High-profile apartment defect cases have changed the way many NSW buyers approach purchasing, putting greater scrutiny on building quality, strata records and the parties behind a development before a contract is signed.

The industry buyers are assessing today, however, is also different from the one in which cases such as Opal Tower and Mascot Towers emerged.

NSW has introduced a series of regulatory measures aimed at strengthening oversight of apartment construction, including Building Commission NSW, the Residential Apartment Buildings Act 2020 and the Strata Building Bond and Inspections Scheme. Under the latter, developers are required to lodge a bond, with independent inspections forming part of the process for identifying defects in new strata developments.

Those changes provide another layer of protection, but they haven't removed the importance of buyer due diligence.

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For purchasers considering an apartment, that means looking beyond the residence itself. Building and strata history, strata reports, the track record of the builder and developer, the condition of common property and any known or planned expenditure by the owners corporation can all form part of assessing a building before purchase.

Whether the development is already complete can also materially change what can be assessed.

An off-the-plan purchaser is necessarily buying before the finished product exists. A completed apartment, by comparison, can be walked through before contracts are signed, allowing the purchaser to see the finishes, common areas and broader building as they have actually been delivered rather than relying solely on plans and renders.

It also removes exposure to some of the uncertainties that exist between an off-the-plan purchase and completion, including construction delays, cost pressures and builder insolvency during the delivery period.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/equitifund-group">Projects by Equitifund</a> National Sales Director Ben Hamblett said that greater focus on tangible evidence is increasingly evident among apartment purchasers.

“The biggest shift we're seeing is buyers wanting proof, not promises,” Hamblett said.

“That's exactly why we deal in completed stock - you can inspect the building before you commit - and why we've backed every purchase with a cash bond against special levies.”

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/the-lennox-parramatta-12-phillip-street-parramatta-nsw-2150">The Lennox</a> in Parramatta, that emphasis on a completed, inspectable product is already in place.

The 413-apartment, 46-level tower at 12 Phillip Street is being marketed by Projects by Equitifund, allowing prospective purchasers to inspect the residences, common areas and resident facilities before committing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=375255]

The Lennox also introduces another layer to the due-diligence conversation through Strata Surety.

The vendor-funded arrangement provides purchasers with a cash-backed bond held in their own solicitor's trust account from settlement. According to Equitifund, the bond covers any special levy raised during the applicable cover period and is provided at no cost to the purchaser.

Special levies can create an unexpected cost for apartment owners where an owners corporation needs funding beyond its existing strata contributions. Under NSW strata law, a special levy requires approval by owners at a general meeting.

Equitifund Executive Chairman Greg Huxley said Strata Surety was designed to provide something more concrete than reassurance about that potential exposure.

“Buyers have every right to ask hard questions about strata risk - the industry has given them plenty of reasons to,” Huxley said.

“Our answer isn't a reassurance, it's a bond. Strata Surety puts real money behind that confidence, held by the buyer's own solicitor, not by us.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=375281]

For The Lennox, its completed status also means purchasers can assess not only the apartment itself, but a building that has already been occupied and operating for several years.

Completed in 2021, the $300 million development, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/marchese-partners">Marchese Partners</a>, comprises one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, with open-plan living areas extending to private balconies. Interiors incorporate engineered timber flooring, stone benchtops and integrated appliances, while many upper-level residences have views across the river and surrounding district.

Its established amenity can similarly be inspected in operation. Resident facilities include the Watermark precinct with a 20-metre pool, outdoor terrace, barbecue areas, gym, fitness studio and conference room, while ground-floor retail addresses the river walk and surrounding public space.

The Lennox is also home to the Southern Hemisphere's first fully robotic residential car park, which has now operated for several years. Its nine-level basement combines three conventional parking levels with six automated levels, accommodating 327 vehicles using technology from German firm Lödige Industries.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5743 project_image_fid=925]

The riverfront address puts The Lennox close to much of central <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parramatta-nsw-2150">Parramatta</a>'s existing infrastructure, including Parramatta Station, Westfield Parramatta, Parramatta Park, and the Church Street dining precinct.

The remaining apartments form part of a limited release secured by Equitifund, following the sale of the majority of residences before and shortly after completion.

