<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/consolidated-properties">Consolidated Properties Group</a> (CPG) is approaching the launch of its latest Brisbane riverfront development, Castile, on the dress circle Skyring Terrace in Newstead.

VIP buyers are now being engaged, with a full public sales launch coming later this year.

Positioned as the final opportunity to secure a new absolute riverfront residence on the East bank of Newstead, Teneriffe or New Farm, Castile at 47 Skyring Terrace has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/woods-bagot">Woods Bagot</a> as a timeless addition to the Brisbane skyline.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=371113]

The name Castile draws on themes of permanence, sophistication and legacy, reflecting a broader vision centred on enduring architecture and timelessness in the rarest of riverfront positions.&nbsp;

CPG Chairman and CEO Don O’Rorke said the project had been envisioned as a future Brisbane icon.&nbsp;

“With 47 metres of direct river frontage and never to be built out views, 47 Skyring Terrace is the definitive address on the Brisbane River,” O’Rorke said.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150489 project_image_fid=371114]

“Rather than following trend-based apartment design, Castile draws inspiration from Brisbane’s great heritage buildings, reinterpreting classical architecture into a contemporary riverfront landmark designed to stand proudly for the next 100 years,” he said.&nbsp;

The approved development will comprise 227 apartments across a 25-storey tower alongside a boutique six-storey riverfront building of just 12 residences.&nbsp;

Construction is scheduled to commence in September 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150489]

Joel Robinson

CPG unveils Castile Newstead ahead of upcoming sales launch

Australia’s online shopping habits have shifted dramatically over the last decade. As eCommerce volumes surged, so too did the frustrations that came with traditional parcel delivery: missed deliveries, long Post Office queues, parcel theft and the challenge of being home during business hours.

Australia Post’s Parcel Lockers emerged as one of the more practical responses to that changing consumer behaviour.

What started as a relatively niche delivery option has evolved into a nationwide network of more than 1,400 self-service Parcel Lockers positioned at train stations, shopping centres, supermarkets and Post Offices across the country. The system allows Australians to send, collect and return parcels 24 hours a day, fundamentally changing how many people interact with deliveries.

The appeal is relatively straightforward: flexibility.

Instead of waiting at home for a delivery driver or rushing to a Post Office before closing time, users can direct eligible parcels to a Parcel Locker location of their choice. Once the parcel arrives, Australia Post sends a notification with a collection code or QR access through the AusPost app, allowing customers to retrieve their package at any time within the collection window.

For apartment residents in particular, the system has become increasingly valuable.

Higher-density living has created logistical challenges around deliveries, especially in buildings without concierge services or secure parcel rooms. Missed deliveries are common, while parcel theft has become an increasing concern as online shopping volumes continue to rise.

Australia Post itself has repeatedly highlighted the growing issue of “porch pirates” during peak shopping periods, encouraging customers to use Parcel Lockers as a safer alternative to unattended home deliveries.

That security aspect is one of the key reasons the Australia Post Parcel Locker network has grown so rapidly.

Parcel Lockers are positioned as secure, monitored collection points that reduce the risk of theft while also improving delivery efficiency for Australia Post. Instead of multiple redelivery attempts, parcels can be consolidated into a single secure destination.

The Parcel Lockers themselves are free to use through a MyPost account and support a range of parcel sizes up to 16 kilograms and dimensions of approximately 35 x 44 x 61 centimetres.

Beyond receiving parcels, the system has increasingly become integrated into the broader eCommerce ecosystem.

Customers can now use Parcel Lockers to return online purchases, while retailers have embraced the model as a way to improve delivery success rates and reduce friction in the shopping process. Australia Post has actively expanded partnerships with major retailers and promoted Parcel Lockers as part of a broader out-of-home strategy.

The timing of that expansion aligns with broader changes in Australian shopping behaviour.

The acceleration of online retail during and after the pandemic placed enormous pressure on delivery infrastructure. Parcel volumes reached record highs, particularly during Black Friday and Christmas periods, with Australia Post delivering more than 100 million parcels during peak festive seasons.

That growth forced logistics providers to rethink the “last mile” of delivery, widely regarded as the most expensive and operationally difficult stage of the process.

