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

The penthouse apartments in OSK Property&#39;s $2.8 billion Melbourne Square precinct in Southbank have just been released, with a clever twist.

The penthouse and subpenthouses&nbsp;are being offered as a shell apartments, so prospective purchasers can model the apartments how they see fit.

The 10 sub-penthouses, and the two-level penthouse, the largest penthouse offered to the market in Victoria in 2022, are part of Melbourne Square&#39;s premium Skyhome collection.

The two-level penthouse, spanning 1,185 sqm across levels 67 and 68 of Melbourne Square&#39;s recently completed East Tower, is nothing more than concrete and curtains, the latter to depict where walls could be located. The buyer, who will have to fork out around $23 million for the massive space, will be able to configure the apartment, from its layout and number of bedrooms to its spec and fixtures and fittings.

OSK Property will also provide the successful buyer with a package worth $1 million to customise the penthouse, from design and documentation, through to the construction tender, and finally the furnishing and styling with leading Australian interior brand Coco Republic.

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" height="1118" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-08_at_6.46.00_am.png" width="1856" /></a>

The package will enable the purchaser to curate the&nbsp;space based on their own personal style and requirements, while being supported throughout the construction tender process to final completion.

The penthouse offers sweeping 360-degree views across Melbourne through the floor-to-ceiling windows. The space for the staircase has already been envisaged, with enough space on offer to create a dramatic spiral staircase, synonymous with some of Austrralia&#39;s best two level penthouses.

The sub-penthouses just below range from 147 sqm to 269 sqm and feature interiors by the acclaimed design studio Carr.

The sub-penthouses are priced from $2.16 million to $4.72 million. To get an understanding and create a&nbsp;picture of what the space could look like, prospective buyers&nbsp;can view a selection of display apartments featuring Coco Republic&rsquo;s Intriguing Objet D&rsquo;Art collection on-site.

OSK Property Sales and Marketing Director, Scott Jessop said the apartments will likely suit the downsizer or growing family.

<a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank"><img alt="" height="1188" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2022-07-08_at_7.00.23_am.png" width="874" /></a>

&nbsp;&ldquo;This stunning collection of premium penthouses and apartments will be the envy of many with breathtaking views, a large range of state-of-the-art lifestyle amenity right on the doorstep and the ability to be expertly customised with the help of one of Melbourne&rsquo;s leading furniture and design brands,&quot; Jessop said.

&ldquo;As people rethink their living requirements following an unpredictable couple of years, this collection will present many well-established downsizers with the perfect opportunity to move straight into a prestige city abode as city life continues to return to normal, so we expect to receive a lot of interest from this group.

&ldquo;The flexible floorplans and high-end customised interior design packages available in the Skyhome Series also present a great opportunity for growing families, who may be eager to live closer to the CBD, but in a space that they can make uniquely their own and without compromising on size,&rdquo; Jessop added.

The broader Skyhome Series release at Melbourne Square comprises a total of 41 new prestige apartments across the project&rsquo;s East and West tower. Aside from the cold shell penthouse and sub-penthouses, there are also a number of premium apartments available from $1.38 million to&nbsp;$1.72 million, which will also offer buyers with a $50,000 Coco Republic design and furniture package on purchase.

Purchasers of the new penthouses and premium apartments will have access to a host of luxurious resident-only amenity at Melbourne Square, including a&nbsp;resort-style outdoor lap and wading pool, a sun terrace, an indoor pool with views over Melbourne, sauna, yoga studio, music room, gyms, golf simulator, cinema, private dining areas and kitchen facilities.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=200389]

Continuing Melbourne Square&rsquo;s long-term partnership with Coco Republic, three new apartment themes have been carefully curated as part of the Skyhome Series release. The Socialite, The Perfectionist and The Minimalist&nbsp;have been conceived as a design starting point that can be tailored to suit the tastes of the purchaser.

