Malaysian developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/s-p-setia">SP Setia</a> is the latest to jump into St Leonards booming Transport Oriented Development precinct.

The developer, which has previously delivered Sapphire by the Gardens apartment development in Melbourne, identified the Atchison Street site in 2023. It filed a Scoping Report around 12 months ago, and now has revealed the designs for the new&nbsp;40-storey mixed-use tower.

The State Significant Development Application covers <a href="https://next-portal.urban.com.au/projects/14650/summary">20-22 Atchison Street</a>, a 1,374 sqm site positioned between St Leonards Station and the new Crows Nest Metro station.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cox-architecture">COX Architecture</a>, the project would deliver 181 apartments, above a four-storey commercial podium, five basement levels, and new public domain works along Mitchell Street. The apartment mix comprises 35 one-bedroom apartments, 39 one-bedroom-plus-study apartments, 85 two-bedroom apartments, and 22 three-bedroom residences.

The proposal has been lodged as a shop-top housing development under the NSW Government’s TOD planning pathway, which allows increased density around key transport infrastructure. The site sits within the recently rezoned Crows Nest Accelerated TOD Precinct.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b799673d-48e2-46b0-801a-0e33a9330100" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20site.png?VersionId=dPh0UfwfaHpbFL1R7H1cbZNbIW0CHbCC" />

SP Setia acquired the Atchison Street site as part of its continued expansion into the Australian apartment market. In comments made to City &amp; Country (The Edge Malaysia) in 2023, SP Setia President and CEO Datuk Choong Kai Wai described the acquisition as “a strategic move” aligned with the group’s post-pandemic market recovery strategy.

“Our target for this exceptional development is local and overseas buyers, including first-home buyers, downsizers and investors,” Choong said.

The tower has been designed as a slender vertical form rising from a mixed-use podium, with COX Architecture positioning the development as a response to the evolving St Leonards and Crows Nest skyline.

“The purpose of the project is to facilitate the delivery of high-quality housing at a strategically located site and deliver a built tower outcome that is consistent with the desired future character of St Leonards and aligns with the TOD controls,” the design report stated.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b1a85eee-76f7-436c-a6da-73ba827b9b13" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/atchinson%20entry.png?VersionId=dA9jHGPMcm.dDbwk4QfxqWiY5bfh3UVt" />

The podium would incorporate retail uses fronting Atchison Street, commercial tenancies, landscaped communal areas, and pedestrian improvements along Mitchell Street. Vehicle access and loading would be consolidated via Atchison Lane.

Residents would have access to more than 665 sqm of communal indoor and outdoor spaces, while the development proposes 96 parking spaces across five basement levels.

The proposal also includes a commitment for 10 per cent of residential floor space to be allocated toward affordable housing through a monetary contribution.

COX said the tower form responds directly to the emerging high-density character of the precinct while seeking to maximise solar access, cross ventilation, and outlook from apartments.

<img alt="First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2163f85c-f63b-4be3-aafa-f8763976cec5" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Article%20Feature%20Image%20%28Grid%29_5.png?VersionId=WiAmtIKJ6.ZQ41EtYEQ1fol7AeorKBlL" />

“The building is orientated towards north,” the Apartment Design Guide compliance report noted, adding that the tower’s slim form was driven by the constrained inner-urban site dimensions.

The design also incorporates landscaped setbacks and communal open space at podium level, intended to soften the interface with surrounding streets and improve pedestrian amenity.

The project adds to a growing wave of redevelopment proposals reshaping St Leonards and Crows Nest following the opening of the Sydney Metro City line and the NSW Government’s push for higher-density housing around major transport nodes.

Last week Stockland filed plans just down the road. They want to build a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/601-pacific-highway-st-leonards-nsw-2065">52-storey tower on Pacific Highway</a>.

Read more:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-stockland-plans-52-storey-538-apartment-st-leonards-tower">First look: Stockland plans 52-storey, 538-apartment St Leonards tower&nbsp;</a>

Joel Robinson

First look: SP Setia targets St Leonards skyline with 40-storey TOD tower

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> has revealed plans for a new mixed-use tower at 10 Dangar Street, Wickham, advancing a proposal that would reshape the southern gateway to Newcastle’s city centre with one of the city’s tallest residential buildings.

The State Significant Development proposal, now on exhibition, seeks approval for a <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/bowline-10-dangar-street-wickham-nsw-2293">43-storey tower</a> immediately adjacent to the Newcastle Interchange. The project would deliver around 200 apartments, including 42 affordable housing dwellings, alongside 99 co-living units, a 171-room hotel, retail space, and new public domain integrated through the site.

The scheme marks a significant escalation of plans previously approved for the site. Urban Property Group took over the prominent 2,904 sqm parcel, where excavation and demolition had already commenced under an earlier consent for a 14-storey mixed-use development.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58a96dd9-407f-4d20-86b4-94e4bfeef74b" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20podium.png?VersionId=LGlf08pdFGAZDzvx_CXC4XakHNZRuEE0" />

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/sjb-architects">SJB</a>, the tower has been conceived as a landmark transit-oriented development anchored to the Newcastle Interchange precinct. The proposal includes 245 build-to-sell apartments across a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom residences, as well as two penthouses. Fifteen apartments and one operational unit are earmarked for NDIS housing. The co-living component would add a further 99 units, while the podium would accommodate retail uses and hotel facilities.

SJB said the site presents “a valuable opportunity to anchor the precinct by setting the standard for design, active ground planes and character at the key southern gateway.”

The architecture responds directly to the site’s position beside major transport infrastructure and within one of Newcastle’s fastest-evolving urban renewal precincts. The tower form sits above a sculpted podium designed to frame new public spaces, including a through-site pedestrian link connecting Station Street to Hannell Street, landscaped plazas, and activated retail edges.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a7bd6ff0-f7db-4ce8-a6dc-ea56e72c6149" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20lanne.png?VersionId=xzf39VADyhj7zBQY2I9fx9vI62u2tuSb" />

The design report describes the project as part of the broader transition of Wickham into “a vibrant, high-quality mixed-use urban precinct” that leverages proximity to the station, open space, and regional connectivity.

