A collection of just 25 large-format apartments and penthouses overlooking Goodwin Park is entering the Coolangatta market, with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/marea-residences-coolangatta-27-27a-dixon-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Maréa Residences</a> combining a low-density, residential-only approach with uninterrupted park and Pacific Ocean outlooks.

Located at 27 Dixon Street, Maréa comprises three and four-bedroom residences alongside a limited number of dual-level penthouses, with the project positioned between Goodwin Park and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/coolangatta-qld-4225">Coolangatta</a>’s coastal precinct.

Construction has commenced, with completion currently estimated for late 2027. Three-bedroom residences are priced from $1.8 million.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374005]

The project has been designed around its northern outlook across the park, with the building’s architecture, landscaping and material palette intended to establish a connection with the neighbouring green space. The residences have been configured to maximise natural light and views across Goodwin Park towards the ocean.

Inside, the material palette incorporates timber, stone and brushed brass, complemented by curved detailing and ambient lighting. Kitchens and bathrooms carry the same natural material approach, while residences also include basement parking, storage and lift access.

Maréa’s penthouses are arranged over two levels and include private pools, adding another layer to the project’s focus on larger-format apartment living. Across the development, residences are configured with three or four bedrooms rather than the broader mix of smaller apartment types commonly found in larger projects.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374010]

Resident amenity is concentrated at rooftop level, where landscaped entertaining terraces and pools take advantage of elevated views across Coolangatta and the Pacific Ocean.

The project has so far been particularly well received by local owner-occupiers and downsizers, according to Urban Activation Property Sales and Marketing Director Matt George, with the residential-only format, construction quality and northern park outlook among the features resonating with purchasers.

“The uninterrupted northern aspect overlooking Goodwin Park has been a key point of difference, with buyers attracted to the sense of serenity and open space the park provides, while still enjoying easy access to the ocean and being within walking distance of the lifestyle and amenities Coolangatta has to offer,” George said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150999 project_image_fid=374002]

“The combination of high-quality construction, a residential-only building, park outlook and proximity to the beach has resonated strongly with the local downsizer market.”

The Dixon Street address is within walking distance of Coolangatta Beach and the broader southern Gold Coast coastline, including the surf breaks at Snapper Rocks and Kirra. Coolangatta’s cafés, restaurants and retail are nearby, while Gold Coast Airport is also within close proximity.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150999]

Joel Robinson

Maréa Residences brings parkside apartments to Coolangatta

Melbourne developer PDG has secured Victorian Government approval for its $1.5 billion Southbank development <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-one-1-queens-bridge-street-southbank-vic-3006">The One</a>, clearing the way for the long-dormant riverfront site opposite Crown to finally be developed.

The Minister for Planning has approved the project at 1-29 Queens Bridge Street, with the Department of Transport and Planning issuing the planning permit following its assessment.

The approval will allow PDG to develop the prominent 5,059 sqm site with a major mixed-use tower comprising premium apartments, including branded residences, a luxury hotel and boutique office space.

PDG acquired the site in late 2024, with its position directly opposite Crown's main entrance and near Melbourne's Arts Precinct making it one of Southbank's most significant remaining development opportunities.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3933013e-6332-4386-b9be-089df05caf17" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.22%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=sITIgBqDL0N3VNSMwWEmF5UA.uvcsRyu" />

Designed by COX in collaboration with ODO and PDG, the tower's architecture draws on the movement of the Yarra River, with six vertical pleats running the height of the sculpted facade.

The project will also see the heritage-listed Queens Bridge Hotel restored and incorporated into the development&nbsp;with new hospitality and public uses, including a rooftop venue.

A significant component of The One will be its residential amenity.

More than 5,000 sqm of resident facilities will be delivered across a single level, making it one of the largest consolidated residential amenity offerings proposed in an Australian apartment development.

The planning approval also incorporates a major upgrade of Queensbridge Square, which PDG will deliver in partnership with the City of Melbourne.

<img alt="PDG" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73167fcd-1031-4b6f-a408-a064cfe45ed1" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-27%20at%209.29.17%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Pf1AEWxw6SNmBqR0zQW5lyEze.MtxgFp" />

The existing square will be revitalised as a new civic and pedestrian space along the Yarra River, strengthening the connection between the project, Southbank and the riverfront.

PDG Founder and Managing Director Vince Giuliano said the approval represented a major milestone for a site which has remained largely underutilised for more than 15 years.

“This is the most significant Planning Permit approval Melbourne has seen in recent years,” Giuliano said.

“For more than 15 years, this site has remained underutilised. This approval enables us to deliver a project that will contribute meaningfully to the revitalisation of Southbank, restore and reactivate an important heritage building, and create a new civic and hospitality destination for Melbourne.”

The latest approval follows an earlier planning permit issued by the City of Melbourne covering demolition works across part of the site at 9-29 Queens Bridge Street. Those demolition and early works are already underway.

PDG has also started generating early interest in the residential component from owner-occupiers ahead of a planned public launch in early 2027.

PDG secures approval for $1.5bn Southbank apartment development, The One

Local developer Harridan is seeking to turn its Woolloongabba apartment project into the first stage of a broader transformation of Burke Street, using a new 16-storey mixed-use building to establish a greener pedestrian connection toward the rapidly evolving Boggo Road transport and knowledge precinct.

The South East Queensland developer has filed plans for 154 apartments on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/4-burke-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">southern side of Burke Street</a>, where its proposal has been designed alongside a wider vision by LatStudios for the street.

That vision positions the southern side of Burke Street for buildings of 15 storeys and above, while envisaging lower-rise development of up to five storeys on the northern side to transition into Woolloongabba's existing character housing. It also proposes wider pedestrian verges, deep planting, new street trees and upgrades to the pedestrian approach to Boggo Road Station.

The Harridan development itself has been designed by Brisbane-based Arqus Design and will comprise 154 apartments across 16 storeys. The mix is weighted heavily toward two-bedroom apartments, with 121 proposed alongside 10 one-bedroom and 23 three-bedroom residences. There will typically be around 14 units per floor.

A lower-ground car park and three podium levels will accommodate 156 resident parking spaces, along with visitor and commercial parking. There will also be 154 resident bicycle spaces and 40 visitor bicycle parks.

&nbsp;

Harridan is a family-owned developer and part of the Holmwood Highgate Group, with more than three decades of development activity across South East Queensland. Its portfolio spans residential, commercial and industrial property, with current residential projects including Riverbank on Byron in Bulimba, Esperance Residences in Carina and The Precinct at Kinross Road in Thornlands.

Wooloongabba has been popular for apartment developers, particularly since the announcement of the 2032 Summer Olympics games in Brisbane.

