The Victorian Government has secured the passage of the Building Legislation and Treasury Legislation (Tax Relief) Amendment Bill 2026, introducing a suite of reforms aimed at improving consumer protection and confidence in the apartment market.

Resilience Insurance, Australia’s leading Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) provider, has welcomed the move.

The LDI elements of the Bill passed with bipartisan support and now moves to the Legislative Council where debate and passage are expected later this month. It represents a significant milestone in the national shift toward stronger, longer-term protection for apartment buyers.&nbsp;

The reform would deliver practical benefits across the housing system. Apartment owners will have stronger protection if major defects emerge, developers and builders will have a clearer quality framework to work within, and the State will reduce the risk of serious building failures becoming a long-term financial and social burden for households, communities and government.&nbsp;

LDI helps support apartment delivery while providing stronger protection for buyers and encouraging better construction outcomes.&nbsp;

Resilience LDI provides apartment owners with 10 years of insurance-backed cover for major structural defects from completion, with direct claim access to the insurer. This means owners are not required to first pursue developers or builders through costly legal action before accessing protection.&nbsp;

Resilience Insurance has been operating in Australia since 2022 and has already insured hundreds of development projects covering many thousands of apartments across Australia.&nbsp;

At approximately 1.8 per cent of build cost, it is a cost-competitive alternative to the traditional two per cent Strata Bond, bond while delivering significantly broader and longer protection.&nbsp;

“The Victorian Lower House vote shows that reforms like this succeed when they are practical, evidence-based and supported by industry," says Corey Nugent, CEO of Resilience Insurance.

"Victoria is moving quickly on a reform that will make a real difference for apartment buyers, while supporting better building outcomes and greater confidence in apartment delivery.

“This is step one. We look forward to the Bill completing its passage through the Legislative Council and to working with government and industry to implement the framework effectively.”&nbsp;

Fast Facts: What is Resilience LDI?&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Resilience Latent Defects Insurance (LDI): Covers major structural defects for 10 years from completion.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Consumer-first: Direct claim access, no need for lengthy legal action.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Cost advantage: At approximately 1.8% of build cost, LDI is typically priced below the traditional 2% Strata Bond while offering broader protection.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Market leader: Resilience Insurance is the first approved LDI provider in NSW.</li>
</ul>

The Building Legislation and Treasury Legislation (Tax Relief) Amendment Bill 2026 has passed the Victorian Lower House, putting Victoria on track to become the first state to legislate an industry workable LDI framework as a formal alternative to the Strata Building bond. 

Joel Robinson

10-year Latent Defects Insurance for new apartment buyers set to land in Victoria

Just a few months after acquiring a prime Broadbeach site on the corner of First Avenue and Surf Parade, family-run developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/raptis">Raptis</a> has filed fresh plans for a new apartment development.

Raptis is seeking to deliver a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/17-19-first-avenue-broadbeach-qld-4217">29-storey tower with 73 apartments</a> on the 818 sqm site. It will be the developer's seventh project in the suburb, as they are approaching completion of The Sterling on George Avenue.

There will be a pool, barbecue and outdoor dining area, residents lounge and dining, sauna and steam room, gym, and a Yoga and Pilates studio.

<img alt="Raptis" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b554da3f-7344-49aa-b1c9-44cf459af0d7" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-05%20at%2010.41.45%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=zzjWu1iO1wnuYv4EV4fyOyf5nSXjGYut" />

Raptis Joint Managing Director, Evan Raptis, says they remain&nbsp;committed to developing quality infill sites across the Gold Coast in the lead-up to the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

"This project continues our long track record of delivery in Broadbeach, and we look forward to bringing another premium development to this thriving precinct."

