A new 25-storey apartment tower proposed for Mercer Street would push Geelong’s western gateway skyline higher, with Morphy Birrell Property Group lodging plans for a project directly beside one of the city’s most significant heritage streetscapes.

The <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/fk-australia">FK</a>-designed development at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/65-67-mercer-street-geelong-vic-3220">65-67 Mercer Street</a> has now been referred to Victoria’s Planning Minister. The site sits opposite the Geelong rail corridor and immediately south of the heritage-listed St Peter and Paul’s Catholic Church and Ashby Hall precinct.

Rather than compete with the neighbouring ecclesiastical buildings, the proposal adopts a sculpted podium intended to reference the materiality and scale of the heritage context. Planning documents note the design draws cues from the “dark stone brick” church and surrounding masonry buildings, while the tower above transitions into a softer, curved form oriented toward Corio Bay and the Geelong waterfront.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b797d10c-d4a6-47af-b8df-1aeaa3b382be" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/public%20square.png?VersionId=QGIpcz1x1hKB6lQLl2iobyHqb6PS2Ztc" />

The development forms “Stage 5” of Morphy Birrell Property Group’s broader Mercer Street precinct strategy, following the completion of the 21-storey Miramar tower on Cavendish Street and several additional approved redevelopment stages nearby. Planning consultants Ratio said the proposal “represents an exemplary development outcome” aligned with the strategic ambitions for Central Geelong’s continued urban renewal.

The mixed-use project would replace an existing low-rise commercial building and surface parking area on the 3,320 sqm corner site. FK’s urban context report describes the proposal as a residential development comprising apartments, resident amenities, commercial space, and integrated landscaping positioned to maximise bay views and northern sunlight access.

Renders show a deeply articulated tower with curved balconies stepping above a lower masonry podium that frames a landscaped forecourt facing Mercer Street. The design intentionally preserves sightlines toward the adjacent church buildings, with the podium scaled to reinforce the heritage edge before the tower recedes upward.

<img alt="First look: Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2bdca91e-66f7-4ac7-8baa-2f93bd5b564e" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/geelong%20site.png?VersionId=QOhbino4ZgzKYw5dW3QE14E.2yq.Sv87" />

The planning report highlights the site’s strategic location within 400 metres of key Geelong destinations including Cunningham Pier, the Geelong Station precinct, Deakin University, and the convention centre. Bus services run directly along Mercer Street, while the Corio Bay foreshore sits around 100 metres north of the site.

The proposal arrives amid accelerating redevelopment across central Geelong, where planning policy continues to encourage higher-density housing close to transport infrastructure and the waterfront. Mercer Street in particular has emerged as a focal point for taller apartment development due to its proximity to Geelong Station, the bay, and major civic infrastructure.

Joel Robinson

Morphy Birrell Property Group targets 25-storey Geelong tower beside landmark church precinct

Development giant&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/hamton">Hamton</a> and joint venture partner Hostplus have revealed the next residential stage of their $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan, lodging plans for 512 more apartments within the precinct on surplus racecourse land at 110 Wilson Street, Moonee Ponds.

The proposed development, dubbed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/trackside-house-110-wilson-street-moonee-ponds-vic-3039">Trackside Gardens</a>&nbsp;in the planning application, follows the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/vic/first-look-exclusive-hamton-and-hostplus-reveal-sixth-stage-of-moonee-valley-park-masterplan">recent unveiling of the sixth-stage Cox Place Precinct</a> and continues the long-running transformation of the Moonee Valley Racecourse into one of Melbourne’s largest urban renewal projects.

Positioned on the north-eastern edge of the racecourse adjacent to CityLink, Trackside Gardens will comprise three residential buildings rising between 61.8 metres and 86.4 metres within a heavily landscaped precinct shaped by Hamton’s Nature Based Cities framework.

The project forms part of the broader Moonee Valley Park redevelopment being delivered by Hamton, Hostplus and the Moonee Valley Racing Club, which is reshaping the 40-hectare racecourse site into a mixed-use neighbourhood with housing, retail, commercial space, hotels, parkland and community infrastructure.