The regulatory environment around NSW apartment construction has changed considerably since the defect cases that reshaped public discussion around the sector. For purchasers, however, regulation is only one part of the equation. The ability to investigate a building's history, review its strata position and, where possible, inspect what has actually been delivered remains central to making an informed apartment purchase.

At The Lennox, its completed status provides that opportunity before contracts are signed, while Strata Surety adds a financial backstop against special levies beyond the protections already provided under NSW strata law.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=5743]

Joel Robinson

Buying with confidence: What NSW apartment buyers should check beyond the defect headlines

Too often, heritage buildings become the podium for a contemporary tower. At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/623-collins-607-623-collins-street-melbourne-vic-3000">623 Collins</a>, <a>Sterling Global</a> challenged its design team to reverse that process.

The brief to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> was deliberately simple: "Don't design around the heritage. Design from it." It became the philosophy behind a project that draws inspiration not only from two landmark heritage buildings, but from Collins Street itself, a street layered with architectural history and civic significance.

That philosophy has shaped one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melbourne-vic-3000">Melbourne</a> CBD's most considered residential projects, where the 1924 State Savings Bank and neighbouring Batman's Hill Hotel have become the architectural foundation for 623 Collins rather than remnants preserved beneath a new development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145324 project_image_fid=372749]

Rather than approaching the site as a blank canvas, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sterling-global">Sterling Global</a> saw the existing buildings as the beginning of the story.

"Sites like this rarely become available," the developer said.

"623 Collins wasn't simply an opportunity to develop a prominent CBD site. It was an opportunity to restore and reimagine one of Melbourne's important heritage landmarks while contributing to the continued evolution of Collins Street. For us, the existing buildings weren't constraints. They were the beginning of the story."

Instead of mimicking the ornate heritage architecture, Plus Studio studied the proportions, rhythm and craftsmanship of the original buildings before translating those characteristics into a contemporary 42-storey tower.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145324 project_image_fid=372748]

"The brief challenged us to create a contemporary landmark that respected Melbourne's architectural history without becoming nostalgic," Plus Studio said.

"Rather than mimicking heritage, we sought to understand its proportions, rhythm and material language before translating those qualities into a distinctly contemporary architectural expression."

The practice says the State Savings Bank and Batman's Hill Hotel became the project's primary source of inspiration, allowing the heritage buildings and contemporary architecture to exist "in conversation rather than contrast." Generous planted terraces further soften the transition between old and new, creating elevated green spaces while reinforcing the dialogue between the restored podium and the contemporary tower.

That dialogue continues throughout the interiors, where Melbourne designer Fiona Lynch developed a material palette inspired by the idea of alchemy, balancing contrasting materials that reference both the Neo-Grec detailing of the original bank and contemporary urban living. The result is a series of spaces that feel timeless rather than trend-driven.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145324 project_image_fid=354343]

The project will deliver 316 residences across four collections, Heirloom, Signature, Reserve and the Penthouse Collection, with each responding differently to its position within the building, from the restored heritage podium through to the upper levels of the tower. The Heirloom Residences retain defining heritage elements including original heritage windows, generous proportions and high ceilings, while the tower introduces contemporary homes with expansive layouts and elevated views.

Amenities have likewise been designed to support long-term city living rather than short-stay convenience. Residents will have access to concierge services, wellness facilities including a pool, cold plunge, sauna, steam room and gym, alongside private lounges, entertaining spaces and dedicated resident clubs.

Sterling Global says that approach is resonating with buyers seeking permanence rather than novelty.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145324 project_image_fid=354347]

According to the sales team, purchasers are looking for enduring architecture, generous floorplans, heritage character and long-term value, with many commenting that 623 Collins "doesn't feel like another apartment development" because of the way the architecture has been curated around the site's history.

Situated on the prominent corner of Collins and Spencer streets, the project occupies one of Melbourne's most recognisable gateway sites, marking the western entrance to the city's best-known street. For Sterling Global, it also reflects a broader shift in city-making.

"Rather than maximising development yield, the project embraces adaptive reuse as a design philosophy, allowing heritage to inform architecture, interiors and the overall resident experience," the developer said.