The announcement follows strong delivery momentum for Raptis, with The Sterling Broadbeach nearing completion and construction well underway on the final stage of the Waterpoint community adjacent to Harbour Town. The developer's continued investment in the Gold Coast reflects confidence in the region's apartment market fundamentals, underpinned by sustained Southeast Queensland population growth.&nbsp;

The outlook for the region is further bolstered by infrastructure investment tied to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, which is expected to drive continued economic and population growth across the SEQ corridor.&nbsp;

Subject to a favourable response from Gold Coast City Council, construction on the new First Avenue tower is targeted to commence before the end of 2026.&nbsp;

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/it-s-all-in-the-family-four-decades-later-raptis-continues-to-shape-the-gold-coast-skyline">It’s all in the family: Four decades later, Raptis continues to shape the Gold Coast skyline</a>

Read more: <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/qld/raptis-secures-prime-surf-parade-site-for-next-broadbeach-apartment-development">Raptis secures prime Surf Parade site for next Broadbeach apartment development</a> 
&nbsp;

Gold Coast developer brings seventh Broadbeach project to market, targeting construction commencement before year end

First look: Raptis lodges plans for new 29-storey Broadbeach tower 

Brisbane development veteran Kevin Seymour's Seymour Group is set to deepen its presence on one of Brisbane's most tightly held riverfront addresses, lodging revised plans for a luxury apartment development on Oxlade, just a few doors down from The Oxlade, which it completed in 2024.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/70-72-oxlade-drive-new-farm-qld-4005">new project at 70-72 Oxlade Drive</a>, directly north of The Oxlade, will have 27 apartments across a seven-storey building&nbsp;overlooking the Brisbane River and Merthyr Park. It's a revision from a 2021-approved design.

Designed by bureau^proberts, the project has evolved from the previously approved 26-apartment scheme, introducing an additional penthouse level while maintaining a low-density, boutique character. The development will comprise 26 three-bedroom apartments and a single four-bedroom penthouse, supported by two basement levels with 86 car spaces and 34 bicycle spaces.

The architectural response is centred around two distinct building forms separated by a landscaped open-air atrium.&nbsp;"This dual composition captures and embraces Brisbane’s subtropical environment whilst breaking down built form and scale," the submission to the Brisbane City Council noted.

<img alt="First look: Seymour Group returns to Oxlade Drive with revised riverfront apartment plans in New Farm" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c12d84d0-bc11-4067-b46f-5bd2d786a34d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/new%20farm%20landscape.png?VersionId=YEPc2k5CAdh6aAPlu4uVpgZadh4MEfRd" />

A defining feature of the design is a deep landscaped void running through the centre of the building, creating what bureau^proberts describes as a "natural ravine" that enhances airflow, daylight penetration and resident amenity. The design report notes that the separation of the two building volumes is intended to maximise natural light, cross-ventilation and outlook while strengthening connections to the surrounding riverfront setting.

Curved balcony edges, integrated planting and extensive landscaping throughout the façade reinforce the subtropical design approach. The building's façade is softened by elevated gardens and planter beds, creating a green edge that complements the established landscape character of Oxlade Drive and neighbouring Merthyr Park.

New Farm has become one of Brisbane's most sought-after suburbs for developers delivering premium downsizer-focused apartments.

GRAYA has been particularly active in the precinct, completing both Chalk and York in recent years, while construction of Moray House, being delivered for Spyre, is now nearing completion. Architect-turned-developer Joe Adsett recently launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/arcilla-new-farm-by-joe-adsett-28-maxwell-street-new-farm-qld-4005">Arcilla on Maxwell Street</a>, an exclusive collection of just nine apartments.

First look: Seymour Group returns to New Farm's Oxlade Drive with riverfront apartment plans

A new residential tower will be the first piece of a broader mixed-use precinct set to reshape a prominent Newcastle West site, with local developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gwh">GWH</a> bringing its <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/cambridge-quarter-newcastle-west-12-denison-street-newcastle-west-nsw-2302">Cambridge Quarter</a> vision to market.

The first release, Tempo, will introduce 87 apartments across a 24-storey tower, marking Stage 1 of the residential component of a larger urban regeneration project planned for the western end of Newcastle's city centre, encompassing the former Cambridge Hotel site.

Positioned on Denison Street, Tempo has been designed as the inaugural building within Cambridge Quarter, a precinct that will ultimately combine apartments, retail activation and revitalised public spaces including the revamping of the Cambridge Hotel.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368853]

The tower will comprise a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, including layouts with multipurpose rooms, catering to a broad cross-section of owner-occupiers. Apartment sizes range from around 60 sqm to 192 sqm, with a number of residences oriented to capture views across Newcastle Harbour, the city skyline and coastline.

GWH has emphasised liveability in the design, with open-plan layouts extending to generous balconies and terraces. Residents will have a choice of two interior palettes, while specifications include engineered stone benchtops, SMEG appliances, full-height bathroom tiling and secure building access. Premium upgrade packages will also be available.

