There are few property developers nationally that can boast a workbook like the ASX-listed developer Cedar Woods. With eight apartment buildings under construction across four states, Cedar Woods is well positioned to take advantage of what Managing Director Nathan Blackburne says is a “national shortage of apartments.”

Cedar Woods purposefully has a diversified portfolio of apartments, townhouses, commercial, and residential communities across the country, enabling the business to remain resilient through market cycles and respond to shifting buyer demand.

Blackburne says there is a great shortfall of housing of all typologies, none more so for apartments. He says that is the case particularly in Perth, where the lack of new apartment projects has been particularly acute.

“Perth has been more affected than Melbourne,” Blackburne explains, noting that over the past five years, “very few new apartment projects” have been launched in either city. Historically, apartments made up around 20 per cent of new housing nationally. Cedar Woods estimates that figure has fallen to around 10 per cent today, a gap they believe must close.

<h2>Apartment appeal rebounding as supply shrinks</h2>

There are signs the tide is turning however. Blackburne says buyer apartment sentiment really picked up in mid 2025. “In October we saw our strongest sales month for apartments in Perth.” The buyer demand has driven their Subiaco apartment development, Incontro, to nearly 70 per cent sold. The increased buyer sentiment has strengthened Cedar Woods’ confidence in bringing forward the next apartment project in Western Australia, a three tower development planned for the prime site on Upham Street in Subiaco, adjacent to Incontro.

Demand is being driven by several factors; the lack of new apartments coming to the market, the increased demand with migration far outstripping the aforementioned supply, and the appetite to live closer to the city.

“Over the past three years, Perth’s population has grown by around 250,000 people, while only around 50,000 dwellings have been delivered,” Blackburne says, adding that more than twice that number would be needed just to keep up.&nbsp;

He said that many buyers are being forced to the urban fringe because of the greater supply of land product, but that, Blackburne argues, is pushing the fringe further out and motivating a re-evaluation of the value of inner- and middle-suburb apartments.

Demographic shifts are helping drive this rethink. Cedar Woods is seeing more boomers downsizing, young professionals entering the market, and a rising number of single-person households. There’s also a growing trend of parents buying apartments for teenage children, motivated by fears that housing prices will become out of reach. “It’s not only a strong investment now, but it can serve as a first home when their children move out.”

<h2>National diversification strategy</h2>

Cedar Woods’ strategy is not limited to Perth. Blackburne outlines their aim to diversify by price point, product type, and geography, which “gives us a broad customer base and smoother earnings profile.” Throughout their markets, they’re combining apartments, townhouses, and masterplanned communities, allowing flexibility to pivot toward undersupplied segments as demand evolves.

In Victoria, Cedar Woods is pressing ahead with a major site in Fairfield, just northeast of Melbourne’s CBD, a site which Blackburne says the company has had its sights on for many years. They are planning to deliver three towers with over 300 apartments, with the plans likely to be submitted in early 2026.

Blackburne also expresses optimism about broader inner-Melbourne supply dynamics. 
 
“While Melbourne’s apartment market is better supplied than Perth’s, and population growth remains strong, Cedar Woods believes the current stock will be absorbed quickly,” Blackburne says, however he warns that policy disincentives remain. “In Victoria … there are quite a lot of obstacles for apartment buyers,” he says, adding that the industry is working with the state government to “remove those barriers” and avert prolonged undersupply.

Cedar Woods has plans on the desks of the VIC Government to develop a 20-storey tower in Southbank, in the heart of Melbourne’s arts precinct. Designed by Rothelowman, the proposed tower will deliver 180 apartments, ranging from studios to three-bedrooms, along with creative amenity space devoted to arts and digital industries, a food and drink tenancy at street level, and a 700sqm recreation deck with indoor lounge space will provide a resident amenity hub.

Blackburne frames the project as a response to Melbourne’s growing undersupply of signature inner-city living. “We saw a thematic: a looming undersupply in inner-Melbourne, particularly in high-quality apartments, and wanted to capitalise on that,” he says. The site’s proximity to the Melbourne Arts Precinct, key tram lines, and Southbank’s cultural fabric makes it especially appealing, Blackburne says.

<h2>Charting the course forward</h2>

On top of the apartment developments underway and planned in Perth and Melbourne, Cedar Woods has a multi-stage apartment development in Brisbane’s Woolloowin, and several years remaining on their masterplanned communities in Williams Landing in Melbourne and Glenside in Adelaide, both of which offer a mix of apartments and townhouses.

Blackburne says the developer has been able to mitigate some of the macro risks currently at play in the new development space, particularly in the construction sector.

“Cedar Woods has been able to make many apartment projects work because of good buying of the raw land in the first place, as well as its strong pipeline of apartment projects, enabling the company to attract builders to build deep, multi-year relationships.”&nbsp;

For Cedar Woods, 2026 is set to be significant, with anticipated approvals and submissions laying the groundwork for fresh apartment supply and multiple launches in 2027.

&nbsp;

Joel Robinson

Cedar Woods ramps up apartment development amid Australia’s deepening housing shortfall

Rockdale has long been characterized as a suburb on the cusp. Well-located, well-connected, but historically underserved by modern apartment offerings.

It has everything going for it: outstanding connectivity to the Sydney CBD, just four train stops to Central Station, strong local amenity anchored by Roc​kdale Plaza and a growing main-street dining scene, and enviable proximity to Brighton-Le-Sands. The six-kilometre beachfront is lined with bayside restaurants, cafés, and walking paths, giving residents a lifestyle typically associated with much more expensive coastal suburbs.

What Rock​dale has lacked is high-quality contemporary apartments. Most existing developments date back several decades, with floorplans that no longer support modern living needs, and buildings constructed long before today’s standards in engineering, efficiency, and sustainability.