While there have been a lot of development applications, it has failed to materialize into real supply.&nbsp;

Sarazin has been the major player in the area. They are under construction at Murcia Residences, on the fringe of East Brisbane and Woolloongabba. They have just launched <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-stanley-residences-woolloongabba-8-trafalgar-street-woolloongabba-qld-4102">The Stanley Residences</a>, in Woolloongabba on Trafalagar Street. They also have Nuage coming soon on the nearby <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/nuage-woolloongabba-14-wellington-road-woolloongabba-qld-4102">Wellington Road</a>.

First look: Harridan plans Burke Street transformation beside Boggo Road transport hub

IN BRIEF

<ul>
	<li>
	Just three double-storey Sky Homes sit at the top of The Waterline, each with its own private marina berth and rooftop terrace.
	</li>
	<li>
	Construction on The Waterline is complete, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.
	</li>
	<li>
	Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and are priced from $3.65 million.
	</li>
</ul>

<hr />
Lewis Land has opened the first completed sky home for inspection at Harbour Shores, giving buyers their first opportunity to step inside one of just three double-storey residences crowning The Waterline.

Each sky home comes with its own private marina berth, rooftop terrace and Broadwater views, combining the scale of a larger home with direct access to the boating lifestyle that underpins the wider <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/harbour-shores-biggera-waters-564-oxley-drive-biggera-waters-qld-4216">Harbour Shores</a> masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366708]

Lewis Land Head of Development Michael Long said the inclusion of a berth with every Sky Home had become increasingly valuable as marina access across the Gold Coast tightened.

“Marina berths are becoming increasingly difficult to secure across the Gold Coast, so including one with every Sky Home makes this a genuinely rare offering,” Long said.

“The private 70-berth marina will accommodate boats up to 12 metres in length and is positioned just 2.5 kilometres from the Broadwater, placing the open ocean only 15 minutes away.

“Being able to step out of your home onto your boat is a rare luxury, and it’s something residents here can look forward to when it opens later this year.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=113271 project_image_fid=366709]

The display opening comes as construction completes on The Waterline, with the first residents expected to move in from mid-October.

The three Sky Homes range from 282 sqm to 367 sqm and each feature three bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive kitchens with butler's pantries and large balconies taking in the Broadwater outlook.

Each residence also has three secure basement car spaces and additional storage.

“This is the first opportunity the Gold Coast has had to step into Harbour Shores and see, touch and feel what we’re bringing to life here,” Long said.

“There are only three Sky Homes within The Waterline, ranging in size from 282sqm to 367sqm, with each residence featuring three large bedrooms, three bathrooms, multiple living zones, expansive custom-built kitchens with butler’s pantry, and large balconies capturing Broadwater views.”

<img alt="Harbour Shores" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bab65e10-4fab-45e1-92d8-fc56e2ab98ff" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-25%20at%202.00.16%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=XT8q76LsPkw3cYTsvN3JfFDaPLud90PN" />

Residents of The Waterline will have access to a private pool, along with Harbour Shores' wider collection of amenity including a lagoon pool, social clubhouse, tennis court, gym, yoga facilities and sauna.

Lewis Land partnered with Studio Collective to furnish the completed display, with the interiors designed to demonstrate how the residences could function as permanent homes rather than simply as show apartments.

Studio Collective Director Melissa Park said the surrounding waterways informed the interiors, but in a more restrained way than a traditional coastal scheme.

“We drew inspiration from the canals and coastal surrounds, but our approach was to interpret that subtly through layered materials and a grounded palette of earthy tones, rather than literal coastal references,” Park said.

“We introduced hero moments of green and teal to reference the surrounding waterways, while mirrored elements help reflect natural light.

“The result is a residence that feels elevated yet comfortable, somewhere buyers can genuinely imagine themselves living, entertaining and unwinding.”

Sky Homes are priced from $3.65 million.

Lewis Land is also offering private marina berths with The Residences, its limited collection of three and four-bedroom villas positioned directly along the Harbour Shores waterfront boardwalk.

Three-bedroom villas are priced from $2.99 million, while four-bedroom residences start from $3.19 million.

Harbour Shores is being marketed by Colliers International.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=113271]

Lewis Land opens sky home display as The Waterline completes at Harbour Shores

St Vincent de Paul Society Housing Australia has filed plans for a major mixed-use housing precinct on the southern edge of the North Sydney CBD, adding another significant proposal to a pocket around North Sydn​ey Station that is quickly becoming one of the LGA's busiest development zones.

The State Significant Development Application covers a 5,990 sqm site at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/1-19-mackenzie-street-lavender-bay-nsw-2060">1-19 MacKenzie Street and 211 Blues Point Road in Lavender Bay</a>, immediately south of Nor​th Sydney Station and between the commercial core and the lower-rise Lavender Bay Heritage Conservation Area.

Designed by Wardle, the proposal would deliver a new residential tower comprising 88 build-to-sell apartments and 19 affordable apartments, alongside a separate co-living building with 57 rooms and a building manager's studio.

It would also see the significant restoration and upgrade of St Francis Xavier Catholic Church, the adaptive reuse of the former school building, new parish facilities, retail, a new public square and around 1,000 sqm of publicly accessible open space.

<img alt="Vinnies North Sydney" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d5dd7f87-a617-463e-b577-17541e01f0e9" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.13%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=4R8TsFN3P_LrrXO2HswTOIrx2blil8lh" />

The project is seeking a concurrent rezoning of the site to R4 High Density Residential and an increase in the maximum building height to allow a tower reaching RL120, or up to 20 storeys. The proposal was progressed through the NSW Government's Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

The build-to-sell component will be weighted toward larger apartments, with just six one-bedroom apartments compared with 31 two-beds, 43 three-beds and eight four-bedroom residences.

The 19 affordable apartments will comprise two studios, 15 one-bedroom apartments and two two-bedroom apartments, taking the total apartment component to 107 residences before the 58 co-living rooms are included.

<img alt="Vnnies" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7d568ca5-cb90-4e18-96c6-d9795dba0c56" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.10.05%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=GY2R5M9VtQh0EKy1vajaea19PSLOPuRD" />

Wardle's design for the Vinnies site has sought to negotiate that emerging high-rise context while retaining the lower-scale character of MacKenzie Street and the adjoining heritage conservation area.

The main building adopts a three-storey podium and tower arrangement, with the podium aligned to the ridgeline and front setback of St Francis Xavier Church.&nbsp;Wardle has designed the podium with colonnades, seating, recessed entries and active ground-floor frontages, with sandstone-toned precast concrete and face brick referencing the materiality of the existing church.

The tower then steps back eight metres to the south and six metres to the north before rising in a sculpted form comprising four interlocking quadrants. Wardle has also introduced rounded forms and chamfered corners to reduce the tower's perceived bulk and improve view sharing with neighbouring development sites.

