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

Birtinya

Zinc Bokarina is the latest Sunshine Coast development by the award-winning Gardner Vaughan Group.

The Australian owned property development and building company has 25 years’ experience developing properties in some of Brisbane’s and South East Queensland’s most desirable areas.

Opposite the pristine Bokarina Beach on the Sunshine Coast, Zinc delivers a coastal living experience with expansive one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, along with eight exclusive luxury Beach Houses, designed to enhance living spaces inside and out.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109240 project_image_fid=208020]

Gardner Vaughan said they selected the unrivalled location as when you combine the wonders of the coast with the parklands, boardwalks and amenities of a premium seafront community, you get the best of both worlds.

Taking on a mindful design, two buildings will be constructed in the community, with 81 residences set to be delivered, along with a vibrant ground-floor retail offering which will enhance the beachside locale.&nbsp;

Zinc is a part of Stockland’s Sunshine Coast Oceanside Community which won Australia’s Best Master Planned Development at the 2020 Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) Awards for Excellence. According to Stockland, the Oceanside master planned community is set to become ‘Australia’s healthiest city by the beach’ – creating a community like no other in Queensland.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109240 project_image_fid=208032]

Building one, called SOL, will house 44 apartments, along with two commercial tenancies across the ground floor. Building two is MAR, where the remaining 37 apartments will be constructed, as well as one commercial space.&nbsp;

Zinc will also incorporate a podium-level pool and recreation area, featuring lush tropical gardens, an outdoor heated pool, a gym, and multiple barbecue and recreational areas. Outdoor showers and a surfboard washroom is also on hand in the development, along with wall mounted bike racks with each car space, a car wash and vacuum bay and a function room.&nbsp;

The eight beach houses have only recently been released to the market. The spacious three-level homes comprise either three or four-bedrooms. They have two-and-a-half bathrooms and two car spaces. Residents of the beach house also have access to the complex’s facilities.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109240 project_image_fid=208033]

The balcony spaces and living areas of each residence have been designed to seamlessly integrate with the beachside, with two colour scheme options for buyers, inspired by the coastal surrounds.&nbsp;

High ceilings, zoned and ducted air conditioning and commercial acoustic glazing feature throughout each of the residences, complemented by contemporary cabinetry in the kitchens and bathrooms, as well as stylish tap wear, stone benchtops and European appliances.&nbsp;

Zinc Bokarina is situated right on the doorstep of Bokarina Beach, between Caloundra and Mooloolaba. Offering the escape of quintessential beachside living while conveniently located close to the Sunshine Health precinct and the Stockland Birtinya and Kawana Shopping Centres.

Within a 20-minutes drive of the Sunshine Coast airport, residents will find themselves near to an abundance of convenient daily essentials, while still being immersed and connected to nature.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109240 project_image_fid=208023]

With prices ranging from $539,000 through to $2,399,000, stage one and two of the apartments is slated for completion by mid to late 2023, with the beach houses tipped for the end of next year.&nbsp;

The under-construction project still has a select number of two, three and four-bedroom apartments remaining, as well as some beach houses, with Christmas incentives currently on offer for prospective buyers.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=109240]

alisonwarters@gmail.com

Zinc: The beachfront Sunshine Coast residences drawing attention to Bokarina

A range of floorplan configurations are available at Cube Developments&rsquo; latest Birtinya apartment project in the fast-growing Sunshine Coast corridor, Seasons.

The design of the two, three and four-bedroom residences focuses on lifestyle, centred around work, rest and elevated leisure.

Rising seven levels across three individual buildings, each tower boasts its own personality and expansive views from the Birtinya Island canals to the ocean.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184876]

Seasons also&nbsp;includes a lifestyle swimming pool, 25m lap pool, business office hub, wellness centre, kitchen and private dining areas for the exclusive use of all Seasons residents.

Urban looks at three distinct floorplans currently on the market at Seasons.

1. Unit 106

<img alt="" height="924" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-12-07_at_12.51.34_pm.png" width="1554" />

Unit 106 is a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment typical to this development, also available on levels two, three, four, five and six.