Parcel Locker systems have increasingly been viewed as part of the long-term solution.

The concept itself is not unique to Australia. Parcel Locker networks have become common globally, particularly across Europe and Asia, where dense urban environments and apartment living create similar logistical challenges. But Australia’s geography and suburban sprawl made adoption slower initially.

Now, however, the convenience factor is driving mainstream usage.

For commuters, Parcel Lockers near train stations allow parcels to be collected on the way home from work. For apartment dwellers, they remove the uncertainty around access and missed deliveries.

The rise of the AusPost app has also streamlined the experience, centralising notifications, tracking and Parcel Locker access into a single platform. Australia Post has increasingly pushed customers toward app-based delivery management, partly as a way to combat phishing scams and fake delivery notifications, which have become more sophisticated in recent years.

The Parcel Locker model is also beginning to influence property development itself.

Parcel management has become a growing consideration in apartment building design, particularly as online shopping becomes embedded in everyday life. Many new residential developments are now incorporating dedicated parcel rooms or Parcel Locker systems into foyers and communal spaces.

For developers, parcel management is increasingly viewed as part of the broader resident amenity offering, alongside gyms, wellness spaces and communal work areas.

That reflects a wider evolution in how residential buildings are designed.

Apartment buyers are placing greater emphasis on convenience, security and operational functionality, particularly in higher-density urban environments. Parcel delivery, once considered a minor operational detail, has become an increasingly important part of that equation.

Australia Post’s Parcel Locker network sits at the centre of that behavioural shift.

What began as a simple alternative delivery option has evolved into a key piece of infrastructure supporting Australia’s growing eCommerce economy and changing urban lifestyles.

And as online shopping continues to expand, the role of Parcel Lockers is likely to become even more embedded in how Australians live, shop and receive goods.

How Australia Post Parcel Lockers changed parcel delivery convenience in Australia

Perth’s new apartment market recorded its strongest quarter of sales since Q4 2021, with 412 apartments sold in Q1 2026 and a record quarterly sold value of $537 million, according to Urbis’ latest Apartment Essentials results.

Urbis said the March quarter result reflects strong, highly product‑specific demand across both ends of the market, from more attainable projects delivering at scale, through to premium stock being absorbed by equity‑rich downsizers.&nbsp;

David Cresp, Partner at Urbis, said the key story in Perth is not demand, it is the market’s ability to convert demand into delivered housing.&nbsp;

“This is the strongest sales quarter since Q4 2021, and it reinforces that demand in Perth is real and it’s local,” David Cresp said. “But the task now is delivery, turning that demand into projects that can actually be built and completed.”&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=110291 project_image_fid=302785]

<h2>Affordable product leads, premium demand remains resilient</h2>

Sales in Q1 were led by more affordable projects, with The Boulevard (SKS Group) recording 115 sales in the quarter, the presentation noting this is only the second time a single project has surpassed 100 quarterly sales. The project was able to offer more affordable housing product right next to a train station.&nbsp;

Palmyra West (Finbar) also delivered strong results with 28 sales in Q1, following 84 sales in Q4, with an average price of under $800,000, underscoring depth of demand for well‑located, attainable new stock.&nbsp;

At the premium end, Urbis said downsizer demand is continuing, with the results highlighting Romeo (Applecross, Finbar) recording 75 sales and reaching almost 50% sold in one quarter.

Jual (Shenton Park, Celsius Property) also posted a strong quarter with 28 sales, reaching 39% sold in one quarter.

Urbis noted that Perth apartment demand is not speculative, not investor‑led, and not uniform, describing it as localised, often equity‑driven and highly product‑specific, a pattern reflected in the polarisation between strong “attainable” performers and premium downsizer product.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=148957 project_image_fid=364102]

<h2>Prices underpinned by costs, and the delivery risk is growing</h2>

Urbis said pricing pressure is cost not demand‑driven: construction costs and delivery risk are now a central constraint, with the results noting build costs remain elevated and volatile, and that energy, fuel and labour uncertainty weigh on feasibility.

David Cresp said a growing challenge for private Build‑to‑Sell developers is simply securing a builder in the current environment.