Resident facilities and outdoor areas are planned at the separation between the podium and tower at Level 3, oriented toward Sydney Harbour and the CBD skyline.

The tower itself will feature a glass reinforced concrete facade, with recessed balconies and deep reveals used both to provide shading and privacy and frame views toward the harbour and city. The lower levels take a different architectural approach, using brick and sandstone-toned finishes intended to establish a stronger relationship with St Francis Xavier Church. The Church itself will be conserved and upgraded for its continued use, while the former school building will be adaptively reused as part of the co-living component.

<img alt="Lavendar Bay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2d4418ad-90aa-4d49-af93-c80b140aea80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-08-26%20at%209.09.47%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=Kv4gzbsACaGvZSRuaqcfGC54jEJRXIDJ" />

&nbsp;

The proposal adds to an increasingly concentrated pipeline of residential development around Blue Street, MacKenzie Street and Lavender Bay.

Just west of the site, Central Element lodged plans earlier this year for one of the most significant residential developments proposed in Lavender Bay in recent years.

Central Element's SJB-designed scheme at 64-66 Lavender Street and 3-7 Middlemiss Street would deliver 163 apartments across two towers rising 23 and 32 storeys, replacing five existing apartment buildings containing 32 homes. The project also forms part of the Housing Delivery Authority pathway.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-central-element-reveals-lavender-bay-apartment-plans?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener" target="_blank">First look: Central Element reveals Lavender Bay apartment plans</a>

Immediately around North Sy​dney Station, another two significant proposals have emerged at 5 and 15 Blue Street.

Zurich Australian Insurance Properties is seeking to adaptively reuse its longstanding commercial building at 5 Blue Street, directly above North Sydney Station, rather than demolishing the structure.

Its SSDA proposes converting the building into a 14-storey mixed-use development with 62 apartments and 86 co-living rooms, together with ground-floor retail and a major refurbishment of Blue Street Plaza. The application is currently at the Response to Submissions stage.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-zurich-targets-north-sydney-office-conversion-with-148-unit-proposal-above-metro-station">First look: Zurich targets North Sydney office conversion with 148-unit proposal above Metro station</a>

&nbsp;

First look: Vinnies files for 20-storey Lavender Bay apartment tower as North Sydney housing pocket heats up

Coronavirus

<html><body>
EXPERT OBSERVER
COVID-19 is, without a doubt, a disruption and game-changer at the same time. There are many uncertainties at present, and quite a few “doom and gloom” stories on a collapsing economy and being on the brink of a recession. There is no denying that many Australian small businesses and individuals are experiencing the brunt of it, from loss of income to having to close their businesses.
Fiscal policy, in the form of stimulus, is critical at this point, as it allows for the society to access immediate funds. Monetary policy can assist, however given that there are no legal requirements in Australia for banks to follow, plus the notion of interest capitalisation (which will cost those with loans more later on), it is a band-aid solution at best. The Australian Government has rapidly introduced a number of financial stimulus packages, targeting those who will be impacted the most.
COVID-19 is a world-wide phenomenon. The measures taken to contain the virus, as well as assistance to prop up the economy, differs from nation to nation. An analysis of the G20 countries, plus Iran, have revealed that at present Australia’s fiscal policy puts us in a strong place to ride out COVID-19.
<img class="richtext-image full-width" src="https://www.prd.com.au/media/images/PRD_Research_-_Table_1_-_Developed_Counties_Co.width-800_peM6O8C.png" alt="Fiscal Apr 2020 Table 1 - Developed Counties Covid-19" width="800" height="316">
1. Against other developed countries, Australia’s stimulus package as a % of 2019 GDP (14.4%) is on the higher end, above United States and Canada, and significantly higher than our neighbours New Zealand.
2. From a Stimulus per Capita perspective Australia is in a strong position, whereby our per capita stimulus is only second to Germany. We are well ahead.
3. Factoring in the number of jobs lost and stimulus package as a % of 2019 GDP, Australia has a strong ability to provide financial assistance, and in some instances more favourably. 
<h4>How does Australia compare to other G20 countries regarding the loss of unemployment/support for loss of income? (note: all monetary amounts are in the native country’s currency)</h4>
Currently Australians who have lost their employment or have lost partial income can access a number of government fiscal assistance, providing they can satisfy all of the requirements both on a personal and business level. These payments include (but not limited to): JobKeeper Payment ($1,500/fortnight), JobSeeker Payment ($550/fortnight), and Coronavirus Supplement ($550/fortnight). How does this compare with other countries?
United States of America - $1,200 government cash check for all residents. Individuals individuals who earn $75,000 in adjusted gross income or less would get direct payments of $1,200 each, with married couples earning up to $150,000 receiving $2,400 -- and an additional $500 per child. The payment would scale down by income, phasing out entirely at $99,000 for singles and $198,000 for couples without children.
<ul>
<li>
United Kingdom - The government would give grants to cover 80% of a worker's salary of up to 2,500 pounds a month if businesses kept them on as staff.</li>
<li>
Turkey – Relief for pensioners, with an increase in retirement salary to Turkey Lira 1,500</li>
<li>
South Korea - During the period of business absence, 70% of the average wage must be compensated. The employees are subject to the provision of ‘allowances’ under the Labor Standards Act</li>
<li>
South Africa – South African Rand 500 a month until July as part of COVID-19 measures</li>
<li>
New Zealand - Wage subsidies &amp; leave payments to employers, however, there is yet an announcement for extra unemployment benefits</li>
<li>
France - Under the "partial unemployment" scheme, employees should apply for state benefits which provides them an allowance and that employers are banned from firing them.</li>
<li>
Germany - Claim “Kurzarbeitergeld” scheme benefits or “short-work money" for temporarily laid-off workers</li>
<li>
Indonesia - Social safety net programs to help about 70 million underprivileged citizens</li>
<li>
China, India, Canada, Italy, Iran, Japan, Mexico - Claim regular employment insurance and/or unemployment benefits</li>
<li>
Argentina - Pandemic Unemployment Support for laid-off and self-employed workers, and Job Seekers' Benefit for already unemployed individuals</li>
<li>
Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia – Unable to find precise information at this time, although some news websites have indicated that government assistance is currently being planned</li>
</ul>
It is not surprising that developed countries within the G20 have a more comprehensive and structured financial stimulus policy compared to developing nations. South Korea seems to lead the developing nations in their response to the loss of employment due to COVID-19.
Australia presents a comparable financial stimulus package to other developed nations, and in some cases more advanced. It is extremely substantial compared to developing countries.
<h4>Key Message</h4>
The world as we know it currently does not exist – it is in a pause. COVID-19 and the hard-hitting economic impact it brings is not exclusive to Australia, and nor are business closures and job/income losses. It is a tough time for many across the globe. To date Australia has suffered a loss of 750,557 jobs – which is extremely significant, especially in such a short period of time. Other countries, as per known data, have also suffered job losses, some to the extremes of over 1 million people in Germany and over 38 million people in India. 
At this crucial time, perspective is everything. On a micro / inward within Australia scale we may feel that the government’s fiscal policy, in the form of economic stimulus, is imperfect. In fact, ALL government policies are imperfect, as it is designed to be efficient (maximum result with minimum resources) and effective (maximum results with a minimum amount of time) at the same time. If we choose to look on a macro / worldwide comparison however, we can see that Australia’s fiscal policy is substantial and puts us in a strong position to ride out COVID-19. 
<img class="richtext-image full-width" src="https://www.prd.com.au/media/images/PRD_Research_-_Table_2_-_G20_Countries_Covid19.width-800_2jcCZ6n.png" alt="Fiscal Apr 2020 Table 2 - G20 Countries Covid19" width="800" height="410">
Dr DIASWATI MARDIASMO is the Chief Economist at PRD Real Estate 
</body></html>