Set over an internal area of 82sqm, the residence includes an open-plan living and dining area, separate laundry, master with ensuite and a 15sqm balcony.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184865]

As with all apartments, the Cottee Parker Architects-designed home includes large format floor tiles, blended carpet in bedrooms and premium finishes.

The apartment comes with one car space and has been priced from $499,000.

2. Unit G01

<img alt="" height="766" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-12-07_at_12.49.20_pm.png" width="1362" />

Boasting an internal area of 116sqm, Unit G01 includes three bedrooms and two bathrooms with built-in robes.

The home features an open-plan living and dining area which extends onto a large 36sqm terrace, while the master bedroom includes a walk-in robe and ensuite.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184864]

Kitchens in this unit feature European appliances, selected laminate cabinetry and 20mm manufactured benchtops, forming the centre of the home.

Listed from $690,000, the residence also comes with two designated car parking spots for the convenience of residents.

3. Penthouse 
Four-bedroom, three-bathroom

<img alt="" height="1104" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2021-12-07_at_12.52.51_pm.png" width="1338" />

The largest apartment on offer at Seasons is the four-bedroom, three-bathroom penthouse on the seventh floor.

With an internal area of 204sqm and an external area of 43sqm, this large residence features a butlers pantry, a separate laundry, a bathroom and powder room, and a study area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184872]

The master bedroom boasts a walk-in robe, ensuite and access to its own private balcony, while a second balcony connects two other bedrooms.

Like other units in the tower, buyers have the choice between two colour schemes, coastal or urban, while enjoying premium joinery and luxury finishes.

The penthouse is available from $1.4 million, with completion on the entire project expected in early 2023. &nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=106957]

A range of floorplan configurations are available at Cube Developments’ latest Birtinya apartment project in the fast-growing Sunshine Coast corridor, Seasons.

max.kwok_55688

Floorplan focus: Inside the two and three-bedroom residences on the Sunshine Coast at Seasons, Birtinya

Growing coastal suburb, Birtinya, is set to see a new residential project by Cube Developments that is certain to attract young property buyers.

Situated at 1 Prosperity Drive, Seasons is a trendy $102 million apartment development with almost 150 units in two, three and four-bedroom configurations.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184866]

Rising seven levels across three buildings, the Sunshine Coast apartments will boast an array of amenities that forms one central precinct where residents can work, rest and play.

&ldquo;Cube and award-winning firm Cottee Parker architects have teamed up to offer the owner-occupier market an unseen revolution in everyday living&rdquo;, the project marketing reads.

Among these amenities include a business centre and coworking space, sauna, steam room and spa, lagoon and 25m lap pool, yoga studio, gym facilities and private dining.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184875]

Lead architect Sandra Browne said Cottee Parker aimed to invite both the residents and the community to integrate and connect with an interactive ground plane. &nbsp;

&ldquo;The brief from Cube was to differentiate its design from its neighbours and focus heavily on the aesthetic. The intention was to create less of a footprint than Council allows, but open it up creating more transparency through the site&rdquo;, Browne said.

Inspired by the natural surrounds and cloaked in greenery, Seasons delivers a palette that is both timeless and honest.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184864]

The project has also been designed with a broad range of considered materials, including large format floor tiles, European appliances and manufactured benchtops.

Developers Cube commissioned Timothy Birch Studio to create a unique public art project, expected to inject a youthfulness into the project.

Adorning the vertical buildings of tower one and two and spanning all seven stories, the installation will be a new icon for Birtinya.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=106957 project_image_fid=184863]

The Sunshine Coast suburb is developing into a new hub for the region due to its youthful nature, walking paths, and access to an array of beaches and parks.

Birtinya features a range of convenient offerings within close proximity to Seasons, such as the Stockland Shopping Centre development and the University Hospital and the long Bokarina and Wurtulla beaches.

The project is expected to be reach completion in 2023.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=106957]

Growing coastal suburb, Birtinya, is set to see a new residential project by Cube Developments that is certain to attract young property buyers.

Birtinya

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