A detailed public art strategy has also been prepared for the development. The strategy positions the project as “a transit-oriented development of state significance at the gateway to Newcastle’s city centre” and outlines a series of integrated artworks responding to Newcastle’s industrial and transport heritage.

Creative Road’s curatorial framework for the project, titled Unveil, draws on “stratified surfaces, carved volumes, and light-filled apertures” while referencing Newcastle’s transformation from an industrial city into a contemporary education and technology hub.

<img alt="First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s next supertower at Wickham interchange" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="77a882bb-14b1-4d28-99ff-9438e39508c0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/wickham%20site.png?VersionId=cevgo_vN0eKPK78P8YcEu3mKPLkpFqE7" />

The proposal is being advanced through the NSW Housing Delivery Authority pathway after being declared State Significant Development in June 2025. The accompanying scoping report states the development aims to “maximise the site’s proximity to the Newcastle Interchange by delivering transit-oriented development” while increasing housing supply and affordable housing provision within the Newcastle LGA.

Urban Property Group’s plans align with the long-term strategic vision established under the Wickham Master Plan, which identified the interchange precinct as suitable for substantial uplift in height and density. The current proposal would significantly intensify that vision, positioning the tower among the tallest developments proposed for Newcastle.

The site sits immediately north of the Newcastle Interchange, bounded by Dangar Street, Hannell Street, and Charles Street. It is surrounded by a rapidly growing cluster of residential towers and mixed-use projects that have emerged following the completion of the light rail and transport interchange.

First look: Urban Property Group unveils Newcastle’s latest tower at Wickham interchange

Bottega House has completed settlement of a landmark riverfront site in Macquarie Street, St Lucia, representing its first major Brisbane development.&nbsp;

Positioned on the banks of the Brisbane River, the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/180-macquarie-street-st-lucia-qld-4067">premium site at 180 Macquarie Street</a> features uninterrupted river frontage in one of Brisbane’s most tightly held residential precincts.&nbsp;

The proposed development, currently under assessment with Brisbane City Council, has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/plus-studio">Plus Studio</a> with interiors by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/interior-designers/mim-design">Mim Design</a> and will deliver a boutique collection of premium residences positioned specifically for owner occupiers and downsizers.&nbsp;

The residences are set to redefine luxury apartment living in the area, with a focus on architectural quality, refined finishes, landscape integration and elevated amenities including curated wellness facilities, resort-style pools and recreation spaces rarely seen in the local market.&nbsp;

Exclusive sales for the project will be led by Keenan &amp; Byrne, ahead of an anticipated launch later this year.&nbsp;

Bottega House Managing Director Nick Malloch said the project reflects the group’s ambition to deliver a highly curated residential offering within one of Brisbane’s most tightly held precincts.&nbsp;

“This is an incredibly rare riverfront opportunity and one we have approached with a long-term perspective,” Malloch said.&nbsp;

“Our vision from the outset was to create a boutique collection of residences that feel more like private homes than traditional apartments, with generous proportions, refined finishes and exceptional amenity throughout."

Malloch says there is a&nbsp;lack of premium owner-occupier stock of this quality in the market, particularly for downsizers wanting space, privacy and a true lifestyle offering without compromise.&nbsp;

"Demand is expected to be strong given the scarcity of premium riverfront opportunities of this nature within Brisbane’s inner-west."&nbsp;

Bottega House secures landmark riverfront site in St Lucia 

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The arrival of the first piling rig officially marks the commencement of construction at SIERA’s new beachside apartment development, Exhale, in Northcliffe.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/exhale-surfers-paradise-8-enderley-avenue-surfers-paradise-qld-4217">Exhale</a>, a glass-encased tower featuring 54 large-scale apartments at 8 Enderley Avenue, is SIERA’s third Gold Coast development. It follows the recently completed PIPIS Bilinga beachfront project, which achieved suburb-record prices, and the soon-to-be-completed Chevron Island development, Tapestry.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359603]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/siera">SIERA</a> Founder and Managing Director Brent Thompson said the arrival of the piling rig represented a significant milestone for the development, which is scheduled for completion in late 2028.

Over the next month, around 260 piles are expected to be installed as work progresses on the basement structure. The building is anticipated to rise above ground level early next year, before unveiling its sculptural glass curtain wall, developed in collaboration with specialist façade engineers.

“The façade was designed to maximise panoramic coastal views while creating a distinctive architectural identity,” Thompson said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=355935]

Designed by BDA Architecture, Exhale will comprise just 54 two- and three-bedroom residences across 26 levels, a level of low-density living rarely delivered in this beachside pocket between Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach.

The project has been conceived as a resident-only building, with no short-stay accommodation permitted. SIERA says the model is intended to appeal to long-term owner-occupiers rather than transient holiday demand.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=361052]

Residences have been designed with large-format layouts and expansive glazing, with most apartments featuring more than 30 metres of glass frontage to maximise natural light and ocean views.

The amenity offering spans two levels and centres on wellness and lifestyle, including a heated magnesium pool, sauna, yoga and Pilates studio, gymnasium, private dining facilities, cinema lounge, and dedicated surfcraft storage.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112661 project_image_fid=359607]

More than half of the apartments have already sold. SIERA has also opened a sales gallery for Exhale at its Chevron Island commercial premises, near its Tapestry tower and the site of its second Chevron Island apartment development, which is slated to launch in early 2027.
</section>
</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Local Little Bay residents, along with buyers from premium postcodes across Sydney’s affluent Eastern Suburbs, have dominated purchases in developer-builder Urban Property Group’s first Eastern Suburbs apartment development, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a>.

The $250 million coastal project, one of the first new developments in the area in several years, has proven particularly popular with downsizers, especially those from Coogee and Bondi. One Double Bay downsizer paid $4.7 million for a four-bedroom penthouse, setting a new local apartment price record in the process.

