The residential transformation of St Kilda Road is set to continue into with more new apartment plans for the sought-after boulevard.

Wing Tai Asia has lodged plans for a major residential tower at 464-466 St Kilda Road, replacing the former VACC House with an 18-storey mixed-use development designed around a retained heritage podium and a sculpted contemporary tower.

The proposal, prepared under Victoria’s Significant Residential Development with Affordable Housing pathway, would deliver 325 apartments and ground-floor retail across the prominent 4,653 sqm boulevard site in Melbourne’s St Kilda Road North Precinct.

The project centres on the adaptive reuse of the site’s heritage-listed VACC Building, an eight-storey office designed by Bernard Evans that has occupied the address for decades. Planning documents state the development would involve “carefully dismantling and conserving off-site the original metal fabric of the podium visible from St Kilda Road,” before reinstating it as the defining frontage of the new scheme.

Above the restored podium, Wing Tai is proposing a curvilinear residential tower. The scheme includes 172 one-bedroom apartments, 63 two-bedroom apartments, 66 three-bedroom apartments, and 24 four-bedroom apartments, alongside two ground-floor food and beverage tenancies fronting St Kilda Road.

The tower has been designed with substantial articulation and variable setbacks to minimise perceived bulk and maintain view corridors along the boulevard. Urbis, which prepared the planning report, said the design “has been significantly articulated through a curvilinear design” with “an interplay with materials, façade expression and depth” to create visual separation and visual interest.

The proposal also includes 254 basement car spaces, landscaped pedestrian links connecting St Kilda Road and Queens Lane, and a biophilic landscape strategy featuring canopy trees, raised planters, cascading greenery and a glass oculus pool overlooking the eastern frontage.

Planning documents confirm the $270.1 million development will contribute 3 per cent of project costs to the Social Housing Growth Fund as part of the application process.

Wing Tai acquired the St Kilda Road property in 2018 alongside Abacus Property Group for $95.38 million, before later consolidating ownership of the site. The property previously served as the Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce headquarters for around 60 years.

The transformation of the St Kilda Rd boulevard is already beginning to materialise, with a number of high-profile projects recently completed, launched, or approaching launch as developers continue to back the long-term appeal of the precinct.

Among the most notable recent completions is Louise by Samuel Property Group, just off the strip on Queens Lane, the same pocket Hirsch &amp; Faigen recently launched The Queensbury. Mirvac is too on the same street with The Albertine, which is approaching completion.

Dexus recently secured approval for its slice of St Kilda Road, while Gurner also has approved plans for the precinct.

Joel Robinson

Wing Tai unveils 325-apartment St Kilda Road tower on former VACC House site

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>

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.
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</section>

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=112661]

SIERA kicks off construction at Northcliffe tower Exhale

Queensland

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Queensland is a significant step closer to having a world-leading health precinct at Brisbane’s Herston Quarter after Australian Unity today executed a series of agreements for the development.
The $1.1 billion Herston Quarter project is set to provide Queenslanders with access to state-of-the-art health, hospital and aged care services, as well as creating scope in the future for international standard research and educational facilities.
Health, wealth and living company Australian Unity will develop the precinct, which includes both public and private hospitals and residential options for retirees and those looking for aged care, and take an ongoing role in operating care services.
“This project embodies Australian Unity’s vision to create the social infrastructure people need, and we appreciate the Palaszczuk Government’s commitment to moving ahead with this important project for Brisbane and Queensland,” Australian Unity Group Managing Director Rohan Mead said.
“The exchange of contracts between Australian Unity and Metro North Hospital and Health Service for Herston Quarter is a vital step on the path to delivering stronger future health outcomes to Queenslanders,” Mr Mead said.
In August, the Palaszczuk Government announced Australian Unity as the preferred tenderer for the development of Herston Quarter after a rigorous selection process.
Located adjacent to the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital in inner suburban Brisbane, the Herston Quarter is set to include a specialist rehabilitation and ambulatory care centre; a private hospital; residential aged care; retirement living and student accommodation; childcare; a co-working hub and education and training facilities.
“Australian Unity is a 177-year old member-based mutual organisation, so we can focus on longer-term projects such as Herston Quarter that deliver community value over time ahead of short-term shareholder returns,” Mr Mead said.
Australian Unity Chief Investment Officer David Bryant said the Herston Quarter as envisaged would bring together in one project much of Australian Unity’s broader business capacity.
“Herston Quarter will combine our experience in the construction of hospitals and the operation of ‘hard’ social infrastructure such as aged care and retirement villages with our expertise in the provision of ‘soft’ social infrastructure, such as our preventative health businesses, playing an integral part in the health research element of the project,” Mr Bryant said.
Mr Bryant said the overall project had a five to 10 year construction life, but would be completed in stages.
“The first building planned for construction is the public rehabilitation hospital, which we anticipate will be up and running by 2020,’’ Mr Bryant said.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Australian Unity's Herston Quarter health precinct update