j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Fiscal policy is in place for Australia to ride out Covid-19: PRD

<html><body>
GUEST OBSERVATION
“People of the same trade seldom meet together, even for merriment and diversion,” wrote Adam Smith in The Wealth of Nations (published in 1776), “but the conversation ends in a conspiracy against the public, or in some contrivance to raise prices.”
With the coronavirus crisis, though, Australia’s competition watchdog has decided a little more conversation is in the public interest.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is lightening up on its normal competition rules by giving interim authorisation for competitors to cooperate.
On Wednesday the regulator <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/nbn-co-telcos-to-coordinate-on-demand-surge-and-consumer-support-package" target="_blank">authorised the NBN Co</a> and the five biggest telcos (Telstra, Optus, Vodafone Hutchison, TPG and Vocus) to “work together to take measures necessary to keep Australia’s telecommunications networks operating effectively”.
On Tuesday it <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/medicine-wholesalers-to-co-operate-on-access-to-pharmaceutical-products" target="_blank">authorised wholesalers of medicines</a> “to co-operate to facilitate distribution of essential medication and pharmacy products.
On Monday it <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/media-release/banks-authorised-to-co-operate-on-loan-relief-and-services" target="_blank">authorised banks</a> "to co-operate to provide supplementary relief packages for individuals and businesses”.
And last week it <a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/system/files/public-registers/documents/Interim%20Authorisation%20Decision%20-%2023.03.20%20-%20PR%20-%20AA1000477%20Coles%20%26%20Ors.pdf" target="_blank">authorised the major supermarket</a> chains (Woolworths, Coles, Aldi and IGA/Metcash) to coordinate their activities to ensure the supply of retail products, particularly those in short supply.
What is cartel conduct
Normally a competition watchdog guards against any collaboration or collusion between competitors. There are hefty fines and even criminal penalties to deter competitors talking to each other.
<a href="https://www.accc.gov.au/business/anti-competitive-behaviour/cartels">Cartel conduct</a> – agreements to fix prices, share markets, rid bids or control the amount of goods and services available to buyers – is arguably the biggest threat to a well-functioning competitive market.
Rather than competing on product quality, price and service, cartels maximise profits by agreeing to charge consumers more, pay suppliers less and putting the squeeze on other competitors. Competition officials have described cartels as “<a href="https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/SPEECH_00_295" target="_blank">cancers on the open market economy</a>”.
But these are not normal times. The normal behaviour that allows markets to function has been thrown into flux. Panic buying of toilet paper, hand sanitiser, pasta and other staples has led to significant supply shortages. Video conferencing and streaming has led to a surge in broadband data use.
In these “unprecedented circumstances”, the watchdog has decided the benefits of permitting competitors to cooperate to secure the supply of essentials goods outweigh the risks.
Different times, different conditions
History shows cartel conduct is tempting to companies in hard economic times. In fact, it’s even tempting to regulators.
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/325142/original/file-20200403-74889-r5xbsg.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=237&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
 A 1933 US Postage stamp commemorating the National Recovery Administration established under National Industrial Recovery Act. <a class="source" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:New_Deal_N.R.A._3c_1933_issue_U.S._stamp.jpg" target="_blank">Wikimedia</a>, <a class="license" href="http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/" target="_blank">CC BY-SA</a>
In 1933 the United States legalised cartel conduct with the National Industrial Recovery Act. The intention was to assist recovery from the Great Depression. Agreements to restrict output and fix prices were seen as a short-term solution to keep businesses afloat. It has since been argued the US law <a href="https://digitalcommons.law.yale.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1016&amp;context=yjreg" target="_blank">actually slowed the recovery</a> by converting “otherwise competitive industries into highly regulated, cartelised, and often inefficient industries”.
The US government’s mistake is not one the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission is making.
Its interim authorisations allow officials from the regulator and the federal government to monitor discussions. Every arrangement must be approved by the regulator. Everything is “out in the open”, eliminating a key feature for any cartel arrangement to succeed – secrecy.
Conditions now are also very different to those in 1930s America.
Then the issue was over-supply. Now it’s mostly a problem of undersupply, due to demand surges.
This is not a situation in which supermarkets, pharmaceutical companies and broadband providers have anything to gain through restricting supply.
They might have an interest in increasing prices. But the competition watchdog has expressly forbidden talk about retail prices.
A tight leash needed
European regulators are taking a similar approach to Australia. The European Commission <a href="https://ec.europa.eu/competition/ecn/202003_joint-statement_ecn_corona-crisis.pdf" target="_blank">has declared</a> it will not actively intervene against “necessary and temporary measures” to avoid supply shortage:
“Considering the current circumstances, such measures are unlikely to be problematic, since they would either not amount to a restriction of competition […] or generate efficiencies that would most likely outweigh any such restriction.”
Even so, there are risks. There are anti-cartel laws for good reason. The longer competitors spend working together, as Adam Smith noted, the greater the risk of conspiracy.
The competition watchdog will need to keep talks on a tight leash. Apart from price, it needs to ensure companies do not share information about operations and processes that would allow them to act independently in a mutually beneficial manner. This would give us exactly what cartel laws are meant to stop – higher prices.
Australia’s competition watchdog is arguably better equipped for this task than its European counterparts. But with more industry requests for competitors to cooperate likely, it will need to stay vigilant, making full use of its powers to monitor talks and ensure cooperation only goes on for as much, and as long, as absolutely necessary.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/135303/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/sven-gallasch-1014219" target="_blank">Sven Gallasch</a>, Lecturer in Law, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/swinburne-university-of-technology-767" target="_blank">Swinburne University of Technology</a>
This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/look-whos-talking-australias-telcos-banks-and-supermarkets-granted-exemption-to-cartel-laws-135303" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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Look who's talking: Australia's telcos, banks and supermarkets granted exemption to cartel laws