"The result is a building that feels uniquely connected to Melbourne."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145324]

How Sterling Global designed 623 Collins from Melbourne's history

Avant Townhomes is adding to Ivanhoe’s family-sized housing options with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/three-82-ivanhoe-382-upper-heidelberg-road-ivanhoe-vic-3079">Three 82</a>, a collection of just 16 four-bedroom townhomes on Upper Heidelberg Road.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/intrapac-property">Intrapac Property</a> townhome division has taken a contemporary approach to the traditional family home, pairing larger floorplans with the lower-maintenance format of a townhouse.

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Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/arcadia-studio">Arcadia</a>, with landscaping by Landsite, the homes feature generous open-plan living and dining areas that connect directly to outdoor spaces, with layouts also designed to maximise natural light and privacy.

Natural stone is used throughout the interiors, including in kitchens that pair stone surfaces with bespoke cabinetry, considered storage and SMEG appliances.

The four-bedroom layouts include built-in wardrobes and a main bedroom with its own ensuite, while family bathrooms service the additional bedrooms. Each home also includes a lock-up double garage and intercom entry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374399]

Energy efficiency has been incorporated into the design through solar panels, double glazing and reverse-cycle heating and cooling, with the homes targeting 7-star energy ratings.

Rather than incorporating extensive communal facilities, Three 82 has been conceived around private residential amenity, with the 16-home scale keeping the focus on individual homes and their own indoor and outdoor spaces.

The development is located at 382 Upper Heidelberg Road, around one kilometre from Ivanhoe Village's cafés and retail and a short drive from Eaglemont Station and Ivanhoe Station.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152069 project_image_fid=374393]

Several of Ivanhoe's established schools are also nearby, including Ivanhoe Girls' Grammar and Ivanhoe Grammar School. The address also provides access to the suburb's parklands and the wider Yarra River corridor.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/nelson-alexander">Nelson Alexander</a> has been appointed to handle sales.

Construction is underway and progressing well, with Three 82 currently tracking toward completion in Q2 2027.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152069]

Three 82 brings boutique four-bedroom townhome collection to Ivanhoe

Builder-developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/graya">Graya</a> has secured a prime Newstead site from fellow developer Fraser, subsequently lodging plans for The Silo, a major mixed-use residential project in Newstead designed around a new public laneway linking the James Street precinct with the wider Gasworks and Newstead neighbourhood.

Proposed for the corner of Chester and Morse streets, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bureauproberts">Bureau^Proberts</a>-designed project places its strongest emphasis at ground level, where retail, landscaping and a new cobblestone pedestrian connection would open the site to the surrounding neighbourhood. The design team describes The Silo as “more than a residential building”, positioning the development as an extension of Newstead’s public realm rather than a standalone apartment tower.

“A new cobblestone laneway and landscaped connection between James Street and Gasworks unlock a missing pedestrian link, improving walkability and stitching together two of Brisbane’s significant urban destinations,” Bureau Proberts said in its Urban Design Report.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0ea1b06a-75f5-40a5-b2c5-33c97bc86052" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/silo%20bldg.png?VersionId=KmjsAtNePu57_B31EM_DJ5T6KPJHtcmo" />

The Silo is planned as a mixed-use development incorporating apartments alongside a bar and centre activities including food and drink outlets, indoor sport and recreation, office and retail uses.

Architecturally, Bureau Proberts has conceived the building as a collection of vertically expressed, stepping forms rather than a single uniform tower. The composition rises from an articulated podium before being broken by a triple-height landscaped recreation level, with the upper section becoming more compact before terminating in a landscaped rooftop garden.

The project's name and architectural language draw directly from Newstead's industrial history. Patterned off-form concrete is proposed as the principal façade material, complemented by slender metal rod balustrades and extensive planting. The cylindrical and vertically ribbed elements give the building its silo-like expression, while curved balconies and planted edges introduce a softer subtropical layer.

“The Silo reinterprets its robust forms, scale and materiality through a contemporary subtropical architectural expression, creating a building that acknowledges its industrial legacy, while responding to the way the precinct is occupied today,” Bureau^Proberts said.

The recreation level is one of the defining breaks in the tower. Plans include a lap pool, mature subtropical planting and shared resident facilities within an elevated communal garden. Landscaping continues through the podium and onto the rooftop, where a further garden forms what the architects describe as a “subtropical crown” to the building.

