stores.
McCann confirmed to SmartCompany he is the receiver and manager for five entities in the Brodies Mealmakers Group, but it is not clear if the franchised stores are also in receivership.
McCann says he is continuing to operate the group on a “business as usual basis”, but declined to specify the annual turnover of the company or the reasons for the collapse.
A spokesperson for Brodies Mealmakers also confirmed to SmartCompany the company is in receivership but declined to comment when asked if all 11 stores in the group are in receivership.
According to the Brodies Mealmakers website, the business was established in the Queensland town of Gympie in 1987.
The restaurants specialise in roast chicken lunches and dinners, offering dine in, takeaway and drive through services.
SmartCompany attempted to contact MacLeod &amp; Partners but did not receive a response prior to publication.
This article first appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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Queensland fast food chain collapses after 27 years of operation

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Looking at where the most affordable dwellings are within 10 kilometres of each city’s CBD, RP Data’s research analyst Cameron Kusher paints an intriguing picture of each state and territory’s apartment markets.
The list, which spans from Sydney’s cheapest, <a href="/news">Wolli Creek</a> for a $710,303 median house price, to Hobart’s <a href="/news">Clarendon Vale</a>, for a $159,159 median house price, includes the five most affordable suburbs for houses and units within each capital city.
Kusher notes that investors and owner occupiers may be surprised by the data, which suggests affordable inner city options exist.
“We’re witnessing a familiar trend across most cities where demand for housing is particularly strong across the inner city areas of the city,” said Kusher.
“With low mortgage rates, buyers are battling it out to purchase homes close to the city centres - of course areas closer to the CBD tend to be much more expensive than those areas further away.
“Inner city suburbs are also generally better serviced by both essential and desirable amenities such as schools, medical services, shopping centres, social amenity, roads and public transport infrastructure,” he said.
He explained that in Sydney and Melbourne the cost of housing remains expensive, even on this cheapest list, due to high demand and low supply. While units are an alternative to houses for some to access the market, there are still restrictive price points.
He also noted that the cheaper areas that emerged on the list are often seen as less desirable, but are in urban renewal areas. For this reason, he suggests that home values may increase as mortgage rates remain low and buyers are priced out of houses.
“This scenario creates good opportunity for other city areas - if buyers can’t afford to purchase a home within the inner city, they will most likely look to those locations that tick as many of the inner city boxes, just at a lower price point than the inner city areas,” he said.
“Given this, suburbs featuring quality public transport connections, abundant retail and social amenity, quality schools and medical amenity will likely see renewed interest as inner city buyers look to these more affordable alternatives.”
See over page for the city by city breakdown.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<img src="/images/2014/08/19/rp-data-aug-19-one.jpg" alt="">
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The most affordable inner city suburbs: RP Data’s city by city reveal

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The University of Melbourne has the largest number of international students studying on campus, according to latest figures released by <a href="https://aei.gov.au/research/Research-Snapshots/Documents/International%20students%20in%20Australian%20unis%202013.pdf" target="_blank">Australian Education International</a> (AEI).
The total international student enrolments in Australia in the higher education sector dropped by 0.8% in 2013 to 216,298, or 18.8% of the total student population.
The AEI research figures revealed the University of Melbourne had 14,165 onshore international students in 2013, accounting for 27.1%.
The University of New South Wales ranked second with 13,123 onshore international students.
Next followed by Monash University with 12,271 onshore international students.
There were 410,925 international students from 193 countries studying on a student visa in Australia in 2013. 
<img src="/images/2014/08/18/students-aug-18-one.jpg" alt="">
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International students head to University of Melbourne and UNSW

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First it was the fashion giants Topshop, H&amp;M and Uniqlo. Now it seems Australia is becoming a hot spot for global sports retailers.
Following the news of UK-based Sports Direct’s <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/growth/42841-ozsale-partnership-brings-sports-direct-down-under-four-things-you-didn-t-know" target="_blank">deal with local online shopping club Ozsale.com.au</a>, Switzerland-based Intersport will this week officially launch in Australia.
The global retailer, which has around 5,700 stores across 66 countries including popular footwear chain The Athlete’s Foot in the US, has chosen to enter the market through an existing retailer, with close to 40 stores under the Independent Sports banner to rebrand to Intersport over coming months under a license agreement.
Kevin O’Hanlon, previously chief executive of the Independent Sports group and now chief executive of Intersport Australia, said 32 stores have already been rebranded under the Intersport name, with another five stores to be completed by the first week of September.
The group of 37 stores turns over approximately $130 million each year.
There are another 22 stores in the Independent Spots group and O’Hanlon hopes those stores will convert to Intersport over coming months.
But the transition of the stores is just the first step in Intersport’s plans in Australia, with O’Hanlon saying the group hopes to have 50 stores operating within three years, growing to 100 stores in five years.
O’Hanlon says the Independent Sports group is now the franchisor for Intersport in Australia and he has already received a number of enquiries from other independent sports retailers about joining the group.
Intersport sells sportswear and equipment, including big name brands such as Nike and Adidas, as well as McKinley, Firefly and Energetics.
The private company is owned by 13 master franchisors in Europe and Canada and, according to Fairfax, recorded annual revenue of €10.3 billion ($A14.8 billion) in 2013.
O’Hanlon says brand recognition is “clearly the number one benefit” for the independent stores joining the Intersport group, as well as access to the Intersport global trading terms and its exclusive private label brands.
“It’s well known the sporting goods industry is being challenged and it will continue to be challenged,” he says.
“So trading under a common, global brand gives great solace to these mum-and-dad businesses.”
“It’s also been shown that consumers have a desire to buy from global brands.”
O’Hanlon says sport “is an essential pillar of Australian society”, and that’s attractive to global brands such as Intersport.
“We know that, we live that, we love that as Australians,” he says.
“We intend to offer that passion, the best advice, the best product selection in the world from the best brands, and deliver that on a local level.”
Brian Walker, chief executive of the Retail Doctor Group, said other sports retailers will be watching Intersport’s moves “with keen interest”.
“In terms of sports retailing in our country, the independent specialty, small retailer has really gone, and now it’s the days of the Rebel Sports and Amart,” says Walker.
“It’s good for consumers. It’s a global brand and it will introduce a more competitive flavour to the domestic market.”
This article first appeared on <a href="https://www.smartcompany.com.au/" target="_blank">SmartCompany</a>.
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