<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sunland-group">Sunland Group</a> has officially lodged plans for its first Gold Coast apartment project since the departure of the Abedian family from the company three years ago, unveiling a new high-rise proposal for a prominent Broadbeach corner site on Old Burleigh Road.

The application was submitted by an entity directed by Tom Jamieson, stepson of longtime Sunland leader Soheil Abedian, and Riaz Rezvanipour, brother-in-law of Sahba Abedian, Soheil’s son.

Sunland acquired the 1,283 sqm site on the corner of Old Burleigh Road and Armrick Avenue for $9.5 million late last year and is now seeking approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/99-101-old-burleigh-road-broadbeach-qld-4218">42-storey tower with 81 apartments</a>.

<img alt="First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fea2946d-90ee-4cfc-babe-2a8ad5db2cb6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/pers.png?VersionId=BV0fihJw31nDIQ8ozY_h3GbS8mxDyhnm" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/contreras-earl-architecture">Contreras Earl Architecture</a>, the proposed tower at 99-101 Old Burleigh Road would deliver a predominantly larger-format apartment mix aimed at the owner-occupier market. Plans include 17 two-bedroom apartments, 55 three-bedroom apartments, and nine four-bedroom residences across 35 residential levels.

The development also incorporates three basement levels, four podium parking levels, two levels of communal recreation facilities, and rooftop plant and equipment. A total of 189 car spaces are proposed, significantly exceeding the 90 spaces required under the planning scheme.

The architecture adopts a sculpted, curvilinear form, with deep wraparound balconies and integrated landscaping intended to soften the tower’s vertical expression. The planning report states the building’s “slender footprint/form provides a complimentary yet varied built form within the local streetscape” and contributes to “a varied, yet ordered skyline.”

Contreras Earl noted in its Architectural Statement that from the early stages, the project addressed a fundamental challenge: how to accommodate the required residential yield while avoiding the conventional model of a tower sitting on a rigid, fully resolved parking podium.

“The most direct response would have been to consolidate parking into a singular, flat podium and extrude a repetitive tower above,” the statement said. “While efficient, this approach would result in a consolidated built form with limited engagement with the surrounding landscape and public realm.”

Instead, the conventional podium model was “deliberately rejected”. The architects described the base of the building as “a landscaped architectural condition where structure, planting and circulation are integrated”.

“Rather than presenting a continuous built mass, the base of the building is articulated through a series of concrete planter elements that organise the podium into a fragmented system,” the statement said. “This approach reduces the perceived bulk of the lower levels while establishing a more permeable interface with the streetscape and adjacent open space.”

<img alt="Sunland" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="923fad8d-c960-4527-8fbe-975cf1ddf88d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%2010.32.03%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=pngwb0hYOIUpq9vDw6F2EsOiVuHF3DiX" />

&nbsp;

The site sits within the High Density Residential Zone and inside the City of Gold Coast’s unrestricted “HX” building height area, where the planning framework anticipates intensified residential development tied to the expanding light rail corridor. The planning report notes the area is undergoing “transition toward more intense development forms” given its proximity to Broadbeach, Surfers Paradise, and high-frequency public transport infrastructure.

Positioned directly opposite Broadbeach Park and within walking distance of Florida Gardens light rail station, the development would sit among a rapidly evolving stretch of Old Burleigh Road that has become one of the Gold Coast’s most active apartment development corridors.

The application joins a growing pipeline of luxury residential projects reshaping Broadbeach, including nearby developments by 5Point Projects, Polycell, and Graya.

The planning report argues the project contributes toward the Gold Coast’s long-term housing targets under the South East Queensland Regional Plan, which forecasts the need for more than 100,000 additional high-rise dwellings across the city by 2046.

<section data-scroll-anchor="false" data-testid="conversation-turn-4" data-turn="assistant" data-turn-id="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-1" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:84a2af5e-d7cf-4ddf-922a-f4d44d6c6caa-1" dir="auto">
The Abedian family departed Sunland Group in late 2023, ending a four-decade association with the company, and subsequently established the private development firm Abedian &amp; Co. The group is currently delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/greenmount-residences-cnr-hill-street-and-marine-parade-coolangatta-qld-4225">Greenmount Residences</a> at Rainbow Bay and recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/18-mary-avenue-14-18-mary-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4218">18 Mary Avenue</a> in Broadbeach.
</section>

Joel Robinson

First look: Sunland Group returns to Broadbeach new apartment market with new Old Burleigh Road tower plans

The Minns Labor Government has established the new Bays West Delivery Authority to lead the development&nbsp;of the Bays West Precinct and Blackwattle Bay Precinct.&nbsp;

The Authority is charged with creating Sydney’s newest precinct, a thriving, connected, sustainable hub with White Bay Power Station as its cultural heart. Its vision is to build on the area’s natural, cultural and industrial history to shape a vibrant new neighbourhood.