<img alt="First look: Graya plans The Silo as new pedestrian link between James Street and Gasworks" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f8451036-35a4-49a9-8d88-2ef4438eba3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Silo%20Lane.png?VersionId=h8N31_rYmCEqoNrpt4kbYVQhJGZn60LH" />

At street level, the development has been designed to establish a more permeable block. Retail and hospitality tenancies address the public realm, while landscaped pedestrian spaces lead into the new laneway connection. Renders in the design report show the proposed “Silo Lane” as a substantial opening through the podium, framed by cylindrical concrete forms with cascading planting above.

The Silo continues Graya's move into larger apartment developments after building its reputation across high-end residential projects in Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Graya buys Frasers Newstead site, plans The Silo between James Street and Gasworks precincts

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/wickton">Wickton</a>’s completed Linacre Rise development in Hampton is giving Bayside downsizers the opportunity to move into a spacious apartment near the beach, with the developer covering stamp duty for a limited time.

The 27-residence development has been designed for buyers who want to simplify their living arrangements without giving up the space, warmth and quality associated with a long-term family home. Most apartments have already been secured by Bayside locals, leaving a select collection of two and three-bedroom residences and penthouses available.

Two-bedroom apartments are priced from $1.275 million, three-bedroom residences from $2.25 million and penthouses from $3.375 million, with the completed homes available to inspect and move into now.

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<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/linacre-rise-hampton-8-10-linacre-road-hampton-vic-3188">Linacre Rise</a> occupies an elevated position on one of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/hampton-vic-3188">Hampton</a>’s quiet, tree-lined streets, around 250 metres from the bay and 500 metres from Hampton’s village centre. Its setting gives residents access to the beach, local cafés, shops and Hampton Train Station while retaining the feel of an established residential neighbourhood.

Architecture and interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ewert-leaf">Ewert Leaf</a> draw on the warmth and permanence of traditional brickwork, with the building integrated into terraced landscaping by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/john-patrick-landscape-architects">John Patrick</a>. Ground-floor apartments are elevated above the street and include private garden courtyards, while several upper-level residences have generous balconies and outlooks toward the bay.

Inside, the residences favour natural materials and generous proportions. Herringbone-pattern European oak flooring, natural stone benchtops, premium joinery and Swiss V-ZUG appliances are among the key inclusions, while integrated storage has been incorporated across kitchens, bathrooms, studies and living areas.

The kitchens have been planned as practical spaces for both everyday use and entertaining, with substantial island benches, detailed cabinetry and adjoining dining and living zones. Full-height wardrobes, plush bedroom carpeting and carefully considered lighting reinforce the residential character Wickton sought to retain for buyers moving from larger homes.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366769]

A Linacre Rise purchaser said the completed apartment had delivered the space, outlook and construction quality they had been seeking.

“The unit is very light, has views to die for over the bay, all construction materials and fittings are premium quality, we have secure parking for three cars, EV charging at very competitive rates, the neighbours are friendly and there is just a lovely ambiance about the place,” the purchaser said.

Environmental features include solar panels, shared electric vehicle charging stations, rainwater harvesting for toilet flushing and landscape irrigation, double-glazed windows and water-efficient fixtures and appliances.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=95289 project_image_fid=366762]

The development was built by Balmain &amp; Co, with Wickton managing the broader development process through its in-house team.

For downsizers, the project’s completed status removes much of the uncertainty associated with buying off the plan. Purchasers can inspect the finished apartments, understand their outlook and proportions, and move in without waiting for construction to conclude.

The remaining selection includes north-oriented balconies, corner configurations and penthouses with elevated bay views. The developer-paid stamp duty initiative is available for a limited time, with potential savings of up to $200,000 depending on the residence purchased.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=95289]

Limited-time stamp duty offer at completed Linacre Rise apartments in Hampton

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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Australand Property Group and joint venture partner LaSalle Investment Management have won the right to buy a residential site owned by UrbanGrowth NSW in North Ryde, Sydney.
The price of the 1.3 hectare site is understood to be about $50 million.
Located adjacent to the newly completed North Ryde train station, it is expected to yield up to 400 apartments 
It forms part of the North Ryde Urban Activation Precinct.
The site is well serviced with close access to education facilities, including Macquarie University; a major regional shopping centre; and employment precincts.
The site’s zoning permits a mixed used development so will include as a small retail component.
“Following the success of existing projects in Wolli Creek and Clemton Park, we look forward to expanding our partnering relationship with LaSalle Investment Management," Australand’s Managing director, Bob Johnston, said
“Securing this project further strengthens our position in the Sydney market and provides greater visibility of our medium term residential pipeline with the project expected to deliver earnings from 2016,” Mr Johnston said. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Australand secures North Ryde residential infill site

