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

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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

New South Wales

<html><body>
A former Sydney real estate agent has plead guilty to stealing over $1 million from her strata clients.
Rachael Jena Kwawegen headed a strata management company that collected levies from about 5,500 property owners in 240 Sydney apartment and commercial buildings.
Fairfax Media Domain revealed last year that the boutique strata company, The Strata Agency, was being investigated by NSW Fair Trading over alleged irregularities in its business dealings.
On 29 January 2014, the NSW Fair Trading cancelled the licence and disqualified Kwawegen from holding a licence or certificate for a period of 15 years and disqualified from being involved in the direction, management and conduct of the business of a licensee for a period of 15 years. 
<div class="page" title="Page 5">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
NSW Fair Trading  released a statement saying that: "Licensee Rachael Kwawegen pleaded guilty to breaching section 211 of the Property Stock &amp; Business Agents Act for misappropriating in excess of $1 million of trust fund monies."
</div>
</div>
</div>
She will be sentenced at Parramatta Local Court next month.
But there have been no policy changes from NSW Fair Trading, which operates a property compensation fund to cover any shortfalls in trust funds.
Strata manager David Ferguson, and former president of Strata Community Australia, said the state government should have more controls in place to regulate new strata management companies given new strata management companies are popping up every day at the moment.
“The are new strata management companies popping up every day at the moment,” Ferguson told the Sydney Morning Herald. 
“And there’s nothing to stop another The Strata Agency happening again. The money may have been safe but the disruption to people’s lives and chaos this caused was just terrible.”
</body></html>

jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Former agent pleads guilty to $1 million misappropriation as NSW Fair Trading told to better regulate strata management

<html><body>
Rathgar House in South Grafton, the northern NSW town, remains for sale after weekend auction.
The historic restored 1890s residence was listed by restaurateur Tony Karouhanis who paid $302,000 for the unrenovated seven-bedroom house last year. 
He and wife Shai had plans to open a cafe and bed and breakfast. 
Ray White Grafton agent Ben Hottes thought it would attract $450,000 plus bidding. There was a $500,000 vendor bid.
It now comes with a $500,000 plus price guidance.
Rathgar House, located at <a href="https://raywhitegrafton.com/nsw/south-grafton/1164374/">44 Schwinghammer Street, South Grafton</a>, was originally the home of the first Mayor of South Grafton.
The seven bedroom, five bathroom historic building sits on 1,514 square metres.
{qtube vid:=FyreuI7vZoU}
</body></html>