The precinct will deliver up to 8,500 well-located homes, including a minimum of 10 per cent affordable and essential worker homes. Combine new housing with public open space, opening public access to the waterfront for the first time in more than 100 years, while retaining important deep-water facilities to support Sydney’s working harbour.

Located just minutes from the Sydney CBD and connected to a world-class metro, ferry, walking and cycling links, the Bays West precinct will rebalance housing growth towards well-serviced inner-city locations and help tackle the state’s housing crisis.

The Bays West Delivery Authority,&nbsp;an agency of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure, will report to the NSW Minister for Lands and Property who already has oversight of major precinct renewal projects including at Blackwattle Bay and Barangaroo.

As part of the broader Bays West transformation, the Minns Government recently announced that a proposal from Lendlease to redevelop part of the Bays West Precinct has progressed to Stage 2 of the NSW Government’s unsolicited proposals process.

<img alt="Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ed71eb9-d8e8-4fa7-b9d1-de4531dcf2f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-05-25%20at%209.42.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=IDryFIbped9SNDg72LEN_EecvhUsOPvp" />

The Minns Labor Government has also confirmed the Bays West precinct will have a new suburb name. This will be the first major suburb built in close proximity to Sydney’s CBD in decades and will encompass the area currently being referred to as Bays West, including Glebe Island and the White Bay Power Station. Served by a new Metro station just five minutes from the CBD, it will become one of the most populous suburbs in the Inner West and one of Sydney’s premier cultural destinations.

An early works program is taking shape, which&nbsp;includes the first stages of an international design competition.&nbsp;

The aim of the Bays West&nbsp;International&nbsp;Design Competition is to&nbsp;ensure design excellence is embedded in the project from the start. The competition will deliver an&nbsp;urban framework that defines the character, ambition and long-term identity of&nbsp;this&nbsp;former industrial precinct as it transitions to a vibrant, inclusive and sustainable residential&nbsp;neighbourhood.

The competition will be led by the Bays West Delivery Authority in partnership with Government Architect NSW.&nbsp;

It will launch with an invitation for a global Expressions of Interest, before moving to an invitation-only stage that will be assessed by a panel that&nbsp;will provide advice to Cabinet who will select a winner.

Premier of NSW, Chris Minns said the establishment of the new Authority is the first step in transforming the Bays West precinct into a vibrant, livable suburb minutes from the Sydney CBD and two stops from Hunter St Station on the Metro West line.

“The Authority will deliver well-located homes close to the heart of the city and integrate the new precinct with Blackwattle Bay and the new Sydney Fish Market.

“This is a generational opportunity to build a new suburb on the city’s edge and open the harbour foreshore to the public for the first time in a century.”&nbsp;

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper said the new Bays West Delivery Authority established by the Minns Government will turbocharge the development of Sydney’s newest suburb.

“The Authority is working at a record pace to deliver an international design competition, planning pathways and a financial model so that this development benefits Sydney with well-designed homes in a central location, close to public transport, jobs, entertainment and essential services.

“If we want Sydney to stay liveable and affordable, we need to be bold about using underutilised government-owned land to deliver homes for the future while making sure essential working harbour functions can be accommodated.”

Bays West Delivery Authority established to "turbocharge" Sydney’s newest suburb

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.