Stage One at Melbourne Square was designed by Cox Architecture and completed by builder Multiplex in April 2021. It features twin elliptical residential towers with a total 1,048 apartments. Apartments in the precinct are set on top of 14,000 sqm&nbsp;of public and private amenity, including a host of resident-only facilities, a full-line Woolworths supermarket, an 87-place childcare centre and a 3,745 square metre park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=201009]

To date, OSK Property has sold and settled 924 apartments, totaling over $700 million in transactions.&nbsp;This includes significant recent purchases and settlements of a $8.9 million 434 square metre apartment and a 364 square metre property for $6.3 million.

Since launch, the landmark project has also received multiple industry accolades, winning two International Property Awards and being named as a finalist in the Urban Development Institute of Australia and Property Council of Australia&rsquo;s respective awards programs.

Inspections of the cold shell penthouse across levels 67 and 68, styled sub-penthouses and premium apartments are available daily by appointment only.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=2929]

The two-level penthouse, spanning 1,185 sqm across levels 67 and 68 of Melbourne Square's recently completed East Tower, could sell for around $23 million

Customisation to the max: Melbourne Square serve up shell penthouse and subpenthouses with Coco Republic assistance for buyers

After 55 years in the property industry, developer <a href="/developers/osk-property" target="_blank">OSK Property</a> understands what buyers want. Their latest development, Melbourne Square, offers the ultimate home customisation package and world-class resort-style amenities.

Could these be Melbourne's trendiest sky homes yet?&nbsp;Take a look at our apartment spotlight video:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="415" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3YryhxcnSiU" title="YouTube video player" width="660"></iframe>

<h2><a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank" target="_blank">MELBOURNE SQUARE</a>&nbsp;AT A GLANCE</h2>

Developer: <a href="/developers/osk-property" target="_blank">OSK Property</a> 
Architect:&nbsp;<a href="/architects/cox-architecture">Cox Architecture</a> 
Address:&nbsp;93-119 Kavanagh Street, Southbank VIC 3006

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=2929]

Located on a prominent corner site, at 93-119 Kavanagh Street in Southbank, Melbourne Square is walking distance to Melbourne University, the NGV and arts precinct, and just minutes from the Convention Centre, Yarra River and the myriad of popular restaurants and cafes Melbourne is known for. You’ll also be living atop Melbourne’s first double level Woolworths supermarket.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=137895]

Just imagine life at Melbourne Square, you wake up, visit your favourite cafe for brunch, take a stroll along the Yarra, and watch the city wake up. In the evenings you can enjoy a relaxing spa at the Sky Club.

What's so special about the development is that you can enjoy all that the city has to offer, and later retreat to your own private oasis, where you've got exclusive use of outdoor swimming pools, dining rooms, a music room, golf simulator, landscaped garden areas, and more.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=139893]

You must be thinking that for this amount of value, the asking price must be high – but we think you'll be pleasantly surprised. A two-bedroom home starts at $711,400, and for most units under $1 million, you'll pay absolutely no stamp duty. Also, we’ve been told that homes priced $850K and above, could save over $120K*!

Melbourne Square also offers a limited edition Life &amp; Style Package worth up to $32,000. Buyers will receive designer Coco Republic furniture and interior design consultation, as well as Samsung white goods and a Lovelight blinds package.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2929 project_image_fid=137902]

OSK has assembled a star lineup to deliver Melbourne Square, including architectural design by COX Architecture, complemented by Carr Interior Design with stylish furnishings by Coco Republic.&nbsp;

To find out for yourself about what Melbourne Square can offer you, then <a href="/buildings/melbourne-square-93-119-kavanagh-street-southbank" target="_blank">submit an enquiry through Urban today</a>.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=2929]

*Stamp Duty Terms &amp; Conditions apply

**Limited time only, the developer is offering generous purchaser incentives including developer equity contribution, Life &amp; Style Package for homes priced $850K+

OSK

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