Sun Property Group (SPG) has taken a major step to reinforce its commitment to consumer trust by securing Latent Defects Insurance (LDI) from Resilience Insurance for its nearly completed Willoughby development on Sydney’s Lower North Shore.

The boutique project, Aurora, comprising 12 apartments and a ground-floor commercial space, is one of few in the region to adopt the forward-thinking insurance model—offering a point of difference in a competitive market.

For Cameron Johnson, General Manager at Sun Property Group, the decision to adopt LDI was rooted in the company’s long-standing philosophy of maintaining a highly personalised relationship with its end users.

“We’ve always taken ownership over our product,” Johnson said. “Introducing LDI is not just about peace of mind for the buyer—it’s about raising the internal bar. It becomes the baseline for how we do things going forward.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=205006]

While hundreds of developers and builders have taken out an LDI policy from Resilience Insurance, the insurance is still relatively new to Australia. Johnson says he sees significant future potential with LDI nationwide, with both&nbsp;regulatory and market frameworks starting to evolve to support its wider use in class two buildings.

“When we started the Willoughby project, LDI was still just a concept being floated by the Building Commissioner’s office," Johnson says.

"Delays in the construction timeline gave us the unique opportunity to adopt it as the product became more available in late 2023."

That timing aligned with a shift in construction contractors on the project, which opened the door for a more collaborative and considered implementation of the insurance. According to Johnson, Resilience Insurance was proactive and solution-oriented.

“It wasn’t just about us buying a product off the shelf. It was a dialogue—how can we work together to deliver something that meets both of our needs?” he added.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=5717]

LDI covers major structural defects for up to 10 years post-completion and offers an alternative to the traditional developer bond held under the Department of Fair Trading’s scheme. SPG prudently factor in a two per cent cost profile for such measures into its feasibility, treating it as “business as usual.”

“What LDI does is show the consumer that we’re front-ending our responsibilities—design, delivery, documentation, execution. That whole chain of custody is assessed and independently reviewed throughout construction. It’s a rubber stamp on quality,” Johnson said.

In a region where no other nearby developments currently carry LDI, the move also creates a market differentiator. While some projects may carry an iCIRT rating, few offer the depth of protection and oversight that LDI provides, especially outside of publicly listed organisations.

Aurora is being brought to market by Henry Burke of McGrath Projects. With the recent cut in interest rates Burke expects that many first home buyers and investors will jump at the chance to buy in Aurora due to its convenient location, fantastic retail amenity, picturesque parks with leafy walks, and excellent transport connections with only one stop to Sydney CBD. He expects a local owner-occupier to secure the standout penthouse which offers 175 sqm of internal space and further 200 sqm of outdoor space.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=205010]

Johnson says Aurora residents will not only benefit from the first right insurance policy, which means action is taken immediately rather than often long and complicated battles as developers and builders point fingers at each other as to who created the issue, but from how it can benefit the strata communities of the building.

Many buyers, especially first-time apartment owners, have limited understanding of shared infrastructure or the responsibilities of Owners Corporations. LDI adds an important layer of education, structure, and protection.

“People want to move in and enjoy what they’ve bought. But when things go wrong, that’s when emotions and stress levels rise. The insurance policy gives owners a clearer path to resolution—an assured, regulated compensation process. It also helps equip owners and managers with the knowledge they need to maintain the building properly.”

The insurance includes tools such as service penetration matrices and access documentation—going far beyond standard build drawings. Johnson says it’s about delivering not just a home, but a sustainable, manageable asset.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=109919 project_image_fid=343670]

Sun Property Group continues to build on its strong track record across Sydney’s Lower North Shore, with an upcoming major development of its Bowen Street, Chatswood landholdings and additional projects underway in Melbourne. The team recently completed its debut Melbourne apartment project, The Brookville in Toorak, showcasing their commitment to delivering high-quality, design-led communities.

In a region where no other nearby developments currently carry LDI, the move also creates a market differentiator

Joel Robinson

Sun Property Group approaches completion of Willoughby's first apartment development with 10-year Latent Defects Insurance

Renowned developer-builder DASCO has unveiled its much-anticipated new development in the heart of Epping.

The architectural brief for Turner Studio was to “create a community where residents are completely immersed in a paradise for the senses.”

The result is <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/senso-epping-242-244-beecroft-road-epping-nsw-2121">Senso</a>, a series of buildings that have been oriented around an unrepeatable 10,000 sqm-plus site to create a facility-laden, landscape-first precinct, something of which Epping and its surrounds have not seen before.

There are 479 apartments available in a variety of floorplans across the five buildings, a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments in addition to a curated penthouse collection.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4553]

The apartments have been designed to appeal to the owner-occupier market, with generous floorplans, premium materials, and optional upgrades including integrated refrigeration, bespoke joinery, and motorised blinds.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/dasco-australia">DASCO</a>, who builds its own developments, is once again bringing peace of mind to its clients by taking the 10-year Latent Defects Insurance policy offered by Resilience Insurance, which protects buyers against any structural or waterproofing issues for 10 years post completion of the building. This insurance can only be taken out by the builder or developer and not by individual apartment owners.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4552]

DASCO is known for creating more than just apartments — they create places where people connect. Senso will have over 4,000 sqm of resort-inspired communal amenity in the form of two rooftop pools, a celestial outdoor cinema, wellness club, sensory walk, and an observation deck, in addition to multiple BBQ and outdoor communal areas on multiple levels, intended to deliver a complete lifestyle offering within the residential environment.