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

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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GUEST OBSERVATION
The starter’s gun has fired on the countdown to the 2018 Commonwealth Games on Queensland’s Gold Coast and the positive impact of this major catalyst event is already being felt in the local commercial property market.
History shows that cities around the world have seen a pick-up in property activity up to four years out from global events such as the Commonwealth Games, and the Gold Coast will be no exception.
Indeed, the momentum of the approaching games is already evident and is likely to surpass that experienced by other host cities, given it is the first time a global event of this magnitude has been held in a regional Australian city.
The 2018 Commonwealth Games is the trigger for increased activity across the board for the Gold Coast commercial property market.
On the sales front, the Gold Coast is again back on the radar of domestic and overseas investors and the increasing weight of money entering the market will drive continued investment activity. This can be seen in the increase in enquiry for prime development sites, particularly in key locations such as Southport overlooking the water.
In terms of leasing, some national and international firms have already made the move into the Gold Coast and more are expected as global attention on the city increases in the lead up the Commonwealth Games. Vacancy rates are tightening and both commercial office and retail leasing enquiry has been strong in the opening moments of 2014, and is expected to continue to rise.
Importantly, the catalyst effects of the Commonwealth Games coincide with a period of renewed infrastructure activity on the Gold Coast, namely the light rail project and major new hospital and health developments.
All of this activity, and indeed much of the focus of the Commonwealth Games including the athletes’ village and new aquatic facilities, is centred on the Southport precinct which has been designated as a priority development area (PDA) by the Queensland state government.
This PDA status is crucial to the emergence of Southport as the true CBD of the Gold Coast, as opposed to the undisputed standing of nearby Surfers Paradise as the city’s tourism capital, and allows for development approval fast-tracking and innovation.
<blockquote>
The Gold Coast is again back on the radar of domestic and overseas investors and the increasing weight of money entering the market will drive continued investment activity.
</blockquote>
Southport is the business and administrative heart of the Gold Coast and its maturing into the city’s official CBD is long overdue. All regions need a recognisable CBD, just as much as capital cities do, to attract national and international firms, create a distinct employment hub and facilitate all the commercial, social and community benefits of agglomeration.
The Southport CBD is the key to unlocking the future economic sustainability of Gold Coast and positioning it to fully capitalise and build on the attention and flow-on benefits provided by the Commonwealth Games.
The Gold Coast is Queensland’s, and indeed Australia’s, premier tourist playground and that is not going to change. It is an exciting coastal city, blessed with surf, sand and good weather and has been the focus of tourist attention, both domestic and international, for decades.
By its very nature of being driven mainly by tourism, the region can be more prone to booms and busts than those cities with more diverse economies.
However, with a permanent population of circa 550,000 residents, the Gold Coast is now home to a growing number of diverse industries and services that stand it in good stead for the future.
This is clearly reflected in the evolving nature of the Gold Coast commercial office market, which is far more mature than in was in the 1990s as the scope of local businesses now spans much more than just pandering to the tourist market. There are now local and national firms across all industry sectors represented in the region, which are well positioned for sustainable future growth.
The 2018 Commonwealth Games is a once in a lifetime catalyst moment for the Gold Coast and the ongoing maturing of its local economy and commercial property market. Combined with a number of important infrastructure and planning initiatives centred around the Southport CBD, the games will deliver a great boost to a wide range of existing and new businesses in the region.
We are already seeing this starting to translate to increased investment and leasing activity, with more much to come over the next four years.
Paul Day is <a href="https://www.savills.com.au/" target="_blank">Savills</a> Queensland head of research.
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Gold Coast to ride wave of Commonwealth Games momentum

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Agent: Peta Antoniou
<img src="/images/2014/04/07/Peta-Antoniou-profile.jpg" alt="" style="float: right;">
Position: Manager - South Sydney, industrial
Company: Knight Frank
Location: South Sydney
How long have you been in the industry?
I have worked in the property industry for five years, having started as a research analyst when I began my university degree then progressing into a sales and leasing role.
What’s happening in the area you specialise in?
Over the past 12 months especially, developments sites in South Sydney have become highly sought after. As a result the idea of South Sydney as a traditional industrial precinct has slowly diminished with increased amounts of residential development and amenity coming to the area.  We have also seen the adaptive re-use of existing buildings to creative workspaces evolve within the area. Warehouse conversions such as The Cannery in Rosebery completed approximately 24 months ago and The Woolstores in Alexandria due to complete mid 2014, are incredibly popular among tenants in South Sydney and city fringe locations.
Describe the most interesting property you have sold 
The most interesting property I have sold was 242 Young Street Waterloo. This 1,600 square metre freestanding building features creative office/showroom and warehouse. The building has the potential to be occupied in one line or split into four creative spaces. The mixed use zoning allowed for a wide number of permissible uses and it was interesting to work with each purchasers particular requirements. The building was sold to the International Screen Academy who established their educational facility in the building.
What are the ingredients to being successful in your job?
Drive, determination and passion. I think people like dealing with people who show they take a genuine interest in solving their property requirements. Attention to detail and follow up are also incredibly important.
What aspects of your role do you enjoy the most?
The diversity my role offers is what I enjoy most. No two clients, prospects or properties are alike. Each day is different with new challenges, opportunities and things to learn.
Where would you invest a spare $750,000?
I would buy a residential property.
Which football team do you support?
South Sydney Rabbitohs.
What’s your favourite app or techno gadget?
My favourite app is Timeout Sydney. The app shows you the best restaurants, cafes, bars and gigs happening in certain locations along with reviews of each place.
How do you use social media?
I am not a huge social media guru, but I use social media to keep in touch with friends and clients.
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kjiminez-eaYKfU7qd2