Buyers have been attracted to the combination of coastal tranquillity, premium design and amenity-rich neighbourhood living. The walkable village setting, along with proximity to three of Sydney’s leading golf courses, New South Wales Golf Club, St Michael’s Golf Club and The Coast Golf Club, has also been a key drawcard.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352689]

Built across two low-rise buildings designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/hill-thalis-architecture-urban-projects-pty-ltd">Hill Thalis</a> and set along a lush, landscaped green spine, designed by leading landscape architect <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/arcadia-landscape-architecture">Arcadia</a>, ESTE Little Bay offers a collection of one, two, three and four-bedroom residences with interiors by Richards Stanisich.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/urban-property-group">Urban Property Group</a> Sales Director, Tom McIvor said the response to ESTE has been "nothing short of extraordinary."

“Buyers have been quick to recognise ESTE as a rare opportunity to invest in a coastal sanctuary that offers both seclusion and connectivity to the heart of Sydney,” McIvor said.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352687]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">SRM Residential</a> Senior Director, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/project-marketer/srm-residential">Clayton Ross</a> said the local market has responded incredibly well, driven by ESTE’s exceptional location and the rarity it offers.

“We’ve seen strong interest from a variety of buyer groups, all of whom are drawn to the exclusivity and quality of the build and construction by the 4.5-star iCIRT-rated builder / developer, Urban Property Group. There’s truly nothing else like it along Sydney’s coastline.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=112343 project_image_fid=352690]

The project also includes robust buyer protections, including Resilience Insurance’s Latent Defects Insurance, providing 10 years of structural cover, and an independent iCIRT-rating of the developer.

“The iCIRT-rating adds another layer of confidence,” Ross added. “Buyers see it as a safeguard for their investment and their lifestyle.” A highlight of ESTE’s offering is its exclusive wellness amenities, including a heated rooftop infinity pool and outdoor heated spa, a state-of-the-art Technogym fitness centre, and a sauna.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/este-little-bay-jennifer-street-little-bay-nsw-2036">ESTE Little Bay</a> is topped out and is on track to complete towards the end of 2026, with residents moving in before Christmas.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112343]

Eastern Suburbs buyers snap up ESTE Little Bay apartments

Queensland

<html><body>
Southeast Queensland’s world-class beaches are driving median price growth for our coastal housing markets, according to the REIQ.
Noosa continues to reign supreme with 9.6 per cent annual growth, followed by Gold Coast with 7.3 per cent annual growth and Sunshine Coast LGA with 6.8 per cent annual growth to median house prices. 
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the growth surge was helped along by a boost in tourism numbers. 
“Tourism is one of the largest contributors to Queensland’s gross state product (GSP), with almost 8 per cent of GSP coming from tourism.
"This is roughly $25 billion in the year to June 2016, which means when that sector grows it offers employment opportunities and this attracts workers who need somewhere to live,” she said. 
The strong performance of the southeast corner’s coastal markets has helped drive Queensland’s growth over the past 12 months, with more than 58,000 houses sold and an annual median price growth of 2.4 per cent. 
Brisbane LGA: Brisbane LGA enjoyed another year of steady sustainable growth, with the annual median house price increasing 3.1 per cent to a new high of $660,000. 
This market has grown almost 30 per cent over the past five years, demonstrating solid financial returns for property owners. 
The unit market has continued its softening, with the market contracting 2.6 per cent over the past year.
The new annual median house price is $440,750, down from $452,500 a year ago. With more supply expected online over the next 12 months we expect this market will not firm up until mid-2019 at the earliest. 
The million-dollar club welcomed new entrants this quarter, with 18 suburbs claiming a median of $1 million or above, compared with 15 suburbs last quarter. This quarter solidified growth for the sole two-million-dollar club entrant of Teneriffe and its median of $2.6 million. 
<ol>
<li>Ascot: $1.52 million</li>
<li>Auchenflower: $1.09 million</li>
<li>Balmoral: $1 million</li>
<li>Bulimba: $1.26 million</li>
<li>Chelmer: $1.08 million</li>
<li>Clayfield: $1.15 million</li>
<li>Fig Tree Pocket: $1.18 million</li>
<li>Hamilton: $1.19 million</li>
<li>Hawthorne: $1.2 million</li>
<li>Hendra: $1.02 million</li>
<li>Highgate Hill: $1.14 million</li>
<li>Kalinga: $1 million</li>
<li>New Farm: $1.4 million</li>
<li>Paddington: $1 million</li>
<li>St Lucia: $1.27 million</li>
<li>West End: $1.13 million</li>
<li>Wilston: $1.15 million</li>
</ol>
 
At the current rate of growth, around 32 per cent over the past year, and if market conditions remain static, Teneriffe will be Queensland's first $3 million suburb and this will happen in the next 12 months. This is not a sure thing, but it is a possibility. 
Queensland has the highest proportion of first-home buyers, with these new property seekers making up about 20 per cent of the buying population, according to ABS lending data. 
The unit market in Ipswich is more volatile. The market has grown 5.8 per cent over the past 12 months, to an annual median of $329,000, however suffered a quarterly loss of 20.3 per cent, reflecting slowing demand. 
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Beachfront markets lead Queensland price growth surge: REIQ