Trackside Gardens sits separately to the recently proposed Cox Place Precinct, a five-building stage comprising around 1,100 residences, two build-to-rent buildings, two build-to-sell towers, retail, office space, and a hotel overlooking the racetrack. Together, the projects continue to accelerate housing delivery across the precinct.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5fc1941e-52d3-41c6-abc4-0f13fe8ae5ea" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/DA%20Edits%20%281%29.png?VersionId=7qwRHq5dcvXWNot2hNOgoQhN2GIWudNK" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/dko-architecture">DKO Architecture</a> with landscape architecture by Tract, Trackside Gardens has been conceived as a botanical-style residential precinct prioritising canopy planting, communal green space, and vertical landscaping.

“The architectural vision for the proposed development centres around buildings in a botanical park setting that champions the important role of nature,” the planning submission states.

“The proposal incorporates principles of biophilic design, with landscape and environmentally sustainable development influencing the ultimate design response of the buildings and prioritising the ground plane to ensure a high amenity for both occupants and visitors.”&nbsp;

Trackside Gardens will deliver 512 apartments across the three buildings, alongside 518 basement car spaces and 523 bicycle spaces. Around 20 per cent affordable housing is proposed across the broader North East Precinct, equating to around 158 dwellings.&nbsp;

The affordable housing component will be concentrated within the Wilson East building, while the remaining apartments are expected to be delivered as build-to-sell residences.

Trackside Gardens has been designed around Hamton’s Nature Based Cities initiative, founded by Executive Chair Paul Hameister OAM in partnership with the University of Melbourne, Urbis, Ark Resources and Tract. The initiative promotes integrating higher-density urban development with significant biodiversity, tree canopy and landscape outcomes.

<img alt="First look: Hamton expands Moonee Valley Park masterplan with 512-home Trackside Gardens precinct" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="89353449-7b3c-42fd-8fd8-8bf64a5ef80f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_4.png?VersionId=X8jRt0P2L7fIWjLhfX6gPknXToXIBeLj" />

A comprehensive landscape strategy would introduce deep soil planting, vertical greening, communal gardens, and new pedestrian links throughout the site.

Planning documents state the development is targeting a 5 Star Green Star Buildings rating, a 7.5-star average NatHERS rating, and “Exemplary” Nature Based Cities certification.&nbsp;

The proposal joins an expanding pipeline of approved and proposed buildings within Moonee Valley Park, including the recently launched Eveline apartments and the approved Grandstand North and South towers.

Hamton has increasingly focused on precinct-scale, nature-led communities across Melbourne’s middle-ring suburbs, with projects spanning Hawthorn, Kew, and Moonee Ponds.

Hampton unveils Trackside Gardens, latest stage of $3 billion Moonee Valley Park masterplan

The Paul Gedoun-led <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/ss-projects">S&amp;S Group</a> has achieved another milestone in its $1 billion transformation of Rainbow Bay on the southern Gold Coast with the completion of the company’s third project in four years, the $160 million <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/buildings/esprit-217-227-boundary-street-coolangatta-qld-4225">Esprit</a> residences.

Delivered by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a> and designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cottee-parker-architects">Cottee Parker Architects</a>, Esprit buyers have now moved into the 94 apartments across two interconnected buildings at 217-227 Boundary Street.

The successful settlement of Esprit marks another astounding chapter in the S&amp;S story, which launched its highly successful Flow apartments three years ago and created its own ultra-luxury branded fingerprint on an area craving new luxury residences.

Most early purchasers have secured gains of well over $1 million since the project launched in 2021.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172129]

S&amp;S Projects Founding Director Paul Gedoun said the completion of Esprit reflects sustained demand for premium apartments in tightly held coastal locations.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
“Esprit has attracted buyers seeking a combination of quality design, considered amenity and a location that is becoming increasingly difficult to replicate,” said Gedoun.

“We identified some years ago that Rainbow Bay is a unique market where supply of luxury residences is limited, and we see the settlements in Esprit further underpinning this thinking - that for both owner-occupiers and investors.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172174]

A key feature of the development is ‘Club Esprit’, a 1,000sqm residents-only rooftop level combining wellness and recreation, believed to be a first for the Gold Coast, and which is fast becoming a signature of the S&amp;S brand.