In profile: Knight Frank's manager - South Sydney, industrial, Peta Antoniou

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A Village Cinema building in Geelong and another in Albury have been listed for sale with expectations of $14 million each.
The 11 screen cinema offering at 194-204 Ryrie Street in Geelong is the refurbished art deco Geelong Theatre, operating as Village Cinemas. 
It is being marketed by CBRE’s Justin Clarkson and Jamus Campbell with the Albury Village Cinemas, a large scale cinema and retail complex at 450-460 Dean Street. The Albury building (pictured above) was originally constructed in 1926.
Clarkson noted the stable investment opportunity presented by both properties.
“With long term leases attached, these two assets provide an attractive opportunity to acquire secure income streams underpinned by profitable businesses in two established and growing regional cities,” said Clarkson.
“These iconic buildings also benefit from a central location in the heart of their respective retail and commercial centres.”
Clarkson expects that strong yields and rental growth will drive demand for the buildings. Currently the Albury property is returning $1,374,829 per annum in rental income, setting rental yield at 9%. The Geelong cinema brings in $1,214,981 each year, with a yield about 8.5%.
“Both leases have generous annual built-in rental growth provisions throughout their respective terms, providing an annual additional uplift in returns,” Clarkson said.
The properties are being offered for sale separately or together via an expressions of interest campaign until 8 May.
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jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

Double pass: Two Village Cinemas hit the market

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If you’re thinking about buying an investment property before the end of this financial year then you have just three months to go.
While purchasing property should never be rushed, if you’re considering the purchase of an investment property before 30 June, you should be sorting out your finances and looking at suitable properties now. This is particularly the case for first time investors.
More seasoned investors might choose to leave it to the last minute and hurry their purchase before 30 June simply as a strategy to claim the allowable tax deductions associated with the investment during this tax period.
Most people, however, wouldn’t be inclined to do that because it could mean that as a buyer they have not had adequate time to properly research the market in terms of price, rental returns, availability of stock, etc.
<blockquote>
There is no such thing as 'the best place to invest', what matters most is that you follow the best ways to invest.
</blockquote>
Experienced investors tend to always keep an eye on the market and allow themselves plenty of time to select the best possible property for their needs, expectations and budget.
If you’re a first time investor and perhaps been thinking about buying for a while, then now is the time to be talking to professional financial advisers about your aspirations and opportunities.
You should also be considering the areas in which to invest and plan to inspect suitable properties.
Remember to factor state government stamp duty into your purchase costs and to keep a clear record of this. When you sell the property in the future the stamp duty along with some other costs, such as agent’s and settlement fees, are tax deductible.
For full details on this read the information on <a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Income-and-deductions/In-detail/Investments,-including-rental-properties/Rental-property-expenses/" target="_blank">rental properties at the Australian Tax Office</a> website.
I am often asked by members of the public to give them a tip as to, “the best place to invest.”
There is no simple answer to this, it depends entirely on your budget and what you want your investment property to do for you.
Are you focused on rental returns, capital growth, land prices, development opportunities or tax deductions? Do you have cash or need finance? How long do you intend to hold this investment?
There is no such thing as 'the best place to invest', what matters most is that you follow the best ways to invest.
That means getting competent financial advice from professionals to determine your budget and loan and then talk to some agents about opportunities in the areas that suit your portfolio plan.
If you are pressed for time but want to purchase before 30 June, or just lack confidence as a prospective investor, then you may want to consider engaging the services of a buyer’s agent to help you through the process with expert guidance and suggestions.
This article was originally published on <a href="https://reiwa.com/" target="_blank">reiwa.com</a>.
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dairey-MVZf5ZguQC

Investors need to make their move before 30 June

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Greg Norman is designing a private golf course for the central Victorian property of the former Essendon AFL club president David Evans
The 18-hole private course is envisaged for the property north-east of Melbourne, on the Goulburn River near Alexandra in the Murrindindi Shire.
Norman and his design team walked the property with Evans on the weekend, according to Fairfax Media, with the prospect of creating something similar to the late Kerry Packer's Ellerston Hunter Valley private course which was completed in 2001.
The Perth-born Evans, who moved from Kew to Hawthorn with wife, Sonya after paying around $6.5 million in 2010 for the 1885 mansion, Woodfield, will turn 50 later this year.
Norman said the Evans property had perfect terrain and climate for a golf course.
Evans apparently met Norman for the first time at the Essendon-Collingwood Anzac Day match in 2013 with the former world number one golfer, and global golfing entrepreneur, now on the advisory board of Evan's Melbourne-based stockbroking and investment firm, Evans and Partners.
Local Alexandra golfers play at the Alexandra Golf Club on Gordon Street or at the course of the Stonelea Country Estate on Connellys Creek Road.
Ellertson (pictured below) in the upper Hunter Valley in NSW has been <a href="https://www.gngcd.com/course-detail-photo.php?course_id=39" target="_blank">highly ranked on the bucket list of golfers</a>. <a href="https://www.golf.com/photos/top-15-greg-norman-courses/ellerston-golf-course#354349" target="_blank">It ranks atop the all-time 15 private courses on the golf.com list</a>.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2014/04/08/image-7.jpg" alt="">
Last week Greg Norman launched of a marketing campaign seeking investors to build and operate a tourism project on Great Keppel Island.
<div>Norman is the ambassador for the $2 billion Tower Holdings development on the island, which includes an 18-hole championship golf course designed by him.</div>
Along with his Great White Shark Enterprises, global estate agents JLL have been engaged to source international investors.
The investment bank, Moelis &amp; Company, has been engaged as lead financial advisor to the project by the owner, Tower Holdings chief, Terry Agnew.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Greg Norman's latest project - a private golf course for Melbourne investment banker David Evans

