A landmark former orphanage site in Surrey Hills could be transformed into a new residential community under plans lodged by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/antipodean-land-developments">Antipodean Land Developments</a> that would deliver 76 apartments and townhouses while restoring some of the suburb's most significant heritage buildings.

The burgeoninng Melbourne-based developer has submitted plans for the 9,158 sqm site at 1 Kent Road and 24 Durham Road, home to the former St Joseph's Home for Destitute Children, a historic institutional complex dating back to the late 19th century. The proposal seeks to adaptively reuse several heritage buildings while introducing two new four-storey residential buildings set within extensive landscaped grounds.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> and Kerstin Thompson Architects, the project has been conceived as a contemporary residential village embedded within a restored heritage precinct. The development team describes the design approach as "The Village in the Garden," with new buildings positioned among mature landscaping by OCULUS and significant heritage structures.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="44ec8c1b-c0b6-44ae-859e-5811b3e6a023" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%281%29.png?VersionId=p.p1_KFh4iQoV4nisdnPfQBAsWNi7m79" />

The proposal would deliver 76 dwellings comprising a mix of apartments and duplex-style residences, significantly increasing housing supply on one of the largest privately held residential landholdings in Surrey Hills. The development includes 127 car spaces, 24 bicycle spaces and more than 1,000 sqm of communal amenity, with the existing chapel building earmarked for conversion into resident facilities.

According to the planning submission, the project centres on the restoration and adaptive reuse of the site's most significant heritage assets, including the original c.1889 St Joseph's building, the chapel designed by architect Augustus Andrew Fritsch, and the historic brick perimeter walls and entry gates. The proposal also incorporates the retention of other contributory buildings including the former infirmary and school building.

Tract Consultants, in the planning report accompanying the application, said the scheme had been shaped through extensive heritage analysis and design development.

"The shared vision for the Site by the project team has culminated in a scheme which successfully breathes life back into a historic site while delivering upon the objectives of Victoria's Housing Statement in a carefully curated and contextually responsive manner."

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7263b7d8-95ea-400f-9531-6ca7d22c3c33" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%282%29.png?VersionId=4cR1tiWOsDpgxEOwZi5vVFcyvvOsYkIE" />

The proposal is being assessed under Victoria's Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway. As part of the application, three per cent of the project's residential development cost would be contributed to the Social Housing Growth Fund. The development would also provide a diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom residences targeting a broader range of buyers than typically found in Surrey Hills' detached housing market.

Sustainability initiatives include an anticipated 66 per cent BESS score, natural cross-ventilation to 80 per cent of apartments, 28 per cent deep soil landscaping and a canopy cover outcome exceeding local planning requirements. The proposal also sets aside more than 1,083 sqm for communal indoor and outdoor resident amenity spaces.

<img alt="First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="33fad46f-fe26-4d0a-acfd-6b776e1c6a3d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Untitled%20design.png?VersionId=D9F6WVSyYCtGvSUmith35LRp6R7PQkw_" />

Planning documents describe the property as one of the largest underutilised residential sites in Surrey Hills, arguing it presents a rare opportunity to introduce "missing middle" housing in an established inner-eastern suburb while preserving and revitalising a significant heritage precinct.

Antipodean Land Developments has built a reputation for design-focused residential projects across Melbourne, particularly in the medium-density sector. Previous developments include Neighbourhood in Brunswick East, delivered with Breathe Architecture, and Balfe Park Lane, designed by Kerstin Thompson Architects.

They've been very active in site acquisition as they build out their future development pipeline. They recently launched Thornubury House, 45 apartments above a mix of commercial, retail, and food and beverage tenancies, and have plans for a boutique project in Fitzroy and another <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/antipodean-plan-apartments-for-deepdenes-missing-middle-on-whitehorse-road">"missing middle" project</a> on Deepdene's Whitehorse Road.

Joel Robinson

First look: Antipodean Land Developments plans heritage-led apartment community in Surrey Hills

Developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/auyin-property-development">Auyin</a> is the latest to turn to the Victorian Government's Development Facilitation Program in an effort to secure approval for its long-planned, mixed-use project in Elsternwick.

In 2018, Auyin lodged plans with Glen Eira City Council for a 14-storey building, however Council approved a reduced eight-storey scheme. A subsequent VCAT appeal in 2019 upheld the eight-storey height limit.

The project was later amended to nine storeys, but Auyin is now seeking to revive something closer to its original vision. The developer argues that the planning context has evolved significantly over the past decade, particularly within the Elsternwick Activity Centre, where higher-density development has increasingly been encouraged along Glen Huntly Road.

The proposal would transform the 1,239 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/7-12-horne-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">7-15 Horne Street</a>, opposite Elsternwick Railway Station, into a 13-storey residential and retail development designed by CBG Architects, with 40 apartments

The site currently comprises three commercial properties.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5f465dd4-509b-4082-a669-0253b313914b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20podium.png?VersionId=72frWi0SmQ5AVJ3ARRhX5ILUYObhTm7x" />

The proposed apartment mix comprises 25 two-bedroom and 15 three-bedroom residences above 200 sqm of retail space at ground level. Residents would have access to a 90 sqm wellness facility, a 351 sqm communal indoor and outdoor terrace on the third level, and extensive landscaped areas throughout the development. A publicly accessible 135 sqm plaza would be created on the north-east corner of the site, providing seating, landscaping, and a new gathering space adjoining Horne Street.

The design adopts a four-storey podium that references the finer-grain character of the surrounding streetscape, with the upper tower recessed behind generous setbacks on all boundaries.

<img alt="First look: 13-storey mixed-use tower planned for Elsternwick activity centre" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e637e763-2abc-4c34-a0aa-5c7ad36fae18" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/elsternwick%20open.png?VersionId=J1AoOpZgTyaF.KeeFSX6lMjEScX8KKRi" />

A key element of the proposal is the reconfiguration and widening of the surrounding laneways. Vehicle access would be retained from Lois Lane, with upgraded pedestrian connections linking Ross Street and Horne Street. The development would provide 58 residential car spaces, two retail car spaces, and 52 bicycle spaces across two basement levels and ground-floor facilities.