Lender, fund manager and apartment developer Princeton identified the gap early. Seeing all the right ingredients in Rockd​ale, transport, lifestyle, retail, and affordability, they set out to deliver what the suburb was missing. Their answer is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marque-rockdale-602-608-princes-highway-rockdale-nsw-2216">Marque Rockdale</a>, a collection of 58 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments now nearing completion just a short walk from Ro​ckdale Plaza, home to over 50 specialist retailers and anchored by&nbsp;Woolworths, Big W and Aldi.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=355216]

Understanding they would be resetting the benchmark for the area, Princeton focused on ensuring buyers received best-in-class quality, longevity, and protection.

A major step was securing the sought-after Latent Defects Insurance policy from Resilience Insurance. This policy protects apartment buyers from structural or waterproofing defects for the first 10 years of the building’s lifecycle. Crucially, it is first-response insurance, meaning that if an issue arises, the insurer pays immediately for remediation—rather than waiting for lengthy investigations to determine fault before work can begin. For purchasers, it offers an unprecedented layer of security rarely seen in Sydney apartment projects.

During construction, independent building inspection firm SDSS has been providing Technical Inspection Services, bringing highly specialised construction experts on-site at key stages to ensure workmanship meets the highest standards. The project is being built by Coplex, an iCIRT-rated construction company, and throughout the build SDSS has frequently referred to <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marque-rockdale-602-608-princes-highway-rockdale-nsw-2216">Marque Rockdale</a> as one of the best projects currently on their books.

Princeton also doubled down on comfort, acoustics, and livability.&nbsp;As well as being the only building along Princes Highway with a landscaped buffer between the building and the road, Princeton has purposefully included double-glazed windows in all apartments to reduce noise.

Apartments feature double-glazed, noise-reducing windows and ducted air conditioning in every residence.&nbsp;In addition to the project’s transport convenience, Princeton has partnered with GoGet Car Share to provide a dedicated GoGet vehicle housed permanently within the building. Residents will receive a free annual GoGet membership, paying only usage fees, offering a flexible alternative to owning a second car and enhancing the project’s sustainability credentials.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=136442 project_image_fid=277075]

Residents will enjoy an exclusive rooftop oasis, purpose-designed as an extension of their living space. The communal rooftop includes BBQ facilities and outdoor entertaining areas, a&nbsp;pergola-shaded dining zone, a dedicated children’s play space, and a landscaped herb garden.

Princeton and Coplex is approaching completion of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marque-rockdale-602-608-princes-highway-rockdale-nsw-2216">Marque Rockdale</a>, and are expecting residents to move in early in the new year. The mix of apartment configurations and price points have been a hit with young professionals, those who need to commute to the CBD, and families who appreciate doorstep amenity.

“Marque is a place where residents will be proud to call it home," Princeton Head of Development George Young says.

"We’ve worked really hard with Coplex and our design team to deliver an incredible building for the future home owners to make their own. The homes are all designed to allow the residents to make it their own, a place to belong and live a stylish urban life."

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=136442]

Marque Rockdale sets a new standard of apartment living in Sydney's south

Plans to revitalize the&nbsp;long-established Benowa Gardens Shopping Centre into a mixed-use community combining living, shopping, dining, health and wellbeing facilities, have been proposed to the Gold Coast City Council.

The Benowa Gardens Urban Village proposal by Benowa Gardens Holdings seeks to transform the 17,660 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/203-ashmore-road-benowa-qld-4217">203 Ashmore Road</a> into a contemporary, sustainable destination that reflects global trends in modern community design while retaining the familiar local character residents value.

The site is bordered by Ashmore and Benowa Roads and Carrara, with ready access to Pindara private hospital, four schools, TAFE, sports fields and the nearby Botanic Gardens.

Benowa Gardens Holdings is seeking a preliminary Council approval only for its proposed masterplan and variations to the site’s Neighbourhood Centre zoning.&nbsp; 
Formal Public Exhibition commenced Friday and also marks the start of comprehensive community consultation with surroundings residents, schools, P&amp;Cs, existing retailers, nearby sporting clubs, arts groups and Botanic Gardens volunteers.

Designed by Neylan Architecture, the masterplan envisions around 413 new apartments, complemented by upgraded retail, dining, and wellness amenities as part of 10,000 sqm of retail, and 9,630 sqm of office space/medical suites.

The development will feature green open spaces, shaded promenades, landscaped terraces, pedestrian walkways, and expanded healthcare and lifestyle services in synergy with the neighbouring Pindara Private Hospital and local schools.

<img alt="Benowa" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="244f4d54-2e67-4141-92b8-78d5735f47c2" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-26%20at%2012.47.34%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=FmF5lzhpwVZc7POsdB770TJ_Bf2c0od8" />

“This concept embraces the way people increasingly want to live - safely, conveniently, and within strong local communities,” said Patrick Lu, Director of Benowa Gardens Holding.

“Benowa Gardens will set a new benchmark for integrated living on the Gold Coast. It’s a thoughtful, community-minded evolution that brings global best practice in urban design to one of the city’s most established areas.”

Lu said this isn’t just a redevelopment, it’s a renewal with purpose.

“Benowa Gardens has served the community for decades. Our goal is to ensure it continues to do so for generations to come, as a lively, connected Urban Village where people can truly live, work and thrive. We’re already talking to school leaders and the community to seek their feedback on our proposal, and have taken on board their ideas to improve student safety with additional “traffic calming” measures on Carrara Street. We’re conducting meaningful and sincere consultations and want to play our role in preserving and enhancing the local community."