Positioned to capture views across Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay and the Tweed River, the rooftop includes a 25-metre lap pool, gym, yoga lawn, sauna and steam facilities, ice bath, private dining spaces, outdoor cinema and landscaped areas for residents.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/pezet-matheson">Pezet Matheson</a> Director Jayde Pezet, who led the sales campaign for Esprit and S&amp;S’s Flow and Awaken apartments, said the project’s performance reflects both the strength of the product and the depth of demand for premium apartments on the southern Gold Coast.&nbsp;

“In some cases, we’ve seen values double since launch, which is a clear reflection of how tightly held Rainbow Bay has become and the level of demand for well-executed projects in this market,” said Pezet.&nbsp;

“Buyers recognised early what S&amp;S Projects was delivering here, and that conviction has been rewarded as the project has progressed towards completion.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=214819]

Esprit offers a mix of two- three and four-bedroom apartments and sits within walking distance of the beachfront, cafés and local amenities, reinforcing its appeal as both a lifestyle and investment destination.

The project is the third completed by S&amp;S Projects in Rainbow Bay, following Flow Residences and Awaken Residences, which together have contributed to the suburb’s emergence as one of the Gold Coast’s most sought-after coastal pockets. &nbsp;

S&amp;S Projects is continuing its investment in the area with Radia, a $215 million development currently under construction.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=102921 project_image_fid=172175]

Gedoun said the completion of Esprit signals continued confidence in the southern Gold Coast market.&nbsp;

“We’ve seen strong interest in well-located, high-quality apartments, particularly in areas where future development opportunities are limited."

“That’s been a key factor in the performance of Esprit and the broader Rainbow Bay market”.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=102921]

Owners move in as Esprit completes at Rainbow Bay

Few developers can boast a portfolio across South East Queensland's luxury markets quite like <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/mosaic-property-group">Mosaic Property Group</a>.

The builder-developer, founded in 2004 by Managing Director Brook Monahan, has projects in planning, on the market, and under construction, from Burleigh Heads and Broadbeach to Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane.

With a pipeline exceeding $2 billion, Mosaic remains highly selective when it comes to development sites, having spent years refining its strategy around feasibility research and product planning. The group is set to continue growing into 2026 and beyond.

In Brisbane, Mosaic currently has three projects in the market. It is in the final release stage at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-bedford-by-mosaic-16-30-prospect-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Bedford</a> in Kangaroo Point, which is approaching complete sellout ahead of its late 2027 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328123]

Designed in collaboration with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bda-architecture">BDA Architecture</a>, The Bedford comprises 128 two- and three-bedroom residences. A selection of ultra-luxury Masterpiece Series Skyhomes, positioned across the top levels, offer expansive floor plans and sweeping views of the river and city.

High-end inclusions, such as natural stone benchtops, bespoke cabinetry, and Miele appliances, feature throughout all apartments, alongside the Rooftop Recreation &amp; Retreat Sky Terrace. This includes a resort-style pool with sun deck and loungers, spa, cold plunge pool, sauna, steam room, private dining room with a full kitchen, residents' lounge, multiple barbeque and relaxation zones, an outdoor viewing deck, and landscaped gardens with water features, all oriented to sweeping city and river views.

A gym with indoor and outdoor zones, and a golf simulator, further enhances recreational choice within the building.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134792 project_image_fid=328119]

A defining feature of the development is its integrated mixed-use component, which will deliver Kangaroo Point's first major supermarket, alongside a café and liquor store, bringing long-awaited convenience to the peninsula.

Monahan says The Bedford represents the culmination of a near-decade-long journey, after first identifying the A-grade Prospect Street site in 2016. While they came close to acquiring it at the time, the site was ultimately purchased by Woolworths' development arm, Fabcot. The opportunity resurfaced in 2024 when the site, vacant for nearly three decades, was brought back to market.

Monahan says Mosaic projects often begin years before any formal plans are drawn. Their new South Brisbane development is no exception, with the site first earmarked in 2018.