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Herron Todd White, Australia’s largest independent property valuation and advisory firm, said easier access to existing equity in homes and investment properties would help ease financial pressure for Aussies during the COVID-19 crisis.
Gary Brinkworth, CEO of Herron Todd White, said both the government and regulators must urgently work with financiers to unlock this source of stored wealth and help struggling individuals and businesses through this unprecedented time.
“If ever there were a time to help Aussies get access to their stored-away property wealth, it’s during the Coronavirus emergency.
“The integrity and discipline of the current lending system can be preserved and leveraged to help property owners through this challenging period.
“We believe the time to act is now, to provide additional liquidity to eligible property owners to help them navigate these uncertain times, creating an opportunity to survive this downturn and establish a strong position which will help contribute to the economy.”
Mr Brinkworth said the COVID-19 crisis had highlighted how some Aussie property owners were ‘asset rich, cash poor’ and providing the ability for many property owners to access the equity in their assets is a clear way to not only survive the uncertainty of the next few months but position property owners to bounce back quickly.
“As property professionals, we realise the level of equity drawdown and the impact on property values due to COVID-19 will need to be part of the discussion, but it’s ludicrous to not have this conversation in the current climate.
“There’s an important role valuers will play in preserving the integrity of the financial system while unlocking additional liquidity during this challenging period. As such, we will be supporting our clients and our industry body, the Australian Property Institute, in their efforts to put this initiative front and centre.”
Mr Brinkworth said from his discussions with industry associates, finance providers seemed ready to act swiftly in making equity available to owners.
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“This kind of industry support and through Government incentives and the cooperation of the different stakeholders, should allow us to realise the potential of this initiative at a time when people need it most”.
Mr Brinkworth said the nation’s strong real estate sector had been a leading source of wealth building through decades of sustained value growth.
He said under normal circumstances equity was a wealth buffer for owners to reinvest or live on in retirement, but it should now be drawn upon as a financial safety net.
“We are calling on the government and regulatory bodies, to work together to make this possible, to encourage property owners to leverage their equity’.
Main Photo:<a href="https://theinsideinvestor.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/equity_release.png" target="_blank"> Equity Release/The Inside Investor</a>.
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Property valuers call for equity release to ease financial burden amid COVID-19 pandemic: HTW

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An independent advocate for the preventing and ending of homelessness in Australia is hosting an online forum on April 7, 2020 from 1:30 to 3:00pm AEST.
<a href="https://aaeh.org.au" target="_blank">The Australian Alliance to End Homelessness (AAEH)</a> believes, "Despite the common misconception to the contrary, the scale of homelessness in Australia is both preventable and solvable."
AAEH specifically works with local communities at all levels to ensure everyone has access to safe and sustainable housing services and that any incidents of homelessness that do occur are rare, brief and non-recurring. 
The free online Zoom webinar, 'Rough Sleeping Responses to COVID-19 Forum' will include social sector leaders across the country to discuss what steps need to be taken to support Australians experiencing homelessness in this health and economic crisis. 
Key speakers include: 
<ul>
<li>David Pearson, Australian Alliance to End Homelessness (Host)</li>
<li>Paul Flatau, Director Centre for Social Impact, University of Western Australia (WA)</li>
<li>Karyn Walsh, CEO, Micah Projects, Home for Good Service (QLD)</li>
<li>Kim Holmes, Neami National, Street to Home Service (SA)</li>
<li>Andrew D'Archy, Launch Housing, Getting Housing (Vic)</li>
<li>Shane Jakupec, Neami National, Street to Home Service (NSW)</li>
<li>Jed Donoghue, Housing and Homelessness, Salvation Army (Tas)</li>
<li>Samantha Henry, Senior Manager, Northside Community Service (ACT)</li>
<li>John Berger, Executive Officer, WAAEH (WA)</li>
</ul>
They will take part in the forum, identifying and discussing what actions are being taken and what else needs to be done to better respond to this unprecedented crisis. 
The forum will also be an opportunity for AAEH to launch its <a href="https://aaeh.org.au/assets/docs/20200120-POLICY-PROPOSAL_Leaving-no-one-Behind.pdf" target="_blank">Health and Homelessness paper: 'Leaving no one Behind'</a>.
<a href="https://events.humanitix.com/aaeh-rough-sleeping-and-covid-19-forum" target="_blank">Registration</a> for the webinar is free, and connection details will be emailed to registered attendees. 
 
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COVID-19 pandemic online forum to discuss impact on homeless Australians during unprecedented times

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The pre-Easter Super Saturday online auction remnants found it tough to secure buyers across the capital cities today.
Melbourne's success rate was 30 percent.
Sydney scored a 39 percent preliminary success rate, according to Domain.
There was a 34 percent national clearance rate.
Domain reported there were originally 1224 auctions scheduled for Sydney, of which 36 per cent were shifted to private sale and 21 per cent to online auctions.
The status of a further 27 per cent was unclear.
Melbourne was set to have 1248 auctions, before 65 per cent became private treaty offerings and just six per cent shifted to online auction, with the status of another 18 per cent unclear.
The REINSW does not provide statistics, but CoreLogic advised there were just the 51 sales on Saturday across Sydney.
The REIV reported just 31 properties were sold at Saturday auction.
Dr Andrew Wilson at My Housing market put the Melbourne clearance rate at 29 percent.
Canberra saw a 46 percent success rate, according to realestate.com.au, while Queensland had a 20 percent clearance rate, Dr Wilson calculated.
It was 17 percent in Perth, according to realestate.com.au which adopts a different method without including withdrawn results.
Across the country, Ray White auction agents cleared 33 per cent of all stock under the hammer today but the campaign clearance number climbed to 57 per cent once all the sold priors were accounted for in this week’s tally. 
There was some Sydney success stories including 5 Park Street, Epping which sold through McGrath agent Betty Ockerlander at $1.32 million.
Auctioneer Troy Malcolm pointed out the auction guide was $1,150,000 to $1,265,000 to the 10 registered online bidders.
Some 138 viewers tuned in to see the opening bid of  $1,170,000
There were 54 bids from the five participating buyers.
In Sydney's Haberfield, the online auction of a two-bedroom semi-detached house at 238 Hawthorne Parade saw a cheeky $100,000 opening offer.
It was swiftly rejected with the next bid at $950,000, selling eventually at $1.22 million.
At 40a Brown St Newtown the top bid of $3,225,000 was not enough to secure the four bedroom property which had come with a $3 million Ray White price guide.
The GAVL online system secured a $1,060,000 sale at Merrylands.
There was a $1.065 million sale at Pretty Beach on the NSW Central Coast after attracting four registered bidders. The agents held more than 15 private inspections with local families looking for their dream home location.
The top sale in Sydney was secured pre-auction with $4.9 million paid for 24 Tipper Avenue, Bronte..
There was a $1.95 million top sale in Melbourne in Parkville through Buxton.
The price guide had been $1.85 million to $1.9 million.
McGrath saw a $1,060,000 sale when 24 Brigalow Street, O'Connor in the ACT went to auction through agent Maree Van Arkel
There four four registered bidders with just the two participating after the opening bid of $900,000.
Cameron Kusher, realestate.com.au’s executive director of economic research, says the COVID-19 pandemic is forcing property businesses to innovate “at a pace never seen before”.
Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced bans on public open for inspections and on-site auctions two weeks ago.
April was set to be relatively quiet after the traditional pre-Easter surge given the school holidays and Anzac break.
A significant number of intending May sellers will now wait and see given understandable health concerns about letting in strangers to their homes, and finding somewhere to be for that period of time.
There will also be rising doubts about getting their prices hopes that they had anticipated earlier this year.
The market still has buying activity, but not from new entrants, rather those who have sold and need to secure alternative premises.
The auction market in the good times in some suburbs represents a very high proportion of sales, but around 15 percent across the entire market.
At the moment it would be barely 5 percent, so buyers, sellers and agents will need to get their mindset into what's happening in the curtailed private treaty market. 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Online real estate auctions see weakened market on pre-Easter Super Saturday