Rathgar House, 1890s Grafton district home for sale at $500,000 plus

<html><body>
Rental yields are an important aspect to the investment equation.
While some investors are strict ‘yield chasers’ and others consider it the cherry on top of their capital gain, it’s worth remembering that yield does affect holding cost.
The yield is affected by many things and it’s crucial to be aware of what it is recording before diving in. Here’s a quick refresher on <a href="/expert-insights/your-weekly-how-to-calculating-rental-yield">what the rental yield is</a>, and <a href="/expert-insights/how-to-use-the-rental-yield-statistic">how to use it</a>.
If you think your current property could do with a boost – here are <a href="/expert-insights/investing/how-to-boost-your-rental-yield">some ways to up this figure</a>.
The following statistics were taken from the most recently available RP Data information.
For this article, we’re focusing on the lowest yielding suburbs based on house data for New South Wales.
THE LOWEST 10 RENTAL YIELDS
Firstly, looking at the lowest yields across Australia it’s not surprising that they’re present in our multi-million dollar suburbs, mainly near to Sydney CBD.
Narrowly missing the top 10 list included <a href="/news">Rodd Point</a>, <a href="/news">Sandringham </a>and <a href="/news">McMahons Point</a>, where yields were recorded under 2.50%, as well as <a href="/news">Bellevue Hill</a>, <a href="/news">Blakehurst </a>and <a href="/news">Hurstville </a>where yields were recorded under 2.75%.
<ol>
<li>
1.74% <a href="/news">Palm Beach </a>Median price: $2,535,000 
</li>
<li>
1.97% <a href="/news">Austral </a>Median price: $1,080,000 
</li>
<li>
2.00% <a href="/news">Box Hill </a>Median price: $1,625,000 
</li>
<li>
2.05% <a href="/news">Chiswick </a>Median price: $1,749,000 
</li>
<li>
2.23% <a href="/news">Glenorie </a>Median price: $1,095,000 
</li>
<li>
2.25% <a href="/news">Balmain East </a>Median price: $2,020,000 
</li>
<li>
2.27% <a href="/news">Waverton </a>Median price: $2,200,000 
</li>
<li>
2.27% <a href="/news">Strathfield </a>Median price: $1,558,000 
</li>
<li>
2.32% <a href="/news">Kenthurst </a>Median price: $1,343,000 
</li>
<li>
2.38% <a href="/news">Longueville </a>Median price: $2,510,000
</li>
</ol>
Turn page for the highest yielding house suburbs across New South Wales.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
THE HIGHEST 10 RENTAL YIELDS
Again using RP Data’s statistics, we collected the 10 highest yielding house suburbs. These presented a fascinating list of mixed results – from higher priced suburbs just under the $1 million mark to just over $110,000, it’s understandable that some will be confused.
As explained in this <a href="/news/minings-clean-sweep-on-rp-datas-10-top-rental-yield-locations">top 10 rental yield areas around the country</a>, previously supplied by RP Data, mining towns are often present on these sorts of lists – as are country towns and very regional areas.
For this reason, and the common saying that high returns come from high risk, it’s understandable that there’s a mix of opportunities in the market. You would be wise to treat these suburbs with the utmost diligence.
<ol>
<li>
16.40% <a href="/news">Killcare</a> Median price: $825,000  
</li>
<li>
11.57% <a href="/news">Mossy Point</a> Median price: $580,000  
</li>
<li>
11.56% <a href="/news">Broulee</a> Median price: $371,000  
</li>
<li>
10.89% <a href="/news">Hardys Bay</a> Median price: $955,000  
</li>
<li>
10.49% <a href="/news">Coonamble</a> Median price: $114,000  
</li>
<li>
10.40% <a href="/news">Condobolin</a> Median price: $115,000  
</li>
<li>
10.26% <a href="/news">Malua Bay</a> Median price: $380,000  
</li>
<li>
9.75% <a href="/news">Broken Hill</a> Median price: $120,000  
</li>
<li>
9.53% <a href="/news">Manyana</a> Median price: $328,000  
</li>
<li>
8.79% <a href="/news">Berrara</a> Median price: $340,000
</li>
</ol>
YOU MAY ALSO WANT TO READ:
<a href="/news/property-rental-yields-fall-across-all-capital-cities">Property rental yields fall across all capital cities</a>
<a href="/expert-insights/investing/commercial-property-offers-yields-as-high-as-11-but-comes-with-risk-colliers">Commercial property offers yields as high as 11% but comes with risk: Colliers</a>
</body></html>

jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

The 10 lowest and highest rental yield suburbs across New South Wales

<html><body>
Warrangunyah, the 1,200 hectare Mudgee farm with 1910 homestead, has been sold for $2.75 million through Peter Druitt &amp; co - Mudgee.
It is a substantial and productive grazing property located only two and a half hours from Sydney.  
It is estimated Warrangunyah could run 400 breeding cows plus followers, in addition to 2,000 sheep.
It features 4.5 kilometres double frontage to the Warrangunia Creek with 300 acres of alluvial flats, an 88 meg irrigation license with 80 acres laid out to irrigation, and the remainder cleared, productive rolling grazing country. <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-lifestyle-nsw-mudgee-7631475" target="_blank"></a>
The homestead has seven bedrooms.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-lifestyle-nsw-mudgee-7631475" target="_blank">The 10 Warrangunia Road property</a>, some 54 kilometres south of Mudgee at Ilford, was listed for sale in March at $3.3 million.
It sold around a week after auction to a buyer who owned an adjoining rural holding.
 
"The property had attracted good interest prior to inspection, having attracted eight inspections, which is quite a lot for a large rural holding," Peter Druitt told Property Observer.
 
Its earliest occupants were the Suttor family, Walter Sydney Suttor, a prominent grazier in New South Wales lived their after it was built by his father William Henry Suttor.
</body></html>