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The Real Estate Institute of Queensland said it was disappointed by the State Treasurer’s announcement that the government would not broaden the first home buyer grant to include established homes. 
Queensland Treasurer Curtis Pitt was under pressure from the real estate industry to widen the scope of the $20,000 first home owner grant to established homes, but has ruled out any changes, the Courier Mail reported earlier.
In response, REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the government was not listening to the needs of regional Queenslanders. 
“Our concern is for the long-term impact and the bigger picture in regional Queensland, where new construction is exacerbating the oversupply issues that these markets are facing,” she said. 
“House values are falling, with some markets as much as 30 per cent below levels five years ago. Continuously adding supply of housing to oversupplied markets is irresponsible and will slow down any future recovery.
“The Treasurer wants us to believe the only way to economic stability is through residential housing construction, but that’s simply not true.
She said real estate is one of the state’s largest employers, with some 50,000 people employed in the sector, which provides the government with the single largest source of revenue through stamp duty and associated taxes. 
“Regional Queensland is facing unique challenges and the government must tailor its response to those challenges. 
She cited a recent CoreLogic report into affordability that said regional Queensland’s housing affordability was nearing similar levels to Melbourne. Wages are flat or are going backwards, the cost of living is higher and it’s harder to save for a deposit. Bankruptcies in regional Queensland are rising, with more than 80 reported last quarter in Mackay alone, she added.
“First home buyers in regional Queensland need more help than their southeast Queensland counterparts – and letting them use the grant to buy an established home would be a good start.  And it would help the real estate sector in regional Queensland stabilise. It would help slow or stop the fall of median values and it would help first home buyers get a foot on the ladder,” she said.  
“The government should offer first-home buyers the choice between new builds or established homes. Bring buyers to the market where there is ample supply – don’t keep adding to the supply. 
“Real estate has long been this state’s golden goose, but this government is in danger of killing off the goose. 
“Twenty-five regional mayors have given us their full-throated support for broadening the grant to established homes and this state government simply isn’t listening.” 
But Treasurer Pitt has been quoted by the media as saying “the strategic purpose of our $20,000 initiative is as much about getting Queenslanders into the property market as it is getting Queensland tradies back on the tools”. 
He said the building and construction sector creates jobs, stimulates the wider economy and keeps locals employed in the construction sector. 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