Architecturally, the building draws inspiration from the established character of Elsternwick Village. The façade combines dark charcoal brickwork, textured concrete, bronze-toned metal detailing, and extensive planting integrated into podium and tower levels. The design also incorporates a chamfered corner treatment and publicly accessible plaza intended to strengthen pedestrian activity around the station precinct.

Elsternwick's last new development completion was&nbsp;EVA Elsternwick by Pitard late last year. <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/milieu-property">Milieu</a> is working away on its nature-led neighbourhood, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/elsternwick-gardens-by-milieu-8-gordon-street-elsternwick-vic-3185">Elsternwick Gardens</a>, on Gordon Street, with its first stage expected to complete next year.

First look: Auyin seeks mixed-use apartment project in growing Elsternwick Activity Centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/otium-parkdale-123-125-como-parade-east-parkdale-vic-3195">Otium Parkdale</a>, the 13-residence boutique development by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/huxtable-property">Huxtable Property</a>, has entered its final stages of delivery, with completion expected within the coming month and more than half of the residences sold.

The Como Parade East project is nearing the finish line at a time when opportunities to purchase new apartments in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/parkdale-vic-3195">Parkdale</a> remain exceptionally limited. Fewer than 10 per cent of dwellings in the bayside suburb are apartments, making developments like Otium a relatively rare addition to a market traditionally dominated by detached housing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5427]

The three-level development comprises 13 residences, including ten two-bedroom apartments and three larger three-bedroom homes, all positioned above a secure basement car park.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/almeida-architects">Almeida Architects</a> with a strong connection to its coastal surroundings, Otium combines red brick, exposed concrete and dark metal detailing with integrated landscaping and greenery. Expansive glazing, generous balconies and terraces have been incorporated throughout the design to maximise natural light and reinforce indoor-outdoor living.

Inside, the residences feature engineered European oak flooring, natural and reconstituted stone benchtops, Bosch kitchen appliances, ducted heating and cooling, lift access and secure entry systems. The larger three-bedroom residences on the upper level have been designed with house-like proportions, while the two-bedroom apartments prioritise functionality, flexibility and low-maintenance living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134974 project_image_fid=5421]

The project is now in its final stages, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/labco">Labco</a> completing the remaining landscaping and external finishing works following the completion of the residences' interiors.

Otium's location within the heart of Parkdale continues to underpin its appeal. Residents will be just steps from local cafés, restaurants, shops and the newly elevated Parkdale Station, while the beach is less than a kilometre away.

With the project tracking ahead of schedule, buyers can currently secure a residence with a five per cent deposit and benefit from settlement terms of up to eight months. The advanced stage of construction also provides buyers with the opportunity to walk through the near-complete residences and experience the quality and finishes firsthand ahead of completion.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134974]

Otium Parkdale enters final month before completion as rare apartment opportunity nears sellout

A new boutique apartment development is entering the market in <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/chermside-qld-4032">Chermside</a>, with Brisbane-based developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ausdev">Ausdev</a> bringing 33 residences to a well-connected pocket of Brisbane's north.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/parkdrive-apartments-chermside-25-sammells-drive-chermside-qld-4032">Parkdrive Apartments</a>, at 25 Sammells Drive, will comprise a mix of one- and two-bedroom residences positioned within walking distance of Westfield Chermside, The Prince Charles Hospital, and Bradbury Park.

Established in 1989, Ausdev has a long-standing presence across both development and construction, with Parkdrive Apartments representing its latest residential project in Brisbane's northern suburbs.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363778]

The development has been designed around open-plan living and natural light, with residences featuring stone benchtops, timber cabinetry, BOSCH appliances, and private balconies that extend the living areas outdoors.

Kitchens are positioned as the centrepiece of the homes, incorporating natural material palettes and integrated appliances, while bathrooms have been designed with a focus on functionality and understated finishes.

Residents will have access to a communal barbecue and entertaining area on Level 3, providing shared outdoor space within the development. Secure parking and lift access are also incorporated into the building.

The project will deliver a limited collection of 33 apartments, with one-bedroom residences priced from $749,000.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=152125 project_image_fid=363782]

Beyond the building itself, the location places residents within easy reach of several of Chermside's key amenities. Bradbury Park is around 350 metres away, while Westfield Chermside is approximately 1.3 kilometres from the site. The Prince Charles Hospital is located within 750 metres, and the Chermside Bus Interchange is around 1.5 kilometres away, providing connections across Brisbane.

Parkdrive Apartments adds to the growing residential pipeline in Chermside, a suburb that continues to evolve as a major retail, healthcare, and transport hub for Brisbane's north.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=152125]

Ausdev introduces boutique Parkdrive Apartments to Chermside's growing centre

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/skymark-group">Skymark</a>'s boutique Cronulla development Solis has secured a 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy through Resilience Insurance, providing buyers of the 16-residence building on Ewos Parade with structural and waterproofing protection that extends a decade beyond the building's completion.

Currently under construction and due for completion in late 2027, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/solis-cronulla-8-ewos-parade-cronulla-nsw-2230">Solis</a> is one of a small number of new developments in the Sutherland Shire to carry Resilience LDI coverage, a distinction that carries increasing weight as buyer confidence in the off-the-plan sector continues to be shaped by how developers stand behind their product.

Latent Defects Insurance, which entered the Australian market in 2022 when Resilience Insurance was approved to offer the cover, protects buyers against major structural or waterproofing defects for ten years post-completion. Unlike traditional statutory warranties, it operates as a first-resort policy, if a covered defect arises, the insurer responds directly, without the buyer needing to pursue the builder or developer through a lengthy claims process.

Resilience Insurance CEO Corey Nugent has noted that the product addresses something fundamental to the new apartment market.

"The overarching feedback from prospective buyers in the new development space is that they want more confidence and assurances around the quality of the build," Nugent says.

"Resilience Insurance Latent Defects Insurance not only gives them complete peace of mind for 10 years, but it shows the developer they are buying from is standing by their product."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370898]

For Solis, the Resilience LDI policy adds a meaningful layer of accountability to an already considered project. The development comprises nine two-bedroom and seven three-bedroom residences, including one dual-level three-bedroom apartment, across a five-storey building on Ewos Parade, positioned between Shelly Beach and South Cronulla.

Garden apartments connect directly to private landscaped courtyards, while upper-level homes capture beach views to the east from level four and above.&nbsp;

All 16 residences include at least one balcony or courtyard, and select apartments on the upper floors feature bar areas and secondary flexible living spaces.