There will be over 800 sqm of retail space on street level, which will likely be run as hospitality venues.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4396]

Located adjacent to the new Epping Town Centre masterplan, and just a five-minute walk from Epping Metro Station, Senso offers seamless access to Macquarie Park, Chatswood and the Sydney CBD. Families who are interested in the large two- and three-bedroom apartments are within proximity to several regarded educational institutions including Macquarie University, James Ruse Agricultural High, and Cheltenham Girls School.

The project also leverages Epping’s growing dining and retail precinct, proximity to Macquarie Centre, and access to natural assets including Terrys Creek walking trails and Boronia Park.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=134954 project_image_fid=4399]

With a 33-year track record and over 7,000 dwellings delivered, DASCO continues to develop and build; a business model that enables integrated delivery and peace of mind, especially when Senso is backed by Latent Defects Insurance (LDI), providing 10 years of protection for buyers at no additional cost.

The launch of Senso Epping reinforces DASCO’s active pipeline of Sydney-based developments at a time when the market is increasingly focused on owner-occupier appeal, delivery confidence, and long-term quality.

DASCO is partnering on Senso Epping with leading Australian alternative asset management firm Metrics, which has more than $30 billion in assets under management.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=134954]

DASCO reveals Senso, Epping’s first resort-style apartment development

Preliminary data by research giant Charter Keck Cramer reveals a 54 per cent decline in Build to Sell apartments across Australia's capital cities, while the Build to Rent boom continues with a 378 per cent increase over the last five years.

Charter Keck Cramer's upcoming National State of the Market Report - Key Metropolitan Areas, scheduled for release in September, will reveal&nbsp;a dramatic transformation in apartment supply patterns across Australia's capital cities between FY2016-2020 and FY2021-2025.

The Build to Sell (BTS) apartment sector has experienced a substantial contraction, with total supply falling by 54 per cent compared to the previous five-year period. The decline represents a reduction of 149,200 apartments across all capital cities.

<img alt="BTS Charter Keck Cramer" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3db2ddf3-e7c0-481f-b8b9-63efb365cb80" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-20%20at%2011.26.34%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=bsQl8inhZA7FeiPamnGvw1tse0obBdSd" />

Sydney led the downturn with a decrease of 73,600 apartments, followed by Melbourne (-42,800) and Brisbane (-26,800). Perth and Adelaide also recorded significant declines of 6,400 and 2,400 apartments respectively. Only Gold Coast and Canberra bucked the trend, with modest increases of 500 and 2,300 apartments.

In stark contrast, the Build to Rent (BTR) sector has emerged as a major force in the apartment market, recording a remarkable 378% increase in supply. This growth added 8,590 apartments across the capital cities during FY2021-2025. Melbourne dominated BTR growth with 6,160 additional apartments, while Sydney contributed 2,100 units. Brisbane and Canberra also recorded growth of 800 and 330 apartments respectively. Gold Coast and Perth recorded minor declines, while Adelaide maintained steady levels.

<img alt="BTR CKC" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ca13ffd4-ab93-4828-afd2-4c3dccbd2b51" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-08-20%20at%2011.28.54%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=SXNnpcJuFD36ViWOwF6izBBqcQc3NWao" />

“These preliminary findings indicate a fundamental shift in Australia's apartment development landscape, with traditional Build to Sell models giving way to institutional Build to Rent developments,” said Richard Temlett, Charter Keck Cramer’s National Executive Director of Research.

"This transition reflects changing investor preferences, regulatory environments and housing affordability challenges across major metropolitan areas.”

The complete Charter Keck Cramer National State of the Market Report – Key Metropolitan Areas will provide comprehensive analysis of these trends, their underlying drivers and implications for developers, investors and policymakers when released in September.

Build to Sell apartment supply drops 54% in five years across Australian capital cities

Verso Development Group is seeking to bring over 1,100 apartments to the heart of Brisbane's Toowong, with plans filed for a $1 billion, triple tower development known as Toowong Central.

The landmark urban regeneration project "aims to reshape the core of Brisbane’s inner-west riverside suburb."

Covering over 1.4-hectares across&nbsp;Sherwood Road, High Street, and Jephson Street, Toowong Central has been designed by KHA and will comprise three towers rising 49, 55, and 58 levels.

<img alt="Toowong Central" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="48611e3d-7123-4b99-b2cb-bfa4bc98024f" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/amenities.png?VersionId=yKBexB.BgCkq4OET8fHDkWs0d3DjxOKJ" />

According to the Urban Context Report prepared by Urbis, Toowong Central is positioned as a “city-defining precinct reclaiming Toowong as ‘the best destination in the west’,” with a vision to deliver density differently, strengthen Toowong’s identity, and lead subtropical urban design.

There will be a wide range of apartment configurations, from one-bedrooms to five-bedroom penthouses, as well as short-term accomodation offerings. The design prioritises pedestrian permeability, with an activated public realm featuring a central civic plaza, laneways, and street-level retail and dining.

“The central square’s structure, programming, scale and location creates a social anchor - shaped by its edges, flexible for use, and animated by a diversity of experiences throughout the day and into the evening,” the Urban Context Report noted, reinforcing the project's ambition to become a vibrant community destination.

Design excellence was pursued through an international design competition, attracting entries from renowned practices such as UNStudio and BIG. KHA’s winning design distinguished itself with a ceremonial approach to the public realm, integrating terraces, tiered seating, and green infrastructure to promote social interaction and resilience.

The development builds upon two existing approvals: the 25- and 20-storey towers of the Aviary Toowong proposal, and a separate 25- and 24-storey approval at 88 Jephson Street. Consolidation of these fragmented landholdings under a precinct-wide approach allows for increased community value and cohesive urban integration.