REIQ says Queensland government needs to expand FHB grant to established homes

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Queensland's rental market ended 2016 on a steady note, according to REIQ chief executive officer Antonia Mercorella.
She said signs were good that 2017 would bring improving conditions to regional Queensland.
“The data has shown that supply and demand in the rental market is fairly evenly matched in the southeast corner," she said.
"The vacancy rate in inner Brisbane has fallen to 3.6 per cent, which is very close to the healthy range and this is good news for both landlords and tenants.
"When vacancy rates are within the healthy range it means landlords can secure tenants comfortably and it also means tenants have the opportunity to secure appropriate and suitable rental accommodation.
"With the exception of the September 2016 quarter, Brisbane City has remained within the healthy range (2.5 percent - 3.5 percent) since December 2013, indicating the rental market is steady and well-balanced between supply and demand.
"Greater Brisbane’s vacancy rates have held steady in the healthy range for five quarters, falling to 3 percent this quarter.
"The Logan rental market weakened over the December quarter, reaching a vacancy rate of 3.3 percent, which is still within the healthy range."
Tourism Centres
<ul>
<li>After 13 quarters operating in the tight range, the Gold Coast rental market operated within the healthy range for the December quarter, reaching a vacancy rate of 2.5 percent.</li>
<li>Maroochy Coast was the tightest rental market in Queensland with a vacancy rate of 1.1 percent for December.</li>
<li>Noosa vacancy rates remained relatively steady with vacancy rates of 1.4 percent. This market has operated in the tight range for the past four years (since September 2012).</li>
<li>Rentals of medium to high density living in Noosa follow a cyclical performance with a market peak during the summer and holidays period. Vacancy rates of units in Noosa reduced from 3.2 percent in June to 1.4 percent in December.</li>
<li>The Cairns rental market remains generally healthy with vacancy rates at 2.4 percent for December.</li>
<li>Fraser Coast has experienced some volatility over the past eight years, however, it continues to operate in the healthy range, rising to 3.3 per cent in the December quarter.</li>
<li>Maryborough rental market recorded the largest increase in vacancy rates over the quarter of 3.2 percent, reaching vacancy rates of 5.6 percent, primarily due to new housing construction in the region.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-01%20at%2010.36.34%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/02/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-01%20at%2010.36.34%20am.jpg" alt="">
Regional Centres
<ul>
<li>Toowoomba vacancy rate increased from 2.3 percent for September to 2.8 per cent for December. This market has operated within the tight and healthy range since the REIQ began reporting vacancy rates in 2008.</li>
<li>With the exception of Toowoomba, Gympie, Scenic Rim, Southern Downs and Tablelands, the rental markets in regional centres are weak with consistent low demand.</li>
<li>Southern Downs recorded the largest vacancy rate fall, dropping 2.2 percent, from 5.3 percent in September to 3.1 percent in December.</li>
<li>Vacancy rates in Bundaberg, Rockhampton and Townsville improved between 0.3 percent and 0.7 percent, but these markets are still weak.</li>
<li>Banana recorded the highest vacancy rate in the State of 15.2 percent in the December quarter.</li>
</ul>
<a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/images/2017/02/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-01%20at%2010.36.49%20am.jpg" target="_blank">Click to enlarge</a>
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2017/02/01/Screen%20Shot%202017-02-01%20at%2010.36.49%20am.jpg" alt="">
She said signs were good that 2017 would bring improving conditions to regional Queensland.
“The State Government is focusing its jobs-creation programs on centres such as Gladstone, Rockhampton, Mackay and Townsville.
"Also, it is well-known that jobs and rental markets go hand-in-hand.
"When workers are made redundant they are often forced to leave town to search for work elsewhere and we are seeing many move to southeast Queensland.
"But the low Australian dollar will bring visitors to our tourism centres such as Cairns and Mackay and hopefully the rising coking coal price will benefit the mining centres such as Gladstone, Rockhampton, and Townsville, as well as western Queensland mining towns.
“A boost to employment figures will benefit the state’s housing market enormously.
"We have seen this at the Sunshine Coast, where the unemployment rate of 4.7 per cent (for September) sits well below state and national levels and it’s no coincidence that the vacancy rates on the Sunshine Coast are the lowest in Queensland,” she said.
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Queensland rental market improves over December quarter: REIQ

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A gold mine in Georgetown in central far north Queensland has been listed for sale for $5.5 million.
Located around 380 kilometres west of Cairns, the gold mine covers part of the <a href="https://mooloolaba.ljhooker.com.au/land_development-in-georgetown-qld-4871-au-hrygwq#.WEiiX1fbrFJ" target="_blank">historic Etheridge Goldfield</a>, Georgetown and the Palmer River.
The sale will secure the leases and some of the mining equipment.
Potential investors can make an immediate start to produce gold with a lease to Project Management Company in place.
The company have the experience, skill and knowledge to run a successful gold mine.
They have projected a return of 3445 troy ounces in the first year, which at the current sale price is equal to $6,039,085.
Year two and year three are projected to return 6891 troy ounces per annum, which would yield $12,237,693.
The world-wide gold price at $1,753 per troy ounce.
The current owner is nearing retirement having purchased the lease in 2009.
It's been listed through LJ Hooker Mooloolaba agents Jim Hughes and Yasna Hawthorne. 
The gold mine yielded 0.7 million troy ounces of gold between 1877 and 1920.
 