Multiple rooftop resident retreats will provide communal outdoor space overlooking the harbour and city, offering an elevated amenity layer above the activity of the precinct below.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368851]

The broader Cambridge Quarter vision extends beyond the residential tower itself. Ground-level retail activation and landscaped public areas are planned throughout the precinct, creating a walkable neighbourhood environment connected to the surrounding renewal of Newcastle West. The Cambridge Hotel is also earmarked for future redevelopment into a family-friendly hospitality venue integrated with the new precinct.

The project is strategically positioned within walking distance of Newcastle Interchange, providing access to light rail, regional rail services and direct connections to Sydney. Residents will also be close to Honeysuckle, Newcastle Harbour and the city's beaches and coastal walkways.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=135876 project_image_fid=368852]

For GWH, Cambridge Quarter represents one of its most significant Newcastle developments to date. The locally based developer, which has operated in the Hunter region since 1995, describes the project as a new chapter in the ongoing transformation of Newcastle West.

GWH Executive Director Jonathan Craig said the project had been shaped by a focus on creating lasting community connections.

"We take pride in creating places that last. Spaces where people feel connected, comfortable and a genuine sense of belonging," Craig said.

"Cambridge Quarter is something we are truly proud of, a place shaped by local knowledge, built with care and designed to be part of Newcastle's next chapter."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=135876]

GWH unveils first release at landmark Cambridge Quarter precinct in Newcastle West

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Projects</a>,&nbsp;Rainbow Bay's busiest developer,&nbsp;has officially lodged plans for the largest development in its booming local portfolio, seeking approval for a further 88 apartments on Boundary Street.

The proposal&nbsp;at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/209-213-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">209–213 Boundary Street, Coolangatta</a>,&nbsp;marks the next chapter in the developer's transformation of the southern Gold Coast beachside precinct. It will be its fifth in the area, having already delivered Flow, Awaken and Esprit, while construction continues on the 38-apartment Radia. The new project would rise 57 metres above a consolidated 1,518 sqm site, on the same street as Radia and Esprit.

&nbsp;

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker</a>, the proposed development comprises 88 two and three-bedroom apartments across a contemporary podium-and-tower form that integrates extensive landscaping from street level through to the rooftop.

The tower would be delivered above a basement and multi-level podium accommodating resident and visitor parking, with the residential component commencing from level three. The design incorporates cascading planting throughout the façade, landscaped podium edges, and deep planting zones along the Boundary Street frontage.

<img alt="First look: S&amp;S Projects lodges plans for 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="677e6615-b5c0-4b6c-b4f9-efb14fcde1a6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/ss%20da%20pers.png?VersionId=YOnPKQm7IFXv0M5H326djEpxk80500Hi" />

A key feature of the development is its expansive rooftop wellness and recreation precinct. Plans reveal a resort-style pool deck, gymnasium, sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge pools, rooftop terraces, barbecue areas and landscaped relaxation spaces positioned to capture views across the southern Gold Coast coastline.

The rooftop wellness focus builds on the vision S&amp;S Projects first outlined when it acquired the site for $20.25 million last year.

"We are taking every advantage to create a truly unique rooftop wellness experience with a natural feel for residents, offering stone features throughout and an underlying theme that emulates a botanical garden," S&amp;S Projects founder and director Paul Gedoun said at the time.

The proposal seeks a 57-metre building height, representing a 50 per cent uplift on the site's mapped 38-metre height limit. Planning documents argue the additional height is consistent with recently approved and emerging towers in the immediate Boundary Street and Rainbow Bay precinct.

Urbis, acting as planning consultant, said the development would provide "88 dwellings, comprising a mix of two and three-bedroom apartments, contributing to housing choice and supply within an established medium to high-rise coastal urban neighbourhood."

The scheme has undergone extensive pre-lodgement consultation with the City of Gold Coast, with the design refined following feedback relating to architectural expression, landscaping, traffic access and podium treatment.

<img alt="S&amp;S" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0a2d70fd-62ac-4b83-97c6-b798fc1243dd" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-05%20at%209.16.31%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=yHmghUwKM3IVGpBktQU1mE.0Lpf3WimG" />

The architectural team is led by Brisbane-based Cottee Parker, one of Australia's most active residential design studios, with landscape architecture by Dunn + Moran. The consultant team also includes ADG Engineers, Windtech and Acoustic Works.