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South East Queensland’s affordability is attracting record levels of interstate migration along with investors and first home buyers, says property expert John McGrath in his Switzer blog.
The housing market continues to produce solid results despite a sluggish economy, said the recently released McGrath Report 2018.
Brisbane’s median house price increased by 3.0% to $520,000 in the 12 months to June 2017, CoreLogic data shows. The apartment market was a different story, with its median price falling 2.4% to $410,000, reflecting the inner city oversupply.
But Brisbane’s housing affordability compared to Sydney and Melbourne is its main calling card for home owners, investors and first home buyers alike.
“A significant price gap between the cities will underpin rising demand over the next few years,” writes McGrath.
Queensland also has the strongest first home buyer market in Australia, with loans to first time buyers hitting a high of 20% of all owner occupier loans in June – the highest proportion since 2009, according to data from Domain.
Earlier this year, the state government had extended the $20,000 First Home Owner Grant Boost to December 2017 for the purchase of new homes up to a value of $750,000. About 4,900 applications have been received for the grant so far, according to the state government.
McGrath also said his agency’s agents are reporting far more interest from Sydney and Melbourne investors this year.
“Brisbane's prospects for capital growth, plus superior rental yields of 4.1% for houses and 4.9% for apartments, continues to make it an attractive option for investors,” he writes.
South East Queensland has become a major hotspot for internal migration, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).
Queensland welcomed 11,581 new interstate residents in the year ending June 2016 – a marked increase on 6,417 the year before. In addition, Brisbane recorded its highest internal migration in at least a decade.Among regional centres, the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast led the country with 6,428 and 6,200 new residents respectively.
In fact, Gold Coast’s internal migration was the highest ever recorded by the ABS since they began this data series in FY07. Compared with FY15, the Gold Coast’s internal migration was up 39%.
“We see a once in a lifetime opportunity for young families to transform their lives with a move to South East Queensland. The massive new equity that home owners in Sydney and Melbourne have gained could buy them an amazing new lifestyle and far less mortgage stress,” writes McGrath. 
The 2018 Commonwealth Games (GC2018) in Gold Coast is also expected to inject billions of dollars into the economy, with 6,600 athletes and officials and 100,000 visitors attending the event and a global TV audience of more than 1.5 billion anticipated to watch it.
The push to infrastructure due to the games, including the light rail, will boost the economy in the long term, and property prices are responding and increasing at a healthier rate than Brisbane, adds McGrath.
The median house price increased 7.3% to $620,000 in the 12 months to June 2017, according to CoreLogic data. The apartment market was significantly stronger than Brisbane's, with a median price rise of 5.1% to $415,000. 
On the Sunshine Coast, major new infrastructure projects are also driving the property market. Among them is the redevelopment of Maroochydore city centre; the expansion of the Sunshine Coast Airport; and a new business, technology and retail precinct adjacent to the University of the Sunshine Coast.
Median house prices in Sunshine Coast increased 5.1% to $552,000 in the 12 months to June 2017, while its median apartment price increased 3.4% to $390,000.
In conclusion, McGrath says that South East Queensland remains “the most compelling market in the country for both investors and young families”.
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Affordability is South East Queensland’s drawcard: John McGrath

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The number of first home buyers in Queensland grew in double digits in the year to June 2017, reaching the highest number in seven years, new data from Bankwest reveals. 
The number of first time buyers (FTBs) in the state rose by 11.2% in the year to June 2017 to 22,465, a new report from Bankwest reveals. This was the strongest growth in the nation during the reporting period, it said.
Meanwhile, there was a drop of 1% in second time buyers and investors in the same period.
FTBs account for 17.4% of dwellings purchased in Queensland in the year to June 2017, up 1.6% compared to 2016. 
These findings are part of the 2017 Bankwest First Time Buyers Report.
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/12/1/QldMostTime.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
 <img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/12/1/QldMostTime.png" alt="">
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/12/1/QldLeastTime.png" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/12/1/QldLeastTime.png" alt="">
Bankwest general manager personal and small business banking, Donna Dalby said Queensland’s FTBs have been responding to a number of factors. 
“The strong growth in first time buyer numbers is largely a result of relatively affordable housing in the sunshine state, as well as the extension of the $20,000 home owners grant for new homes until December 31, 2017,” said Dalby. 
“Whats more, with the benefit of being able to see the latest ABS data, we know this growth has continued, with the number of Queensland first time buyers increasing by 15.0% in the year to August 2017 to a total of 23,315,” she said. 
The time need to save for a deposit is also less compared to the other East Coast states.
FTB couples will need to save for an average of just 4 years for a $92,240 deposit on a median priced house, on par with 2016 (3.9 years) and below the national average of 4.6 years. 
This saving time is also well below New South Wales (6.0 years) and Victoria (5.4 years). 
At a city level, Brisbane FTBs will need to save for an average of 4.5 years for a deposit on a median priced house, in line with 2016 (4.4 years) and below the capital city average of 4.9 years. 
While most FTB couples will be looking to get a house as quickly as possible, those in no hurry could look to try to buy in Queensland’s Noosa area. 
FTBs there will require an average of 6.3 years - the only area in Queensland to need more than six years - to save a median deposit of $127,895, making the area the least accessible in the state. The saving time here rose by seven months YoY, driven by a 13.6% increase in house prices. 
A four-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-blackall-124098898" target="_blank">9 Gidyea Street</a> (picture above) in Blackall sold for $190,000 in October 2017.
A four-bedroom house at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-qld-blackall-123984470" target="_blank">63 Garden Street, Blackall</a> sold for $185,000 in August 2017. It previously sold for $160,000 in 2011, according to CoreLogic data.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2017/12/1/Blackall2.png" alt="">
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Number of FHBs at their highest in seven years in Queensland: Bankwest

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An oversupply of apartments in Queensland, and particularly Brisbane, has made developers offer discounts to sell off old stock.
Many suburbs have seen negative growth in the last five years, as borne out by recent CoreLogic data.
Two such suburbs are West End and Cornubia, where prices are being discounted 14.1% and 15.9% on average (see table below).  
<table border="0"><tbody>
<tr>
<td> Suburb</td>
<td> Vendor discount(%)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Berserker </td>
<td> -11.4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Coral Cove</td>
<td> -12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Cornubia</td>
<td> -15.9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Earlville</td>
<td> -11.2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Emerald</td>
<td> -11.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Harristown</td>
<td> -11.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Kirwan</td>
<td> -10.8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Mackay</td>
<td> -12.9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Manunda </td>
<td> -10.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Mount Gravatt</td>
<td> -10</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Mount Lofty</td>
<td> -13.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Point Lookout</td>
<td> -11.9</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Rainbow Beach</td>
<td> -10.1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Rockhampton City</td>
<td> -12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> Rosslea</td>
<td> -12.7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td> West End</td>
<td> -14.1</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
A two-bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-qld-west+end-125457566" target="_blank">9/6-24 Henry Street</a> in West End sold in August 2017 for $215,000. It had sold for $320,000 in 2009, the year it was built, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/11/30/WestEnd1.jpg" alt="">
Its on the market history shows that it was on sale for 442 days from November 2013 to January 2015 on a listed price of $289,000. Previous to that, it was on the market briefly in April 2012 for $299,000.
A three-bedroom unit at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-unit-qld-west+end-123095714" target="_blank">38/6-24 Henry Street, West End</a> (picture above) sold in November 2016 for $315,000. It previously sold for $360,000 in June 2008, according to CoreLogic RP Data.
At <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-apartment-qld-west+end-126445334" target="_blank">15 Bank Street West End</a>, a three-bedroom apartment spanning 270 square metre in The Aston Residences has a $50,000 furniture package on offer. Also included is interior-design consultation.
Not only that, developers are also offering rental guarantees to sell off unsold stock.
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Westend and Cornibia lead Brisbane locations where buyers find the biggest vendor discounts