"We aren't opportunistic," Monahan says. "Every site purchase is carefully considered. As seen with Kangaroo Point and South Brisbane, it can take years to eventuate. There are sites we're looking at now that we may not secure for several years."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=141711 project_image_fid=353495]

A similar story unfolded at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-carter-by-mosaic-77-linton-street-kangaroo-point-qld-4169">The Carter</a> in Kangaroo Point, opposite The Gabba. Like The Bedford, it is also approaching sellout of its 125 two- and three-bedroom apartments. The majority of sales are attributed to returning customers and referrals, with a balanced mix of investors and a strong majority of owner-occupiers.

BDA Architecture was again engaged to design the 22-storey building, which will feature a suite of wellness and lifestyle amenities, including a golf simulator and cinema, a commercial-grade gym, and a rooftop recreation level with a pool, steam room, sauna, cold plunge, teppanyaki bar, private dining spaces, and landscaped terraces.

Construction is on track for completion in mid-2027.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Mosaic's latest offering is its most ambitious yet, boasting a rare, north-facing riverfront position on Montague Road in South Brisbane.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-riversdale-by-mosaic-south-brisbane-91-montague-road-south-brisbane-qld-4101">The Riversdale by Mosaic</a> is a 39-storey tower comprising just over 200 residences and Masterpiece Series Sky Homes. Designed in partnership with Bureau Proberts, it will feature nearly 3,000 sqm of genuine, internationally benchmarked six-star, hotel-style amenities, including a wellness precinct, pool, gym, massage and treatment rooms, cinema, golf simulator, and extensive outdoor dining areas across a two-level rooftop deck.

Early works are underway, with full construction expected to commence in the second half of 2026, and an anticipated late 2029 completion.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=151614 project_image_fid=362759]

Since 2012 alone, Mosaic has completed more than $2 billion in projects and is set to deliver another $2 billion worth of developments, comprising hundreds of luxury apartments, each defined by Mosaic's signature standards of quality, detail, and delivery.

"We never arrive, there is no finish line," says Monahan. "Our ambition is to keep evolving what luxury means, creating design- and lifestyle-led residences in incredible locations, places people genuinely aspire to and want to live, homes that are loved deeply and endure long beyond their moment."

Mosaic's Midas Touch

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> (Urban) has broken ground at Keira Place, its new major mixed-use residential precinct in the heart of Wollongong CBD.

Held at 120-122 Smith Street, the groundbreaking marked the commencement of construction on Stage 1 of <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/keira-place-120-122-smith-street-wollongong-nsw-2500">Keira Place</a>, with the opening of the new display suite. 
&nbsp; 
Keira Place is a State Significant Development that will deliver new housing supply, affordable homes and inclusive living options within walking distance of Wollongong’s CBD, coastline, transport, hospital and education precincts.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369868] 
&nbsp; 
Stage 1 is now under construction and will deliver 150 apartments across two residential buildings, including 27 affordable housing apartments and 18 specialist disability accommodation dwellings, along with activated ground-floor retail and commercial space. 
&nbsp; 
Urban Co-CEO Patrick Elias said the groundbreaking represented a significant milestone for Wollongong and reflected Urban’s long-term commitment to regional cities.

“Today’s groundbreaking is about turning approvals into homes and moving quickly to deliver much-needed housing in Wollongong’s city centre,” Elias said. 
&nbsp; 
“Keira Place will provide a diverse mix of homes close to jobs, transport and services, while setting a high benchmark for quality, durability and consumer protection.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369869] 
&nbsp; 
Hon. Paul Scully MP, Minister for Planning and Public Spaces, Member for Wollongong said Keira Place is exactly the kind of development Wollongong needs – delivering new homes close to transport, employment and services, while supporting the continued growth and renewal of the CBD.