Warrangunyah, 1910 Mudgee homestead sells

<html><body>
The Real Estate Institute of New South Wales is lending its voice to warnings from the New South Wales Minister for Fair Trading about the risk of property fraud. After an <a href="/news/act/absentee-macgregor-landlord-loses-act-home-to-south-african-fraudster">ACT landlord's home was sold</a> without his consent while he was overseas, NSW minister Matthew Mason-Cox advised real estate agents to remain aware of the risks of fraud. “Identity fraud and scams are increasingly common throughout the community and the property industry is not immune to this criminal activity," said Mason-Cox. “Once a fraudster has a target they will contact the managing agent, pretending to be the property owner, and request their address and contact details be changed, cutting the real owner out of future correspondence.
“Soon after this, the fraudsters are back in touch with the agent requesting the property be sold. The intention is that once the property is sold, the fraudsters intercept the settlement paperwork, steal even more of their victim’s identity and ultimately take the proceeds of the sale.”
NSW Fair Trading introduced guidelines for preventing fraud in real estate in 2012, including a proof of identity checklist for vendors.
Malcolm Gunning, president of the Real Estate Institute of New South Wales (REINSW), said the group supports NSW Fair Trading's guidelines. “We take matters of fraud and fraud prevention very seriously,” said Gunning.   “At our recent roadshow events across NSW we spoke to over 1,000 members about possible identity fraud and the key signs to watch for, including requests for contact details to be changed.”   “We have instructed our members to be vigilant and take the guidelines seriously," Gunning said.   “We need co-operation from the public who should be aware that Real Estate professionals will ask them for identification, they should not be offended if an agent seeks extra documentation.     “The NSW Police or NSW Fair Trading should be contacted if identity fraud is suspected," he advised.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE TO READ: 
<a href="/news/14-anti-fraud-tips-for-investment-property-owners-and-vendors">14 anti-fraud tips for investment property vendors</a>
</body></html>

jrichardson-uRX5hFdKfN

REINSW lends support to minister's fraud warning

<html><body>
Riva Vue, a masterplanned development in New South Wales’ Murwillumbah has reduced the price of 15 of the elevated blocks in the estate.
The 24.5 hectare estate includes new residential land located off Barnby Street. Within states one and two, there were 15 sloping view blocks with a range of degrees of site-fall that have views over the Rous River and out to Mount Warning. They have been reduced in price.
The blocks range from 683 square metres to 1,420 square metres and are ranged in price from $120,000 to $160,000.
General manager for Newland Developers, Stuart Campbell, said that they are trying to move existing stock to begin new stages that are planned.
“They are speciality view blocks, providing the perfect base to build a large, elevated designer home – each of which can be architecturally designed to showcase the magnificent tree-scape backdrop on offer at Riva Vue.”
“Our decision to reduce the price of these premium view lots is to appeal specifically to both builders and home buyers that understand the potential and value of building on elevated blocks.”
Meanwhile, Oliver Hume general manager Jilliam Sheridan said that buyers could choose a builder with a speciality in elevated home construction.
“We have seen interest come from local-based home designers, especially those with an architectural flair for creating a unique home that maximises the property’s idyllic outlook and positioning,” Sheridan said.
“This really is the sale of all sales and is a unique opportunity for buyers, who are able to take advantage of current pricing and secure one of the last remaining view blocks available in Riva Vue at reduced prices, to build their dream home.”
</body></html>

Masterplanned Riva Vue, Murwillumbah, New South Wales, prices reduced on 15 blocks

<html><body>
Wingham Plaza Shopping Centre, on the NSW mid north coast, near Taree, has been sold for $10.8 million.
Peter Tyson and Jon Tyson of Savills Retail Sales secured the sale to an Australian-based Taiwanese investor.
Coles makes up close to 70 per cent of the centre's total income of the single-level neighbourhood shopping centre.
It included a freestanding Caltex fuel station. 
The complex was extensively redeveloped and extended in 2009 occupying a one hectare corner site at 113-123 Isabella Street bordering the main commercial precinct of Wingham.
It has a gross lettable floor area of approximately 4,366 square metre, grade level car parking for 137 vehicles.
The sale of Wingham Plaza is the latest in a number of shopping centre sales transacted by Savills on the NSW mid north coast, including the sale of Manning Mall sub-regional shopping centre in nearby Taree for $32.6 million in 2013.
</body></html>

NSW mid north coast's Wingham Plaza sold for $10.8 million

<html><body>
The NSW Premier Mike Baird has appointed Carolyn McNally to the new role of secretary of the Department of Planning and Environment. 
It was created in April when the Minister Pru Goward took over the planning ministry and announced a restructure.
The prior role was filled by Sam Haddad.
It is the state department's fifth reorganisation in eight years and its third in the three years under the Coalition government.
The long-serving planning director-general Sam Haddad was given his marching orders in April within hours of Pru Goward being made Planning Ministerr when the new Baird government created a Department of Planning and Environment, replacing the planning and infrastructure department.
It will include the Office of Local Government as well as the Office of Environment and Heritage.
Carolyn McNally was previously the head of planning in Transport for NSW and before that head of the infrastructure investment division in the federal Infrastructure Department.
<div class="page" title="Page 1">
<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
"The appointment of Carolyn McNally as the secretary of the Department of Planning and Environment opens the potential for a fresh look at the planning system in NSW,"  the Urban Taskforce CEO, Chris Johnson said.
“With the planning reforms, local government reform and the Metropolitan Strategy for Sydney all on hold, the property industry is looking for leadership.”
“The initial challenge will be to ensure that the proposed Greater Sydney Commission has real teeth and is not just another layer over existing structures. The Urban Taskforce believes the Commission must have strategic planning responsibility, infrastructure co-ordination and approval authority roles for major projects across Metropolitan Sydney.” 
“The difficult balancing act for the new Secretary will be in establishing the commission without undermining her department while also keeping Sydney’s 43 councils feeling empowered.” 
“While the supply of housing in NSW and particularly in Sydney is currently robust there are concerns that key urban sites are getting harder to find and that strong leadership will be needed to housing Sydney’s growing population. 
"An important role for the Secretary will be in communicating to the broader community the necessity of urban growth at affordable prices.”
</div>
</div>
</div>
</body></html>