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“Vacancy” is not a good word for any investor looking to keep a stable cash flow and a decent tenant, and yet it seems many areas are facing rents decreasing in the capital cities, according to SQM Research, with Canberra and Perth suffering the most.
Similarly, Perth has recently had a tough run with tenants breaking leases and vacancy rates increasing - late last year, in fact, Property Observer reported that <a href="/news/perth-landlords-lower-rents-to-dissuade-potential-buyers">Perth landlords were lowering rents to dissuade tenants from leaving</a>.
<blockquote>
52% of Gen Y said they’d like to live in the inner suburbs.
</blockquote>
Realestate.com.au have released the top 10 suburbs searched online for apartment rentals over the past six months (September 2013 to February 2014) based on their internal statistics.
The top 10 list:
<ol>
<li>Brisbane (QLD) 4.7% vacancy rate (SQM Research) Daniel Argent from Urban Property in Brisbane says that the rental demand for inner Brisbane apartments is increasing.“There is definitely a high level of rental demand for inner city apartments. There are a lot of people looking for two-bedroom apartments that are close to shopping and transport. With such high demand we find that most of the properties are tenanted within two weeks of listing,” said Argent. </li>
<li>Canberra (ACT) 2.5% vacancy rate (SQM Research) </li>
<li>Perth (WA) 5.7% vacancy rate (SQM Research) <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-wa-perth-412854299" target="_blank">This two bedroom, two bathroom apartment</a> is currently available to rent in Perth. Sitting on the border of East Perth and Perth, it’s available at $750 a week. </li>
<li>Melbourne (VIC) 6.2% vacancy rate (SQM Research) </li>
<li>Docklands (VIC) 5.8% vacancy rate (SQM Research) A renter could lease an apartment in <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-docklands-412777379" target="_blank">this Docklands complex at $400 a week</a>. Unfurnished studio apartments at Victoria Point are leasing from $315 per week. Docklands' difficult conception and towering cranes previously saw Property Observer take a deeper look at the area, expected to have attracted $17.5 billion by 2025 in private sector investment, in this <a href="/news/vic/docklands-finding-its-feet-after-a-difficult-conception">suburb spotlight</a>. </li>
<li>Southbank (VIC) 2.3% vacancy rate (SQM Research) An unfurnished <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-vic-southbank-412778263" target="_blank">one bedroom apartment in the Victoria Tower</a> will set a renter back at least $405 per week. Shared facilities include a gym, tennis court, spa, sauna and pool. </li>
<li>Braddon (ACT) 1.5% vacancy rate (SQM Research) This <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-act-braddon-412841911" target="_blank">three bedroom, two bathroom townhouse in Braddon</a> is significantly more affordable, at $670 per week. </li>
<li>Nathan (QLD) 3.3% vacancy rate (SQM Research) </li>
<li>Parramatta (NSW) 2% vacancy rate (SQM Research) The booming Sydney "second CBD" suburb of Parramatta is currently seeing <a href="/expert-insights/buying/slab-to-be-set-on-highest-residential-tower-in-parramatta-v-by-crown-today">the tallest residential tower in the area, V by Crown</a>, under construction. The impressive development may just underpin the longevity of the area. </li>
<li>Chatswood (NSW) 2.8% vacancy rate (SQM Research) <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-chatswood-412715351" target="_blank">T</a><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-unit-nsw-chatswood-412715351" target="_blank">his freshly painted and two bedder</a> in Sydney’s Chatswood is available for $525 per week. </li>
</ol>
For more data, including median prices and rents on each of these areas, you can use our free suburb data pages. 
 
Interestingly, as noted above, the vacancy rates are still high on a number of these areas - and SQM Research's Louis Christopher has since tweeted Property Observer that he has put out warnings to investors on a number of these suburbs. Docklands and Southbank, in particular, have long had a <a href="/expert-insights/buying/melbourne-residential-unit-market-oversupplied-and-its-going-to-get-worse-terry-ryder">reputation of an apartment market oversupply</a>.
The number of tenants and sharers seeking apartments rather than other types of property, both established and new, is up to 39% of the market – an increase of 7% since 2012, according to the realestate.com.au figures.
<blockquote>
The number of tenants and sharers seeking apartments is now at 39% of the market.
</blockquote>
Tenants under the age of 35, earning between $50,000 and $99,000 are those driving this trend. Within this, 52% of Gen Y said they’d like to live in the inner suburbs.
While only 6% of Gen Y tenants nominated regional suburbs as their ideal location, 15% of baby boomers preferred regional suburbs, in their 2014 Consumer Insights Report on Tenants and Sharers.
Of all tenants, 72% of Gen Y said they’d take care of the property like it was their own, with 84% of Baby Boomers citing the same. Six in 10 tenants have said they spent money to make improvements to a rental property.
The general manager of sales and operations at realestate.com.au, Arthur Charlaftis, said that the key for tenants is research and knowing the key statistics about the area, as well as the amenities and lifestyle available.
<a href="mailto:jduke@propertyobserver.com.au" target="_blank">jduke@propertyobserver.com.au</a>
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Where do tenants want to rent? The top 10 suburbs where renters are searching for apartments