The proposed redevelopment aims to deliver tangible benefits across the Benowa and wider Gold Coast community, including:

<ul>
	<li>Improvement of retail amenity, to capture the under-served local market demand and keep the local business at their local shopping centre.</li>
	<li>Housing diversity; offering a range of apartment types for key workers, downsizers, and local families who wish to remain in the area.</li>
	<li>Enhanced shopping and dining; revitalised retail spaces designed to support local businesses and attract more visitors.</li>
	<li>Health and wellbeing access; additional medical and wellness amenities to complement existing local facilities.</li>
	<li>Improved traffic flow and access; two new access points, upgraded intersections, upgrade pedestrian pathway’s signal and proposed upgrade of pedestrian and cycle connections/space to improve safety and convenience, especially for school children.</li>
	<li>Environmental sustainability; energy-efficient design, green rooftops, and water-sensitive landscaping to reduce emissions and enhance comfort.</li>
	<li>Local jobs and investment; supporting hundreds of construction and long-term roles while stimulating local economic growth.</li>
</ul>

The group behind the project boasts extensive experience in the property development industry, both in Australia and international markets. Over the past 23 years, the group has been involved in the development and management of a diverse portfolio of assets including residential dwellings, shopping centres, bulky-goods stores, community and medical facilities, childcare centres, offices, hotels, and taverns, across Brisbane, Ipswich, and the Gold Coast.

Benowa Gardens to become new mixed-use urban village

Demand for townhouses in Melbourne’s inner west has surged as buyers seek the elusive combination of space, affordability, and location.&nbsp;

With family-first apartments increasingly rare and standalone homes often out of reach, townhouses have emerged as the new sweet spot, delivering generous living areas with lower maintenance needs within close proximity to the Melbourne CBD.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/kings-lane-south-kingsville-50-58-new-street-south-kingsville-vic-3015">Kings Lane</a>, the new under-construction townhouse development by the family-owned developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/blue-run">Blue Run</a>&nbsp;in South Kingsville, responds directly to this trend. Comprising just 25 residences designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/rothelowman">Rothelowman</a>, the project offers a compelling alternative to both apartment downsizers and family upsizers. With three-bedroom homes priced under $1 million, it presents one of the area’s rare attainable pathways to townhouse living less than eight kilometres from the CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145042 project_image_fid=355147]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/south-kingsville-vic-3015">South Kingsville</a> itself is quietly becoming one of Melbourne’s most dynamic pockets of urban renewal. Flanked by the established appeal of Yarraville, Newport and Williamstown, the suburb balances quiet, village-like streetscapes with major infrastructure upgrades and a growing slate of retail, dining and lifestyle amenity.&nbsp;

Kings Lane occupies a well-connected site at 50–58 New Street, just off Blackshaws Road and within walking distance of the emerging Union Quarter precinct, a major retail destination anchored by Woolworths, specialty food outlets and wellness services.

A 400-metre stroll brings residents to the Vernon Street shops, a local favourite known for its mix of independent grocers, cafes and family-run eateries. For broader shopping options, Altona Gate Shopping Centre and Yarraville Square are both within a short drive. Spotswood IGA and the Williamstown retail strip further broaden the convenience of daily essentials.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145042 project_image_fid=355139]

Dining options in the area lean toward eclectic and community-driven, with standouts like Rocco’s Deli, Dad and Dave’s, and Pizza d’ASPORTO offering a range of casual and elevated menus. Cafés such as Hudson Road Wine &amp; Beer and Blacksheep Coffee add to the lively yet local feel of the neighbourhood.

Green space is another hallmark of life at Kings Lane. Edwards Reserve is close enough for morning walks or casual sport, while larger parks like Newport Lakes, Yarraville Gardens, and Cruickshank Park are all a few minutes’ drive away. More than half of the nine-hectares of new green space or parkland being created as part of the West Gate tunnel works is located just at the end of New Street, the same street as Kings Lane.

&nbsp;

For those with school-age children, South Kingsville is home to a range of quality childcare centres and schools, including Kingsville Primary, Spotswood Primary, and Williamstown North Primary. Community Children’s childcare and South Kingsville Preschool are nearby, making the suburb particularly attractive to young families.

Transport links continue to improve, with Spotswood Station and the West Gate Freeway both within a five-minute radius. Future upgrades, including the proposed sky rail for Newport and Spotswood, and the delivery of the West Gate Tunnel project, promise even better access to the CBD and Melbourne Airport in the years to come.

Kings Lane's 25 all-electric townhouses are currently under construction, and will complete in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145042]

Staff Writer

Kings Lane townhouses offers rare value in Melbourne's thriving inner west

Developer-builder <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a> has set a new apartment price record for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes</a>, a suburb the company has been instrumental in transforming over the past two decades.

The milestone follows the delivery of thousands of apartments across the harbourside peninsula, culminating in the $4.5 million sale of a 220 sqm penthouse in the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/rhodes-central-oasis-39-marquet-street-rhodes-nsw-2138">Rhodes Central Oasis</a> building, which Billbergia completed earlier this year. It is the first apartment in Rhodes to surpass not only the $4 million mark for settled sales, but also the $3 million mark, eclipsing the previous $2.75 million record set in 2021.

The purchaser had originally secured several apartments in the 40-storey tower off the plan as investments. During settlement, she spent more time in the Rhodes area and was so impressed with the building that she decided to downsize from her Northbridge home into the four-bedroom plus MPR penthouse.

The sale underscores the long-term work Billbergia has undertaken in Rhodes since the early 2000s. The company, rated 4.5 Gold Stars under the NSW iCIRT system, identifying it as one of the state’s most trustworthy and financially secure developers, was a pioneer of the area’s urban renewal. What was once a heavily industrial waterfront has become one of Sydney’s most successful examples of transit-oriented development.