Hiba Sander, Managing Director of Skymark, says Solis offers a rare balance, nestled between the quiet beauty of secluded beaches and the lively charm of South Cronulla's esplanade.

"It's a place to choose your pace and live gracefully, seaside'," Sander says.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370900]

The architecture, designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/ida-design-group">IDA Design Group</a>'s Michael Trinh, draws from the natural erosion patterns of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/cronulla-nsw-2230">Cronulla</a>'s sandstone headlands, translating the organic forms of the coastline into soft curves, pavilion-style massing, and a material palette chosen for longevity in a salt-tinged environment.&nbsp;

Textured natural stone, soft renders, and timber-look battens reference the tones of the surrounding cliffs, while the building has been oriented to maximise natural light and passive ventilation, with primary living spaces facing north and east to capture morning sun and sea breezes.

"At Solis, our aim was to create architecture that feels quietly confident, grounded in natural materials like stone and timber, and elevated by light and landscape," Trinh says.&nbsp;

"The buildings are designed to sit gently within their coastal surrounds, with expansive glazing and abundant greenery creating a seamless dialogue between inside and out."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370897]

Interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hot-black">Hot Black</a> carry the same material language through to every room. Kitchens feature integrated Gaggenau appliances, sculpted stone benchtops, and Lo &amp; Co joinery, while bathrooms feature natural stone, timber, and brushed metal finishes.&nbsp;

Hot Black Founder and Design Director Sophie Safrin describes the intent as one of considered restraint: "At Solis, every detail has been thoughtfully considered to create a timeless coastal retreat, calm, refined, and effortlessly liveable. From natural finishes to seamless indoor-outdoor flow, Solis offers a quiet elegance that's deeply connected to its surroundings.

The landscape, designed by Julian Brady of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/sitedesignstudios">Site Design Studios</a>, treats green space as an integral part of the resident experience rather than an afterthought.&nbsp;

"Gentle curves and layered native plantings mirror the ebb and flow of the ocean," Julian Brady says, "creating a serene connection between architecture and place."&nbsp;

Coco Republic has provided bespoke furniture packages tailored to the project's coastal palette.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150499 project_image_fid=370899]

Skymark has an established track record in the Sutherland Shire, with a portfolio spanning Cronulla, Woolooware and Burraneer that includes Isla, Sylva, Bask, Shells, Sula and Mist. Securing LDI on Solis reflects a broader shift in how the developer is positioning its buildings to buyers, at a time when Resilience Insurance expects the policy to become mandatory in New South Wales by 2028.

Sales at Solis are launching soon through Ray White Projects, with an official event scheduled for 11 June. Enquire for more information.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150499]

Skymark takes out 10-year Resilience Insurance LDI at Solis Cronulla

Affordable Housing

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With two-thirds of our global populace predicted to be living in a city by 2050, finding affordable housing proves difficult when searching for property in Australia's cities, especially for first home buyers.

If your budget is on the tighter side, here are six residences you can get for $550,000 in each capital city. 

1. Sydney

Parkside, Wolli Creek 
One-bedroom apartments from $545,000 
Address: 25-29 Gertrude Street, Wolli Creek NSW 2205

<img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/678b48dd-3274-4aa4-a10b-0f177db9cd5f-w1920-h1080.jpeg?itok=99Tj8E1_" width="580">

In Sydney, $550,000 won’t get you very far. However, by travelling just 15 minutes south, you’ll be able to score a brand new one-bedroom apartment in Wolli Creek.

Privately-owned Parkside is offering a one-bedroom, one-bathroom residence with a car space from $545,000. The modern apartments have a contemporary feel, with views over Cooks River and the city skyline. Prices for the one-bedroom apartments go up to $675,000.

2. Melbourne

<a href="/buildings/domain-house-south-melbourne-41-49-bank-street-south-melbourne">Domain House, South Melbourne</a> 
One-bedroom apartments from $498,000 
Address: 41-49 Bank Street, South Melbourne VIC 3205

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/domain-house-south-melbourne-41-49-bank-street-south-melbourne" rel="gallery-all" title="Domain House, South Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="433" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2020-11-24_at_11.32.07_am.png?itok=0ibbW8J-" title="Domain House, South Melbourne" width="580"></a> <a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/domain-house-south-melbourne-41-49-bank-street-south-melbourne" rel="gallery-all" title="The yoga room at Domain House, South Melbourne"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="436" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2020-11-24_at_11.32.14_am.png?itok=lz3K6FTu" title="The yoga room at Domain House, South Melbourne" width="580"></a> 

Melbourne’s offerings in this price range include a one-bedroom, one-bathroom apartment in South Melbourne.

A new development, Domain House on Bank Street, will see apartments starting from $498,000 to $570,000 for one-bedroom apartments. The project is designed by Bruce Henderson Architects, with high-end apartments priced up to $1.7 million. Whilst construction is only just commencing, the development plans reveal a tranquil yoga room, residents’ lounge and Japanese-inspired garden. So far, 60 per cent of the apartments in the complex have sold.

3. Canberra

<a href="/buildings/domain-house-south-melbourne-41-49-bank-street-south-melbourne">T</a><a href="/buildings/the-parade-10-anzac-park-campbell">he Parade, Campbell</a> 
Two-bedroom apartments from $540,000 
Address: Cnr Constitution Avenue, Campbell ACT 2612

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/the-parade-10-anzac-park-campbell" rel="gallery-all" title="The Parade, Campbell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="379" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/render_campbell5_courtyard_final1200px.jpg?itok=XRD3JedJ" title="The Parade, Campbell" width="580"></a> <a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/the-parade-10-anzac-park-campbell" rel="gallery-all" title="The Parade, Campbell"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/render_campbell5_living_final1200px.jpg?itok=X6I61i0y" title="The Parade, Campbell" width="580"></a>

Given the lower entry-level price points, buyers can secure a luxury apartment in Canberra for a fraction of the cost of a high-end apartment in Sydney or Melbourne.

The Parade, a luxury residence right next to Canberra’s iconic Anzac Parade, offers two-bedroom apartments from $540,000. Offering inside-outdoor living, expansive living and spacious balconies, this apartment displays the best Campbell has to offer. The development is part of JWLand’s Campbell5 project, a lifestyle precinct and park-side living quarter.

