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

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

Joel Robinson

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

St. A

First home buyers are securing affordable homes at St Albans, thanks to Cedar Woods’ new St.A townhouse development. &nbsp;

The striking project, designed by DKO Architecture, features 254 two, three and four-bedroom homes which have been crafted to give residents an elevated lifestyle.

Among the first home buyers purchasing into the charming development is 24-year-old civil engineer, Jessica Nguyen. &nbsp;

Urban spoke to young property buyer about her buying journey and what she loves about St.A.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633 project_image_fid=80007]

MK: Where did you previously live and why are you moving to St.A?

JN: I currently live in Caroline Springs and decided to move to St.A because of the location. The area has already been largely developed with a train station within walking distance as well as great restaurants.

I spend so much time in the area already. So many of my family and friends live in St Albans and more of my friends are looking to buy in the area.

MK: Were you already looking for property when you discovered St.A?

JN: I’ve been looking for the last few months mainly at new developments around the Maribyrnong, Sunshine and St Albans areas.

<blockquote>
St.A appealed to me because of the price, distance from the city and amenity, available all within my budget.
</blockquote>

MK: What do you love most about what St.A has to offer residents?

JN:&nbsp;There is amazing food and a great community. The train station is a big factor for me, it is walking distance from St.A to the station, whereas right now I have to drive 20 minutes to the nearest station each day.

MK: Which townhome configuration did you opt for, and what led you to narrow down your decision?

JN: I purchased the Argyle townhome which has two-bedrooms, two-bathrooms and a single garage.

<figure><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" height="372" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/argyle_0.png?itok=BwP0Dq2-" title="The Argyle floorplan" width="580" />

<figcaption>The Argyle floorplan</figcaption>
</figure>

Price was a big influence. I went through a mortgage broker who helped me figure out what I could afford, and I was thrilled that this was slightly under budget.

MK: What was it like negotiating with the sales agent and the team at Cedar Woods?

JN: Minh was really good to work with; he understood my non-negotiables and replied quickly to get the deal done.

MK: What made you decide to buy off-the-plan rather than an existing dwelling?

JN: I wanted to build and found that buying off-the-plan was a lot easier and stress-free. St.A is already a built-up area and I could see the quality and style of homes Cedar Woods delivered.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633 project_image_fid=32169]

MK: St A has impressive nearby amenity. Which amenity is your favourite?

JN: Definitely the restaurants. My favourite is Thuan Phat, I go there every week!

MK: As a first home buyer, how did you find the due diligence research and purchase process?

JN: I asked advice from family who told me to first go to a mortgage broker to understand my budget. I also watched a lot of YouTube videos and listened to podcasts on how to budget and save for my first deposit.

I was also looking at another development in Sunshine but I liked the St.A amenity more. It is already an established community, whereas the other is still a while away from feeling like a community.

MK: Did you have a set of criteria that your first home had to meet?

JN: I very much looked at this purchase as an investment as well as my first home and having two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a garage was a set requirement for me.

I personally wanted a backyard area as well and I had a preference for a downstairs living area.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633 project_image_fid=80010]

As this was my first home, it had to be eligible for the First Home Owner Grant as well as fit within my budget.

What advice would you have for other first home buyers?

JN: Research as much as you can and understand your budget [and] prepare for the expenses of home ownership as well!

MK: Is there anything else you would like to add about your new home or the area more generally? 

JN: St Albans is such a beautiful place; it has come a long way in recent years. It is such good value being so close to the city; the west is the next big thing!

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=7633]

Among the first home buyers purchasing into the charming development is 24-year-old civil engineer, Jessica Nguyen. Urban spoke to young property buyer about her buying journey 

max.kwok_55688

Why I purchased: The 24-year-old first home buyer of a two-bedroom townhouse at St Albans's St.A development by Cedar Woods

Cedar Woods delivers the first major masterplanned development in the popular community of St Albans with its latest project, St.A.

Designed by DKO Architecture, every home&nbsp;boasts architectural design in a well-serviced location, providing an ideal first home or investment to a range of buyers.

St.A features a six-star energy efficiency rating, as well as spacious layouts, ample&nbsp;storage and open-plan living areas.