<img alt="Billbergia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="56093d7f-db18-42f4-bf9b-115bdf76f5f3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-26%20at%2011.10.06%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=pca77Mr.H83nwXbJexmaLUAqBewtQ7d9" />

Billbergia is now driving the peninsula’s next major evolution: the most ambitious project in its nearly four-decade history. They are planning the Rhodes Bay Masterplan, an eight-tower, mixed-use precinct on Leeds Street. Currently with the NSW Government’s Housing Delivery Authority which is now championing large-scale projects across the state, the Rhodes Bay Masterplan lays the groundwork for a generational reshaping of this important pocket of Sydney’s Inner West.

The masterplan spans more than 31,000 sqm of amalgamated industrial land along the foreshore, land that has been privately held and inaccessible to the community for more than a century. According to Billbergia’s Development Director, Saul Moran, reclaiming this land for public use is central to the company’s vision. 
 
“What’s so exciting is that we have over 300 metres of privately-held industrialised waterfront, land that’s been locked away for more than 100 years, which we’re bringing back to the community,” he says. “It’s taken many years to assemble sites like these, and the goal now is to transform them into meaningful public space where new homes can be built in an integrated, amenity-rich setting.”

At full completion, the Rhodes Bay Masterplan is expected to deliver over 2000 apartments, with the first 1000 to be completed by 2029. Billbergia’s design focused on nine slender towers, so they could give back more to the ground plane. There will be more than 16,000sq m of new parkland and recreation space, including sports fields, a foreshore play area and waterfront green links. Around 14,600 sqm of retail is also proposed, extending the precinct’s role as a true mixed-use hub.

<img alt="Rhodes Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="240ffc41-4f26-421a-9606-5c56f6fc2d93" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-11-26%20at%2011.05.48%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=BkBxZr7S8CAt1vgNa8AF3zjdc3YuVh0L" />

“Density only works when it’s paired with amenity, transport and open space, and that’s what’s made Rhodes such an amazing success story,” Moran says, adding that the demographic shift Billbergia has seen over the last two decades has informed their future development pipeline in the suburb.

“Rhodes has moved from being largely an investor market to a strong owner-occupier community,” Moran says. “There’s real demand for three-bedroom homes, flexible intergenerational layouts, and apartments people can grow into.”

&nbsp;“We’re designing taller, more slender towers to free up the ground level for sport, recreation and green space. High-density communities thrive when people have the best backyards in Australia, and that’s what we want to create here.”

Demand remains robust, evidenced by Billbergia’s recent results. “We achieved a record sale across the entirety of Rhodes Central just last week,” Moran says. “It shows the depth of confidence buyers have in what’s being built here.”

Billbergia’s vertically integrated model allows them to overcome the recent cost escalation and challenges in the build environment. “Having an in-house construction team lets us control feasibility, value management and quality from day one,” Moran says. “It’s critical in the current market, where construction escalation is at the forefront of every project’s viability.”

The company is also leveraging the NSW Government’s new Housing Delivery Authority process, which Moran describes as a more efficient pathway without compromising design standards. 
 
“We’re really applauding the NSW Government for its efforts to increase housing supply. There’s been a remarkable improvement in how they’re helping deliver more homes, more quickly.”

Billbergia has already commenced construction of Stage One of the Rhodes Bay masterplan. They will be lodging the State Significant Development Application before Christmas.

“We’re moving quickly, but with due care,” Moran says. “This is a generational precinct, and it needs to be done right.”

Billbergia smashes suburb record as Rhodes transformation continues

building

The Property Council of Australia has announced the important role the property industry will play in achieving net zero as NSW decarbonises its economy.

NSW director Luke Achterstraat said as NSW invests $4.8 million in speeding up the transformation of the state&rsquo;s built environment towards net zero emissions, buildings can provide some of the least cost abatement opportunities in the economy.&nbsp;

<blockquote>
&ldquo;Accelerating Australia&rsquo;s transition to sustainable housing could both protect the home building sector, as well as spur growth in delivering more than half a billion dollars of additional investment in the construction industry by 2030 and create over 7,000 new jobs,&rdquo; Achterstraat said.
</blockquote>

Effectively, this would also save Australians $600 million on their energy bills.&nbsp;

According to the Property Council, upgrading the energy efficiency of Australia&rsquo;s commercial buildings would not only stimulate economic activity through inputs of local labour, it would also deliver an estimated $12 billion in energy savings between 2016 and 2030.

&ldquo;Since efficient buildings are also healthier and more productive, gains in staff productivity are likely to dwarf the benefits in energy savings.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7149 project_image_fid=175541]

According to the <a href="https://arena.gov.au/renewable-energy/renewables-in-buildings/">Australian Renewable Energy Agency</a> (ARENA), buildings account for more than half of the nation&rsquo;s electricity consumption and are a major driver of &lsquo;peak demand&rsquo;.

An additional 2019 study revealed that the construction, operation and maintenance of buildings account for almost a <a href="https://theconversation.com/buildings-produce-25-of-australias-emissions-what-will-it-take-to-make-them-green-and-wholl-pay-105652">quarter of greenhouse gas emissions</a> in Australia.

&ldquo;We encourage the NSW State Government to leverage the unique opportunity the built environment offers to dramatically reduce carbon emissions in highly cost effective ways that will also stimulate the economy,&rdquo; Achterstraat said.&nbsp;

&ldquo;As Australia heads towards a low emissions economy, governments must provide a clear pathway of policies that give certainty to industry and create economic opportunities for Australian businesses.&rdquo;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7758 project_image_fid=150461]

Other key industry bodies, including the&nbsp;Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA), are also encouraging the government to make use of the largely untapped emissions reduction opportunities available within the sector.&nbsp;

GBCA CEO Davina Rooney&nbsp;Australia&rsquo;s property sector is already&nbsp;leading the way in carbon reduction&nbsp;and making commitments at COP26 can help the Australian Government build on this work.&nbsp;

Facilitating the transition of Australia&rsquo;s building sector towards an economy for the future is critical in improving and sustaining the future liveability, productivity and sustainability of our communities and cities.