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As widely expected the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) decided again to leave the cash rate in a holding pattern for the seventh straight meeting although somewhat surprising the rhetoric was considerably different this time around.
Sydney is the elephant in the room with house prices jumping 15.6% in the last year according to RP Data, although I would add that this is a lazy way of explaining and defining the property markets across Sydney given they are all performing differently – some are hot and some are not.
Back to the RBA where in an extraordinary week we heard both Glenn Stevens and treasury secretary Martin Parkinson publicly declaring that Australia needs to be closely looking at and discussing taxes and government spending. Well not before time. We are fast drawing the conclusion that the elected ones in Canberra have absolutely no idea how to run a business – they appear to be the only ones who don’t believe that the rate of GST needs to be increased.
Reading between the lines there was a clear concern about what will be brought down in the May budget with a clear indication together with framed criticism by Glenn Stevens: “Put simply, there are things that we want to do as a society, and have voted for, that are not fully funded by taxes over the medium term, as is starting to become clear in the lead up to the May budget.”
<blockquote>
As strange as it might sound, I’m looking forward to seeing the cash rate increases.
</blockquote>
Personally I think it is fabulous when the likes of Messrs Parkinson and Stevens have the fortitude to publicly speak their minds by firing shots at the government on the eve of the budget. Let’s fill in a few gaps – NDIS and paid parental leave are the main culprits to which they were referring.
A perfect case in hand that should be at the forefront of the Abbott government's mind is that $16.2 billion Building and Education Revolution, the master class of the Rudd and Gillard terms which has now been condemned as an international case study of legislative and bureaucratic failure. Reading between the lines again, it would appear that Messrs Stevens and Parkinson are politely pointing out that the Australian economy can ill afford repeats of policy failures.
When you’ve been selling real estate for nearly 30 years, interest rates scare the living daylights out of you! And, as strange as it might sound, I’m looking forward to seeing the cash rate increases. Many economists are suggesting that this will happen in 2015 although I am of the opinion we will start seeing increases sooner rather than later with small increment increases.
<img src="/images/2014/04/07/simeon-april-7-one.jpg" alt="">
<img src="/images/2014/04/07/simeon-april-7-two.jpg" alt="">
<a href="https://www.smh.com.au/business/the-economy/housing-bubble-fears-property-prices-could-fall-10-to-20-per-cent-20140331-35sg7" target="_blank" title="Housing bubble fears: property prices could fall 10 to 20 per cent">Housing bubble fears: property prices could fall 10 to 20%</a> was an interesting piece by Christopher Joye although it lacks market definition. Yes, certain parts of the Australian real estate market are over inflated, those being the new suburbs crashing through the $1,000,000 mark for the very first time which will, as history has shown, be the hardest and fastest hit. By comparison the traditional markets such as Paddington, Mosman, Pymble and Bondi, for example, are tracking upwards although at nowhere near the pace of the hotspot suburbs.
I can see the cash rate moving from its current rate of 2.50% to 3.50% next year which will in time place a number of households under increasing financial pressure, although we have seen this happen time and time again. Most notably in the early 2000s the cash rate fell from 6.25% in <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au/statistics/cash-rate/cash-rate-1997-2001" target="_blank" title="September 2000 to 4.25 per cent in December 2001">September 2000 to 4.25% in December 2001</a>. We then witnessed dramatic market corrections in south-west Sydney as the cash rate started climbing to <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au/statistics/cash-rate/cash-rate-2008-2014" target="_blank" title="7.25 per cent in March 2008">7.25% in March 2008</a> where it then started being eased to where we find it today at 2.50%.
So what amazes me more is that currently we are seeing record numbers of investors entering the market, which can be best described as panic buying – investors now make up 40% of value of total housing loan approvals in NSW and Victoria. So when and where we do see property market corrections this is when we see the astute investors entering the market – the experienced ones are certainly keeping their powder dry.
What this does clearly identify is that politicians and investors pay very little attention to history where more often than not they become part of history.
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robertsimeon-hRNTwJyXkQ