"This project reflects the Minns Labor Government's commitment to increasing housing supply in well-located areas." 
&nbsp; 
Wollongong Lord Mayor Cr Tania Brown said Keira Place would deliver lasting community benefits for the city. 
&nbsp; 
"Keira Place is a welcome addition to Wollongong's CBD delivering new housing, affordable homes and activated street-level spaces that will benefit our community for years to come," Brown said. 
&nbsp; 
"Urban Property Group's investment reflects the confidence that quality developers have in Wollongong's future, and I look forward to seeing this precinct come to life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144442 project_image_fid=369867] 
&nbsp; 
Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a>, with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/dko">DKO,</a> Keira Place prioritises liveability and long-term performance, with landscaped shared spaces, generous apartment layouts and a pedestrian-friendly streetscape along Smith Street. 
&nbsp; 
Residents will have access to landscaped podium areas, communal rooftop amenities with views to Mount Keira and the Wollongong skyline, and convenient ground-level retail.

The development will have 10-year Latent Defects Insurance by Resilience Insurance.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144442]

Groundbreaking marks start of construction at Keira Place in Wollongong CBD

Frasers

Construction is underway on the&nbsp;new Carlton apart​ment development,&nbsp;Encompass.

Designed by renowned architects Jackson Architecture and located on the corner of Elgin and Nicholson Streets, Encompass is a joint venture between Frasers Property Australia and Citta Property Group.

Encompass, which will be a&nbsp;minimum 5-star energy rated residential building, has already sold over 50 per cent of its 115 apartments.

Harris HMC has been appointed as the builder and construction of the residential tower is expected to reach completion in mid-2023.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5116 project_image_fid=21762]

Sarah Bloom, General Manager Development Victoria, Frasers Property Australia, says the expansive city views, location just 2.5km from Melbourne&rsquo;s CBD as well as having local cafes, shops and restaurants at its doorstep, make Encompass a popular choice for purchasers wanting to experience cosmopolitan Carlton.

&ldquo;There is a real &lsquo;wow&rsquo; factor to Encompass, not only from its impressive aesthetic design, but also its many sustainability features, such as water management initiatives, natural light and ventilation to every corridor, consideration of orientation and shading maximising light and ventilation to all apartments,&rdquo;&nbsp;Bloom says.

&ldquo;With all these benefits on offer in one place, it&rsquo;s no wonder that more than 50% of Encompass&rsquo;s apartments have already been sold.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5116 project_image_fid=188245]

&ldquo;We&rsquo;re excited to get started and to mark this exciting milestone with our project partners and members of the community,&rdquo; she says.

Alister Woods, Director, Citta Property Group says Encompass combines stunning architecture with premium amenities for residents to create a compelling lifestyle offer for buyers.

&ldquo;Encompass will elevate the local community with its striking design and range of quality resident facilities,&quot; Woods says.

&quot;The strong sales achieved to date demonstrate the value proposition Encompass represents and today&rsquo;s sod-turning means we&rsquo;re on the way to delivering a premium quality, sustainable, lifestyle-focused development that takes full advantage of its convenient and cosmopolitan Carlton location.&quot;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5116 project_image_fid=188242]

The eight-level building, offering a mix of one, two and three- bedroom apartments, is set to cater to&nbsp;a wide range of purchasers, from first home buyers and young families to downsizers and investors.

Each apartment will include its own private balcony or courtyard, accessed by floor-to-ceiling sliding doors. There will be&nbsp;2.7 metre&nbsp;high ceilings to living areas, premium kitchen appliances,&nbsp;oak timber finish floors in living areas and 100% wool loop pile carpet in the bedrooms.

Another highlight is the residents-only rooftop lounge, complete with alfresco dining area and outdoor barbeque, fully-equipped kitchen and a formal lounge area with television and library.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=5116]

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5116 project_image_fid=188243]

Harris HMC has been appointed as the builder and construction of the residential tower is expected to reach completion in mid-2023

Construction starts on Frasers' Encompass, Carlton apartments

Since 1924, Frasers Property Australia has created stronger, smarter, happier neighbourhoods. It has developed residential land, housing, and apartments and delivered over 140,000 homes.

It seeks to work sustainably to ensure the places we create leave a positive environmental legacy and enhance the way people live life together.&nbsp;

Frasers Property in Australia has certified over 5.6 million square metres of Green Star space across our communities, and their commitment to reduce carbon has been approved by the global Science-Based Targets initiative.&nbsp;

Urban recently caught up with&nbsp;Cameron Leggatt, Executive General Manager, Development at Frasers Property Australia, to discuss the o​ff the plan apartment market.