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As a cricket tragic, I was thrilled a little over a year when we named our son Stanley, being in part a subtle or oblique reference to one end of the Gabba cricket ground in Brisbane (I felt a reference to the old Clem Jones stand - or even 'Sir Gordon Chalk'! - might have been pushing it...).  
There's been a tremendous amount of excitement in Brisbane this week as the English cricket team is in town to the play the first Test Match of the historic Ashes series.
The view of the Stanley Street End skyline today takes in many cranes, as well as the imposing $85 million Trafalgar Residences, a 20-storey apartment block at 855 Stanley Street (being a new development since the last time an Ashes test was played here). 
Looking back towards the opposite Vulture Street End of the ground, the television cameras picked up the apartments advertised for sale and for rent at 444 Vulture Street, where apartments are advertised for rent from $360/week for one bedroom units, and from $750/week and above for three bedders. 
At this stage of the construction cycle there's a risk of vacancy rates being understated as a single online advertisement can account for multiple new apartments.
The ubiquitous offers of rent-free periods for tenants, free internet (and so on) in Woolloongabba apartments reflect the clear weakness in the rental market. 
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-itoxPPGm1ZU/WhhpS_l1dYI/AAAAAAAAnKI/hBj0N50WViseRcD2sqxmCuyVuHD7le_gACLcBGAs/s1600/Gabba1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-itoxPPGm1ZU/WhhpS_l1dYI/AAAAAAAAnKI/hBj0N50WViseRcD2sqxmCuyVuHD7le_gACLcBGAs/s640/Gabba1.jpg" width="640" height="626" data-original-height="612" data-original-width="624"></a>
In a moment of wry amusement, even match commentator Damien 'Flemo' Fleming was moved to mention the glut of new building in the suburb, a rare yet curiously welcome departure from the discussion of Bowlology, the Fast Bowling Cartel, and heavy metal music!
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BwaK2bL-bhM/WhhpTYP9BVI/AAAAAAAAnKM/CXCbpcod3xwCNIMN83h-Q9pJqS4XiN2nwCLcBGAs/s1600/Gabba2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BwaK2bL-bhM/WhhpTYP9BVI/AAAAAAAAnKM/CXCbpcod3xwCNIMN83h-Q9pJqS4XiN2nwCLcBGAs/s320/Gabba2.jpg" width="640" height="318" data-original-height="658" data-original-width="1320"></a>
Avenue of apprehension
The new high-rise apartment market can be a risky one for buyers, in part because the apartments can lack uniqueness or scarcity value, and partly because the duration of projects can span several years from approval to completion, at which point the market can suddenly become swamped with new supply. 
This cycle has played host to Queensland's greatest ever apartment construction boom, eclipsing even the post-recession boom of the early 1990s, although far fewer houses have been built this time around.
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VjQ48qj4NHU/WhhqQDIpq8I/AAAAAAAAnKg/eyFCJfPOSPscNdjqj93ghMJRqPEMfBGNQCLcBGAs/s1600/A.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VjQ48qj4NHU/WhhqQDIpq8I/AAAAAAAAnKg/eyFCJfPOSPscNdjqj93ghMJRqPEMfBGNQCLcBGAs/s640/A.jpg" width="640" height="394" data-original-height="831" data-original-width="1347"></a>
As we have seen in Perth since 2014, the long lead times mean that by the time projects are completed demand may have slowed significantly.
In fact, until relatively recently Western Australia was seeing the number of new dwelling completions exceed the growth in headcount, as population growth had slowed so dramatically, resulting in a surge of rental vacancies and falling rents. The city of Darwin went down a similar path.
Queensland has suffered from this dynamic too, albeit to a lesser extent. The good news for Brisbane landlords is that the Queensland economy, employment growth, and thus the three components of demographic change (natural growth, net overseas migration, and net interstate migration) are now aligning to create faster population growth. 
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oqk7AYTwwy4/WhhqPgZCVuI/AAAAAAAAnKc/VKtFnrAI48s2-ZhHd6JsQEtpu2i0EQR_wCLcBGAs/s1600/A1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oqk7AYTwwy4/WhhqPgZCVuI/AAAAAAAAnKc/VKtFnrAI48s2-ZhHd6JsQEtpu2i0EQR_wCLcBGAs/s640/A1.jpg" width="640" height="388" data-original-height="829" data-original-width="1363"></a>
Meanwhile new apartment commencements are slowing to a crawl, helping to rebalance the market over time.
The Brisbane apartment market is heading back towards equilibrium eventually, then, but 2018 will nevertheless be a splendid year for renters, especially in some of these inner-city unit markets. 
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

Apartment glut on the Gabba's skyline obvious even to the Channel 9 cricket commentary team: Pete Wargent