The Parade is the fifth and final release at Campbell5: Saint-Germain, Greenwich Park, Koben, Siena and The Parade. Construction is expected to be completed midway through 2021.

4. Adelaide 

<a href="/buildings/on-the-park-bowden-20-24-gibson-street-bowden">On The Park, Bowden</a> 
Two-bedroom apartments from $470,000 
Address: 20-24 Gibson Street, Bowden, SA 5007

<a href="/buildings/on-the-park-bowden-20-24-gibson-street-bowden"><img alt="" height="755" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/on_the_park_bowden_sa.jpg" title="On The Park Bowden" width="1000"></a>

Adelaide's Bowden on The Park offers one, two and three bedroom apartments starting from $375,000 for a one bedroom apartment. With the $25,000 HomeBuilder grant available for first home buyers, that's $350,000 a foot on the property ladder. The Five Star Green Energy rated building has been <a href="/architects/hames-sharley">architecturally designed by Hames Sharley</a>, who has designed apartment blocks in Sydney, Perth and Brisbane.

Hundreds of people each week flock to the markets, cafes and bars of Bowden’s Plant 4 and Town Square. 

Bowden on The Park is estimated to be completed in mid 2021.

5. Brisbane

<a href="/buildings/belvedere-on-park-62-south-terrace-adelaide">T</a><a href="/buildings/the-one-residences-brisbane-8-adelaide-street-brisbane">he One Residences, Brisbane</a> 
Two-bedroom apartments from $570,000 
Address: 8 Adelaide Street, Brisbane QLD 4000

<a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="/buildings/the-one-residences-brisbane-8-adelaide-street-brisbane" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/the-one-residences-cutaway-1170x658.jpg?itok=pTkt2y0u" width="580"></a>

While, just above $550,000 threshold, Brisbane can offer you a whole for just a little. Luxury residential development, The One, offers two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartments starting at $572,000. Conversely, you may feel better suited to the one-bedroom, one-bathroom properties from $429,000.

The One is set to become one of the tallest buildings in Queensland, designed by DBI Design in collaboration with Zenx Architects. The tower sits in the mixed-use Brisbane Quarter, offering ground floor retail and world-class restaurants. The $1 billion development will include a gym, outdoor yoga and relaxation area, business lounge, and dining room.

6. Perth 

M<a href="/buildings/matheson-on-kearns-22-24-kearns-crescent-ardross">atheson on Kearns</a> 
Two-bedroom apartments from $549,000 
Address: 24 Kearns Crescent, Ardross WA 6153

<a href="/buildings/matheson-on-kearns-22-24-kearns-crescent-ardross"><img alt="" height="597" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/matheson_on_kearns_ardross.jpg" title="Matheson on Kearns" width="1000"></a>

Matheson on Kearns in Ardross, a small suburb sandwiched between the exclusive areas of Applecross and Mount Pleasant, and offers buyers the potential of $25,000 development bonus and a up to $25,000 in stamp duty concessions. The six level apartment block of 46 is made up of one, two and three bedroom apartments. They will have designer kitchens with Miele appliances, full-height glazing in the living areas and entertaining balconies.

The one bedroom apartments are 15 per cent more space than the average one bedroom apartment. Matheson on Kearns is being developed by the <a href="/developers/megara">Perth property development group Megara</a>, who have are selling apartments in <a href="/buildings/the-foundry-636-newcastle-street-leederville">The Foundry at Leederville</a> and <a href="/buildings/south-240-240-south-terrace-south-fremantle">South 240 in South Fremantle</a>.

Matheson on Kearns is estimated for completion in September 2021.
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If your budget is on the tighter side, here are six residences you can get for $550,000 in each capital city. 

urban.com.au

November 2020: What does $550,000 get you in each capital city?

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The National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation (NHFIC) has finalised a $100 million agreement with NSW Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) accelerating the delivery of new social and affordable housing in NSW.
The deal will allow LAHC to access up to $100 million in loans and grants through the National Housing Infrastructure Facility (NHIF), which is administered by NHFIC.
NHFIC CEO Nathan Dal Bon said the funding would deliver crucial infrastructure supporting the development of much-needed community housing.
“NHFIC’s infrastructure facility was established to improve housing outcomes for everyday Australians. This agreement with NSW will support infrastructure works to enable the delivery of 781 new social and affordable homes at significant development sites across Sydney,” Mr Dal Bon said.
The NHIF offers both concessional loans and grant funding for new or upgraded infrastructure needed for new housing, such as roads, water, sewerage, electrical, communications, and remediation.
“This historic financial agreement showcases the opportunity for states and territories to work together and benefit from the NHIF, resulting in more housing supply across the country,” Mr Dal Bon said.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