JC: How have you viewed the performance of the of​f the plan market in 2021, and what are the strongest positive and negative factors that will influence outcomes in 2022 and 2023?

CL: In new communities, while the market for land and townhomes has dominated growth, off th​e plan apartments have also performed with considerable strength in 2021. The pandemic has legitimised working from home and this has meant select regional and coastal locations have led the way.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29969 project_image_fid=159035]

In particular, apartment markets such as the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast have performed well, while for Frasers Property Australia, the Shell Cove community on the NSW South Coast that we are creating with Shellharbour City Council has enjoyed strong conditions.

Obviously the CBD and near-city markets in Sydney and Melbourne have experienced greater challenges, with the lack of migration and students being felt most sharply. Nevertheless, sales are still occurring and both owner-occupiers and investors are active.

In Sydney, we&rsquo;ve experienced strong sales at Midtown MacPark in Macquarie Park and at Ed.Square in south-west Sydney, while in Melbourne the final stage of our Carlton project and the final two stages of Burwood Brickworks have been met with a strong response from buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29969 project_image_fid=159036]

Looking ahead, much will hinge on the continuance of the low interest rate environment and the return of migration as a demand factor, including the return of international students. Affordability will remain a concern and with the coming election, the market awaits firm policy options in this area.

As long as rates remain low, as the Reserve Bank has suggested they most likely will through 2022 and 2023, demand will be supported. More recently there has been speculation that the Reserve Bank&rsquo;s hand may be forced earlier, but to date they have indicated they intend to maintain the course unless macro conditions shift significantly.

The increased gap in values between houses and apartments, exacerbated through the 2021 boom, makes apartment living more attractive to owner-occupiers, including first home buyers and families. This is being complemented by the return of investors to ensure demand for quality projects remains diverse, which is especially advantageous for apartments in areas of low supply.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5995]

Should values moderate this could impact investor appetites, with areas subject to increased supply potentially most impacted.

Most important is the need for communities offering apartments to also offer complementary lifestyle amenities, to create a point of difference and a unique value proposition. Connected communities which provide a high level of amenity with a masterplan emphasising positive urban design outcomes can be expected to continue to achieve strong sales in the years ahead.&rdquo;

JC: What trend (short term or long term) has prompted your greatest enthusiasm for the apartment market, and what is the issue of most concern to you and or your buyers?

CL: Apartment buyers are increasingly attracted to high amenity communities which offer choice, quality, lifestyle and sustainable outcomes. Sites and opportunities in which we can apply a community development and place-making focus to create belonging are those we&rsquo;re most attracted to.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5995 project_image_fid=78736]

Of course, the potential for ongoing disruption resulting from COVID-19 remains a concern for the industry, as it does for all industries.&nbsp;The impacts of border closures in reducing investor demand, shutdowns impacting schedules, and supply chain blockages that increase price and ultimately put pressure on the commercial viability of future stages and projects, are all potential concerns as we embark on the long-term recovery.&rdquo;

JC: Has urbanisation stalled amid the rush to the regions and what will it look like over the decade ahead?

CL:&nbsp;Closed borders aside, population growth is still a reality and as this growth continues over the coming decade, so will further urbanisation.&nbsp;

The evolution of flexible working is here to stay and provides people with greater housing choice further from capital cities but the innate desire for people to live in vibrant urban environments, with easy access to amenity in locations with strong lifestyle attributes and access to good infrastructure, still remains.&nbsp;

This will continue to drive urbanisation and regentrification. We may see urbanisation become more competitive, with certain areas and projects needing to elevate their desirability as a housing destination, which would be a positive outcome supporting better mixed-use outcomes.&rdquo;

JC: How important do you view the push for sustainability practices in the apartment market, and what initiative has seized your interest or focus?

CL:&nbsp;Through fostering resilient communities, carbon-reducing initiatives, responsibly sourcing services and materials, providing clean energy, using green finance and being accountable to ourselves and our customers using independent tools and ratings, we contribute to a better, cleaner future.

We have established a roadmap to target net zero by 2028 and this will require a coordinated series of measures and initiatives, with our apartment projects to play a pivotal role.