“Developers are really feeling the pressure from a building market that was operating at capacity and securing a builder is challenging,” David Cresp said, adding that even where a builder can be secured, “trying to get to the price that makes the development financially viable is incredibly challenging in the current market.”&nbsp;

Urbis’ broader WA commentary also notes that industry remains at or above capacity with lot and housing creation, and that many builders are limiting new sales to manage stretched workforces and fixed‑price contract pressures, conditions that flow directly into apartment feasibility and delivery timing.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108869 project_image_fid=317905]

<h2>Supply: improving later, but still constrained, and Perth lags eastern benchmarks</h2>

While near‑term supply remains constrained, Urbis’ forecast shows completions lifting “Supply is forecast to be back above 1,500 apartments per annum for the first time since 2019”, with 1,775 completions forecast for 2026, and volumes remaining above that level over the following years.&nbsp;

Looking further ahead, completions are forecast to reach 2,500 in 2028, with the report noting 32% of that total is social/affordable, reflecting the role of government‑supported delivery in rebuilding the pipeline.&nbsp;

However, Urbis said Perth remains behind comparable markets on pipeline scale. In a national comparison of projects under construction, the report shows under construction Perth Build‑to‑Sell (BTS) at 3,446 apartments versus the Gold Coast at 7,922. Mr Cresp said “The challenge for Perth is how to we grow the delivery pipeline”.

Urbis’ conclusion is that Perth’s market is increasingly defined by product discipline and delivery certainty, with the research identifying “delivery certainty is key” and calling out builder risk and procurement models as core success factors, alongside “timing and staging”.&nbsp;

Perth apartment sales hit strongest pace since late 2021 as builder capacity tightens

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sammut-developments">Sammut Group</a> has secured development approval for its latest Brisbane apartment project, marking the Sydney developer’s next step in expanding its Queensland pipeline following the success of its debut Gold Coast development, Coast.

The approved project at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/44-glen-road-toowong-qld-4066">44 Glen Road, </a><a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/toowong-qld-4066">Toowong</a> will deliver a 15-storey riverfront apartment building with 42 residences, significantly increasing the scale of the site’s previous approval for a smaller luxury scheme. Designed by Bureau^proberts, the development will comprise a mix of predominantly four-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments positioned to maximise Brisbane River and city views.

Sammut Director Julian Sammut said the group had been actively searching Brisbane for several years before identifying Toowong as the right fit.

“Brisbane was the right step for Sammut,” Sammut said.

“With the success of Coast we thought we should definitely look to do more in Queensland alone. We then pushed up to look at Brisbane. We've been looking for I'd say two to three years actually and it was hard to find the right location.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/f_auto,c_limit,w_1440,q_75/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/field/image/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.14%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=dYAVIL7qdcGA8ojvkslSrLjczXFejSSx" />

Sammut said suburbs including New Farm and Teneriffe were considered before the group ultimately focused on Toowong due to its strong downsizer demographic and limited supply of developable riverfront land.

The site was acquired off-market after what Sammut described as a lengthy negotiation and planning process, with the developer pursuing an uplift to the original approval.

“We are DA approved now which is very exciting,” Sammut said.

“We've had our change approval come through and we've obviously doubled the height, 15 storeys plus rooftop. We've got 42 amazing apartments that are going to be coming to market soon.”

<img alt="Sammut makes Brisbane apartment play" data-entity-type="" data-entity-uuid="" src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,dpr_2.0,q_auto:good/https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202025-12-23%20at%203.27.26%E2%80%AFPM.png?VersionId=ohkRkY0dIZlqdfME2EZePsCQavRiBadE" />

Bureau^proberts said the design responds to Toowong’s evolving urban character, balancing contemporary apartment living with the area’s established residential identity.

“A place where traditional Queensland living has taken place for centuries; Toowong is seeing a shift of contemporary influence, commercial and retail hubs mixed with well-considered residential offerings – all the while maintaining its character and charm,” the architect noted in planning documents submitted to Brisbane City Council.

The architecture practice said the project’s form was shaped by its riverfront setting, flood considerations, neighbouring building scales, and view corridors.