Urbis Director Nicholas Stevenson said Toowong Central will bridge the gap in Toowong's current experience, unlocking the potential of the wider precinct.

"Overcoming experiential constraints and leveraging contextual advantages – Toowong Central will redefine Brisbane's inner west.”

<img alt="Toowong Central" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="73f7a702-625d-452d-9df2-30a0863ac1e8" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/master.png?VersionId=TZdh6wxGC_8IIroXpdkZfuhlS8mFZnea" />

Toowong Central’s ambition extends beyond residential and commercial outcomes. Uses under consideration include a world-class hotel, university facilities, a museum, and health and wellness services, reflecting its role as a western gateway to Brisbane’s growing innovation corridor between the CBD and the University of Queensland.

Urbis Managing Partner James Tuma said Brisbane has no greater opportunity to showcase the future of urban living than Toowong – a sustainable, economically vibrant, and people-centric place that embodies the best of Brisbane.

[The plans] gives us a glimpse into our future as a globally relevant, youthful, entrepreneurial, and distinctly subtropical city.”

$1 billion Toowong Central to deliver 1,100 apartments to undersupplied Brisbane market

In <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/runaway-bay-qld-4216">Runaway Bay</a>, new townhouse-scale waterfront residences are rare - but ones built to the standards found on Sovereign Island are almost unheard of.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-townhouses/ocean-suites-on-jennifer-10-12-jennifer-avenue-runaway-bay-qld-4216">Ocean Suites on Jennifer</a>&nbsp;changes that, delivering a calibre of construction and detailing that places its seven villas well above the typical market offering in this northern Gold Coast pocket.

Ocean Suites on Jennifer will be move-in ready before Christmas this year, giving buyers the chance to spend the summer on the water in one of Runaway Bay’s rare new waterfront residences.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214444]

The development is a collaboration between <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/stuart-osman">Stuart Osman Design</a> and <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sand-side-developments">Sand Side Developments</a>, with construction by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/builders/alroe-constructions">Alroe Constructions</a>.

Architect Stuart Osman says the intent from the outset was to create a home people would be drawn to. “When you build anything, the design is to make you want to go hang out in this house,” he says.&nbsp;

Ocean Suites on Jennifer’s design features a front façade softened with planter boxes, rear pool areas, and rooftop decks looking over the water.&nbsp;

Inside, voids and high skylights bring daylight deep into the centre of each home, while ceiling heights of 2.85 metres maintain a strong sense of volume.

Each four-level residence spans 345 to 388 sqm, with layouts accommodating multi-generational living - a ground-floor bedroom suite for older family members and upper levels for the rest of the household. A lift connects all floors.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214435]

For Andrew Erwin, Director at NPA, the project’s appeal lies in both its location and the detail in execution.&nbsp;

"At Ocean Suites, you’ve got a canal-front setting with direct Broadwater access and a level of finish you’d normally only see in the city’s most prestigious addresses. The four-level layouts, the glass-framed living areas, the private pools, even the extended kitchens, every part of it has been designed with the buyer in mind,” he says.

Those buyers have so far been a mix of Gold Coast locals and interstate purchasers, many seeking a lock-up-and-leave holiday home or a downsized residence without sacrificing space for visiting family.&nbsp;

Older households with teenage children are a recurring profile, drawn to layouts that support multi-generational living and the ability to host extended stays.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214432]

Material selection reinforces the project’s quality-first ethos, with every home appointed to a premium standard. Kitchens and ensuites feature engineered stone surfaces, complemented by prestige oak engineered timber floors, Victorian ash hardwood staircases, and soft loop-pile carpet.

Premium lighting, statement pendants, ceiling fans, and Fujitsu ducted air conditioning elevate both comfort and design. Each residence also includes a suite of high-end appliances as standard - Fisher &amp; Paykel integrated fridges, Bosch ovens, induction cooktops and dishwashers, Vintec wine fridges, and Franke sinks.

Beyond the interiors, residents enjoy an enviable lifestyle with rooftop terraces, private plunge pools, fire pit areas, outdoor showers, smart home automation, laundry chutes, and private pontoons.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214452]

With no additional upgrade costs, Sand Side Developments underscores its no-shortcuts approach, delivering homes where luxury and amenity come as standard.

Osman adds that the kitchen has been designed as “the main hub of the house” with six metres high skylights above a galley-style layout that “makes it feel bigger, brighter, whiter” and “brings light into the centre of the home.”

Both architect and builder emphasise a shared commitment to delivering the intended design without compromise. “Working with Alroe’s structural team and their construction team, it’s been great to make sure that the look and feel that was originally intended is the result achieved at the end of the project,” Osman says.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138718 project_image_fid=214453]

Outdoor living has been given equal consideration, with rooftop terraces designed for entertaining with a fire pit and bar, and spacious undercover patios featuring private plunge pools.

The marine access is as carefully executed as the homes themselves. An eight-metre gangway leads to a six-metre private pontoon capable of mooring vessels up to 30 feet, just 300 metres by water from the Broadwater.&nbsp;

Even the orientation of each villa has been optimised to capture long views down the canal, across the Broadwater, and south to Main Beach.

With construction in its final stages, just three of the seven villas remain, priced from $3.365 million to $3.695 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138718]

Sovereign Island standards come to Runaway Bay with Ocean Suites on Jennifer

Student accommodation

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<h2 class="legacy">Opinion</h2>

Victorian universities <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/universities-hatch-desperate-plan-to-fly-students-in-quarantine-them-20210406-p57gvo">recently re-proposed</a> a previously conceived plan to get international students back under a similar model used to fly in tennis players for the Australian Open. Under the proposal, universities would help pay for around 1,000 foreign students to be flown into Melbourne every two to three weeks and placed into special lockdown arrangements.