NHFIC funding to deliver 781 new social and affordable homes for NSW

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Social housing is part of the lives of a surprising number of Australians. On any one night in Australia, just over 4% of households rent social housing. Yet it has housed many more people than this for brief, and sometimes repeated, periods. We estimate up to 10% of Australians have called social housing home at some time in the past 20 years.
Throughout the postwar era, Australians have used social housing in various ways. Social housing can be:
<ul>
<li>
a place to raise a working family
</li>
<li>
a “springboard” to owning a home
</li>
<li>
a brief “safety net” to escape domestic violence
</li>
<li>
a stable home following homelessness.
</li>
</ul>
Today the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute (<a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/about-us/who-we-are-and-what-we-do" target="_blank">AHURI</a>) releases a <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.ahuri.edu.au/research/final-reports/326" target="_blank">major commissioned study</a> tracking the pathways of people into and out of social housing from 2000 to 2015. Our analysis, using national data, provides many interesting insights into how Australians use social housing.
Try to picture a “typical” social housing tenant. You might imagine a single mother, or an elderly lady who has lived and raised family there. Or do you see a single man who has fallen out of the workforce? Regardless of whom we picture, most of us will probably see social housing as an end-point in their housing journey – a stable home.
The truth is Australians use social housing in several very different ways. A home for life is just one of those ways.
<h2>Who uses social housing?</h2>
When we look over time (in this case 15 years) at everyone who has lived in social housing, we find only about a third of people lived continuously in the tenure. Almost another third entered social housing in that time and remained there. But a surprisingly large proportion entered and left the sector either once or multiple times.
So social housing represents different things – a long-term home, a springboard, a safety net – to different people.
The likely role of social housing depends a lot on what else is going on in people’s lives. When we compared characteristics of all people who were “social renters” at some time in the 15 years, we found:
<ul>
<li>
the group who lived continuously in social housing were generally older (average age 60) and more likely to be female than people on other housing pathways, with age pension and disability benefits the most common types of government assistance received
</li>
<li>
those who left social housing (and never returned) were the second-oldest group (average age 50), also predominantly female, with unemployment and disability support the most commonly received government assistance
</li>
<li>
the group who entered (and then remained in) social housing was distinct in its high proportion of refugees and other people born overseas, with unemployment and disability support again the most common government assistance
</li>
<li>
more than a quarter of all pathways could be described as more transitory, involving multiple entrances or exits. This group as a whole was younger, more likely to be Australian-born and more likely to be Indigenous than the other groups. It was also distinct in the dominance of unemployment benefits among the forms of government assistance received.
</li>
</ul>
<h2>Social housing has broad benefits</h2>
The people who enter social housing, and their patterns of behaviour, are nowhere near as predictable as many of us thought. There are many pathways. Only about one-third are long-term tenancies.
Despite the shrinkage of this sector, and a relative lack of investment in it, social housing does much more than simply house the elderly, sick and most disadvantaged people in our society.
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/319788/original/file-20200311-116275-1c67o3y.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" target="_blank">Click here </a>to enlarge:
<a href="https://images.theconversation.com/files/319788/original/file-20200311-116275-1c67o3y.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=1000&amp;fit=clip"><img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/319788/original/file-20200311-116275-1c67o3y.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt=""></a>
Social housing (public and community housing) as a proportion of all households in Australia. <a class="source" href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/policy/ahuri-briefs/census-shows-falling-proportion-of-households-in-social-housing" target="_blank">AHURI, using ABS Census data, 1981-2016</a>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-sa/4.0/" target="_blank">CC BY-NC-SA</a>
More than one in four people who enter social housing use it as a launchpad to more stable employment and market housing. Clearly, then, the sector plays a valuable role in stabilising lives and raising prosperity. These important functions should be safeguarded in the future as pressures on the sector continue to grow.
Overall, one of the things this new work gives us is a long view – hopefully a different view – of the social housing sector and its role over time in Australian lives. It reminds us the impact of social housing is felt well beyond the 4% of the population who may live in it at any one time.
Our social housing infrastructure has certainly been part of the housing experience of many Australians or their parents. We therefore underestimate the effectiveness of social housing as a springboard into home ownership, or a temporary safety net, when we only think of the 4% it currently houses.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/133436/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/emma-baker-172081" target="_blank">Emma Baker</a>, Professor of Housing Research, School of Architecture and Built Environment, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-adelaide-1119" target="_blank">University of Adelaide</a>; <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/chris-leishman-391783" target="_blank">Chris Leishman</a>, Professor of Housing Economics, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-adelaide-1119" target="_blank">University of Adelaide</a>, and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rebecca-bentley-173502" target="_blank">Rebecca Bentley</a>, Professor of Social Epidemiology, Centre for Health Equity, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-melbourne-722" target="_blank">University of Melbourne</a>
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-many-faces-of-social-housing-home-to-1-in-10-australians-133436" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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The many faces of social housing – home to 1 in 10 Australians

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On Tuesday night (12th of November), the City of Melbourne's Future Melbourne committee endorsed the council's submission to the Victorian Government's Ministerial Advisory Committee on Planning Mechanisms for Affordable Housing, effectively making clear the council supports a mandatory and state-wide inclusionary zoning mechanism to increase affordable housing across the state.

The Advisory Committee was appointed in September, has been set up to operate for six months and, will deliver its final report containing advice to the Planning Minister on affordable housing models and options within three months of its initial meeting.

City of Melbourne's submission notes it is developing its own Affordable Housing Strategy that is set to build on its Homes for People: Housing Strategy 2014-2018.  Other research obtained by the City of Melbourne, namely a Housing Needs Analysis, found that there is a current shortfall of at least 5500 affordable rental homes in the municipality and that number is anticipated to increase to 23,200 by 2036.

The council's now-adopted report states,

<blockquote>
"Current mechanisms in the Melbourne Planning Scheme which seek to encourage affordable housing are yet to deliver any affordable homes.  No affordable homes have been negotiated in private developments in the City of Melbourne since legislative changes to the Act. State and federal government programs are anticipated to provide 250 affordable homes in the City of Melbourne by 2036 [and] the introduction of a mechanism to the Victorian planning system requiring affordable housing will ensure a consistent supply."
</blockquote>

The City of Melbourne’s submission to the Ministerial Advisory Committee recommends there is an introduction of state-wide mandatory inclusionary zoning, at a rate to be determined by modelling, with a cash-in-lieu option, complemented by:

<ul>
<li>Flexibility for local governments to increase the state-wide minimum requirement where there is strategic justification and evidence of need;</li>
	<li>A voluntary uplift incentive that can be applied in strategic development areas to encourage a higher provision beyond the state-wide minimum or any local government-specific minimum; </li>
	<li>A commitment from the three tiers of government to work in partnership to create a holistic and integrated approach to ensure that policy, funding, incentives and governance is effective. </li>
</ul>
SGS Economics and Planning was commissioned to undertake a Housing Needs Analysis that looked at current and future demand for affordable rental housing within the City of Melbourne, the inner Melbourne and metropolitan Melbourne.

For inner-Melbourne, the analysis found a shortfall of 29,500 affordable and social housing dwellings in the Inner Metro Partnership region (which includes the Cities of Melbourne, Port Phillip and Yarra).  Likewise, for metropolitan Melbourne, the analysis found 231,250 households are "currently in need of affordable and social housing," accounting for 13% of all households.

The council's submission, through research performed by SGS, references other jurisdiction's inclusionary zoning implementations including in South Australia, New South Wales, London and California.  In San Francisco for example, new private housing developments with 10 or more housing units are to include affordable housing units or pay a fee in lieu.

Non-residential development mechanisms to finance affordable housing are also cited - for instance in Boston - Melbourne's sister-city - approximately 5000 affordable units were financed through a levy of $8 per square foot on new commercial development that generated $45 million USD between 1986 and 2000.