S&amp;S Projects has become one of the most influential private developers operating on the southern Gold Coast. Since entering Rainbow Bay in 2022, the company has assembled a portfolio exceeding $1 billion in end value, establishing itself as a key player in the area's evolution into a premium apartment destination. Pezet Matheson will again handle the sales for S&amp;S.

Coolangatta is entering another wave of apartment development, following the delivery of several prominent residential projects in recent years.

John Kearney's Immerse Projects will launch&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/kaiya-kirra-beach-5-haig-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Kaiya on Haig Street</a>&nbsp;soon, meanwhile, Palm Beach-based Sherpa Property Group is preparing to bring its debut Coolangatta development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-viver-87-griffith-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Flourish Viveré</a>, to market later this year, subject to approvals.

First look: S&S Projects proposes 88-apartment wellness tower at Coolangatta's Boundary Street

AXF Group

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Apartments.com.au recently spoke with AXF Group Managing Director Richard Gu regarding all things property, and the future intent of the now well established Melbourne-based developer.

Created during 2005 (with the help of Shanghai-based parent company Xiangfu), AXF Group first cut its teeth in the apartment sector with a medium-density complex located at 18-26 Bell Street, Heidelberg. While the Heidelberg project was completed during 2010, the current day AXF Group holds a stable of development opportunities with one common goal: the delivery of high quality living spaces.

Imperial Doncaster heads the current crop of apartment developments with construction well advanced on the project. Located on Doncaster Hill and maintaining views over Melbourne's CBD, the project is near on two months ahead of schedule with contractor Hacer Group expected to reach completion during June.

<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/image6_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Imperial Doncaster. Images courtesy Hacer Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="472" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image6_0.jpg?itok=4DuZUNjf" title="Imperial Doncaster. Images courtesy Hacer Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Imperial Doncaster. Images courtesy Hacer Group</figcaption></figure>Stressing the development's quality location and ample apartment formats, some of which are at 200 square metres, Richard explained that a recent Chinese New Year limited-time offer to waive stamp duty on any purchases within Imperial had helped push sales ahead. With practical completion in sight, AXF Group are now releasing the developer’s reserved stock within the Buchan Group-designed project.

It's the market positioning, intrinsic quality and subsequent success of Imperial within a cluttered Doncaster apartment market which has in part helped AXF Group define their development course for the immediate future. 85% of purchasers within Imperial are noted as owner-occupiers with 15% of apartments offered sold for in excess of $1 million.

According to Richard, AXF Group like many other developers was heavy with developments slanted toward investors rather than owner-occupiers. Yet with the success of Imperial the focus has shifted toward attracting the premium owner-occupier in forthcoming developments.

Subsequently two high profile development sites have or are in the process of being moved on by AXF Group. Footscray's Kinnears Rope Factory site with the prospect of 1400 dwellings and 1,000sqm of retail space has sold to a mainland Chinese developer, while the well publicised 545 Station Street in Box Hill is also for sale. With approval for 419 dwellings and a potential serviced apartment component, Richard is confident the site and endorsed plans will attract a buyer.

This shift in AXF Group's paradigm is well demonstrated in Melbourne's CBD. Based upon the group's observations Richard believes that the influx of recent apartment projects has lead to a glut of investor-grade apartments while the top-end resident has been neglected to a degree. While tight-lipped about a specific address, Richard says AXF Group will soon unveil a new development in the 'Paris End' of the CBD, well away from the investor-driven towers sprouting up in the western and northern areas fo the CBD.

This CBD project will be front and centre in AXF Group's efforts to target the owner-occupier market.

Asked on the progress of another intended project at 180 Russell Street, Richard revealed that the marquee tower has received some design refinement based upon discussion with State planning officials and that the project is still firmly on track. First revealed by Apartments.com.au, the Buchan Group-designed mixed-use tower would include a hotel component, apartments and an active civic scape fronting the Chinatown precinct and Russell Street.