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Large lots with sweeping vistas are in favour with Gold Coast homebuyers, with some locals waiting up to a decade for the chance to move up to the latest Coomera Waters land release.
According to QM Properties general sales manager Damien Ross, demand for large lot release Quest has been exceedingly strong.
“Quest is one of the final land releases at Coomera Waters and certainly the highest, sitting at 130 feet above sea level and offering potential residents views to the Broadwater and the Hinterland,” Mr Ross said.
“The exclusive gated stage features just 42 lots, ranging from 1,355sqm to 4,599sqm and priced from the low $400,000s.
“The combination of large lots and spectacular views has helped drive enquiries, many of which have come from local residents who bought in the area up to 10 years ago and have been waiting for this part of the masterplan to be released.
“Quest is the jewel in the crown of Coomera Waters, offering both the space to create an architectural masterpiece as well as the exceptional backdrop of the Gold Coast skyline.”
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/11/20/Coomera1.jpg" alt="">
Coomera was identified as one of the areas most likely to remain a building hotspot in a recent <a href="https://hia.com.au/-/media/HIA-Website/Files/ShopHIA/Downloads/economics/Hotspots17.ashx" target="_blank">Housing Institute of Australia survey.</a> 
The Gold Coast City Council recently announced plans to update the city plan to allow for more small-lot developments across the coast.
“There’s definitely a need for both in the market however current demand does indicate a preference for larger lots, particularly amongst second and third homebuyers seeking a forever home,” Mr Ross said.
“We have also received a high level of enquiry from people looking to move into this booming region due to the upcoming infrastructure.
 “An $11 million school was announced for Coomera in this year’s state budget, and the $470 million dollar Westfield Coomera is expected to deliver 140 specialty stores and 7500 jobs upon opening its doors late next year.”
A range of home and land packages are available at Quest, architecturally-designed to make the most of the stunning views and priced from $695,000 to $1,250,000.
Civil works on Quest are currently underway and expected to be completed by February 2018. 
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Coomera Waters land release to cater for growing demand for large lots

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ASIC has obtained orders from the Supreme Court of Queensland appointing Mr Michael McCann of Grant Thornton as a provisional liquidator to five companies within the Benchmark Private Wealth Group. These are:
1.       Benchmark Private Wealth Pty Ltd;
2.       Benchmark Wealth Property Services Pty Ltd;
3.       Benchmark Private Wealth Holdings Pty Ltd;
4.       OSK Developments Pty Ltd; and
5.       Young Corporation (NSW) Pty Ltd.
ASIC applied for and obtained the orders on an ex parte basis as a part of an ongoing investigation into the Benchmark Private Wealth Group.
ASIC sought the orders due to solvency concerns about the companies and about their management by the director, Liam Young.
ASIC is also concerned about transactions entered into with a number of other companies which were a part of the Members Alliance Group and the director of those other companies, Richard Marlborough. 
Marlborough headed the Members Alliance Group.
Liam Young was once a lawyer at the Australian Securities and Investments Commission.  <img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/11/21/BENCHMARK.jpg" alt="" style="font-size: 12.16px;">
The orders require the provisional liquidator to provide a detailed report to the Court within 45 days that sets out, among other things, the financial position of each of the companies so the Court can consider whether it ought to make orders to wind up the companies.
The orders were made on 3 November 2017. No future court date has been set.
The Members Alliance Group was a group of companies operating on the Gold Coast which went into external administration in July 2016.
On 13 July 2017, Jason Bettles and Raj Khatri of Worrells themselves sought and obtained orders from the Supreme Court to be replaced as liquidators of a number of Members Alliance Group companies by Michael McCann of Grant Thornton.
Like the Members Alliance group, Benchmark spruiked house and land packages.
The Members Alliance Group operated a range of businesses, primarily throughout Queensland, including but not limited to, financial services, project marketing, construction and management and letting rights
Commencing Friday, 22 July 2016 the directors of the MAG placed certain entities within it into voluntary administration and liquidation with Jason Bettles and Raj Khatri (the “Former Liquidators”).
They were replaced by McCann.
McCann recently advised the earliest records obtained for MAG are as at July 2015 "at which time it appears that the company was insolvent as it was incurring recurring losses, was balance sheet insolvent and did not appear to have any ability to discharge its debts." 
The liquidator of 18 Members Alliance companies has sent a report to the Australian Securities and Investments Commission raising concerns about how the group ran up a $29 million debt to the Australian Taxation Office. 
The ATO and ASIC are part of the Phoenix Taskforce investigating Members Alliance.
 
 
 
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ASIC acts to appoint provisional liquidator to Liam Young's Benchmark Private Wealth companies