“They said the mix of four and two-bedroom apartments capture the ‘fundamental qualities of Queenslander living,’ translated into the context of a contemporary subtropical building.”

The development sits just off Coronation Drive within walking distance of Toowong’s retail precinct and the upgraded Regatta ferry terminal, while also benefiting from proximity to the incoming green bridge connection to West End. Sammut said the accessibility and amenity offering were central to the site’s appeal.

The approval adds to growing residential activity along the Toowong riverfront, joining nearby projects including Consolidated Properties’ Monarch Residences and Spyre Group’s ARC Residences.

Sammut secures approval for debut Brisbane apartment development in Toowong

Developer Lanevick is heading back into Sydney’s apartment market after focusing more heavily on the luxury townhouse and terrace sector in recent years.

Lanevick, founded and directed by Steve Maroun, is expecting to receive approval in the coming months for a new apartment development in Gladesville, with the aim to launch it to the market later this year.

The 51-apartment project, designed by Studio Johnston, will comprise a mix of one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments positioned toward the Hunters Hill downsizer market.

“Traditionally it’s been difficult for people in that market to downsize because there just hasn’t been the right product available,” Maroun said.

“We’re targeting buyers who might have 30 to 40 per cent of their house value sitting in the bank after downsizing.

“They still want good spacious entertaining areas, they still want quality design, but they also want flexibility and the ability to enjoy life a bit more after working hard for a long time.”

The project sits near Boronia Park and within close proximity to the Parramatta River foreshore, an area Maroun says offers more of a Hunters Hill lifestyle than a traditional apartment precinct.

“From a lifestyle perspective, it’s really more Hunters Hill than Gladesville,” Maroun said. “You’re close to the foreshore, close to parklands, and still connected back into the village precinct.”

From level four and above, apartments will capture water views&nbsp;toward Sydney Harbour. Communal amenity will include rooftop entertaining areas, wellness spaces, and a gym tailored toward owner-occupier buyers.

“We’ve really designed these apartments around that buyer coming from the Hunters Hill LGA and what they’re actually looking for in their next chapter.”

The proposed development has also been designed to respond to the changing character of the broader Gladesville town centre, where a growing number of mixed-use and residential proposals are expected to emerge over the coming years.

“Gladesville presented a rare opportunity to deliver a genuinely design-led residential project within an evolving lifestyle precinct, just moments from the growing Gladesville town centre, and we’ve approached the project with a strong focus on architecture, liveability and long-term community value,” Maroun said.

Maroun said Lanevick saw a first-mover advantage within the precinct as planning controls continue to evolve to accommodate greater housing density.

“We think there’s a real opportunity there that hasn’t really been serviced properly yet,” he said.

“There’s going to be a broader evolution of the whole Gladesville village precinct over time, particularly with more activation and mixed-use outcomes.”

The Venus Street proposal will include a commercial and retail component at ground level designed to contribute to that evolving streetscape activation.

“A big part of the thinking was how do you activate that area properly and create more vibrancy and amenity, which is what Hunters Hill has been looking for,” Maroun said.

Lanevick’s focus since 2020 has largely been on smaller-scale luxury townhouse and terrace developments. The developer recently completed Royale Randwick, also designed by Studio Johnston, where prices reached $3.65 million. The project was featured in the UDIA NSW 2026 Professional Development Prospectus and was also named a finalist for Development of the Year.

&nbsp;

Lanevick to cater for Hunters Hill downsizers with new Gladesville apartment development