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A commercial and residential listing in Melbourne's east suburb Huntingdale has been purchased for $880,000 through Ray White Commercial.
A local owner occupier picked up the 1283 North Road, Clayton property post-auction, according to Ray White Commercial Oakleigh's Ryan Amler.
Amler said that the buyer is looking to use the open plan office and residential section of the property for his own use, while receiving passive income from the separate residential aspect. The building comes with three car spaces.
The upper level is a three-bedroom residence spanning approximately 210 square metres, with separate entry. The bedrooms all have mirrored built-in wardrobes, and it has two bathrooms - both with spa baths - and two kitchens. The dwelling, rented at the time of sale, was retrieving $2,500 per calendar month.
Amler said that the property received significant interest, and is located near the railway station, bus stops and the Huntingdale Road shopping strip.
“The property includes approximately 210 sqm of ground floor commercial space equipped with a Daikin ducted inverter heating and cooling system, three phase power, automatic sliding front door, roller shutters plus kitchen and bathroom facilities,” he said.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Mixed-use Huntingdale listing snapped up for almost $900,000

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Mariana Hardwick’s Brunswick ground floor salon and first floor at the Hardwick Building have sold for $3.22 million.
Sold by Fitzroys agents James Gregson and Rick Berry at auction, there was competitive bidding between three prospective purchasers.
The ground floor salon was 375 square metres, and the offering also included a first floor atelier, and office spaces, to a total of 875 square metres, as well as air rights.
The property included Lot N – a 950 square metre block above the first floor of the main buildings, which allows the purchaser to undertake development in future.
It was subject to a long lease to Mariana Hardwick until 2032 with a 5+7+7 lease structure from July 1 2013.
On the first floor, approximately 135 square metres are leased to Letterbox on a three year deal from 15 October 2013.
The combined rental return total is an estimated $250,000.
“This is an historic landmark property in a major inner city growth location with a long lease to an iconic operator, and with development upside and subdivision potential,” said Gregson.
“The property’s positioning in the prime trading section of Sydney Road, Brunswick, which has benefited from the resurgence of inner city living and increased demand and gentrification of the area, further attracted interest from both local and interstate investors,” he said.
The history of the two-level building stretches back until 1907 when it began as the Hoopers Drapers store. After a succession of owners including Waltons and Spotlight, Mariana Hardwick acquired the Hoopers Building in 2005 as a new location for her salon.
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Mariana Hardwick sells Brunswick salon and workshop for $3.22 million

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The Development of the Year in South Australia has been awarded to the University of Adelaide’s new building The Braggs. The Property Council of Australia/Rider Levett Bucknall award was given to the development, which is the home to the Institute of Photonics and Advanced Sensing headquarters.
It is located at the North Terrace campus, and Property Council executive director Richard Angove said that it is an innovative creation, that is a microcosm of ingenuity in the state.
The University of Adelaide own the building, and nominated it for the award. It features a 420 seat lecture theatre, teaching facilities and laboratories with a philosophy around research collaboration across disciplines.
The Braggs beat Adelaide Desalination Plant, Kauwi Interpretive Centre and the Materials and Minerals Sciences Research Building to the award.
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University of Adelaide campus wins Development of the Year title