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GUEST OBSERVER
Queensland election campaigns often focus on big projects for the regions, such as for roads, power plants and mines. But research suggests that mega projects, such as in gas and coal, have not transformed skills or improved employment prospects in regional Queensland.
Take away the temporary booms from construction and other short-term jobs, and employment growth overall is no better than before the global financial crisis. Certainly Queensland’s regions are no more resilient. Instead of these mega projects, what’s needed are new sources of economic value in knowledge, services, and technology.
Between 2010 and 2013 investment in coal mining surged 400% in the Bowen Basin. Further south, in the Surat Basin and at Gladstone, four international consortia spent more than A$70 billion fast-tracking a coal seam and liquid natural gas industry.
These projects fell far short of generating new skills and enduring businesses in the regions. Continuing dependence on resources and agriculture also creates its own vulnerabilities, as both are challenged by market and investment volatility, and increased climate risk.
Overall the focus on mega projects has weakened social and economic resilience in communities across Queensland. Resilience refers to the capacity of regional communities to handle risks and manage change. Resilient regions deepen and diversify their economies.
Megaproject sugar highs
Annual construction spending in the resources sector peaked at A$36.6 billion in Queensland in 2013-14, and has dropped by 70% since. Unemployment has doubled in Queensland’s northern, central and outback regions.
The impact is seen in Townsville, Rockhampton, and Gladstone, who are now pitching to become bases for “Fly In Fly Out” workers. Rather than drive their own local economic development, these cities are punting on the next big mining project.
Gladstone is already the pin-up of the construction boom-bust development model. The port city boasts a highly trained workforce in alumina and aluminium processing, cement, liquid natural gas and chemical manufacturing. Still, it waits on the next big mining construction boom.
What regional Queensland really needs is politicians to abandon short-term economic fixes, in favour of a sustainable long term vision. Policies would have greater impact if they focused on skills and enterprise training. Stronger regional collaboration to broker opportunities for smart businesses is essential.
Just north of Brisbane, Moreton Regional Council is showing the way by transforming a former industrial site into a university campus. Tertiary education will come to the fast growing region along with a research and technology park, creating the jobs of the future.
Regional Queensland can also learn from the European Commission’s “smart specialisation” structural assistance programs that help regions build knowledge-based competitive industries through strategic public funding and support for research and development etc.
By 2020, smart specialisation in Europe is expected to deliver 15,000 new products to market, 140,000 new startups and 350,000 new jobs.
Integral to the European strategy is strong collaboration between the research and university sectors, and regional industries. Strong cooperation between levels of government is key to the success. The industries are as varied as cheese manufacturing in Spain, new transport systems in Finland, and materials manufacturing in France.
The Europeans have found that changing business culture and boosting entrepreneurship are just as important to creating opportunity as large infrastructure projects.
What Queensland should do
Queensland should rethink its big projects for a big country approach. Regional jobs that depend on project investment without generating local income are not sustainable. Small business and community must be restored to centre stage in development strategy.
Small and medium businesses collectively account for more than 99% of all business in Queensland, and three times as many people work in the state’s A$20 billion manufacturing sector (169,000) as work directly in the resources sector (48,000).
But small and medium businesses lack the profile of the “big end of town”, and the large resources companies have been effective at selling the narrative that they are central to the A$300 billion Queensland economy.
The priority for developing Queensland’s regions should be investment that generates small business growth, local income, new skills and communities. Particular emphasis has to be given to attracting and retaining talented people.
The state government can best help regional Queensland by heeding the Productivity Commission’s call to help regional Australia adapt and exploit the opportunities of ever present change. This requires greater local initiative, making the most of competitive strengths, and training people to better engage with the world.
The global services sector is a $US47 trillion industry. For regional Queensland to tap into this sector will require skills in fields as diverse as big data, biotechnology, genetics, robotics, communications, and digital manufacturing.
A good start has been made in the Advance Queensland Regional Innovation Programs which have challenged regions to think outside the box, collaborate, and come up with their own strategies. It complements the federal government’s Building Better Regions Fund.
<img src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/86622/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">This approach challenges the current politically dominated top down model of regional development. It’s a vision for regional Queensland that extends beyond resources, agriculture, tourism and construction to the people themselves.
John Cole, Executive Director, Institute for Resilient Regions, University of Southern Queensland.
This article was originally published on <a href="http://theconversation.com" target="_blank">The Conversation</a>. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/why-big-projects-like-the-adani-coal-mine-wont-transform-regional-queensland-86622" target="_blank">original article</a>.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Why big projects like the Adani coal mine won't transform regional Queensland: John Cole

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GUEST OBSERVER
Since October 2016, all foreign buyers and developers are subject to a 3% stamp duty surcharge on the acquisition of residential property in Queensland known as Additional Foreign Acquirer Duty (AFAD). The Commissioner has now updated conditions under which ex gratia relief from AFAD can be sought.
This relief is available to foreign persons, as defined in the Duties Act 2001, carrying out ‘significant’ residential development. Relief from AFAD may be granted by the Commissioner on a case-by-case basis. Foreign Persons must also meet regulatory requirements such as complying with the Corporations Act 2001 and complying with Queensland taxation laws. AFAD will only apply to the acquisition of residential land in Queensland by those who are either: 
<ul>
<li>a foreign individual - individuals without Australian citizenship or permanent residents (permanent residents include New Zealanders with either permanent visas or special category visas both defined by the Migration Act 1958 (Cth); </li>
<li>a foreign corporation - companies incorporated outside Australia, or Australian companies where at least 50% interest is with a foreign person/s or related person/s (ie relatives/spouse or partners in a partnership); or </li>
<li>a trust where at least 50% of its interests are held by a foreign person/s. </li>
</ul>
RESIDENTIAL LAND
“Residential land” is land that is or will be solely or primarily used for residential purposes. This includes established houses and apartments, vacant land where a home or apartment will be built, land for development for residential use (ie smaller unit block developments, housing subdivisions, and major developments with a residential component), and/or refurbishment, renovation, or extension of a building for residential use. 
“Residential land” does not include land that will be or is currently used for hotel and motel purposes. 
WHEN EX GRATIA RELIEF CAN APPLY
The Commissioner has announced a number of guidelines and conditions that will be taken into account when determining whether ex gratia relief from AFAD will be granted.
1. The foreign developer undertaking the transaction must be Australia based: 
In order to satisfy the conditions of AFAD relief, a foreign developer will need to use a range of factors to establish that they are ‘Australian based’, including:  
<ul>
<li>whether the foreign entity has a head office or principal place of business situated in Australia; </li>
<li>if the foreign entity has significant management staff and office presence in Australia; </li>
<li>whether its employees are Australian citizens or permanent residents; </li>
<li>any past business dealings within Australia; </li>
<li>the input that the foreign entity’s Australian management staff and employees have toward the operation of the foreign entity in Australia, and; </li>
<li>whether the foreign entity primarily engages with Australian building contractors and suppliers in construction work. </li>
</ul>
2. The foreign developer will need to have complied with any Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) requirements in relation to the acquisition of land.
3. The foreign developer must also meet regulatory requirements, such as complying with the Corporations Act 2001 (Cth) and complying with Queensland taxation laws.
4. The development must be significant, or the developer has significant development status.In order for relief from AFAD to apply, the development being carried out must be established as ‘significant development’. This condition will automatically be met if the foreign developer is commencing development or re-development of 50 or more residential lots.
In instances where fewer than 50 lots are being developed, such as in regional areas, the status of ‘significant development’ can still be established if the foreign developer is able to demonstrate that the development makes a significant contribution to the economy, population and social development of that region.
‘Significant developer’ status will also be satisfied if the developer will undertake development or redevelopment of 50 or more residential lots in a 12-month period or, alternatively, the developer averages 50 or more residential lots per year taken on average over a period of up to five years.
5. The foreign developer must primarily employ or contract Australian building contractors and suppliers to engage in the development. This requires that over 50% of the value paid by the developer for goods and services must be paid to Australian contractors and suppliers, or over 50% of the foreign developer’s employees for the development are Australian.
WHAT DO YOU NEED TO DO?
Foreign investors or developers looking to undertake significant development in Australia are able to apply for ex gratia relief from AFAD through the Commissioner. A statutory declaration must be lodged to the Office of State Revenue detailing the basis on which the foreign developer satisfies conditions for relief along with any supporting evidence.
By submitting a request for relief, a foreign developer will also be acknowledging their obligation to inform the Office of State Revenue within 28 days if it no longer satisfies the conditions for relief.
Paul O'Dea is a partner with ClarkeKann, Brisbane.
You can contact him <a href="mailto:p.odea@clarkekann.com.au" target="_blank">via email</a>.
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Where foreign buyers can seek relief from Queensland's added stamp duty surcharge: Paul O'Dea