Similar plans to get international students back have been considered in various states since borders closed in March last year – and then quietly shelved. So far, only the <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-11-30/international-students-arrive-in-australia-coronavirus-nt/12933370">Northern Territory has been able to bring 63 students to Australia</a>.

But 63 students is an almost negligible number compared to how many visa holders are still stranded outside the country — an estimated 30% of 542,106 (or around 160,000) student visa holders were outside Australia as of <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-01-15/international-student-ghost-tower-in-carlton/13058916">January 10 2021</a>.

In February, Phil Honeywood, the CEO of the International Education Association of Australia, expressed uncharacteristic desperation in his monthly email to members. He wrote:

When we directly lobby our federal politicians to promote student return plans, we are told that state/territory governments have full control of quarantine and we have to persuade them first. However, our discussions with state and territory politicians invariably produce the response that because the federal government controls Border Force, the ADF and international airport arrival caps, they are the ones actually in control!

Victorian Acting Premier James Merlino <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/universities-hatch-desperate-plan-to-fly-students-in-quarantine-them-20210406-p57gvo">last week also blamed Canberra for the lack of progress</a> to bring students back:

If you don’t get that from the federal government then it doesn’t matter what other ideas, whether it’s the City of Melbourne, SA, NSW or ourselves, doesn’t matter what idea you have to deliver it, if you can’t get people [students] on the flights, it’s a no-goer.

But Federal Education Minister Alan Tudge is on the other side of the blame game, <a href="https://www.studyinternational.com/news/australian-universities-2022/">saying, at the end of March</a>:

There is still the opportunity to bring students back in small, phased pilots. This could occur if an institution works with the state or territory government and presents a plan to us for quarantining international students […] I have discussed various plans with government and university leaders but to date have not received any concrete proposal.

This is all very confusing for the international education sector, which has come up with a number of concrete plans. Neither level of government seems to be able to either offer a sufficient explanation for why a plan it was considering was abandoned or, when an explanation is offered, when that plan may be resumed.

This creates the perception, among those working in the sector and international students, that no governments care about their fate.

South Australian and ACT plans shelved

The Australian Capital Territory and South Australia were the first jurisdictions to <a href="https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/politics/federal/international-students-to-fly-to-canberra-next-month-under-pilot-program-20200617-p553hb">announce plans</a> to bring back international students. In June 2020, they proposed pilots that would bring in 350 and 800 students to Canberra and Adelaide respectively. But both these plans were put on hold after Victoria’s second wave hit at the beginning of July.

The South Australian pilot was <a href="https://www.sbs.com.au/language/english/international-students-set-to-fly-back-to-south-australia-from-these-nine-countries">resuscitated in November</a> — with preparations reportedly well advanced — before an outbreak later that month sent Adelaide into a snap lockdown and the pilot was again put on ice.

Not to be deterred, ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr <a href="https://www.canberratimes.com.au/story/7051694/barr-wants-international-students-to-return-to-canberra-by-february/">announced in December</a> he had requested Commonwealth approval to bring students back by February this year, but this too was quietly shelved with no explanation given.

Victoria and NSW try and try again

In Victoria universities and student accommodation providers have put a series of proposals to the state government, the first of which were scuppered when Victoria went into extended lockdown from July during the second wave.

In <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/politics/victoria/international-students-could-quarantine-in-hubs-from-january-20201210-p56mf7">December the Victorian government was considering</a> a plan to fly in up to 23,000 international students early in 2021, who would serve out their quarantine in student accommodation. By <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/jan/15/victoria-plans-for-international-students-return-with-special-quarantine-housing">January the state government was upbeat</a> saying it was “working closely” with the federal government to finalise the plan.But that all changed in February. In a national cabinet meeting at which an international student return plan was to be agreed, Prime Minister Scott Morrison <a href="https://www.studyinternational.com/news/return-to-australia-2021/">instead said</a>:

Within weeks, a small number of cases of community transmission from a Melbourne quarantine hotel caused a snap lockdown and the cessation of incoming international flights, which only resumed in April.

It was agreed once again that the return of Australian residents is the priority in terms of arrivals to Australia. We must remember that our borders are actually shut. No one can just come to Australia.

Now that the dust appears to have settled once more, <a href="https://www.theage.com.au/national/universities-hatch-desperate-plan-to-fly-students-in-quarantine-them-20210406-p57gvo">Victorian universities are trying again</a>, with a proposal to fly in 1,000 students each fortnight. The state government’s response so far appears lukewarm at best.

New South Wales has also had its share of pilot announcements. A well-developed scheme to <a href="https://www.smh.com.au/politics/nsw/hard-to-see-a-safe-corridor-nsw-shelves-plan-for-return-of-international-students-20210107-p56scz">start returning 1,000 international students</a> to Sydney each week was shelved in January after the outbreaks in the northern beaches and Western Sydney.

The NSW government subsequently tried for <a href="https://www.examiner.com.au/story/7158868/tasmania-refuses-quarantine-request-for-overseas-students-in-nsw/">international NSW university students to quarantine in Tasmania</a> before coming to Sydney. Unsurprisingly the idea was quickly quashed by the Tasmanian Premier Peter Gutwein.

So, what now?

Only <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2020-11-30/international-students-arrive-in-australia-coronavirus-nt/12933370">63 international students have come to Australia</a> through the Northern Territory in November 2020. They were quarantined in the Howard Springs facility. In March 2021, <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2021-03-05/howard-springs-covid-quarantine-returned-passengers-expanding/13220188">Scott Morrison announced</a> the Howard Springs facility’s capacity would increase to 2,000 people per fortnight. But there is no suggestion any of those places will be available for international students.