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Leasing activity in Brisbane’s industrial market is on the improve, seeing rental growth for prime grade industrial stock and a growing pre-lease focus from tenants, according to Savills’ Spotlight on Brisbane Industrial report.
Savills Queensland associate director research Helen Swanson said that the market is competitive with new builds often more so in terms of rental rate than existing property.
“Leasing activity is particularly strong for prime grade quality warehousing, especially free-standing product,” said Swanson.
She noted that a 2.5% growth in rent has been seen for prime grade product over the 12 months to March 2014, as well as a number of significant pre-commitments. This includes DB Schenker and Northline at Redbank, and Kagan Logistics at Hemmant.
“There is also anecdotal evidence suggesting a number of other major pre-commitments may also be in the pipeline for the Brisbane market,” she said.
In the Brisbane industrial leasing market, it’s transport and logistics taking out gold as the most active – representing a huge 25% of all leasing activity over the 12 months to March 2014.
The wholesale and retail sector were responsible for 19% of all leases.
Similarly the residential market surge in south-east Queensland, which many have said is investor driven, has increased building supply demand. Despite this, the tenant market is said to still perceive that supply outweighs demand, explained Swanson.
“These two sectors are forecast to achieve strong growth over the next five years and should continue to be major takers of space in the Brisbane industrial market. These users are looking for efficiency gains and the option of brand new mega-style warehousing is appealing to some of the larger players,” she said.
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Brisbane’s industrial market on the improve with jump in rental growth: Savills

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Commercial landlords may have the opportunity to take advantage of a surge in fashion houses looking to rent spaces at the base of CBD office towers.
The trend, according to Savills Australia’s retail leasing executive Jock Thomson, is seeing retailers looking outside of Melbourne’s traditional fashion district. For instance, 357 Collins Street, 555 Bourke Street and Goldsbrough Lane (below 181 William Street) have seen men and women’s fashion moving in. 
He said that these retailers are thinking outside of the square and are keen to be in the base of office buildings where they are already housed with thousands of potential clients.
“It’s really a no-brainer and one that has worked so well for eateries and coffee shops over recent years. Why would it not work for fashion? It’s convenient for the customer and cost-effective for the brand,” Thomson said.
Brands such as Thomas Pink, Herringbone and Cambridge Kit and TM Lewin have already taken up this trend. Thomson said this may be due to retailers’ need to do something about the impact of online shopping.
“One of the key attributes of online shopping is convenience and that has not been lost on these retailers who are also well aware that most shoppers still like to browse the hard copy, to have the touch and feel experience, and they are providing that experience in the most convenient location,” he said.
“Adversity calls for and often provides the most creative solutions and this is what we are seeing in fashion retailing in the Melbourne CBD”.
Meanwhile, state director of retail Michael Di Carlo said that it would be landlords who will be happy with the news, seeing it as a lucrative additional revenue stream.
“With coffee shops, eateries and now fashion houses competing for space we are going to see greater competition for the best spaces which means healthy rental levels,” he said.
He noted that 30 to 300 square metres of space at 199 William Street is coming up in November, and 447 Collins Street, will provide fashion retailing opportunities.
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Fashion houses look to secure base-level spaces in Melbourne offices

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An 863 square metre development site in Melbourne’s Southbank residential precinct has seen strong interest. The 47 City Road precinct, being sold through CBRE City Sales, has seen interest around the $9 million mark.
It is bordered by St Kilda Road and Southbank Boulevard, and currently holds a single-level office building, 12 onsite car spaces and two street frontages on Fawkner Street and City Road, which provides a revenue stream while plans and permit are organised for future development.
CBRE’s Josh Rutman, Mark Wizel and Ed Wright are marketing it through an International Public Expressions of Interest campaign that is expecting to see strong offshore interest. The campaign goes until June 12.
It is located near Crown Casino Complex, the Yarra River, and Southbank Theatre.
"Developers, especially those from Asia, are recognising Southbank is serviced by world class infrastructure and amenity, and is viewed by overseas apartment buyers as being a terrific alternative to buying an apartment in the Melbourne CBD,” said Rutman.
Recently, Singapore’s Aspial Corporation purchased a land holding on the corner of City Road and Southbank Boulevard, Australia 108, for $42.3 million. A total of more than $180 million has reportedly been spent in the past six months on Southbank sites – with the majority from offshore purchasers.
Wright noted that offshore buyers are interested in two elements primarily. The first – how many apartments can be built on the site. The second – what they can get for these apartments.
High density Southbank apartments often go for high prices, he said.
“With the recent explosion of Asian investment into Melbourne’s property market, we expect this property will be of particular interest to offshore investors looking to undertake a landmark residential development in Australia’s most liveable city.”
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Melbourne development site expecting strong foreign interest