When it comes to interest rates investors should learn a bit from history

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When <a href="https://www.sqmresearch.com.au/" target="_blank">SQM Research</a> predicted back in September last year that Sydney dwelling prices <a href="https://propertyupdate.com.au/sydney-dwelling-prices-to-rise-15-20-in-2014-louis-christopher/" target="_blank">would rise by 15-20%</a> in 2014, and possibly by significantly more, there were more than a few raised eyebrows.
<img src="https://dev.propertyupdate.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2013/09/sydney-dwelling-prices.png" alt="sydney dwelling prices">
Source: SQM Research
Some went so far as to be directly scornful. Yet, given the fundamentals of the market at that time, the underlying logic of the prediction was sound enough and SQM will once again likely prove to be pretty close to the mark.
Dwelling prices in Sydney had under-performed household income growth for almost a decade, and, crucially, interest rates appear set to remain at what are historically extremely low levels throughout the year and potentially well beyond. Notably Australia's official cash rate will remain materially below where it was during Sydney's last property boom through to early 2004 for some time to come yet. 
<div class="separator"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GHyZPPEi6S0/U0DWI2miS_I/AAAAAAAAMXE/Av5bxBTmK5w/s1600/OCR.jpg"></div>
 
Even now in April, the <a href="https://www.rba.gov.au/media-releases/2014/mr-14-05" target="_blank">Reserve Bank rhetoric</a> suggests that the first rate hike is potentially some way off, particularly since inflation is expected to be consistent with the Reserve Bank's stated 2-3% target over the next two years.
In other words, interest rates are not going to be the handbrake which stops the current Sydney property boom in its tracks.
Rather, the music is only likely stop in this Sydney property market cycle once buyers deem yields to have fallen too low, such as they eventually did in Q1 2004.
<blockquote>
Those who plan to own well-located, desirable property in Sydney over the coming decades appear set to be very happy with the outcome.
</blockquote>
Auction clearance rates in Sydney remain remarkably high, the levels of stock on the market remain significantly lower than where they were a year ago in spite a flurry of vendor activity, and prices have continued to rise.
RP Data's index shows Sydney outperforming the rest of Australia over the past year, and indeed the five capital cities price growth has largely been driven by Sydney's dwelling price growth itself, in concert with broadly equivalent price activity in Melbourne.
<img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gSgKWhHSXzU/U0DFN4LkLgI/AAAAAAAAMWs/TzNAnNxE2n4/s1600/SQM.jpg">
Whether 2014 price growth in Sydney ends up being 10%, 15% or even 20%, SQM's logic will prove to have been broadly accurate. For what it's worth, below are the year to date figures as reported by RP Data.
<img src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-F48tiydlEdI/U0DFVlXWpFI/AAAAAAAAMW0/w2AgIVQtYq0/s1600/SQM2.jpg">
We're only a week into April and it already looks likely that another month of gains will be recorded in the harbour city. And if you take the view that such indices are inclined to lag, then SQM's prediction looks very much to be in decent shape.
In any case, certain locations are beginning to <a href="https://domainmastheads.homepriceguide.com.au/saturday_auction_results/Sydney.pdf" target="_blank">record blistering results</a>, including <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-nsw-waverton-116398555" target="_blank">Sydney's lower north shore</a>. 
And you can probably begin to add parts of the Campsie/Canterbury/Bankstown sector of the market to that. Meanwhile, the popular inner west suburbs closer to the central business district have been flying for some years now. 
When I discussed Sydney's real estate prospects in a brief chat with SQM's Managing Director Louis Christopher, he likened Sydney dwelling prices "to a high PE stock", which I thought was a worthy analogy.
Sydney's property will likely continue to trade at a premium to dwelling prices elsewhere in Australia since massive population growth and the sheer intensity of demand for inner suburb real estate factors in that Sydney will be a solid city for property owners for generations to come. The population of Sydney is expected to grow to some 8 million over the coming decades. I've spent plenty of time in other high-density cities including London, Hong Kong and Singapore and observed with interest the appreciating prices of well-located real estate. Those who plan to own well-located, desirable property in Sydney over the coming decades appear set to be very happy with the outcome.
You can visit <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) or Pete's <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blog</a>.
His new book '<a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>' is out now.
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

SQM Research's Sydney price rise predictions have been vindicated

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RE/MAX Western Australia’s managing director Geoff Baldwin has spoken out against potential changes to current stamp duty dispensations for first home buyers, saying that if the relief was decreased or abolished there would be dire effects across the market.
 “The negative affect the ceasing of stamp duty relief for first home buyers would be extremely damaging however, when this segment of the market stagnates it ripples up through all price ranges and the effect would be crippling”, said Baldwin.
“If you take a line through New South Wales and Victoria where subsidies have been abolished, first home buyer activity has dropped to 8% and 12% respectively, compared to the current 22% in Western Australia (RP Data).
“Historically, in a healthy market, first home buyers account for around 25 to 30% of all buyers.
“The established home market has already taken a massive hit through the government’s recent actions in changing the First Home Owner Grant whereby those building new homes receive $7,000 and people buying established only $3,000.
“To abolish first home owner stamp duty concessions would be extremely short sighted as it will a negative impact the whole market and hence the Industry, just at a time where we are again experiencing some prosperity in the property sector.”
 