Achterstraat concluded: &ldquo;With the right policy frameworks in place, we can minimise the costs of a transition&nbsp;to net zero emissions and create economic opportunities across all parts of industry, from sole traders and homeowners to large businesses.&rdquo;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Buildings account for more than half of the nation’s electricity consumption and are a major driver of ‘peak demand’

max.kwok_55688

Property industry to play a pivotal role in the race to net zero, says Property Council

Established in 1975, Hamilton Marino Builders is an experienced and dynamic multi-level apartment and commercial construction company.

One of Victoria&#39;s most experienced and sought-after multi-level apartment construction companies, the builders focus on finding alternative design methodologies to match the needs of developers and designers.

With close to 50 properties built by Hamilton Marino listed on Urban, below we take a look at the top seven that homebuyers can secure now.

1. <a href="/buildings/anthem-1-oshannassy-street-essendon">Anthem, Essendon</a> 
Address: 1 O&#39;Shannassy Street, Essendon VIC 3040 
Two-bedroom apartments from $555,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29880 project_image_fid=152706]

Delivered by Blue Earth Group, Anthem is the most recent development in the Moonee Valley&rsquo;s largest suburb, Essendon.

Comprising one, two and three-bedroom apartments, the project features central gardens, oversized floorplans and residents&rsquo; facilities.

The building, designed by CHT Architects, is set to include a world-class health and fitness centre, an abundance of entertaining spaces and five-star hotel service.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29880 project_image_fid=152708]

Budding chefs and family cooks will enjoy experimenting in the functional kitchen, meticulously designed by an award-winning team and the celebrity chef, Adam D&rsquo;Sylva. &nbsp;

2. <a href="/new-apartments/mckn-236-jasper-road-mckinnon" target="_blank">MCKN, McKinnon</a> 
Address: 236 Jasper Road, McKinnon VIC 3204 
Two-bedroom apartments from $755,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4939 project_image_fid=152596]

The luxury development,&nbsp;MCKN&nbsp;is being developed by veteran developer Dealcorp, offering a Bayside lifestyle&nbsp;without carrying the expensive Bayside postcode.

Families have been snapping up the large apartments in the Glen Eira precinct, with just 41 apartments in two and three-bedroom configurations available in the boutique five-level complex.&nbsp;

Designed by Ritz &amp; Ghougassian, the development includes huge outdoor balconies and&nbsp;terraces and quality finishes and design, including natural stone, timber flooring and European appliances.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4939 project_image_fid=152584]

Each apartment features&nbsp;at least one car space. Although residents can also enjoy the convenience of a train station that is only 500m away.

3. Walmer, Richmond 
Address: 649 Victoria Street, Richmond VIC 3067 
Two-bedroom apartments from $875,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3475 project_image_fid=150823]

Comprising 75 one, two, three and four-bedroom apartments, Salta Properties&rsquo; Walmer presents a riverfront residence that sits as a natural extension of its surrounds.

Designed by Bates Smart and landscapers Taylor Cullity Lethlean, the home features generous outdoor living, native landscaping and inviting apartments.

Each light-filled residence includes an open-plan kitchen, carved stone benches, curated Gaggenau and BORA appliances and integrated fittings.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3475 project_image_fid=150820]

The development features a well-stocked library, business centre, communal wine cellar and on-call chef and concierge.

4. <a href="/buildings/4248-42-claremont-street-south-yarra">4248, South Yarra</a> 
Address: 42 Claremont Street, South Yarra VIC 3141 
Two-bedroom apartments from $648,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3353 project_image_fid=30131]

Located at 42 Claremont Street, 4248 has been designed to make modern living a bigger and better experience.

Developed by DealCorp, the project features a collection of one, two and three-bedroom residences, contemporary design and sculptural public space at street level.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3353 project_image_fid=90647]

Plus Architecture have brought their approach to life at the project, with an extravagant lobby, floor-to-ceiling windows, expansive open-living spaces and city views.

5. <a href="/buildings/the-gentry-29-41-william-street-alexandria">The Gentry, Alexandria</a> 
Address: 29-41 William Street, Alexandria NSW 2015 
Three-bedroom apartments from $2,175,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6859 project_image_fid=38844]

The latest inner-west offering from the Thirdi Group, the Gentry consists of 37 designed terraces with an untouched heritage-listed fa&ccedil;ade.

Designed by SJB and Lawless Meyerson, each home spans four, boasting three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a private rooftop garden terrace with a barbeque entertainment area and spa.

The interiors are a response to the warehouse-style architecture and feature porcelain benchtops, large outdoor courtyards and luxury kitchen features.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6859 project_image_fid=38847]

Other features to enjoy at the Gentry include a private single lock-up garage, a custom wine cellar and an expansive wardrobe that includes concealed desk space.

6. <a href="/buildings/gadsden-288-adderley-street-west-melbourne">Gadsden, West Melbourne</a> 
Address: 268 Adderley Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003 
Two-bedroom apartments from $626,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22344 project_image_fid=54329]

Developed by&nbsp;PDG Corporation, Gadsen provides residents with a lifestyle that perfectly balances community ambience and rich culture within close proximity to Melbourne CBD.

The project features a collection of 188 residences, including one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as exclusive townhouses wrapped in a historic fa&ccedil;ade.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=22344 project_image_fid=54334]

Rising 11 storeys, these buildings reflect the history of West Melbourne while appealing to residents with functional spaces, local character and modern finishes.

Designed by DKO Architecture, the homes include floor-to-ceiling windows, private balconies, prime city views and recessed LED downlights.