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Working from home is not a foreign concept to the professional industry, with studies revealing that <a href="http://blog.au.indeed.com/2019/01/29/report-68-australian-employers-allow-remote-working-attitudes-divided/">two-thirds of Australian employers</a> allowed their employees to work remotely last year. But what was once considered a luxury or an indicator of the modern professional has since become the key to survival for organisations and industries across the world.

The ability to shift to a remote workplace is a privilege in itself and one that was not always feasible sans the technology age. Nowadays, we have access to modern technology and software that allows employees to remotely access their work system from anywhere in the world and with the addition of work equipment such as laptops and screen monitors, a home office is formed. But like a traditional workplace, it takes more than just equipment and programs to run a productive and cohesive business.

As an increasing number of organisations in Australia encourage their employees to work remotely, to urgently and effectively reduce the spread of COVID-19, employers and managers are posed with a new breed of management challenges to navigate.

<h2>Open communication is paramount </h2>

Working remotely has the potential to inspire productivity in employees but on the flip side, the lack of structure can just as easily hinder motivation.

Expectations of each employee, regardless of position, needs to be established and clearly communicated at the early stages of the relocation and must remain consistent throughout the process.

It doesn’t matter if an organisation has five or 50 employees, an open-door style policy of communication between senior management and employees is the most effective way to maintain team cohesion as it will reduce the likelihood of miscommunication and will allow trust to build between the manager and employees.

Consistent and open dialogue is also key to encouraging employees to display a high level of commitment, something that is highly valued at a time like this, as opposed to just the communal obligation that is associated with a traditional workplace.

<h2>Encourage a set workday structure </h2>

Encouraging employees to structure their day around their traditional routine is an effective way to maintain normalcy in a new work environment.

All employees should schedule in set breaks, just as they would have in their regular office hours and make the effort to get out of the house at least once a day. Whether it is a coffee break or an after-lunch walk, these scheduled breaks create important boundaries between personal and professional lives.

As most individuals bunker down to <a href="https://snacknation.com/blog/social-distancing-at-work/">practice social distancing</a>, lunchtime catch-ups and office banter can seem like a long distant memory. To mitigate feelings associated with isolation it is important that managers encourage socialisation between staff as if they were working in the same space. Employees should be encouraged to take advantage of communication software, whether it be Facetime, Slack or Zoom, to engage with each other as if they were communicating across their desks. These platforms are also great for bouncing ideas around or to check in on how someone is going.

<h2>Increased focus on mental health </h2>

Positive social and mental health needs to be a priority in any workplace but given the peculiar new reality we are all facing, it has never been more important to manage.

Managers and organisations need to foster positive relationships between employees by providing a platform to discuss non-work related topics. This could include company-wide lunches via video conference or phone calls between employees during their lunch break.

Although working remotely creates a physical separation between the HR team and employees, the relationship shouldn’t suffer as a result. This means scheduling regular meetings where the team can check in with every single staff member personally to see how they are dealing with remote working life. A consistent schedule allows employees to discuss any issues related to remote work, such as feeling lonely or isolated or struggling with their workload or new work environment in any way.

With no foreseeable end in sight for COVID-19, remote work arrangements and virtual workplaces are rapidly becoming the new norm across the globe. It is with ongoing communication and mutual understanding that employers and employees can maintain momentum for their organisations. Looking past the negative undertones, virtual workplaces offer the opportunity for us all to develop our businesses and employee relations, to offer vital support to each other to meet the demands at hand and ahead.
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How to effectively manage a remote workplace during ‘social distancing’

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These days, it’s all about <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYQjssb7xdk">social distancing</a>. Studies have shown that the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has an incubation period of five days — a significantly longer period of time compared to the common cold, which is generally one to two days — and patients can infect others before beginning to show symptoms. Before a cure is found, social distancing is the way to go about limiting the spread of the virus. 

In a <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-20/coronavirus-covid-19-scott-morrison-enhanced-social-distancing/12075532">press conference</a> last week, Prime Minister Scott Morrison advised Australians to maintain at least 1 to 1.5 metres of physical distance between one another in public spaces. However, social distancing is just as critical at home as it is outdoors, especially if anyone at home had been in contact with a possible carrier. The Australian Department of Health has released <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/2020/03/coronavirus-covid-19-information-on-social-distancing.pdf">guidelines</a> to do so.

Social distancing should be and can be, pre-emptive and low cost, according to the <a href="https://www.mja.com.au/journal/2020/212/10/pre-emptive-low-cost-social-distancing-and-enhanced-hygiene-implemented-local">Medical Journal of Australia</a>. In other words, social distancing should be practised as early as possible as a preventive measure, and it can be achieved without spending money on sophisticated medical equipment.

<h2>The following applies to all households:</h2>

Maintaining hygiene around the household is essential, especially in ‘high touch’ areas such as the bathroom and the kitchen. Health officials discourage against touching one’s face, so perhaps intimate contact between family members should be avoided for the time being. Health officials are also encouraging people to take extra precautions when coughing or sneezing. Fluids can easily pass on from one person to another through hands; considering the high infection rate of COVID-19, this etiquette should not be taken lightly. The correct and socially responsible way is to cough or sneeze is into the <a href="https://www.sbs.com.au/topics/science/humans/article/2016/02/15/why-you-should-sneeze-your-elbow">crook of your elbow</a> and always remember to wash that item of clothing as soon as you can. 