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Queensland gold mine for sale

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A new concept in commercial property is offering small businesses and investors the chance to enter the commercial market.
The low price of M-SPACE units, being built across Queensland, encourages entrepreneurs and tradies to move their businesses out of their garage or ute.
They get warehouse space plus mezzanine office.M-SPACE units can be used as offices, showrooms or storerooms and most come complete with kitchen and bathroom facilities and private hardstands.
Developments are being rolled out in Greater Brisbane at Wynnum, Cleveland and North Lakes, as well as Townsville.
M-SPACE development manager Hamish Jackson said the units were targeted at a large untapped market, with half the units at Wynnum already under contract.
“Many small business people and tradies struggle to operate out of their garage or the cabin of their ute.
But the high price of commercial property puts them off growing into new premises,” Mr Jackson said.
“Our units are designed and priced specifically for small businesses, start-ups, and mum and dad operators."
It is also tempting investor buyers who can’t afford to enter the residential property market to invest in commercial units instead.
The units are most price from $279,000 through David Gibson of commercial agent Colliers International, <a href="https://www.colliers.com.au/27089/">though some are priced at $120,000</a>. 
Owner of Pure Fresh Water, David James said he bought the largest unit in Wynnum to accommodate his small business.
“I have been paying rent in the shop for six years and now I will pay rent to myself,” Mr James said.
“I will own the unit so there’s a superannuation benefit for me as well.”
For more information visit <a href="https://m-space.worldsecuresystems.com/" target="_blank">https://m-space.worldsecuresystems.com</a>
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Start-ups quit their garages for M-SPACE in Queensland

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<img src="https://counter.theconversation.edu.au/content/69423/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1">
GUEST OBSERVER
The Carmichael coal mine planned for Queensland’s Galilee Basin has cleared another legal hurdle, with the state’s Supreme Court dismissing a legal challenge to the validity of the Queensland government’s decision to approve the project.
The court found in favour of the Queensland Department of Environment and Heritage Protection, ruling that its approval of Indian firm Adani’s proposal was within the rules.
The decision is another setback for environmentalists’ bid to stop the controversial project. But Adani does not yet have a green light to break ground on the project, and legal questions still remain, both about this project and about climate change litigation more generally.
<h2>The Supreme Court ruling</h2>
It is important to note that this was a judicial review proceeding – a narrow type of review in which the court is not permitted to consider whether or not the decision to approve the mine was “correct”. The court could only rule on whether correct procedures were followed, while accepting that the decision was at the government’s discretion.
Within this already narrow context, the argument on which the legal challenge hinged was even more constrained. It was brought by an environmental campaign group called Land Services of Coast and Country (LSCC), and was focused on a particular point of Queensland environmental law.
Queensland’s Environmental Protection Act 1994 requires that decisions are made in accordance with the Act’s objective, which is to deliver “ecologically sustainable developent”. LSCC argued that the government failed to do this in approving the coalmine.
The Supreme Court disagreed, finding that the government had considered all matters that it were obliged to consider. So in this respect, the Supreme Court’s decision is an endorsement of the process, but not necessarily the ultimate decision.
Is this the final hurdle overcome for Adani?
In short, no. The decision can be referred to Queensland’s Court of Appeal. There is also ongoing litigation against Adani in the Federal Court of Australia under federal environmental and native title laws. There are also some approvals yet to be obtained by Adani, including a groundwater licence.
Is this ruling a rejection of climate change arguments against the coal mine?
No. This case dealt specifically with the question of whether the Queensland government had complied with a particular aspect of the law. The Supreme Court did not (and was not able to) address the potential climate change impacts of the proposed mine.
These climate issues were addressed more fully by Queensland’s Land Court in the case of Adani Mining Pty Ltd v Land Services of Coast and Country Inc &amp; Ors (2015) QLC 48.
Importantly, the Land Court in this case accepted the scientific basis for climate change, and agreed that “scope 3 emissions” (that is, the emissions produced when the coal is burned overseas) are indeed a relevant consideration in whether or not to approve the mine.
However, Adani successfully used a “market substitution” defence, arguing that if the mine is refused, coal would simply be mined elsewhere and burned regardless.
What does this case say about climate change litigation more generally?
The latest judgement was handed down amid a series of fresh attacks on the rights of environmental groups to use Australia’s environmental laws to hold companies and governments to account. Federal Environment and Energy Minister Josh Frydenberg has raised concerns about “activists … seeking to frustrate” projects with “vexatious litigation”, while Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has revived plans to amend federal environmental legislation so as to restrict standing to apply for judicial review – the so-called “lawfare” amendments. 
In the wake of the new ruling, the head of the Queensland Resources Council has criticised the delays caused by litigation against mining projects.
This begs the question: is climate change litigation “vexatious”? A close analysis of Queensland court decisions would suggest the opposite. Climate change issues have been considered in a series of three key Queensland Land Court cases: Wandoan Mine in 2012, Alpha Coal Project in 2014, and the Carmichael Mine (Adani) in 2015. 
The Alpha Coal matter has proceeded to the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeal, and leave has been sought to appeal to the High Court of Australia. Importantly, none of these cases has been dismissed as vexatious; each resulted in a lengthy judgement analysing the complex legal issues raised by the objector.
Furthermore, although objectors have not yet succeeded in stopping a mining project on the basis of climate concerns, they have nevertheless made modest strides. Most recently, President McMurdo of Queensland’s Court of Appeal found that the Land Court must consider scope 3 emissions in deciding whether a mine should be granted environmental approval. This represents significant progress, given that climate science was questioned by Queensland Courts less than ten years ago. 
The only significant barrier remaining to a successful climate change case is the market substitution defence, which will be considered by the High Court if special leave is granted in the Alpha Coal matter.
Climate change litigation has also clarified other environmental and economic impacts. In the Carmichael Mine case, it was discovered that the mine site was a critical habitat for the endangered black-throated finch – evidence that was not previously available. The Land Court ordered strict conditions aimed at protecting this species. The litigation also served to clarify the significantly overstated economic benefits of the mine – particularly Adani’s estimate that it would generate more than 10,000 jobs. It was revealed in court that this figure was more likely to be 1,206 jobs in Queensland, as part of a total of 1,464 jobs in Australia.
Where to for climate change litigation?
Although the latest judgement is another setback for environmental groups, it is part of a bigger body of case law that is making real and discernible progress in ensuring that climate change is considered by decision-makers and courts.
Given that several courts have agreed on the validity of climate litigants’ arguments, it seems perverse for the federal government to try and restrict environmental groups’ right to continue raising these concerns.
Justine Bell-James is lecturer in law, The University of Queensland and author for The Conversation. She can be contacted <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/justine-bell-james-39245" target="_blank">here</a>.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Carmichael mine jumps another legal hurdle, but litigants are making headway