7. <a href="/buildings/the-grove-1-5-olive-york-way-brunswick-west">The Grove, Brunswick West</a> 
Address: 1-5 Olive York Way, Brunswick West VIC 3055 
Two-bedroom apartments from $540,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1168 project_image_fid=16988]

Consisting 325 apartments across nine floors, Blue Earth Group&rsquo;s latest Melbourne residence showcases superior style and functionality.

The Grove is comprised of three buildings designed by MAP Architecture and Adele Bates Design Studio, showcasing style and everyday living solutions.

Each home features natural materials, engineered timber floors, stone benchtops and boast access to numerous amenities to encourage a social lifestyle.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=1168 project_image_fid=28632]

Among these include a health club, business centre, landscaped spa and private lounge.

Established in 1975, Hamilton Marino Builders is an experienced and dynamic multi-level apartment and commercial construction company

Top seven apartment buildings constructed by Hamilton Marino

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They call it “reality” television and shows such as House Rules, Better Homes and Gardens, and, of course, The Block, have certainly fuelled our enthusiasm for DIY. 
The recent screening of The Block, where four apartments in an inner Melbourne suburb were auctioned off, drew strong interest nationally. The popularity of DIY has increased significantly as a result of our interest in such home improvement shows – and hardware and building supplies stores are reaping the benefits. 
Business information analysts Ibisworld released a report earlier this year showing their revenue was up thanks to the increase in renovation projects and DIY.
The report said almost 6000 businesses in the sector had shown annual growth of about 3.5% over the past five years with the past two financial years in particular helped by “greater expenditure on DIY renovations and home improvement projects”.
But while these homeowners think they are adding value to their homes – and some are – there are many pitfalls for the amateur. Sub-standard DIY work can not only make a poor first impression, but have buyers worrying about what else has been badly done.
Among the problems agents say can make a notably bad impression: poorly fitted kitchen or bathroom cabinets, poorly fitted carpets, visible wiring and a below-average paint or tiling job.
But if you are planning to DIY, take care, as there’s a range of implications. Not all are financial; there’s a need to make sure that the work is safe to undertake yourself.
And even DIY done well will not add value if the home is overcapitalised – that is, more spent on it than could be recouped in a sale – or if the amount spent is more than people are willing to spend on homes in the area.
Work must be done well, which means being sure you have the skills and experience for the tasks and, if not, hiring professionals to do it.  It is not cost-effective and is potentially dangerous to attempt work such as wiring and major plumbing jobs.  While this may seem expensive, it can boost the price of your home.
Before starting, it’s worth researching the price of renovated homes in your area that are of a similar size, to check on the potential value of the renovation. Then you’ll be able to proceed, and ensure that you make a significant return on your investment. 
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Reality television renovation: Enzo Raimondo

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New South Wales (read: Sydney), Queensland (marginally), and Western Australia (ditto).
<a href="/images/2015/07/13/alsts.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="/images/2015/07/13/alsts.jpg" alt="">
 
Declining elsewhere.
No contribution to Q2 GDP to be found here.
PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of <a href="https://allenwargent.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">AllenWargent</a> property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">blogger</a>. 
His latest book is <a href="https://www.bigskypublishing.com.au/Books/General-Interest/Four-Green-Houses--and-a-Red-Hotel/1015/productview.aspx" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">Four Green Houses and a Red Hotel</a>.
 
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Where is renovation activity increasing? Pete Wargent

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Whether you are building a single house, duplex or multi unit development, there is one essential building material that we always include. This item is not mandatory or compulsory in most cases, however Property Bloom has three good reasons why we include it. 
We are talking about sarking beneath a tiled roof. Sarking is a pliable membrane that sits under roof tiles, usually silver in colour. 
I've been watching as a new house is being built in my street.  As the roof was going on, I noticed they had not used sarking. The house is being built by one of the parents at my son's school who I know. So when I saw them next, I casually mentioned to them that I'd seen the roof had now been finished but there was no sarking. They said they had ummed and ahhed about it and decided not to spend the extra money on something no one is going to see. Big mistake I thought, but I didn't say that as it was too late for them to change their mind. Their bedrooms are all upstairs and the house faces west.  I know how hot it will get up there but that's not the only reason they should have considered it. 
So here's my reasons why we include sarking on our all Property Bloom developments:
1. Waterproofing. This is my number one reason. If you get a cracked roof tile, which is easy enough to occur in a big storm particularly if there are trees close by, sarking will assist in keeping out the moisture. Leaking roofs are your worst enemy. Once water seeps through the plasterboard, it can get expensive to repair and can also cause electrical damage. 
2. Insulation. This is a pretty good reason, particularly in a long, hot summer. We are seeing our temperatures rising and if you're sleeping just a few meters from your roof void, then chances are you are going to be hot or spend a lot of money on cooling this area. Sarking improves the thermal performance by up to 97%* and helps to provide a more energy efficient and comfortable home.
*CSR Bradford
3. Dust. Sarking helps keep dust out of your roof void. If you have access into the roof void for storage or maybe thinking of creating an attic room, then minimising dust is a good thing. Also, if you have down lights or sky lights in your ceiling and no sarking, you may find dust can filter down into the living area through any tiny gaps created by ceiling fittings.  
On a typical Property Bloom duplex project, our builder charges about $1,800-$2,000 more for sarking and to me this is a small price to pay to ensure you have the highest of quality roof protection for your property. The last thing we want is for our clients to experience complaints from tenants down the track that their roof is leaking. 
Sarking is compulsory in bushfire rated areas and provides compliance to BAL bush fire ember attack requirements. 
So don't scrimp on your roof, it'll be a good investment plus provide peace of mind. 
Jo Chivers is chief executive officer of property development project managers <a href="https://www.propertybloom.com.au/about" target="_blank">Property Bloom</a>.
 