Carolyn McNally appointed NSW Department of Planning boss

<html><body>
The Starship Enterprise-inspired Elanora Heights home has returned to the market.
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-nsw-elanora+heights-112818759" target="_blank">The home with six bedrooms and six bathrooms </a>was built for the vendor Peter Chedid, a lifelong fan of Star Trek.
There is even a 15 velvet seat home cinema decorated with a space image taken from the Hubble telescope.
Chedid listed it initially in 2011 when thinking of moving to Europe with $15 million hopes.
Then the Caladenia Close property was listed again with Anthony Walls of Max Walls International with a $10.5 million  asking price in mid-2012 with the Italian furniture included in the price.
The 500 square metres home is located in Elanora Heights, some 27 kilometres from Sydney, on a two hectare holding adjoining Garigal National Park
Chedid, an investor and property developer, purchased the land in 2002 for $1.22 million and spent $5 million on the design and construction of the 2008 futuristic house.  
Max Walls International has it again for sale by negotiation.
</body></html>

Starship Enterprise, Elanora Heights trophy home listing returns

<html><body>
About 18 months ago I started including Wollongong in some of the Hotspotting reports which identify markets expected to out-perform in the future.
This was at a time when the <a href="/news">Illawarra</a> was generally expected to be a non-performer. Indeed, some had predicted recession and a collapse in the property market there, because of recent economic bad news.
But <a href="/news">Wollongong</a> is a quality regional centre and I’ve been charting real estate markets long enough to know that good regional centres always fight back.
<a href="/news">Newcastle </a>did so after BHP shut down operations in the 1990s, reinventing itself and coming back stronger than before. I expected Wollongong to do likewise (just as I am confident <a href="/news">Geelong</a> will survive industry shutdowns and thrive in the future).
<a href="/expert-insights/investing/too-late-to-buy-sydney-try-wollongong-or-dubbo-tamworth-and-gunnedah-and-newcastle">Earlier this year I wrote</a> on Property Observer: “Wollongong has defied predictions that it would lapse into recession following economic reversals such as downsizing by Bluescope Steel. One hysterical headline suggested property values would fall 50%.
“But the Illawarra is the latest example of a regional community fighting back from adverse circumstances. A lot of infrastructure and property development money is pumping into Wollongong and real estate markets are rising.”
<blockquote>
Much of Wollongong’s improvement is due to its inherent qualities as a regional centre and the extent of new investment there.
</blockquote>
Now we have seen price data published which confirms that Wollongong has defied the dire forecasts made a couple of years ago.
Australian Property Monitors’ quarterly housing report credits Wollongong with a 7.5% rise in its median house price in the June quarter and an annual rise of 14%. The median has risen from $439,000 to $500,000 in 12 months.
Nearby markets also delivered solid annual increases, including <a href="/news">Shellharbour</a> (7%) and <a href="/news">Kiama</a> (12%).
I attribute part of the increases to a ripple effect from Sydney. As expected, regional centres close to the state capital have caught the Sydney wave.
But much of Wollongong’s improvement is due to its inherent qualities as a regional centre and the extent of new investment there.
The place has a lot going for it. There’s a substantial and growing population (the Illawarra region has around 275,000 residents), the proximity to Sydney, the seaside location, the strength of spending on infrastructure (including $1 billion on hospital facilities and $500 million at Wollongong University), and the significant investment in new property projects by national development entities like Lend Lease and Australand.
Australand’s Shell Cove is a $1.5 billion project. The total value of all the infrastructure and property developments on our lists for Wollongong is almost $5 billion.
Nothing drives property values like infrastructure spending, which generates economic activity, jobs growth and ultimately demand for accommodation.
The Wollongong has that factor working for it on overdrive.
You can contact Terry via <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email</a> or on <a href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.
</body></html>

New South Wales

Editor's Picks

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News

New South Wales

Editor's Picks

Receive the latest news stories to your inbox

Have something to contribute?

Developments

New apartments

New townhouses

News