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There are signs the southern Queensland rural market may be approaching a phase of property value growth, according to a report from Herron Todd White (HTW).
HTW's rural report for November said that the region has come off the bottom of the value cycle, but the big question now is how strong and sustainable will this phase be.
"Confidence is a very important contributing factor in any decision making process and this would appear to be something that is beginning to become quite abundant," it said.
"However care must be exercised not to misinterpret confidence with a need to buy for the sake of buying or to 'keep up with the Joneses'.
"The southern Queensland market, in general, has experienced a very good winter and the signs are there, especially on the inner downs, that many broad acre farmers are about to reap the benefits of the good season to date.
HTW said many areas escaped damage from 'wet feet' to their chickpea and wheat crops that southern areas experienced.
"All of the fallow country should have a very good moisture profile which will then set the region up for a potentially good summer," the report advised.
"In regards to the Maranoa region and points further west, they also enjoyed a better than average season with the country generally looking very good.
"Again, this sets them up for a good summer.
"You don’t have to be Einstein to work out that given the strength of the cattle market (despite the issues of low female numbers in the future), the fair to good seasons primary producers have experienced over the past 12 to 18 months and the fact that the cost of borrowing money has never been cheaper, all the ingredients are there to suggest there is the potential that it could run for some time."
These positive agricultural factors are good signs for the area's property market, HTW said.
"We are now at a point in the cycle reminiscent to the early 2000s and before that the mid 1980s.... just prior to the upward run in the respective market cycles.
"Unfortunately the lesson we learned from those periods was that what went up ultimately came down. Sustainability is the key and given the multitude of issues that arose from the past two cycles, it should not be a hard lesson to learn. However we sometimes have very short and selective memories."
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Southern Queensland rural market slated for growth: HTW