The Advisory Committee's final report is set to be delivered by early December 2019.

To read the City of Melbourne's Ministerial Advisory Committee submission as well as its supporting evidence, see <a href="https://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/about-council/committees-meetings/meeting-archive/MeetingAgendaItemAttachments/878/15660/NOV19%20FMC1%20AGENDA%20ITEM%206.5%20SUBMISSIONS%20TO%20MINISTERIAL%20ADVISORY%20COMMITTEE%20ON%20PLANNING%20MECHANISMS.pdf">melbourne.vic.gov.au</a>.

Lead image: Artist impression of the Boyd development, which includes affordable housing via <a href="https://twitter.com/cityofmelbourne">City of Melbourne</a>
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Alastair Taylor

City of Melbourne adopts policy for mandatory inclusionary zoning as mechanism to deliver affordable housing

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Builders around the country have backed the key initiatives in the Federal Budget that will help promote economic growth across the country. 
Denita Wawn, CEO of Master Builders Australia, welcomed the Government’s announcements on new investment in skills, infrastructure and small business because they are targeted at what’s needed to strengthen the economy. 
“While there was good economic news in this budget, Master Builders is concerned that Treasury, in line with Master Builders forecasts, predicts a seven percent decline in housing investment. This reinforces the need to ensure that all housing investment incentives remain intact,” Denita Wawn said.
The Budget speech, by the Treasurer Josh Frydenberg acknowledged housing affordability was an issue for Australians.
<div class="story-content">
“Affordable housing is a priority for the government,” but for the second consecutive year the Budget failed to address issues either short-term or structural.
There was funding for affordable housing for community and social housing, but the Federal Budget fails to offer any new affordable housing initiatives, says an industry body.
</div>
While the previous year’s budget places affordable housing as a central plank, this year’s marks a significant contrast, says Nicholas Proud, CEO of PowerHousing Australia, which represents scale-growth community housing providers.
 “The nation built the most significant social bond and National Housing Finance Investment Corporation in the two years since Budget 2017, and further work around this infrastructure boost will be needed to tackle affordable housing deficits across the nation,” Proud said.
“It was terrific to see the Treasurer referencing NHFIC’s work in tonight’s budget speech.
“Their support will enable our members to scale up and deliver the affordable housing at scale that Australians need.”
Proud welcomed the 2019-20 Federal Budget’s increase in infrastructure spend, which is set to hit $100 billion over a decade.
“The infrastructure investments announced tonight complement these prior investments by helping to reduce congestion and make it easier for Australians, including key workers and those on low and middle incomes, to more easily get to and from work.
“Australia is heading for a slowdown in new housing delivery at rates never seen before which will place a handbrake on jobs, see less taxes collected, state economies decline and supply contract which only serves to place upward pressure on pricing.
“Whilst there is a federal election campaign just days away, the innovative leadership of the 2017-18 Budget should not be a one-off, particularly as we are heading to declines in future year building approvals of up to 50,000 dwellings compared to the levels experienced in the year up to March 2018.
“There are tens of thousands of families who, over the next five years, are set to see the loss of the NRAS One incentives which started to lapse in December 2018. A response to non-CHP managed NRAS homes is critical.
“We warmly welcome this budget’s record investment in women’s safety, including $78.4 million to provide safe places for people impacted by domestic and family violence.
“These Australians will also benefit from the additional tax cuts included in this year’s budget, which had a strong focus on cost of living – something that remains top of mind for so many people."
Ray White managing director Dan White congratulated Treasurer Josh Frydenberg on his first Federal Budget which he called a welcome ‘shot in the arm’ confidence boost for all Australians.
Some 10 million Australians will be showered with $158 billion in tax cuts,  with the average earner saving $10,000 over six years.
The pre-election Budget supercharges rewards for workers, small business, older Australians, women and the youth plus a promised $100 billion infrastructure spending spree.
“The Coalition’s tax relief promises are welcome and will be a shot in the arm to every household in Australia,” Mr White said.
“A strong economy needs ongoing investment and we are delighted to see the Coalition boost its infrastructure spending to unlock our regions and help ease congestion in our cities.
“This Federal Budget and its growth projections are heavily reliant on our already softer housing market holding up.
“But no-one in Treasury has a calculator that can accurately predict house prices. "That is the great unknown in this budget and easing house prices are clearly Treasury’s economic wildcard.
“Ray White remains optimistic about the Australian housing market but we hope the Government keeps its focus on the housing sector and is ready with a contingency plan if their assumptions and  forecasts aren’t met."
The Budget papers highlight the downside risk of a further deterioration in housing prices on dwelling investment and household consumption, noting that if consumption dropped one per cent as a result, this would shave a quarter of a per cent from GDP growth.
Treasury says new dwelling investment will only grow 0.5 per cent this year, before dropping by 7 per cent in 2019-20 and a further 4 per cent in 2020-21 as existing projects are completed.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Budget criticised for lack of affordable housing initiatives 

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The NSW government has rolled out the second phase of its $1.1 billion Social and Affordable Housing Fund, choosing four community housing providers to build homes.
The four providers will deliver more than 1000 additional homes for vulnerable families.
Minister for Social Housing Pru Goward said the SAHF will continue to provide housing and tailored access to support services for tenants, including medical care, employment and education.
“The SAHF empowers people to live more independent lives and supports them to break the cycle of disadvantage, with this phase particularly focused on older people,” Ms Goward said. 
“The NSW Liberals &amp; Nationals Government is embarking on the biggest social housing construction program in Australia, building almost 27,000 social and affordable homes over ten years.”
The successful parties, who will provide quality dwellings close to infrastructure and tailored support services, are:
<ul>
<li class="m_-5142731504667098816MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">Anglicare – delivering 550 homes</li>
<li class="m_-5142731504667098816MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">Housing Plus – delivering 220 homes</li>
<li class="m_-5142731504667098816MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">SGCH Portfolio Ltd – delivering 260 homes</li>
<li class="m_-5142731504667098816MsoNormalCxSpMiddle">Uniting – delivering 300 homes.</li>
</ul>
Combined with Phase 1, the SAHF now has contracts in place for access to over 3,400 homes across NSW.
The majority of these homes will be built on land owned or acquired by non-government organisations. 
The SAHF was established with more than $1.1 billion in seed capital from the NSW Government, which is invested to provide a stable income stream for up to 25 years to boost social and affordable housing.
Since May 2017, more than 320 individuals and families have moved into social and affordable homes funded under the first procurement phase of the SAHF.
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Anglicare helping deliver NSW social housing