<h2>For households with members under quarantine, or members who are ill: </h2>

In addition to the above steps, extra steps have to be taken to contain the spread of the virus under one’s roof. If a family member at home is ill, they should ideally stay in an isolated room, and reduce all physical contact with other members of the household.

If possible, there should only be one person caring for the sick individual, and the carer should be wearing a surgical mask at all times. When bringing food to the patient, it is encouraged to leave it by the door or a place where the patient can collect it without being in contact with the carer. The door of the patient’s room should also be kept closed at all times to reduce the risk of the virus travelling to other parts of the home.

If anyone at home is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, <a href="https://www.health.gov.au/news/health-alerts/novel-coronavirus-2019-ncov-health-alert/what-you-need-to-know-about-coronavirus-covid-19#how-to-seek-medical-attention">follow instructions from the Department of Health</a> and seek medical attention immediately. For serious symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, the urgent medical helpline is 000.

The Australian Government has also set up a National Coronavirus Helpline for those who wish to seek information about the virus. The number, 1800 020 080, is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 
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COVID-19: Is it possible to practise social distancing at home? Absolutely

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The NSW Land Tax system is crippling investors as tenants struggle to pay rent and must be completely overhauled, according to Urban Taskforce CEO Tom Forrest.
“Land Tax relief is critical for the survival on many companies that are being forced to pay taxes on land which is delivering little or no return at all”, Mr Forrest said.
“When land is re-zoned, land tax is levied on the new `higher use’ potential of that re-zoned land. However, the NSW Planning system, the slowest in Australia for every category of development application, levies land tax on the highest and best use related to the new zoning while investors and property developers wait, in some cases years, for development approvals.
“Worse – with COVID 19 having resulted in the shut-down of many businesses, no relief has been offered to land-lords”, Mr Forrest said.
Land Tax is being charged based on the highest and best use for the land, assuming the full economic potential of the land zoning is being realised.
“Where land has been re-zoned, but a new DA approval is stuck in the planning system, Land tax should be based on the old (lower value) zoning or waived altogether.
“If deferrals are contemplated by the NSW Government, interest must not be charged on the unpaid land tax”, Mr Forrest said.
Mr Forrest called on the NSW Government to waive land tax where land-owners can show they have been impacted by COVID 19.
“These simple changes would give much needed relief to property owners who rely on rental income for the viability of their business.”
TOM FORREST is the CEO of Urban Taskforce
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Land tax overhaul needed during shutdown; Urban Taskforce CEO Tom Forrest

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COVID-19 has gone from a distant news story to <a href="/expert-insights/buying/changes-the-real-estate-industry-will-experience-as-a-result-of-the-coronavirus">now impacting every one</a> of us at a speed that has taken the nation – and the world – by surprise.

<a href="/guides/covid-19-how-to-adapt-to-working-from-home">Adaptation is now paramount</a> for every operator, in every industry, and real estate is no different. Service providers need to find ways to adjust, and fast, because people still need to buy and sell property – perhaps even more so once the real economic impact starts to play out.

Let’s look at some of the potential effects of Coronavirus on the Australian property market.

<h2>March/April 2020 – immediate effects &amp; emerging trends</h2>

The Australian property market <a href="https://reia.asn.au/backing-the-governments-advice-on-auctions-and-open-houses/">changed overnight on March 25</a>, with both in-room and onsite auctions, and open homes, being <a href="https://www.pm.gov.au/media/update-coronavirus-measures-24-March-2020">banned by the Prime Minister</a> and industry bodies bracing themselves for (and lobbying against) further restrictions.

Buying a home or an investment property is a significant decision often fraught with potential stresses at the best of times. So not surprisingly, we already see a softening in the market and both investors and homeowners putting searches on hold.

Having said that, there are existing ‘cashed-up’ buyers out there who need to buy now, having already sold their existing house. Investors will also certainly look to make the most of the current situation and buy discounted stock. Prices are, as you’d expect under such circumstances, coming off. With lower levels of buyers in the market, competition is not as strong, which means that results have not been as high as they were even a couple of weeks ago.

In the medium term, as employment fluctuates and, devastatingly, people lose their jobs, many Australians are going to be highly motivated to sell their property. This will cause further softening of prices in the property market and, because of social distancing rules and the measures people are taking to prevent possible infection, it is becoming increasingly difficult – and unappealing – to do even private inspections.  

This will likely be the case for the next couple of months as the Coronavirus pandemic peaks – and is hopefully resolved – in Australia.

<h2>The longer-term projection?</h2>

Once we’ve managed to get through this immediate crisis and the worst of the pandemic’s impact has dissipated, we’d expect is for <a href="/news/covid-19-understanding-what-you-can-and-cant-control-the-importance-of-cross-referencing-facts">people’s collective fears</a> to diminish fairly quickly, resulting in a jump in pricing.  Buyers currently holding off their searches will return, increasing competition. But ultimately, it’s a grey area for both the Australian and the global economy, so the long-term economic impact of Coronavirus simply isn’t known.

<h2>Buyers, don’t be afraid to seek help</h2>

Buyers’ agents – agents acting solely on behalf of buyers during a property transaction – are inherently well equipped to help buyers navigate some of the immense challenges the COVID-19 pandemic presents.

<a href="/guides">Video walkthrough</a> provides a full virtual property tour that can be viewed from anywhere in the world. These tours were originally created to service the needs of people who didn’t have physical access to view properties, such as overseas investors, however now this content can be made use of by everyone.

Bidding services are another option, enabling buyers to avoid auction rooms. 

<h2>Advice from the experts</h2>

If you’re looking for your new home or a long-term purchase, negotiate now. You’ll find you’ll be in a marketplace that’s going to be <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2020/mar/20/australian-housing-market-will-hit-the-wall-in-coronavirus-recession-experts-say">down between 10-20%</a> from its standard peak pricing, and you’re already getting a discount. If you’ve found what you feel is the right home for your wants and needs, don’t be too cautious about purchasing – if you have secure financials and have done thorough due diligence research.

A bargain-hunter will want to buy the cheapest possible property at the best price, so watch and wait over the coming weeks.

Make sure your finance has been approved. If you’re ready to act swiftly and <a href="/developments">secure the property that’s right for you</a>, at the right price. 