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Tilers in Queensland have taken a 51 percent pay rise after falling significantly short of the national average 2016, with hourly rates nearly $10 below the national average at the end of the financial year.
Tilers now earn 7 per cent more than the national average at $59.25/hour, making them the best paid in Australia.
Overall tradies in Queensland have strongly benefitted from the housing construction boom with a 9 per cent rise in hourly rates over the past year.
In the last quarter alone prices have surged by 3 per cent according to new data released by find-a-tradie site <a href="https://api.autopilothq.com/anywhere/m?s=serviceseeking&amp;m=s_529e918c-4598-4618-aaef-25a26ef65b86&amp;u=e1jq4wvfdtfkeh9r890m4dht5n138hht5mu36d9j5mwkaha25mu34chq8cw3echh6ct48&amp;r2=d1u78w1u5wqq6tbjetmp6tbkcnjppubecwq66vvd5tgqa&amp;n=1">ServiceSeeking.com.au</a>.
So what can you expect to pay for a tradie over the upcoming months?
 
Tradies that have had the most growth this year:
<ul>
<li>Tilers are up by 51% to $59.93/hour</li>
<li>Builders are up by 17% to $72.93/hour</li>
<li>Painters are up by 9% to $48.11/hour</li>
</ul>
 
Landscapers and plasterers were not so fortunate, experiencing a drop in prices by 3% and 1% respectively.
 
Tradies that earn highest above the national hourly average:
<ul>
<li>Painters are 8% above national hourly average</li>
<li>Builders are also 8% above the national hourly average</li>
<li>Tilers are 7% above the national hourly average</li>
<li>Plasterers are 5% above the national hourly average at $50.93/hour</li>
</ul>
 
Tradies that fall below the national hourly average:
<ul>
<li>Carpenters are 7% below the national hourly average at $60.22/hour</li>
<li>Electricians are 6% below the national hourly average at $75.15/hour</li>
<li>Plumbers are 3% below the national hourly average at $82.64/hour</li>
</ul>
 
Hourly rates are “gross” rates and aside from including the cost of labour, also cover the cost of running the business including insurance, tools, work vehicles, insurance and superannuation.
The prices were derived by comparing a sample of 52,000 quotes submitted during the FY18 Q1 through <a href="https://api.autopilothq.com/anywhere/m?s=serviceseeking&amp;m=s_529e918c-4598-4618-aaef-25a26ef65b86&amp;u=e1jq4wvfdtfkeh9r890m4dht5n138hht5mu36d9j5mwkaha25mu34chq8cw3echh6ct48&amp;r2=d1u78w1u5wqq6tbjetmp6tbkcnjppubecwq66vvd5tgqabr&amp;n=2">ServiceSeeking.com.au</a>, the website for getting any job done.
 
<table><tbody>
<tr>
<td colspan="8">
Queensland Tradie Price Index
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Industry
</td>
<td>
FY18-Q1
</td>
<td>
FY17-Q1
</td>
<td>
Yearly Change
</td>
<td>
FY17Q4
</td>
<td>
Quarterly Change
</td>
<td>
National Average FY18-Q1
</td>
<td>
% Diff on average
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Builder
</td>
<td>
$72.93
</td>
<td>
$62.35
</td>
<td>
17%
</td>
<td>
$68.30
</td>
<td>
7%
</td>
<td>
$67.83
</td>
<td>
8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Carpenter
</td>
<td>
$60.22
</td>
<td>
 $56.85
</td>
<td>
6%
</td>
<td>
$60.90
</td>
<td>
-1%
</td>
<td>
$61.28
</td>
<td>
-7%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Electrician
</td>
<td>
$75.15
</td>
<td>
$73.03
</td>
<td>
3%
</td>
<td>
$74.10
</td>
<td>
1%
</td>
<td>
$77.59
</td>
<td>
-6%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Landscaper
</td>
<td>
$56.00
</td>
<td>
 $58.00
</td>
<td>
-3%
</td>
<td>
$56.90
</td>
<td>
-2%
</td>
<td>
$54.16
</td>
<td>
3%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Painter
</td>
<td>
$48.11
</td>
<td>
$44.33
</td>
<td>
9%
</td>
<td>
$45.30
</td>
<td>
6%
</td>
<td>
$44.42
</td>
<td>
8%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Plasterer
</td>
<td>
$50.93
</td>
<td>
$51.41
</td>
<td>
-1%
</td>
<td>
$49.60
</td>
<td>
3%
</td>
<td>
$48.58
</td>
<td>
5%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Plumber
</td>
<td>
$82.64
</td>
<td>
$79.77
</td>
<td>
4%
</td>
<td>
$79.20
</td>
<td>
4%
</td>
<td>
$85.57
</td>
<td>
-3%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Tiler
</td>
<td>
$59.93
</td>
<td>
 $39.70
</td>
<td>
51%
</td>
<td>
$55.10
</td>
<td>
9%
</td>
<td>
$55.85
</td>
<td>
7%
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
Average
</td>
<td>
$63.24
</td>
<td>
$58.18
</td>
<td>
9%
</td>
<td>
$61.20
</td>
<td>
3%
</td>
<td>
$61.91
</td>
<td>
2%
</td>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
</body></html>

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