There are currently six&nbsp;townhome&nbsp;designs available at the project. Urban takes a look at two of the different floorplans available.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633 project_image_fid=32167]

St.A features a six-star energy efficiency rating, as well as spacious layouts, amply storage and open-plan living areas.

According to Cedar Wood, there are currently s townhomes available at the project. Urban takes a look at five of the different floorplans available.

1. Argyle

<a href="/new-townhouses/st-a-1-griffiths-street-st-albans" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="776" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/argyle.png" width="1210" /></a>

With two residences available, Argyle design is a superbly appointed two-bedroom, two-bathroom townhome with open-plan living spaces.

Both homes are located&nbsp;on Cameron Lane within the stage 10 release of Cedar Woods&rsquo; St.A development.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633 project_image_fid=80008]

The turn-key home&nbsp;features include stone kitchen benchtops, stainless steel appliances, a rainwater tank, landscaping and high ceilings.

2. Sapphire IV

<a href="/new-townhouses/st-a-1-griffiths-street-st-albans" target="_blank"><img alt="" height="836" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/sapphire_0.png" width="1310" /></a>

The Sapphire IV configuration provides another great family home for mulit-generational families seeking property in St Albans.

Two available homes feature this layout at Lot 904 and Lot 907, with frontage to Higgins Walk.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633 project_image_fid=32168]

Boasting three bedrooms, including one at ground level, 3.5 bathrooms, study area and a private courtyard, these light-filled homes are packed with great features including large lounge areas, landscaping and split-system air conditioning.

[smartcode_project_cta: project_id=7633]

Urban takes a look at five townhouse floorplans available at Cedar Wood's St Albans project, St. A

Floorplan focus: There are layouts to match every buyer at Cedar Woods’ St. A townhomes in St Albans

<html><body>
St. A is located in north-western Victoria, in the thriving suburb of St Albans. From St. A, residents can access Melbourne CBD in 30 minutes by car and 50 minutes by public transport, making this affordable development the perfect city fringe option for first home buyers and upsizers alike.

Here's what you can find within walking distance from St.A

<h2>EDUCATION</h2>

One of the great features of St. A is the walkability of the neighbourhood – with plenty of education options just a short stroll away. Victoria University's St Albans campus is a mere 12-minute walk, while St Albans Secondary College is 19-minutes away. Other schools in the area include: University Park Primary School, Jackson School, St Albans Meadows Primary School, St Albans Heights Primary School, Sunshine Park Estate Kindergarten and many more education centres in the surrounding neighbourhoods. 

<h2>SUPERMARKETS</h2>

St. A is perfectly positioned for all your grocery needs – being situated right on Gratz Street, means you can walk to the SUPA IGA supermarket and Woolworths in less than 10 minutes.

<h2>RETAIL</h2>

For retail shopping, enjoy a weekend amble to the local shopping mall – Brimbank Shopping Centre is a 38-minute walk while Cairnlea Town Centre is a 31-minute walk. Alternatively, you could drive and be there in less than 10 minutes, but the option is there if the weather is nice and you feel like a decent walk.

<h2>PARKS</h2>

There are also plenty of parks to choose from, 14 minutes walk south of St. A you'll find Stradbroke Drive Reserve which is equipped with plenty of outdoor exercise equipment. Walk north for 7 minutes and you'll reach McKechnie Reserve, and another 5 minutes will get you to Errington Reserve.

<h2>NATURE TRAILS</h2>

Brimbank Park Nature Trail is just a stone's throw from St. A, offering a well-designed loop track, which starts and finishes at the Parks Victoria office/cafe. This particular track includes both sealed and well-maintained gravel paths, making it a suitable walk for intermediate hikers. Dogs are allowed on this walking track but must be kept on a lead. If you're lucky, you might spot a long-necked tortoise in Taylor's Creek!

Brimbank Welcome Walk is another great track suitable for walkers of all experience levels. It's a steady contour that is mostly paved and shared by both pedestrians and cyclists. This walk has picnic spots, playgrounds, public toilets and seating available. Keep an eye out for Wallabies and Blue Fairy Wrens.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7633]

To learn more about the two, three and four-bedroom homes available for sale at St. A, <a href="/new-townhouses/st-a-1-griffiths-street-st-albans" target="_blank">enquire today via Urban</a> and make the most of the great selection of grants and subsidies on offer before they expire.
</body></html>

St. A

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