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One important building material to include in your construction: Jo Chivers

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The <a href="https://wp.architecture.com.au/news-media/national-building-agreement-welcome-now-focus-on-action/">Australian Institute of Architects</a> is calling for a fundamental overhaul of building regulation to improve compliance and accountability. 
At the moment, Australian regulation and building codes lack transparency and as we have seen in the recent events, do little to protect residents and homeowners. 
Currently, anybody can procure and construct an apartment building in Australia without evidence of education, experience or insurance held where previously, independent and rigorous checks would oversee the design, materials choice and construction to ensure the utmost safety and sustainability for residents. Over the years this compliance has decreased to prioritise cost-saving over quality and is a reflection of our quick supply and demand culture. 
Countries such as <a href="https://www.building.govt.nz/building-code-compliance/">New Zealand</a> have a building code compliance that all builders must comply with even without building consent to ensure the safety and durability for everyone that uses them. New Zealand builders must abide by the technical guidance by the Building Code of 2004 with strict warnings and bans in place which could see the builder or developer paying a fine of up to $200,000 for which all buildings must focus on:

<ul>
<li>General Provisions</li>
	<li>Stability</li>
	<li>Protection from Fire</li>
	<li>Access</li>
	<li>Moisture</li>
	<li>Safety of Users</li>
	<li>Service and Facilities</li>
	<li>Energy Efficiency</li>
</ul>
Japan’s strict building regulations may be due to protecting citizens from the incredible amount of seismic activity the country experiences but are incredibly helpful when considering updating and strengthening Australia’s as bans on combustible building materials is much more closely regulated than here.

 

<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/neo_apartment_screen_peter_clarke-54.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="In early February 2019, Neo200 on Spencer experienced a balcony cladding fire up levels 21 to 27. Image by Hayball."><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/neo_apartment_screen_peter_clarke-54.jpg?itok=PQvzB5Fo" title="In early February 2019, Neo200 on Spencer experienced a balcony cladding fire up levels 21 to 27. Image by Hayball." width="580"></a>

<figcaption>In early February 2019, Neo200 on Spencer experienced a balcony cladding fire up levels 21 to 27. Image by <a href="/architects/hayball">Hayball</a>.</figcaption></figure>In late 2018, Victoria banned lethal flammable building cladding, which includes aluminium panels. 
The ban provides builders with a clear and strict guideline of materials that can and cannot be used in the construction of buildings above two levels high. 
The VBA, <a href="https://www.vba.vic.gov.au/">Victorian Building Authority</a> has put builders on notice, as they inspect the hundreds of at risk buildings in a statewide audit to crack down on non-compliant structures. 
Architects and developers design buildings and communities with the intent of enriching the lives of people and the environment in which it stands, therefore building codes in Australia need to match that intensity with strict regulation and inspection to ensure the well being of all people. 
In recent news, residents of <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">Australia 108</a> respond in panic due to hearing cracking noises, power outages and lift operating failures. Since the first settlers took residence in the soon to be 101 story tower in late 2018, there have been a slew of complaints regarding construction noise and construction defects within apartments such as windows not closing or opening due to the curved facade. 
These stories have now either been exacerbated by the media to take advantage of panicked citizens to incite fear and sell papers or forcing builders and developers to take accountability and be more transparent about their building practices.  
With articles published in The Age and Herald Sun displaying the latest apartment building disasters, people are on high alert in fear their building's too, falls under the same underegulated practices. What holds true to these statements is that resident’s voices deserve to be heard with their safety and quality of life at the utmost importance.

<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/image_by_worzil_skyscrapercity.jpg" rel="gallery-all" title="Most updated construction image of Australia 108 by worzil of Skyscrapercity.com"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="547" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image_by_worzil_skyscrapercity.jpg?itok=wP1ehTRH" title="Most updated construction image of Australia 108 by worzil of Skyscrapercity.com" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Most updated construction image of <a href="/buildings/australia-108-southbank-70-southbank-boulevard-southbank">Australia 108</a> by worzil of Skyscrapercity.com</figcaption></figure>Multiplex denied any structural damages in a statement and said the building is bound to move slightly as it is still under construction and minor defects are quickly fixed with absolutely no risk to residents.  
These complaints of noise are common with residents within and surrounding high density skyscrapers under construction and are not permanent. 
A multiplex representative states that “all residents have access to the Multiplex onsite customer team and our onsite service team has been working closely with the residents to rectify these items in a timely manner.” 
A benefit to the exposure of towers such as Opal in Sydney and its defects is that consumers and citizens are conscious and have opened up a dialogue with government about the loosened regulations and building codes our individual states hold. 
The next step is to hold builders accountable and to provide transparency with VBA and other councils alike in order to adhere to the highest quality of building and ensuring the safety of residents and communities. 
As work commences in Victoria establishing a ban on all flammable materials used in construction, a push for other councils and states is imminent and blatantly necessary. 
The Australian Institute of Architects are taking their demands of an industry revolution to VBA and multiple councils across New South Wales insisting on addressing the root of the issue, a culture and practice that has put time and cost above quality.  
This construction industry crisis facing Australia are systemic and it is crucial to make those steps forward to eradicate unlawful practices.