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A retail property, comprising a McDonald’s and 7-Eleven service station, that fronts directly onto the Gold Coast Highway at Palm Beach on the Gold Coast, has been sold for $8.525 million.
Set on a 3,011sq m corner site, the property is located at the intersection of 19th Avenue, the major east-west intersection at Palm Beach.
The property was sold by Jon Tyson and Michael Harcourt of Savills to a local private investor following a marketing campaign that generated over 250 enquiries and eight offers.
The sale reflects a sharp yield of 5.46 percent.
Jon Tyson said the Palm Beach property presented an extremely rare retail offering, 100% leased to dual national anchor tenants and with exposure to more than 34,000 passing vehicles daily.
<img src="/images/2016/11/18/Palm%20Beach%207-11%20McDonalds%201.jpg" alt="">
He said both McDonald’s and 7-Eleven have both occupied the site since it was developed in 2001.
They are secured on long-term net leases with fixed annual rental increases.
The sale represents the first time the property has been offered to the market.
Palm Beach is located on the southern Gold Coast, approximately 14km south of Surfer Paradise and just 10km north of Coolangatta Airport.
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Savills sell Palm Beach McDonalds for $8.525 million

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Bribie Island in Queensland is hosting an auction which will allow interested parties to bid from their own homes using broadcast technology.
Ray White's in-room event on the island is set for nine properties.
It will incorporate live online bidding.
Kris Bradford, Ray White Bribie Island principal said it was an event of firsts.
“The auction will be telecast in real time and with real bids,” Bradford told Domain Group.
Bradford said they still expect 60 to 70 people to come out despite the option to bid from home.
“I don’t think numbers will change just because people can bid online – but I do think we’ll get a big increase of viewers.” 
Ray White agent Julian Ellis has six of the nine properties.
The <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-white+patch-115192579" target="_blank">130 White Patch Esplanade</a> property has had the most attention from buyers.
<img src="/images/2016/11/01/Esp.jpg" alt="" width="395" height="200">
It’s on 2000 square metres on the water.
The listing for <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bongaree-122684258" target="_blank">3 Miramar Street</a> suggests a recent sales contract crashed and the house must be sold.
<img src="/images/2016/11/01/ESPLANADE.jpg" alt="" width="394" height="234">
The nine properties that will be auctioned on November 18 are:
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-white+patch-115192579" target="_blank">130 White Patch Esplanade, White Patch</a> </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bongaree-122684258" target="_blank">3 Miramar Street, Bongaree </a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bongaree-123456450" target="_blank">24 Gidya Avenue, Bongaree</a> </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bongaree-123905970" target="_blank">58 Wattle Avenue, Bongaree</a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-banksia+beach-120701565" target="_blank">29 Dianthus Avenue, Banksia Beach </a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-bellara-123825930" target="_blank">50 Bellara Street, Bellara </a></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-woorim-123875686" target="_blank">24 Arcadia Avenue, Woorim </a></li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-banksia+beach-123946102" target="_blank">15 Avon Avenue, Banksia Beach</a>
</li>
<li>
<a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-banksia+beach-122952178" target="_blank">10 Magdalena Court, Banksia Beach</a>
 
</li>
</ul>
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Bribie Island auction allows parties to bid online

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Hughesville, a heritage-listed home in Queensland's Eight Mile Plains, has sold for $1.3 million.
It is set to become real estate offices.
After spending over four years on the market, I-Sale Property bought <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-house-qld-eight+mile+plains-116979219" target="_blank">2497 Logan Road</a> which had $1.7 million hopes in February 2012.
It was only the fourth time the home has traded since 1892. It last sold for $1 million in 2007 to Bennett Carroll Solicitors.
Designed by architect George Campbell-Wilson, Hughesville was originally built as a wedding gift for local horse dealer Richard Hughes. It remained in the Hughes family for a century.
Its original grandeur was restored in 2004 after plans were approved by the Queensland heritage council. 
Set on 3366 sqm, the Queenslander has three offices and a meeting room.
In the late 1990s Hughesville was featured as a home being renovated by a couple in a XXXX brewing commercial.
MV Real Estate selling agent Lynda Roberts said it was difficult finding the right buyer due to its heritage restrictions.
“There was a lot of people wanting to use it as a wedding venue, but couldn’t due to the tight restrictions,” she said.
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