All our buildings are Green Star certified and we have a range of recent projects to draw learnings from. For instance, we recently completed the first certified Passive House by a volume developer at Life, Point Cook in Melbourne. At Minnippi Quarter in Brisbane, we devised a formula to calculate embodied carbon to offer customers an offset option in another industry-first initiative, called Build Neutral.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27139 project_image_fid=77326]

Real Utilities, Frasers Property Australia&rsquo;s licensed energy retailing business, provides Climate Active-certified carbon neutral energy to residential, commercial, and retail customers, while in Melbourne we&rsquo;ve created the world&rsquo;s most sustainable shopping centre, the Living Building Challenge&reg; Petal-certified Burwood Brickworks.

Customers expect better sustainability outcomes in an environmental and social sense, and this aligns with our holistic view of sustainability and our commitment to maintain our global leadership in this space.

Frasers seeks to work sustainably to ensure the places we create leave a positive environmental legacy and enhance the way people live life together. 



jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

"Apartment buyers increasingly attracted to high amenity communities": Five minutes with Frasers Property Australia's Cameron Leggatt

Queensland is in the midst of an exciting period of growth and Logan City is well-positioned in the centre of this change.

The City of Logan is situated in a thriving growth corridor between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, with abundant amenities, good schools and a burgeoning health precinct. &nbsp;

More and more home buyers are purchasing their first property in Logan thanks to its fresh and contemporary residential neighbourhoods, new estates and bushland acreage.

The adjacent Griffith University Logan campus, Queensland TAFE and the $145 million Logan Hospital expansion provides the opportunity for Meadowbrook to evolve into a major health and educational hub.

Given its central geographic location in south-east Queensland and available young workforce, Logan is ideally placed for continued growth in the region and provides great opportunity for families and investors.

Urban takes a look at four homes to secure in Logan City from just $230,000.

1. Aquila Lodge, Eagleby 
Address: 10 Bishop Street, Eagleby QLD 4207 
One-bedroom townhome from $230,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29172]

Located near train stations, the Pacific Motorway and Logan Motorway, Aquila Lodge offers an 18-townhome development in the City of Logan&rsquo;s Eagleby.

Each residence features one bedroom, one bathroom and a single-car lock-up garage.

The 42sqm homes include stone benchtops, stainless-steel appliances and air-conditioning to present comfortable living to its residents.

2. Acacia Waters Estate, Eagleby 
Address: Fryar Road, Eagleby QLD 4207 
Two-bedroom apartments from $305,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29159]

Surrounded by gardens, walking paths and numerous amenities, Acacia Waters Estate presents nine contemporary designed buildings in Eagleby.

Residents who secure a home in the development will benefit from 24-hour on-site management, undulating lawns and ample visitor parking.

Other amenities include a swimming pool and barbeque pergolas, as well as essential amenities in close proximity, including parks, public transport and shops.

3. Clearwater Junction, Bethania 
Address: Clearwater Street, Bethania QLD 4205 
Three-bedroom townhomes from $335,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=29171]

Clearwater Junction is an established townhouse complex located in the hidden away suburb of Bethania.

Located in a cul-de-sac street, the peaceful residential development is bordered by farmland and situated within walking distance to the train station and shops.

Three and four-bedroom townhomes are available at the project, with a mixture of designs and layouts, including both single and double storeys.

Amenities include a well-appointed gym, in-ground swimming pool, and picnic area.

4. Brookhaven, Bahrs Scrub 
Address: 33 Menora Road, Bahrs Scrub QLD 4207 
Four-bedroom townhome from $475,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28314]

Brookhaven is a new master-planned community in Logan City, balancing safety, amenity and liveability amongst picturesque natural surrounds.

Situated just 4.3-kilometres from Beenleigh Town Centre, Brookhaven is connected to Brisbane and the Gold Coast.

Developed by Frasers Property Australia, the homes are within a 5 Star Green Star rated community which includes up to 5km of multi-use trails promoting walking, running and bike riding.

The City of Logan is situated in a thriving growth corridor between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, with abundant amenities, good schools and a burgeoning health precinct

Frasers

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

Frasers

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News