<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/image7_2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Artist's impression of 180 Russell Street's street level activation. Image courtesy Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="421" src="/sites/urban.melbourne/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image7_2.jpg?itok=sm0W2c-N" title="Artist's impression of 180 Russell Street's street level activation. Image courtesy Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Artist's impression of 180 Russell Street's street level activation. Image courtesy Buchan Group</figcaption></figure>In line with the realignment of expectations, AXF Group has elected to suspend the planned roll-out of their So Stay serviced apartment brand for the time being.

Further afield AXF Group have spread into the Sydney market with similar high-end intentions in mind. While both Parramatta and Liverpool maintain robust apartment markets, AXF Group intend to emulate the traits of Imperial in targeting the premium portion of the market. There is no surprise at Richard's synopsis of the current Melbourne and overall Australian apartment market; while there is oversupply in certain market sectors, excellent opportunity and undersupply exists for refined, quality apartments,

That's an opportunity which AXF Group intends to capitalise upon.
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silvermb

Richard Gu on the refined intentions of AXF Group

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Melbourne’s Chinatown district is set to see its most dramatic transformation in decades if <a href="http://www.axfgroup.com.au/">AXF Property Group</a> gain approval for their latest project, having recently submitting plans for yet another controversial residential tower.

Following approval for Melbourne's tallest suburban apartment tower located in Box Hill, AXF Group have this time acted upon the Total Car Park site at 180 Russell Street. Pushing forward with their CBD plans which were first mooted during late 2012, the development asks to demolish he well known Total Car Park and replace it with a 70 level, 271m mixed-use building which would dramatically alter the city skyline and become a stand out development amongst the relatively low-rise Chinatown district.

<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/Image11_12.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Image © Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="334" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image11_12.jpg?itok=ncjBupnm" title="Image © Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image © Buchan Group</figcaption></figure><h2>Application briefs</h2>

<ul>
<li>Site Area of 2,057m2, currently consisting of a 7 level car park + 4 level office building</li>
	<li>Proposed is a 70 level, 271m tower</li>
	<li>Residential Apartments + 5 Star Hotel</li>
	<li>105,961m2 GFA</li>
	<li>506 Residential Apartments + 200 Hotel Rooms</li>
	<li>250 Car Spaces + 335 Bicycle Space</li>
	<li>Sky Lobby + Restaurant on Levels 66 &amp; 67</li>
	<li>Hotel Meeting and Banquet Facilities on level 54</li>
	<li>New activated 24/7 Civic Space for Chinatown</li>
</ul>
Drawing upon inspiration from the Chinese cultural tradition of landscape painting and imagery for the building’s design, architects <a href="http://buchan.com.au/">Buchan Group</a> have taken full advantage of the high profile location by implementing a highly activated 5 level podium. Included within the podium are food and restaurant spaces, a multi-purpose hall, Chinese gallery plus extensive bar and entertainment spaces.

At ground level the design has been carefully crafted to allow for the addition of a new civic space for the Chinatown precinct, creating a new 24/7 meeting point for the area. Included within this new space will be a “stoop” which will be placed at the intersection of Little Bourke and Russell Streets to allow for the public to sit and watch the activity of the street and public place as well as a landscaped copse and tea house.

<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/Image12_8.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Expected street level interface. Image © Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="341" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image12_8.jpg?itok=TgStdW1c" title="Expected street level interface. Image © Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Expected street level interface. Image © Buchan Group</figcaption></figure>The inclusions of pavilions which act as entries for the hotel and residential components of the building, and canopies within the podium also allow for increased activation with the public realm. Rising above the podium will be the main body of the tower, holding the majority of the projects apartments which will be situated on levels 6-49. Level 29 of the building sees resident’s facilities which includes an obligatory pool.

A 5-Star hotel is also proposed with suites carried within the “crown” of the building which has been designed to change external appearance throughout the day and night, seeking in part to act as a beacon and become the landmark structure within the Chinatown district.

It is not all smooth sailing for the AXF Group however with demolition of the Total Car Park likely to face tough opposition after being recommended for heritage protection. Completed in 1965, the car park has been slated for heritage protection since the 1980’s with it said to encompass influences from the Japanese avante garde architecture of the 1950’s and 60’s as well as bringing to Melbourne its first taste of brutalist architecture. Incidentally the style was recently described by Planning Minister Matthew Guy as a style that “legitimises ugly buildings”.