 

Read their latest article demanding industry revolution by clicking this <a href="https://wp.architecture.com.au/news-media/nsw-president-says-our-construction-industry-needs-nothing-short-of-a-revolution/">link</a>.
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Nick Dante

Australia called, we want our Building Codes updated and regulated

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EXPERT OBSERVATIONS
Geordan Murray, a Senior Economist at HIA, said the home lending figures released by the ABS today show the number of loans to households building new homes grew modestly in May.
Overall housing finance commitments for construction and purchase of new homes grew in the month of May by a modest 2.3 per cent but remain 11.7 per cent lower than the same month last year.
The credit squeeze that emerged from mid-2018 has seen lending for the construction of new homes contract sharply.
This month’s data suggests that these conditions have started to ease.
The improvement in lending in May is stronger than we had anticipated and reflects an increased level of borrowing from first home buyers.
This is the strongest month of borrowing by first home buyers this year.
There has been an improvement in housing market sentiment in the weeks following the federal election.
When combined with the RBA’s rate cuts and easing of APRA restrictions, there is cause to be optimistic that lending activity could improve as the year progresses.
However REIA President Adrian Kelly believes the May 2019 Lending to Households and Business figures released today by the Australian Bureau of Statistics show the number of loans for housing, excluding refinancing, continues to decline, but at a slower rate.
Mr Kelly said, overall the figures for May 2019 show, in trend terms that the number of owner-occupied finance commitments, excluding refinancing, decreased by 0.5 per cent –the twenty first consecutive month of decreases and the lowest since August 2012.
The value of investment housing commitments, excluding refinancing, decreased by 1.5 per cent in May. This is down 27.8 per cent from a year ago and is at its lowest level since March 2009.
The number of loans to first home buyers increased by 0.8 per cent and is the highest since November 2018 whilst the proportion of first home buyers, as part of the total owner-occupied housing finance commitments increased in May to 18.8 per cent from 18.2 per cent in April.
Whilst the total number of finance commitments for May show a continuing, but modest, decline it needs to be remembered that the Federal election was held in the middle of the month with considerable uncertainty regarding the outcome and concern about changes to property taxation and its impact should there be a change in Government. 
With the post election boost in confidence in the real estate market as evidenced by higher levels of enquiry, two cuts in interest rates and changes in APRA’s requirements May will most likely mark the bottom of the lending cycle.
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Conflicting opinions on the strength of housing lending strength: HIA & REIA

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Centuria Capital Group (Centuria) has announced their acquisition of 10 Moore Street, Canberra. 
The property known as the ‘Optus Centre’ will be directly purchased by Centuria Diversified Property Fund (CDPF) for $35 million from commercial property group Quintessential.
Commenting on the acquisition, Centuria’s Head of Real Estate and Funds Management, JasonHuljich, said “Strong support from investors and financial advisers in the CDPF has seen the fund’s inflows increase significantly this financial year, allowing the fund to make strategic purchases. 
“10 Moore Street is a centrally-located property – ideally positioned in Civic, the heart of Canberra’s CBD precinct."
“The building has been fully regenerated to a very high standard by Quintessential Equity – all the work done over the years has been of a high quality, and the actions undertaken to improve the environmental footprint of the building has resulted in a 5-star NABERS energy rating, further enhancing the quality of this acquisition.”
It has a 4.3 year WALE (as at 1 June 2019), and is currently 98% leased to a mix of tenants, with a 12-month rental guarantee on approximately 2% (123 sqm) of vacant space, which Mr Huljich is confident about leasing.
“One of Centuria’s A-REITs, the Centuria Metropolitan REIT (CMA), owns two properties nearby– at 54 and 60 Marcus Clarke Street, about 100 metres from 10 Moore Street – so we are familiar with the area, and have had very good leasing success there: we understand what appeals to tenants,” he said.
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Russell Bullen, Quintessential Equity’s Chief Executive Officer, said the group is very pleased with the sale of the 6,709sqm building, which he calls a “top-tier office investment”.
“Since we acquired the building in 2014, we’ve completed a full regeneration and successful releasing campaign at the property, future-proofing it for years to come."
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Centuria announce acquisition of Moore Street Optus Centre in Canberra

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The Uniting Church Synod of Victoria and Tasmania has put its 130 Little Collins Street office building on the market in Melbourne’s prized east end.
The building boasts a net lettable area of 3,797 square metres, comprising eight levels of office, ground floor retail, and 15 car spaces.
It is on a 651 square metre corner site with 53 metres of frontage to Little Collins Street (16 metres) and Coromandel Place (37 metres). 
The Uniting Church has occupied the building since its construction.
It has decided to offer the property to market in anticipation of its move to the redeveloped Wesley Place site at 130 Lonsdale Street in 2020. 
CBRE, in conjunction with Colliers International, are offering it to the market with a permit for an Elenberg Fraser designed 26-level hotel development. 
Recent sales history have seen CBD office property with yields averaging under 4% including a low of 2.3% achieved with the December sale of 288 Queen Street. 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/4/16/UNITING.jpg" alt="">
Source: CBRE 
The permit is for an 11,957 square metre (GFA), lifestyle hotel with multi-level food and beverage amenities, conferencing facilities and rooftop bar.
The asset would be sold with a view to create vacant possession in 18 months’ time.
Offers for the property close June 13.
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Uniting Church lists Little Collins building with approval for 26-storey hotel 

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One of the Haymarket precinct’s last freestanding buildings is coming to market in North Melbourne.
Located at 87-89 Flemington Road, North Melbourne the two-level building sits on 510 sqm of land and is squeezed between 4 12-storey apartment buildings.
The building, opposite the University of Melbourne and the Royal Melbourne Hospital is being offered for sale with an approved permit for a 12-level residential development. 
Colliers International’s David Sia, Oliver Hay, Hamish Burgess and Dave Walker have been appointed to handle the transaction.   
The vendor of the property, Topsun Development, originally purchased the property as a premium residential development opportunity.
Situated metres from the upcoming $11 billion Metro Rail Project and the subsequent Parkville Train Station the property is set to benefit. 
Expressions of interest for 87-89 Flemington Road, North Melbourne close December 5.
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