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Rumoured cuts to stamp duty relief for first home buyers would be “extremely damaging”: RE/MAX

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GUEST OBSERVATION
One of biggest issues to be addressed in last weekend’s WA Senate poll - and perhaps one of the most complex, too - was how best to maintain the state’s growth trajectory through the forthcoming period of transition.
Western Australia has undeniably seen the benefits from sustained economic growth over the course of the resources boom, with the state’s per capita gross income rising to around 50% above national levels in little over a decade.
<img src="https://62e528761d0685343e1c-f3d1b99a743ffa4142d9d7f1978d9686.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com/files/45584/width668/2z8jq8pc-1396569575.jpg" alt="">
Real per capita Gross State Income: WA and Australia, 1992 to 2013
However, the latest economic data does support the view that the WA economy has passed the peak of the construction phase of the commodities boom (characterised by growth in productive capacity, high employment and real wage growth). It is now moving to a production phase in which the state’s productive capacity is “put to work” in driving resource volume and export growth.
Early signs of this transition can be seen in reduced capital investment growth, lower participation and rising unemployment. WA’s unemployment rate has almost always been below the national rate, but there are signs that the unemployment and participation gaps are narrowing.
<img src="https://62e528761d0685343e1c-f3d1b99a743ffa4142d9d7f1978d9686.ssl.cf2.rackcdn.com/files/45580/width668/pkb3vxgg-1396569393.jpg" alt="">
Unemployment and labour force participation: WA and Australia, 1991–2013
Relatedly, the changing workforce and skills requirements for WA require careful thought. Skilled migration, whether from interstate or from overseas, can only do so much to meet the changing demand for labour in the state. The shifting industrial composition also requires an education and training system flexible enough to retrain WA workers to match the needs of industry.
Housing policy was also an important battleground in this weekend’s elections.
Industry group affordability indicators published recently suggest that WA isn’t significantly out of line with other states and territories. However, most of these measures dwell on cost burdens for the “typical” family and house, disguising some big economic and social issues facing policymakers.
The Perth housing market has a real problem providing affordable rentals to low income families, or the right types of properties in the right locations. The housing sector points to high construction, regulation and approvals costs as the main impediment to the efficient supply of affordable housing. Whatever the cause, these issues are common topics of conversation for West Australians.
Australia raises proportionately more in direct taxation than the OECD average (around 60%, two thirds of which is personal income taxation) but significantly less from indirect taxes (mainly GST) - 13% against an OECD average of around 19%.
Federal Treasury secretary Martin Parkinson this week rehearsed the positive arguments for shifting the balance of income taxation and GST more towards the latter, but the context is not textbook. If you had to raise more revenue as a government to honour public spending commitments on NDIS, health and schools reform, support the ageing baby boomer population, and defend against falling terms of trade, which would you choose?
<blockquote>
Housing policy was also an important battleground in this weekend’s elections.
</blockquote>
The subtle increases in direct tax revenues through fiscal drag can stretch only so far, and more overt increases in company or personal income taxation face strong political headwinds. It does seem unnecessarily restrictive for the Federal government to deliver effective tax policy in more challenging economic times with its GST hand tied behind its back. However, consumption taxes may be more efficient, but they’re more regressive too.
WA households have experienced significant real incomes growth over the course of the resources boom, not just in absolute terms but relative to the national trend. But this growth hasn’t been distributed evenly, and the impact of an increase in GST tends to fall regressively on lower income earners who are less able to substitute away from consumption.
With the falling allocation of the GST wealth share to WA - down to 4.2% - placing more pressure on the state’s spending program, there is a need to ensure that economic policy responses don’t contribute to further increases in inequality beyond those already seen.
When it comes to GST shares, it’s hard to argue that WA gets out what it puts in. However, whether the GST return to WA is “fair” (or at least reasonable) depends on the position one takes on the redistributive philosophy underlying the allocation of GST shares across states and territories.
Alan Duncan is director of the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre and Bankwest Research Chair in Economic Policy at Curtin University.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/25135/count.gif" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="line-height: 1.3em;">
The Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre is an independent economic and social research organisation located within Curtin Business School at Curtin University. The Centre was established in 2012 with support from Bankwest (a division of Commonwealth Bank of Australia) and Curtin University. The views in this article are those of the author and do not represent the views of Curtin University and/or Bankwest or any of their affiliates.
The views in this article are those of the author and do not represent the views of Curtin University and/or Bankwest or any of their affiliates.
This article was originally published on <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>.
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