<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/8286437244_c8d1717a34_c2.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The existing Total Car Park. Image courtesy melbourneheritage.org.au"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="389" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/8286437244_c8d1717a34_c2.jpg?itok=_A5RMKrU" title="The existing Total Car Park. Image courtesy melbourneheritage.org.au" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>The existing Total Car Park. Image courtesy melbourneheritage.org.au</figcaption></figure>The loss of the building would also see the popular live music venue and night club “Billboards” situated in the basement, shut down. In the situation where the building does find itself on the heritage register, the application states that demolition will be sought on the basis of economic grounds, mostly due to the fact that the very low ceiling heights stop it from being used outside of a low tier car park. The application further suggests that significant changes have been made to Total House (atop the car park) in addition to painting of the once exposed bare concrete and replacing old shop fronts with new shop fronts.

With the site also subject to a 60m height limit, the application seemingly faces a challenging journey on its way to approval. Although should the building go ahead, has the potential to change Melbourne's skyline in an indelible fashion.

Nonetheless it could be a case of Big Trouble in Little China.
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melbournee12

Planning Application > 180 Russell Street, Melbourne

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Most readers would be aware of the AXF Group project titled Sovereign Square which has garnered considerable media attention of late owing to the fact it will become suburban Melbourne's tallest building. Whilst Sovereign Square has moved to public registrations of interest via its <a href="http://www.sovereignsquare.com.au/" target="_blank">website</a>, a raft of other projects in Box Hill are set to rapidly transform the scale and feel of the area.

<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/External%20Image_0.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sovereign Square. Image © Buchan Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="1030" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/External%20Image_0.jpg?itok=PWdsKFr_" title="Sovereign Square. Image © Buchan Group" width="580"></a>

Looking through the Apartments.com.au database Sovereign Square is one of nine projects in Box Hill and Box Hill North that are at various stages of the development cycle. Together these projects will deliver near 1000 new dwellings to the area.

With established education, health, transport and retail options plus a diversified population base Box Hill also lends itself to a myriad of mixed-use developments. Leading the charge is the currently under construction 20 level, near 80 metre office complex at 913 Whitehorse Road. Built by Grocon for Cromwell Property Group, the 19,680 square metre facility is 97% leased to the Australian Taxation Office and marks a break-out tower for Box Hill both in terms of height anf bulk.

On the hotel scene, 1 Elland Avenue (below left) is currently for sale with a pre-lease for the development's 49 serviced apartments held by City Edge Apartment Hotels, adding further diversity to the City of Whitehorse's primary hub.

<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/Image6_14.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="1 Ellard Avenue &amp; 913 Whitehorse Road"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="411" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image6_14.jpg?itok=vx-F4vSc" title="1 Ellard Avenue &amp; 913 Whitehorse Road" width="580"></a>

The latest proposal for Box Hill comes in the form of a dual tower development designed by Peddle Thorp Architects. At 26 levels the complex may well raise eyebrows in the area due to size and height, yet the approval of Sovereign Square has set a precedent to a degree.

Peddle Thorp's take on the project:

<blockquote>
The Box Hill Mixed Use Development will consist of 330 apartments over 26 levels. The residential tower amenities are enhanced by the new 'retail street' at ground level. At podium level the 'sky garden' gives access to a range of cafes, bars and restaurants that spill onto a sun filled green space. The second skin to the residential tower allows the occupants to control the light and privacy in their homes, whilst creating a facade which is 'alive' and forever changing.
</blockquote>

<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/Image18_1.jpg" rel="gallery-all" style="font-size: 12px;" title="Image © Peddle Thorp"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="718" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/Image18_1.jpg?itok=LsIedXDk" title="Image © Peddle Thorp" width="580"></a>

So what will the Box Hill of the future resemble? South Yarra immediately comes to mind, particularly in terms of developing a mini-skyline with similar proportional characteristics - a throng of medium sized towers of 7-12 levels perforated by a handful of high-rise buildings nearing or beyond the 100 metre mark.

The major advantages that Box Hill holds over suburban centres such as South Yarra, Doncaster Hill or Preston is its well established and centralised institutional and commercial sectors which act as strong employment generators for the area, allowing in part apartment developments to flourish. All the ingredients are there for Box Hill to expand immensely, the question posed is how big could Box Hill of the future become?
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Box Hill gathers momentum

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Having observed Melbourne's growing appetite and subsequent construction boom in apartments for over ten years, certain trends become abundantly clear. One such trend is the widening chasm in design quality between Melbourne's inner city and middle/outer suburban apartment stock. Whilst many inner city apartment projects maintain a certain design quality, the majority of those in middle and outer suburbs tend to be precast creations, low in design quality and devoid of character - but not all.