A <a href="https://www.ahuri.edu.au/research/research-papers/enhancing-the-design-quality-of-purpose-built-student-accommodation">recent study</a> I was involved in identified nearly 12,000 beds in student accommodation facilities in the City of Sydney and nearly 19,000 in the City of Melbourne. Using some of these properties could <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-unis-can-use-student-housing-to-solve-international-student-quarantine-issues-150180">provide a parallel quarantine pathway</a> for international students – without taking hotel quarantine spaces away from returning Australians.

New South Wales recently launched the <a href="https://www.tenders.nsw.gov.au/?event=public.scheme.showClosed&amp;RFTUUID=3E178749-AECF-E64F-52BC8491F542DAEC">International Student Accommodation Quarantine program</a>. The NSW government has invited student accommodation providers to apply to be assessed for eligibility (based on things like location and building layout) to house international students.

This is promising. We all agree bringing Australians home is a priority. But we have the capacity to bring back both. We know costs will be borne by students and education providers, and students will be subject to the same quarantine requirements and testing regimes already in place for returning Australians.

It’s just not good enough for the education minister to keep parroting the line returning Australians “<a href="https://www.skynews.com.au/details/_6238700355001">remain the priority</a>” over international students. If the government refuses to continue plans to bring students back, it must show them respect by providing a clear reason.<img alt="The Conversation" height="1" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/158778/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" width="1" wu8tx1wxf="">

<a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/christopher-ziguras-956941">Christopher Ziguras</a>, Professor of Global Studies, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/rmit-university-1063">RMIT University</a>

This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/the-government-keeps-shelving-plans-to-bring-international-students-back-to-australia-it-owes-them-an-explanation-158778">original article</a>.
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So far, only the Northern Territory has been able to bring 63 students to Australia, abysmal

jordan_55689

The government keeps shelving plans to bring international students back to Australia

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Although some student apartment markets are currently impacted by a lack of demand due to the fall in international students, investors can still secure a strong performing long-term investment.

Apartments in student markets more affordable than ever, and according to the Demographics Group’s Simon Kuestenmacher, international students will likely drive a correction in prices for student-focused apartments in the longer term.

“Sooner or later, international students will come back to Melbourne because the demand for a high quality, English-speaking, in-person university experience is not going to shrink while we’ve got those growth economies in Asia,” Kuestenmacher told Domain.

As one of Victoria’s best performing universities, Monash hosts more than 85,000 students at its various campuses around Melbourne.

Urban takes a look at five apartments perfect for students nearby Monash, ideal for scholars and academics, high-income postgraduates and investors.

<h2>Apartments close to the Monash Parkville Campus</h2>

Home to the university’s Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, the Parkville campus is made up of five buildings on Royal Parade and is close-by Monash Law’s city campus.

Property investors with investments in the surrounding suburbs benefit from the campus, which enrols around 1,100 undergrad and postgrad students, which attracts international students, part-time students and professional researchers.

1. Melbourne Grand, Melbourne 
Address: 560 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 
One-bedroom apartments from $498,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=3490]

Winner of the HIA ‘Victorian apartment complex of the year 2020,’ Central Equity’s Melbourne Grant provides an outstanding living experience.

Less than a kilometre away from Monash University’s Parkville campus, postgraduate students and investors alike will enjoy the residence’s ideal location.

The residence features various amenities, including resort-style facilities, residents’ lounge, 17-seat theatre and coffee bar.

2. Parkhill Apartments, West Melbourne 
Address: 408 Spencer Street, West Melbourne VIC 3003 
One-bedroom apartments from $479,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=27406]

Although a bit further from the campus, three kilometres south, the well-connected Parkhill Apartments offers stylish residences on the fringe of the Melbourne CBD.

Delivered by Central Equity, the project benefits from bright apartments with up to 2.7-metre-high ceilings, spacious balconies and seven-day concierge service.

Located minutes from Queen Victoria Market, transport links and Flagstaff Gardens, this project is one to consider.

<h2>Apartments close to the Monash Clayton Campus</h2>

Clayton campus, the university’s main campus, boasts a student population exceeding 41,000.

The 1.1 sqkm site also hosts the majority of Monash’s 9,000 academic staff, as well as visiting researchers, scholars and doctoral students.

1. Aster Apartments, Clayton South 
Address: 456 Haughton Road, Clayton South VIC 3169 
One-bedroom apartments from $396,800

[smartcode_project:default project_id=4124]

Delivered by Cedar Woods and designed by DKO Architecture, Aster Apartments boasts affordable apartments in the award-winning masterplanned community, Jackson Green.

With over 4,700 sqm of public open space, residents at Aster can enjoy plenty of social spaces to connect with neighbours, just 1.8 kilometres from Monash’s main campus.

Clayton’s South is a hub for healthcare and education, connecting residents to employment opportunities, countless amenities and developed infrastructure.

2. M-City, Clayton 
Address: 2107 Dandenong Road, Clayton VIC 3168 
One-bedroom apartments from $371,300

[smartcode_project:default project_id=528]

Just 700 metres from the Clayton campus, M-City provides a sophisticated ‘mini-city’ in Clayton, within walking distance to grocery stores, restaurants, bars and more.

Shiavello’s development is situated in the lively Clayton, which has had an average annual growth of 12 per cent over the last three years.

Each apartment contains floor-to-ceiling glazing, spacious, private balconies and luxury resort-style facilities, including a heated pool, landscaped gardens and barbeque zones.