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GUEST OBSERVATION
Social housing is in crisis in Australia, with almost 200,000 people on waiting lists. Social housing made up 8% of all housing stock in Australia in 1966. This had fallen to just 4.3% at July 2016.
As a result, governments have tightened eligibility. Social housing is increasingly home to only the most vulnerable households. And even these households often spend years on the waiting list while experiencing severe housing stress or homelessness.
Outside of social housing, rental and ownership options are increasingly unaffordable, particularly in the capital cities. Social housing was once a stepping stone to home ownership, but this is becoming more difficult.
There is a solution
The Melbourne-based Barnett Foundation responded by creating a model of affordable home ownership for social housing tenants. The foundation developed a 34-unit apartment in the inner suburb of North Melbourne and offered 28 units to households living within 4km of the site and willing to leave their social housing. It’s called the Melbourne Apartments Project (MAP).
The foundation offered an interest-free second mortgage scheme to ease buyers’ transition into home ownership. This allows the owner to retain 100% ownership of their home while combining their own savings, a standard first mortgage with a bank and a second mortgage with the foundation.
The developer achieved cost savings during construction through reduced marketing and real estate costs (thanks to support from Melbourne City Mission), reduced tax requirements and foregone profit. The savings totalled about 37% of the market value of each property.
These savings were passed on to the buyers in the form of a no-interest second mortgage. This is not payable until the home owner sells their apartment. The second mortgage also reduces every year for the first four years.
Buyers were required to provide at least a A$25,000 deposit and to seek a mortgage to cover the remaining development costs of each unit. This is about 63% of market value, meaning they require a much smaller loan and pay less interest, as well as a smaller deposit. This helps overcome two of the largest barriers to home ownership for first home buyers.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/235129/original/file-20180906-191844-1j4qu6v.png?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
What do the buyers think about it?
I interviewed ten of the 28 MAP households in our research and will be presenting findings next Tuesday, October 9, at a free event.
Residents offered extremely positive feedback on their new homes and about being able to buy a home near their existing communities. They would not have contemplated this without the MAP.
Many had lived in social housing for 20 to 30 years and had never felt capable of making the move into market housing.
Participants spoke of the benefit of being able to pass on an asset to their children or to build wealth in their home. Many spoke of the great sense of achievement this move had given them.
I found residents retained extremely strong connections to their previous communities. They often returned to the public housing estates for social activities, to visit family and for community gardening.
However, many also spoke of their deep desire to leave unsafe, “aggravated” and uncomfortable previous homes. Households spoke of the deep sense of relief that came from feeling safe.
Most respondents told me their financial position had not changed or even improved since moving into MAP. Most were “over income” tenants, with a household income that meant they paid market rent for their social housing. Many found their mortgage repayments were similar to their previous rental costs.
However, social housing provides a “safety net” as rents are adjusted if household income decreases. Given some households gathered their deposits with significant support from family and friends while earning low incomes, this might be a future concern for residents.
Scaling up solutions
A 28-unit development is a drop in the ocean compared to the level of unmet need. Recent research suggests Greater Melbourne alone has a 160,000-dwelling deficit of housing that is affordable and available to very low and low-income households.
Creating a significant change requires effective models to be replicated and scaled up. In Toronto, a similar model called Options for Homes has delivered 2,000 affordable units. A further 2,500 units are in the construction pipeline.
Our research found this model is replicable and suitable for a subsection of more financially secure social housing tenants. Its scaling would be supported by access to land and finance and integration with social rental housing options.
Access to land
Access to affordable land in well-located areas is one of the largest barriers to developing affordable housing. Projects like MAP could be integrated into state government initiatives like the Public Housing Renewal Program.
Such schemes would also benefit from discounted land sales by philanthropic or religious groups, or even deferred land sale costs. Options for Homes almost always works with vendors that are prepared to defer land purchase costs until development is completed.
Access to funds
Philanthropic organisations and social impact investors like the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Foundation have already supported affordable home ownership through the Affordable Housing Loan Fund. This allowed the not-for-profit organisation Habitat for Humanity to provide no-interest loans to low-income buyers in the town of Yea in Victoria.
Similarly, social impact investors are key to providing project equity to models like the Nightingale housing model. They could provide important equity and/or debt finance to projects using the MAP model.
Integrated housing solutions
This model is aimed at households with incomes of at least A$75,000 a year, or access to a substantial capital contribution. Despite the reduced deposits and mortgage repayments, most social housing tenants will not be able to access this scheme.
Other not-for-profit organisations could replicate this model and integrate it into their existing portfolios of social rental housing. The MAP model could cross-subsidise other housing options and help to provide a diversity of housing options in developments.
Why does this matter?
For the Melbourne Apartments Project, we estimated that for every A$1 of cost to the government, it receives A$2.19 in benefits from the project. This is mainly due to new households being able to move into vacated public housing units.
If every public housing unit made available as a MAP participant moved out were reallocated to a high-needs applicant on the waiting list, the government could save A$27,458.22 in costs per MAP participant per year.
Housing is increasingly unaffordable in many parts of Australia. As governments reduce their role in social and affordable housing, the need for industry-led innovations is growing. Pilot projects such as MAP are important but need to be supported by policy and scaling mechanisms to have a systemic impact on our housing environment.
Katrina Raynor, Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Transforming Housing Project, University of Melbourne
This article is republished from <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/affordable-home-ownership-scheme-offers-a-pathway-out-of-social-housing-102635" target="_blank">original article</a>.
The authors of this and two other recent Conversation articles – Carolyn Whitzman, Matthew Palm and Katrina Raynor – are presenting the full findings of their research project at a Transforming Housing event from 6.30pm on October 9.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/102635/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
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Affordable home-ownership scheme offers a pathway out of social housing: Katrina Raynor