Nobody knows what the market is going to be doing in <a href="/news/covid-19-how-the-world-previously-recovered-from-sars-and-whether-or-not-we-can-do-the-same-this-time-round">6, or even 3 months</a>. If you are in the market to buy property, do as much research as you can, and find out what your trusted experts – who live and breathe the market daily – are forecasting and would recommend for you as they may just point you to a great opportunity.  
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How to navigate buying property during the COVID-19 crisis 

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In modern cities, our public spaces represent our shared values. They are our common assets, owned, maintained and used by all members of our society. The outbreak of coronavirus and its immediate impacts, such as social distancing, have raised many questions about the role of public space in such times.
Since the World Health Organisation declared the <a href="https://www.bbc.com/news/world-51839944" target="_blank">COVID-19 pandemic</a>, countries had been forced to adopt social isolation measures very quickly. <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/no-handshakes-1-5m-distances-new-social-rules-for-australians-20200315-p54a96" target="_blank">Australia</a> has progressively increased enforceable <a href="https://theconversation.com/view-from-the-hill-entertainment-venues-closed-in-draconian-measures-to-fight-the-virus-134360" target="_blank">social distancing measures</a>. India’s nearly 1.4 billion people have been <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/world/asia/india-imposes-world-s-largest-lockdown-to-prevent-spread-of-virus-20200325-p54dkf" target="_blank">ordered not to leave their homes</a>. In Europe, <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2020/03/spain-imposes-italy-style-lockdown-bid-coronavirus-200314233749980" target="_blank">first Italy</a>, then <a href="https://www.euronews.com/2020/03/19/coronavirus-which-countries-are-under-lockdown-and-who-s-next" target="_blank">Spain, France, Belgium</a> and <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/23/boris-johnson-orders-uk-lockdown-to-be-enforced-by-police" target="_blank">the UK</a> have entered periods of total lockdown. It’s happening closer to home in <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/mar/23/kiwis-go-home-new-zealand-to-go-into-month-long-lockdown-to-fight-coronavirus" target="_blank">New Zealand</a>.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2020/4/1/5_Cities3.jpg" alt="">
Instead of the usual crowds, the view from the top of the Spanish Steps in Rome, Italy, is of a deserted street and square. Maurizzio Brambatti/EPA/AAP
While the <a href="https://theconversation.com/itd-be-a-mistake-to-shut-financial-markets-more-than-ever-we-need-them-to-work-134387" target="_blank">economic impacts</a> of the pandemic are becoming obvious, the influence upon public space still remains uncertain.
With businesses being forced to close and whole sectors urged to work from home, <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/national/coronavirus-photos-of-impact-in-places-around-the-world/" target="_blank">streetlife is grinding to a halt</a> across the world. As fear of infection has increased, <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2020/3/13/21179032/public-transportation-coronavirus-covid19-ridership-nyc-sf-la-dc" target="_blank">public transport use has plummeted</a>.
Australia is among the increasing numbers of countries to close “non-essential” public space, including restaurants, cafes and cinemas. Around the world, major sporting events, music concerts and comedy festivals have all been cancelled. Any <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-03-13/australians-urged-to-reconsider-non-essential-travel/12054484" target="_blank">non-essential travel</a> and meetings are being discouraged or banned.
These measures are significant: they could uproot the very foundations of how people interact in public.
<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/2020/4/1/5_Cities%202.jpg" alt="">
Despite being made free to reduce infection risks, public transport in Portugal is almost deserted. Manuel de Almeida/EPA/AAP
While this intense monitoring of public space is a temporary control, it raises questions about the future. Will we return to our normal habits once it’s all over? Will coughing on the subway be forever taboo?
<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/2020/4/1/5_Cities1.jpg" alt="">
Sporting grounds are one of the great public meeting places for Australians, but games were being played in empty stadiums before competitions shut down altogether. Darren Pateman/AAP
<h2>Collectivism or individualism?</h2>
The coronavirus pandemic has had immediate impacts – both negative and positive – on how people interact with each other in public. <a href="https://www.vox.com/identities/2020/3/14/21179019/xenophophia-chinese-community-sunset-park" target="_blank">Xenophobia</a> and racial stereotyping have led to <a href="https://www.mamamia.com.au/coronavirus-racism-australia/" target="_blank">antisocial public behaviour</a>. And supermarkets have become stages for public <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2020/3/13/21179032/public-transportation-coronavirus-covid19-ridership-nyc-sf-la-dc" target="_blank">fights over toilet paper</a> and hand sanitiser.
In spite of this, we have also seen instances of collectivism and urban resilience. In Italy, the national lockdown has forced people to create a new type of public space. Citizens are taking to their balconies and windows to enjoy music together, <a href="https://www.theverge.com/2020/3/13/21179032/public-transportation-coronavirus-covid19-ridership-nyc-sf-la-dc" target="_blank">sharing songs across buildings and above streets</a>.
<iframe src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/nNxhSe4TiOQ" frameborder="0" width="425" height="350"></iframe>
People play music and interact from their balconies, as Italy continues its lockdown.
It’s a reminder that connection and interaction are integral to our society even in times of crisis. But is this particular type of collectivism a product of urban density? These scenes may not be so easily replicated in Australia’s sprawling suburbs. However, we are seeing other <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/victoria/kindness-outbreak-keeping-people-occupied-and-entertained-20200316-p54and?fbclid=IwAR3RiXvSw29EUBNzE79CwMbBtZKvU-V_p9SaGBWFkt2QTrHX_wg7OjZMs34" target="_blank">displays of community</a>.
<h2>What will fill the void?</h2>
The practice of self-isolation raises many uncertainties about public space. Daily human contact is ingrained in the ways people interact in public spaces. Will social isolation lead to a more individualistic approach to public spaces?
In 2020, perhaps this type of physical isolation will not feel so foreign as it might once have. Email, social media and the sharing economy already provide the necessary digital infrastructure.
The role of technology will be heightened as digital space becomes even more prominent as a platform for sharing information and enabling human interaction. Events like these also highlight the shortfalls of our digital infrastructure, in particular the <a href="https://theconversation.com/coronavirus-telcos-are-picking-up-where-the-nbn-is-failing-heres-what-it-means-for-you-133905" target="_blank">need to improve our national broadband network</a> (NBN).
Coronavirus will change the ways we work and study. But it won’t remove our desire for human connection.
Our trust in public spaces will need to be rebuilt if we are to rebuild our economy and our society. In the face of generational issues such as climate change and homelessness, there is hope coronavirus might actually offer us an opportunity to radically reassess our communal values.<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/133763/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important; text-shadow: none !important;">
<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/tahj-rosmarin-667275" target="_blank">Tahj Rosmarin</a>, Research Officer, Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-melbourne-722" target="_blank">University of Melbourne</a>
This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/public-spaces-bind-cities-together-what-happens-when-coronavirus-forces-us-apart-133763" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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