<h2>Apartments close to the Monash Caulfield Campus</h2>

Comprising over 13,000 students, the Monash Caulfield campus is the university’s second-largest.

Located within the Glen Eira City Council, Caulfield boasts good infrastructure, an excellent community feel and great schools.

1. 1060 Carnegie 
Address: 1060 Dandenong Road, Carnegie VIC 3163 
One-bedroom apartments from $459,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=2882]

Located only 1.3 kilometres from the Caulfield campus, 1060 Carnegie enjoys the convenience of two train stations, four train lines and a dedicated tram route.

Beautiful parks, gardens and sport facilities provide vast amenity to students, homeowners and visiting scholars.

Delivered by Fortune Property Group and designed by Peddle Thorp Architects, the apartments feature landscaped lawns, rooftop garden and integrated storage space.

2. Equus, Glen Huntly 
Address: 28 Watson Grove, Glen Huntly VIC 3163 
One-bedroom apartments from $470,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=28063]

Placed in the intimate suburb of Glen Huntly, Equus affords a superior quality of life in an exceptional location, just 11 kilometres south-east of the CBD and 1.2 kilometres from the Caulfield campus.

Owner-occupiers and investors will enjoy the area’s relaxed energy and family-friendly neighbourhood.

Equus comprises 39 apartments and offers outdoor entertaining areas, considered space and bright open space.
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According to the Demographics Group’s Simon Kuestenmacher, international students will likely drive a correction in prices for student-focused apartments in the longer term

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Student apartments for under $500k close to Monash University campuses

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A $40 million project to refurbish university-owned residences in Sydney’s inner-city Darlington has been approved by the NSW Government in an attempt to provide more safe and affordable accommodation to students.

Owned by the University of Sydney, the terraces will offer 336 students and visiting academics affordable single and double room accommodation across the original Darlington Road complex and four new buildings, between two and four storeys.

“Darlington Terraces will be renovated and four new buildings built providing new and improved student housing in the heart of the inner-city and within minutes of public transport,” Stokes said.

The development will also include new landscaping, park upgrades and public art, delivering broader benefits to the local area.

University of Sydney vice-chancellor Professor Stephen Garton welcomed the approval. 
 

<h2>Other residences ideal for students or investors in Sydney</h2>

While COVID-19 may have halted the flow of international students to Sydney’s inner-city, suburbs, an off-the-plan purchase offers investors an affordable asset as they wait for the borders to reopen.

Urban takes a look at three residences located in high-student populated areas nearby the city’s leading universities:

1. Eminence, Zetland 
Address: 811 Elizabeth Street, Zetland NSW 2017 
One-bedroom apartments from $745,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=21882]

Delivering some of Zetland's most luxurious oversized apartments, Eminence is a new offering from Meriton. 

Located a short 600-metres from Green Square and 3.5-kilometres from the CBD, Eminence brings together beautifully-considered living environments with vibrant onsite amenities, including a childcare centre, podium gardens and retail.  
 

2. Polo Collection, Rosebery 
Address: 55 Rothschild Avenue, Rosebery NSW 2018 
One-bedroom apartments from $710,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7588]

Designed by award-winning architects SJB, Polo Collection comprises 275 luxury apartments in the conveniently-located Rosebery. 

Also delivered by Meriton, the four-building complex enjoys connected inner-city living, an expansive floorplan and green vistas thanks to the neighbouring Rosebery Park. 
 

3. Spectrum, Mascot 
Address: 42 Church Avenue, Mascot NSW 2020 
One-bedroom apartments from $620,000

[smartcode_project:default project_id=5873]

Strategically located under approximately five kilometres from both the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales, Spectrum presents 367 spacious apartments across four boutique residential towers. 

Spectrum is surrounded by leafy walkways and podium gardens and offers ideal north and east aspects over the lush central park towards Sydney CBD in over 75 per cent of residences.
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Owned by the University of Sydney, the terraces will offer 336 students and visiting academics affordable single and double room accommodation

NSW Government greenlights Darlington Terraces rebuild for affordable student housing

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Singapore-based developer Wee Hur Holdings Ltd has announced the launch of Y Suites, the brand of their Australian purpose build student accommodation (PBSA) portfolio.
Y Suites’ portfolio will include 5,609 beds across their seven projects in various stages of development in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Adelaide and Brisbane.
The first property to be launched, <a href="/news/adelaide-primed-for-two-telling-new-developments?utm_source=PropertyObserver" target="_blank">124 Waymouth Street</a>, which was purchased for $9.275 million, will be Wee Hur’s second PBSA in Adelaide.
Operational from January 2021, the residence will include 811 rooms.
<a href="/developers/wee-hur-holdings-ltd?utm_source=PropertyObserver" target="_blank">Wee Hur Holdings’</a> focused PBSA portfolio includes two operational residences run by student accommodation operator UniLodge.
Y Suites will partner with UniLodge under a white-label arrangement, which will see it as the strategic brand driver for marketing, sales and reservations.
The two operational PBSAS, Unilodge Park Central at Brisbane and Unilodge City Gardens in Adelaide, are currently operating under UniLodge branding.
Both buildings will operate under Y Suites in 2021 with UniLodge continuing with property management.
The remaining four PBSAs in the Wee Hur portfolio are scheduled to be operational between 2022 and 2023.
One of which includes the under-construction <a href="/news/profiling-the-next-wave-of-melbourne-student-accommodation-builds?utm_source=PropertyObserver" target="_blank">Y Suites on A’Beckett in Melbourne</a>, which will have 888 rooms upon completion.
Executive chairman Goh Yeow Lian said he was happy to see the birth of Y Suites after it was conceptualised one year ago.
“We have built up a sizable PBSA portfolio in Australia since we embarked on this business 5 year ago, and developing our own brand was a logical next step for us,” Lian said.
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Wee Hur launches new student accommodation brand Y Suites in Adelaide