Enter Imperial Apartments atop Doncaster Hill.

<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/GS_Doncaster_External%20Daylight%20V1_RETOUCH.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Sweeping view offered by Imperial Apartments. Image © AXF Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/GS_Doncaster_External%20Daylight%20V1_RETOUCH.jpg?itok=0h0YFEEs" title="Sweeping view offered by Imperial Apartments. Image © AXF Group" typeof="Image"></a>

Ever expanding Melbourne developer <a href="http://www.axfgroup.com.au/" target="_blank">AXF Group</a> have teamed with <a href="http://buchan.com.au/" target="_blank">Buchan Group Architects</a> to deliver an impressive design that responds to its surrounds. With frontage to Williamsons Road and perched atop Doncaster Hill, the terraced design utilises its incredible location to maximise sight lines from apartments over all levels - something generally not afforded to most developments. Relative to nearby apartment buildings, many of which were developed some years ago, Imperial sets the standard for Doncaster in terms of presence and design quality.

Yet the true test of an apartment building's quality lies within. Imperial will contain 96 apartments over ten levels, with one, two and three bedroom options available. Internal design firm <a href="http://www.gabrielsaunders.com.au/" target="_blank">Gabriel Saunders</a> have been commissioned to provide a Couture service allowing purchasers to customise their apartments to the their personal preferences. Fixtures &amp; fittings will also be high end with Imperial apartments featuring timber floors, marble bench tops, Bosch or Miele appliances, Two-Pac joinery, porcelain tiles and designer lighting.

<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/GS_Doncaster_Living_RETOUCH.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="A lightfilled and spacious apartment, typical of those at Imperial. Image © AXF Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/GS_Doncaster_Living_RETOUCH.jpg?itok=fnpW_St0" title="A lightfilled and spacious apartment, typical of those at Imperial. Image © AXF Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

All dwellings include large outdoor spaces as seen above and below, particularly those with a western orientation accomodating CBD views. Mt Dandenong to the east or the undulating eastern suburbs elsewhere are also visible.

Another aspect setting Imperial apart is Imperial PLAY - a Mini iPad integration system for centralised control of lighting, multi zone audio, energy reporting and entertainment devices. <a href="http://www.pushcontrols.com/" target="_blank">Push Controls</a> in collaboration with Sonos and Spotify have conceived this unique home lifestyle technology system that allows the operator functionality at their fingertips. Light control, music, DVD, TV and Foxtel options to name a few can all be manipulated via a custom portable unit available to each apartment.

<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/GS_Doncaster_Living%20Penthouse%20V3_RETOUCH.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="The penthouse oozes style and quality. Image © AXF Group"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-702px" src="/sites/urbanmelbourne.info/files/styles/article_full_width_702px/public/pictures/article-images/GS_Doncaster_Living%20Penthouse%20V3_RETOUCH.jpg?itok=7pJitljd" title="The penthouse oozes style and quality. Image © AXF Group" typeof="foaf:Image"></a>

Imperial's residential facilities are also of an exceptional standard and include a proposed open terrace residents garden, modern gym and a residents business lounge complete with a theatre while car parking and storage spaces come standard to each apartment.

So there you have it, an impressive line-up of features for an apartment development designed to sit above all others. With apartment prices beginning from $375,000, Imperial offers an high quality product in a suburb where the median house price sits comfortably <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/http://www.propertyobserver.com.au/victoria/melbourne-experiences-strongest-march-quarter-price-growth-for-a-decade-with-51-boost-to-%24561000-median-reiv/2013041260356" target="_blank">above $800,000</a> - a viable alternative for those seeking a 3108 postcode without the asscoiated price tag. Harking on my earlier point, if more apartment developments were to feature the thought and quality of Imperial's design, apartment living through Melbourne middle and outer suburbs would be that much more better for it.

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Completion is anticipated during early 2015.

For further information, see <a href="http://www.imperialdoncaster.com.au" target="_blank">www.imperialdoncaster.com.au</a> or contact AXF Property on 03 8680 4888.
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