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EXPERT OBSERVER
The announcement by the Victorian Government that they have allocated $500,000 to give councils funds to work with developers on the provision of affordable housing is a positive move.
The Victorian Government approach to delivering affordable housing seems to be based on councils and developers working together to achieve outcomes.
The government has allocated half a million dollars to help councils improve skills in negotiating a pathway for councils and developers to lock in affordable housing delivery as part of a project.
This approach seems to open the door for individual project based agreements where a developer can get some uplift to provide affordable housing.
A case by case approach is much better than a top down mandatory levy that can undermine the economic feasibility of a development project.
The Urban Taskforce believes that the NSW Government should also support an approach to the provision of affordable housing that allows a case-by-case approach where a reasonable uplift in floor space could be provided to support the provision of affordable housing.
This could be managed through the Affordable Rental Housing State Environmental Planning Policy that gives a floor space bonus if the developer includes a component of affordable housing that can be rented for a 10 year period.
The NSW Government’s Landcom agency is using this approach for the provision of affordable housing at Tallawong Station Precinct.
The Urban Taskforce is keen to work with the NSW Government and the Greater Sydney Commission to develop feasible policies that can provide affordable housing in Sydney and throughout NSW.
Chris Johnson is the Urban Taskforce CEO
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cjohnson-8xfqfuuCSq

The Victorian Government's affordable homes initiative is positive

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The Victorian Government has announced planning changes in order to move forward with its Inclusionary Housing Pilot that will deliver 100 new social housing dwellings and works to update ageing rail infrastructure in Melbourne's south-east will throw up another round of train replacements.

Victorian Planning Minister, Richard Wynne, announced amendments to local planning schemes for four different sites in Boronia, Broadmeadows, Parkville and Wodonga that move pilot sites forward and the government anticipates adding up to 100 new social housing dwellings as part of its programme.

"We need to build and invest in liveable communities and make the most of the land we already have, and this pilot will create up to 100 new social housing homes to support our most vulnerable," the Planning Minister said.

The amendments relate to the introduction of new zones, overlays that will preserve vegetation, ensure adequate traffic and parking management, provide public open space and ensure the proposed developments respond to local neighbourhood character.

In Broadmeadows, a 7,500 square metre park will be created for the local community's use and in Boronia there will be planning scheme protection for significant trees and local habitats.

The development of the new social housing dwellings will be pursued with community housing providers. 

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public//pictures/article-images/vline_steamrail.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Despite the shutdown, Steamrail excursions will still run - hooray! Image: wikipedia"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files//styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/vline_steamrail.jpg?itok=TqSey8n0" title="Despite the shutdown, Steamrail excursions will still run - hooray! Image: wikipedia" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Despite the shutdown, Steamrail excursions will still run - hooray! Image: <a href="https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:A_VLine_trains_passes_a_steam_locomotive_at_Pakenham.jpg">wikipedia</a></figcaption></figure>In August another round of train replacements for the Pakenham and Cranbourne lines will occur because work will begin on updating old railway infrastructure that will enable the new fleet of High Capacity Metro Trains to run on the rail line.

On the 4th and 5th of August, buses will replace trains between Dandenong and Cranbourne and between the 4th and 12th of August, buses will replace trains between Dandenong and Pakenham.

On the 13th and 14th of August, buses will replace trains between Westall and Cranbourne and Westall and Pakenham.  All Gippsland V/Line services will be replaced by coaches for the entire journey between the 6th and 14th of August.

Despite the shutdown, the Steamrail Snow Train excursion, as it won't require overhead electricity, will still run as scheduled on the 5th of August.

Platform works at Dandenong, Officer, Cranbourne and Hallam will continue during the train replacement periods.  The other 9 stations beyond Dandenong already have platform lengths that will comply with the longer HCMTs that will soon be introduced.

Overhead wires and stanchions and signaling are the primary corridor-wide upgrades happening in the area with the government describing the infrastructure as 'decades-old'.  

The Cranbourne line has two level crossing removal projects underway at present with multiple between Dandenong and Pakenham still in the early planning phase.

Each new 7-car HCMT train will have passenger carrying capacity of 1100 people and the first train is set to begin operations from mid-2019.

Lead image credit: <a href="https://www.vic.gov.au/affordablehousing/housing-supply-and-planning/inclusionary-housing">vic.gov.au</a>
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Victoria's Inclusionary Housing Pilot one step closer, works to extend Cranbourne and Pakenham platforms kick off

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The emerging Chinese property development giant Aqualand has appointed a heavyweight advisory board including former Liberal politician Warwick Smith, chairman of the Australia China Council, and who already sits on the boards of ANZ Bank China.
The former Tasmanian will become executive chairman of Aqualand, AL Capital and chair of the advisory board.
Smith joins the influential company director Gabrielle Trainor and former Multiplex chairman Ross McDiven on its advisory board as the company flags ambitions to become one of Australia’s largest developers.
Ms Trainor is an AFL commissioner, a director of Infrastructure Australia, and a former director of the Barangaroo Development Authority.
Aqualand group managing director Jin Lin, son of the parent group’s founder Yi Lin, said the advisory board appointments marked a significant milestone for Aqualand, which only entered the Australian market in 2014.
It now has 18 sites with a $5 billion development pipeline.
John Carfi, a former head of residential for Mirvac, was appointed in April to oversee its Australian strategy.
Aqualand’s parent is the Sheng­long Group, which controls more than $20 billion of assets in the Asia-Pacific, the US and Europe.
One of Aqualand’s biggest projects is in Sydney’s $5 billion Central Barangaroo precinct, in a consortium with Canada's Oxford Properties; Melbourne developer Grocon and shopping centre giant Scentre Group.
Aqualand has signalled it will also focus on major affordable housing projects following last month’s passing of legislation for the $1 billion National Housing Infrastructure Facility.
It is bidding for part of the NSW government’s 10-year $2.5 billion Telopea social and affordable housing masterplanned community near Parramatta.
Aqualand has established AL Capital — led by investment banker Wayne Mo — which last month spent $10.7 million buying 15 per cent equity in the listed real estate agency McGrath.
The group has an arrangement to now utilise McGrath’s project marketing expertise on its projects for a five year term, where McGrath has the first right to discuss the marketing propositions.
John Carfi said last week that the company aimed to rival Australia biggest developers over the next five years.
The group currently had just over $2bn invested in Australia, he said.
 
 
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