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Investment into the Australian student accommodation market has reached record levels in 2019, according to the latest report from Savills Research.
The study ranks the main global student accommodation markets according to their attractiveness to investors, with Australia topping the inaugural index. It looks at a range of factors including demographics, migration, affordability, local legislation, delivery of accommodation, and University rankings and student numbers.
While much of the developed world ages, Australia’s most urbanised cities are forecast to remain youthful, underpinning demand for student accommodation.
Savills 2019 Global Living Report identifies six Australian capital cities which feature within the top 100 cities around the world which in ten years’ time will be the most ‘youthful’ (the largest share of people aged 15-39).
Forecast youthfulness is shaping investment into Australia’s student accommodation sector, with demographic change shifting the profile of the student accommodation investor (figure 1).
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/10/28/figure%201.png" alt="">
Improving Higher Education standards across the globe is broadening choice and making competition for international students greater than ever. Although University tuition fees are a drag on Australia’s ranking, its institutions have a strong international standing and remain a top destination for foreign students.
The US and the UK still remain by far the top two countries globally for universities within the top 400, with 75 and 45 respectively in 2020, followed by Germany (23) and Australia (22). 
Australia’s post-study work visa provides a huge incentive for many people to consider studying in Australia. Between 2012 and 2017 the total number of students in Higher Education has increased by 11% to exceed 220 million.
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/10/28/figure%202.png" alt="">
The report said, "many major student markets, including the UK and US, have seen the size of their university-aged populations decline over the same period. Australia has benefited greatly from its geographic proximity to major Asian source markets such as China, India, Vietnam and Malaysia."
"The number of international students enrolled in Higher Education in Australia now accounts for around a third of total students. The US remains the largest market for international students, host to one million international students (but only 5% by share of total students)."
"The UK is the second largest market for international students by number with 460,000, closely followed by Australia, host to 430,000. Together, these three countries account for a third of all globally mobile students, according to UNESCO. Having addressed the above mentioned factors, low levels of PBSA provision, transparency around investment, and political, social and economic stability pushes Australia to the top of the investability ranking (figure 3)."
<img src="https://www.urban.com.au/images/2019/10/28/figure%203.png" alt="">
"Until early 2019, a lack of available operational assets to purchase has held the sector back from an investment, liquidity and access perspective. However, with over 24,240 student accommodation beds completed since January 2017 and a further 4,170 expected to be completed by the end of 2020, we expect transaction volumes to continue tracking upward," the report concluded.
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Australia recognised as the most investable student accommodation market globally: Savills

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Unilodge has launched a specialised build-to-rent property management arm as the asset class continues to expand.
Essence Communities will provide property management services to investors and developers.
Build-to-rent projects are becoming an increasingly prominent part of the Australian property sector, following the success of similar dwellings in countries such as the US and UK. 
Executive Chairman of UniLodge, Peter Bates, said there is growing demand in the rental market for greater choice and long-term accommodation security.
“We know many Australians are finding it increasingly difficult to purchase property and we are seeing an attitudinal shift with many now seeking high-quality community offerings and the security that comes with longer lease terms,” said Bates.  
“While multi-family developments can address the demand for longer-term accommodation options, the success of the build-to-rent model is contingent on the provision of high-quality amenities and services, with more than one third saying they’d pay a higher rent for attractive community offerings and services.  
“Across our portfolio of more than 70 student accommodation and serviced apartments, we’ve seen how essential security and high-quality community offerings are to creating environments that occupants call home, which in turn delivers high-occupancy rates. 
“Our market-leading technology, bespoke services and understanding of unique community requirements, are key elements of our success and will translate to thriving build-to-rent projects through Essence Communities.”
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UniLodge launch specialised build-to-rent property management arm

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A 405 bed student accommodation facility in Adelaide is set to hit the market with price expectations of $50 million.  
It offers 96 apartments leased to The University of Adelaide under a long term agreement until 2024.
Located at 210 Grote Street, Adelaide, the purpose built complex is set on a site of over 5,333 square metres with a gross building area of 11,600 square metres.
It has been listed for sale through Conal Newland and Paul Savitz of Savills Australia and Jamie Guerra and Roger Klem of JLL.  
International education is considered a key contributor to the state’s economy, positioned as a top export sector for South Australia that generated more than A$1.6 billion in 2018, according to Conal Newland Director, Student Accommodation, Savills Australia.  
“A State Government organisation established in 1998, Study Adelaide, has supported student growth in the city, promoting the state as an education destination and helping international students settle into the broader community,” Newland said.  
“Recent announcements of extensions to temporary post-study visa for international students will further strengthen the attraction of the city globally for both study and work.”
As such, international enrolments across South Australia have grown by 13.6% over the year to March 2019, outpacing the national average over the same period, reaffirming the state’s standing as the preferred destination for international students. 
Located in the Adelaide CBD, the asset is situated within proximity to The University of Adelaide, University of South Australia, Flinders University City Campus, Torrens University, the Adelaide Central Market, Chinatown, Rundle Mall and the Royal Adelaide Hospital.  
Jamie Guerra, Managing Director/South Australia, JLL, noted the University of Adelaide Village is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and provides a safe and supportive environment with a focus on fostering a strong sense of student community. 
Adelaide is home to four universities, three of which are well renowned public South Australian universities and Adelaide has over 71,540 full-time students with about 60% studying in the two main Universities, including The University of Adelaide. 
According to research from Savills Australia, the critical undersupply of appropriate purpose built student accommodation (PBSA) in many capital cities, high occupancy levels within stabilised operational properties, robust revenue growth and attractive yield pricing in comparison to other domestic and global real estate asset classes, all contribute to student accommodation being an attractive investment. 
Offers on 210 Grote Street, Adelaide close August 15.
 