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Planning Minister Matthew Guy has announced that Victoria’s Hanging Rock has been ‘saved’ from commercial development, with $1 million of government funding to provide ongoing planning protection.
The funding will be provided for ongoing maintenance of public facilities for the next four years, and will stop commercial development at the Eastern Paddock, which was to include a hotel and conference centre.
“This funding over the next four years will ensure the future of this vital community asset,” Guy said.
“More people will be able to enjoy the natural beauty of Hanging Rock with proper funding now guaranteed,” he said.
Alternatives to commercial development to manage Hanging Rock will be explored between the Victorian government and the Macedon Ranges Shire Council, after Guy visited local representatives Donna Petrovich and Amanda Millar.
Millar, who is Member for Northern Victoria Region, thanked Guy for delivering this outcome, as did Liberal candidate for Macedon, Petrovich.
Planning protections will be strengthened at the site to avoid inappropriate development in the long term, however they noted that any changes would not affect current uses of the site for horse racing and concerts.
The site, which had been committed to commercial and wind farm developments “up to 160 metres tall throughout the Macedon Ranges… taller than Hanging Rock itself,” according to Guy, saw huge opposition to commercial development through the Hanging Rock Action Group.
Upgrades to current facilities have not been opposed.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.
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Hanging Rock “saved” from commercial development

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A new $86 million development in Brisbane's south will house freight facility Toll Group, with 500 staff in the building that is the size of two Suncorp Stadiums. It employed 1,500 workers through construction and is located in the Logan Motorway Precinct.
Doors are now open on what is the largest pallets and oversize freight depot that Toll operates anywhere across the world, at 43,600 square metres for the facility on a 13 hectare site.
Premier Campbell newman, who announced the move, said that they welcome the investment and confidence into Queensland's economy.
“This new facility for Toll will be the largest in its world-wide operations and it’s encouraging they decided to open it in Queensland, the best place to live and work," he said.
“We hope Toll will continue to grow in years to come and employ more hard working Queenslanders.”
Developed by The GPT Group, it was announced in late-2012 that Toll had committed to leasing the precinct, once built, for 15 years. GPT was looking to increase their weighting in the logistics sector and have 100% ownership in this property.
At the time, head of investment management for GPT, Carmel Hourigan, said that they were bringing logistics and business parks to 15% of its portfolio.
"GPT is progressing well on this strategy having now acquired more than $200 million of industrial facilities in 2012," Hourigan said.
Toll NQX's Brisbane based offices have all been consolidated into this new office. There were previously three.
Divisional director for Toll, Mal Grimmond, said that they're hoping other businesses will invest in the state.
“The new depot has been designed to provide the absolute safest working environment for our people, which is essential in such a labour-intensive industry such as transport and logistics,” Grimmond said.
The facility includes a 2,000 square metre dedicated heavy vehicle workshop. It is in Karawatha, 22 kilometres south of Brisbane's CBD. It was chosen partly due to its access to all major arterial routes through the state's southeast.
Assisting with the development of the facility included the Queensland Department of Transport &amp; Main Roads, Brisbane City Council and Logan City Council. The architects Arqus, planners RPS, builders FDC Construction and security provider Visium were also involved.
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Freight facility Toll Group move into $86 million facility in Brisbane's south

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Annual retail sales turnover, now higher than the 4.9% long-term average, is evidence of confidence returning to the sector, explains Colliers International, which has unsurprisingly been boosted the café and restaurant sector. This sector has seen 10.3% growth over the past year.
Michael Bate, head of retail at Colliers International, said that it’s discretionary spending that is behind this improvement.
“Money spent in cafes and restaurants is particularly good for the local economy, as unlike international luxury purchases where the financial benefit goes offshore, spending in cafes and restaurants is predominantly retained at home,” said Bate.
He noted that the propensity for consumers to spend is currently underpinned by increasing house prices and positive sentiment. Strong house prices over 2013 have been mirrored by strong retail turnover, particularly in Sydney, Perth and Melbourne.
However, those winning the retail race are not solely relying on their physical property shopfront, but are looking to online offerings that complement the traditional street outlet.
Australians were recorded as spending approximately 6.5% of their usually bricks-and-mortar spend online – or $15 million in the year to February.
New retail space supply is led by the category of large format – which Colliers notes will total 41% of 2.8 million square metres of retail supply under construction or ready to complete over the next four years.
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