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University of Adelaide Village student accommodation set to hit the market

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The Department of Home Affairs released the latest temporary entrants visa holders which are always worth a squint. 
The number of bridging visas continued its apparently endless increase to record highs, representing the surge in temporary migrants looking to extend their stays on another visa type. 
But the most striking move year-on-year was the +77,000 increase in international student visas to a stock total of 613,000.
Student visas have increased by +48% or +200,000 over the past five years, adding substantially to the capital city populations.
<img src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PARQ9oBbZyU/XOvHpn53cpI/AAAAAAAAwOY/HvtNOk769R8uTOw8G89sdZ3jQ2D-ktQUQCLcBGAs/s640/Visas1.jpg" width="640" height="370" data-original-height="816" data-original-width="1406">
An interesting sub-plot is the steady but determined increase in the number of students obtaining graduate visas, granting them permission to join the labour force for two to three years (many of these will then surely become permanent residents in due course). 
Over the past year the number of temporary entrant visa holders increased by +92,000 to a record high of 2,322,000.
And over the past five years the increase has been a thumping +430,000 or +23%. 
Australia's estimated resident population has ballooned to 25,386,400.
It's always worth considering that some temporary visa holders might be inclined to depart in the event of severe downturn in economic fortunes.
On the other hand Kiwis may be inclined to remain in situ, depending upon what's playing out across the Tasman, students would presumably keep studying, and a lower Aussie dollar might also boost demand for visitor visas, so it's not quite as clear cut as it first appears.
In the end, there is just a helluva lot of demand for Australia Inc. and over the years this has been consistently reflected in surging visa numbers and massive growth in the estimated resident population. 
PETE WARGENT is the co-founder of AllenWargent property buyers (London, Sydney) and a best-selling author and <a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/" target="_blank">blogger</a>. 
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Big surge in student visas: Pete Wargent

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Construction is now underway on La Trobe University’s $100 million student accommodation project at its Melbourne campus in Bundoora.
It is the largest investment for a single project in the university’s history.
The project is part of a $5 billion plan to transform its Bundoora campus into a University City of the Future.
JCB Architects have designed the sustainable and environmentally-conscious spaces, with construction by Multiplex.
Providing an additional 624 beds, the accommodation will be delivered in two new buildings that will utilise mass timber construction to be the largest project of its kind in Victoria.
The accommodation will comprise a range of apartments and common amenities spaces, as well as landscaping connecting the two buildings.
<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/2019/4/26/18-040_La%20Trobe_6%20-%20Photo.jpg" alt="">
La Trobe’s Vice-Chancellor Professor John Dewar said the project will greatly enhance the experience of students living on campus.
“Our exceptional new accommodation will enable more of our students to live on campus, close to where they are studying,” Dewar said.
Graham Burrows, Director at JCB Architects, said the company was thrilled to be part of such an exciting and creative project.
“The design of the new buildings is very much inspired by the extraordinary landscape in which they sit,” Burrows said.
“As the largest mass timber project in Victoria, the buildings will not only offer huge environmental benefits, but they will also provide calm and beautiful spaces in and around which both resident students and the wider La Trobe community can interact.”
Multiplex Regional Director Ross Snowball said this is an innovative and ambitious project which Multiplex is also pleased to be part of.
“We are particularly passionate about emerging design technologies which respond to environmental and sustainability needs, and we love working with universities – so this project perfectly marries the two and I’m really looking forward to seeing the outcome next year,” Snowball said.
Dewar said the accommodation development project would be a major boost to the local economy, with construction supporting more than 500 direct and indirect jobs.
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La Trobe University starts $100 million student accommodation project at Bundoora campus

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A Sydney city fringe property with future development potential has been listed.
The mixed-use freehold corner site at 18 City Road, Chippendale has a two level building on a 259 square metre site.
It has B4 zoning allowing mixed-use and student accommodation development, potential to strata subdivide (STCA) and dual street frontage.
<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/2019/4/5/18%20city%20rd%20living%20area%201.jpg" alt="">
Savill’s Tom Tuxworth, David Hickey, and Jacey Lee are marketing the property.
Hickey said the investment offers a diverse tenant mix with strong annual income.
“This is a prominent, highly sought-after and strategic location within the booming city fringe and fast developing cosmopolitan suburb of Chippendale,” said Hickey.
“We expect interest from owner occupiers, local and offshore investors, student accommodation developers, mixed-use developers and value add investors.”
<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/2019/4/5/18%20city%20rd%20rooftop%201.jpg" alt="">
According to Savills Australia, over the last 18 months, five out of 10 freehold transactions in the Sydney city fringe with a value of $10 million-plus were sold to local buyers.
Tuxworth said competition between local and offshore, in particular Asian investors and developers will be fierce.
“Throughout 2018 many owners sold their assets for a number of reasons including strong rental demand and record capital growth being achieved,” he said.
“The increase in values can be attributed to, in part, record low interest rates and a surplus of global capital flowing into Sydney over the last few years.
“With stock supply reduced in 2018, demand and competition was and continues to intensify which resulted in record-breaking prices in the city fringe.
“However, in the New Year we have seen a resurgence in Asian capital and active offshore buyers looking to secure prime investment stock.”
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