Sydney

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GUEST OBSERVATION
In my time of investing and purchasing for investors, I have the luxury of knowing that this current market movement is not normal, nor an accurate prediction of what they next five years will be like.
In fact, if anything, I am more bearish now about property than I have been for some six years, seeing that affordability and irrational exuberance have taken over rational thinking and sensible wealth planning.
But I have never actually been called a property bear - until now, that is.
I copped the comment last week at a luncheon, replete with bankers and wankers. I might also add that my fellow lunchers included people who exclusively made their money from giving obscene levels of credit to suckers (otherwise known as consumers) to go and buy more residential property.
After I gave someone a response that they clearly didn't want to hear, of course I was howled down. In their minds, there are so many people out there buying right now. The masses clearly can't be that wrong.
Can't they? Have they ever been that wrong before?
You bet they have. In fact, history demonstrates this repeatedly. I cite below one of the most extraordinary examples of irrational exuberance ever to present itself to an investor market.
Tulip Mania
The Tulip Craze of Holland truly demonstrates not only what a human mind can conjure up to consider an investment, but how obsession and irrational exuberance can take over even the most logical of minds.
The flower Semper Augustus was judged to be the most valuable flower in the Tulip family in the 1600s. So much so that in 1630 one person paid 3,000 guilders for one tulip bulb.
Do you know what the value of a guilder was in 1630s? Well, me either - but I can tell you that three months later, a Rembrandt painting sold for 1,500 guilders. Importantly, Rembrandt (1606-1669) was not one of those artists who were popular only after he died!
Moving on to 1633, records show that one investor swapped traded three tulip bulbs for a whole property. In the ensuing years (1634-1673) the value of tulips then ran up by another 1000%.
Then, one day, at a non-descript tulip auction, one large buyer didn't turn up to claim his prized tulip trade. Upon witnessing this, other buyers baulked. The ensuing panic saw the value of tulips return to their intrinsic value in less than a week: zero (or at least, the nominal value of just a beautiful flower).
The government of the day agreed to protect people's bad investments to the value of 10%, a story that is repeating itself now. That is: privatise the gains, but socialise the losses. Sometimes, we never learn!
Now, in the above examples it is true to say that there was profit to be made from the trade at every stage except for the when the last investors jumped in.
There is no denying that many of you already have and still will make money from property in 2014-15 in particular segments of the market. But as time passes the risk increases that you may just be the one holding the bomb when the fuse runs out.
I also understand that tulips aren't property. Of course, property has a utility value of some considerable price (a roof over someone's head), but we still need to keep in mind that it is the same "animal spirits" brought out tulip mania that are playing itself in our property market.
This article continues on the next page. To continue, please click below.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
Investors keep bidding the prices of property up, so much so that they can reflect far more than the actual value of the property.
I find it almost strange that I am writing this article at the time when my <a href="https://propertyobserver.com.au/forward-planning/investment-strategy/market-trends/23116-thursday-may-30-observer-gavin-mcpherson" target="_blank">past simple calculations</a> (see paragraph 6) have come about, with average Sydney prices now coming in at $800,000; only $500 off my prediction.
With an interest rate decrease given to consumers last August '13, it is true to say that the potential to bid homes even higher is likely. But not by much. Ask yourself how much more that $40-$50 per month can add to a house price. Very little, I would imagine.
But keep in mind, my calculations used a logical and arithmetic method to it. Logic and arithmetic don't come into the equation when "animal spirits" take over.
And that's why I think property is going to go higher, and produce a lot of pain for those latecomers (still) piling into the Sydney and Melbourne property markets right now.
I am not happy about it, but it seems the inevitable next step for the market to take. Call it irrational exuberance.
The fact remains that the greatest risk always presents itself when the the most people are in the same trade - all expecting it to go up in perpetuity.
Any decrease in this demand in the future can only decrease price expectations.
Is there still opportunity?
The only opportunities I see (at all) for real capital growth are north of the New South Wales border. In <a href="/expert-insights/buying/six-tips-to-help-you-through-the-next-market-cycle-unscathed-gavin-mcpherson">the same article mentioned above</a>, I observered that Brisbane and the Gold Coast presented real buying opportunities over 12 months ago. In fact, they were perfect buying then. It's true that some of the gains have been lost to modest capital growth since then, but opportunity still abounds while so much attention is focussed on the overbid Sydney and Melbourne markets.
And for those who still carry that foolish notion, "I want to live near my investment property, so I can check on it", may I ask how you might feel in 2016/17 if you had to drive by that same property to be reminded that you were in a negative equity position. Wouldn't that be ironic?
Brisbane - I still love it. As Australia's fastest growing capital city (yes, it has overtaken Perth some time ago now!) and Australia's 3rd largest city, for me still stands out as a bastion of value.
For Gold Coast, I don't deny the volatility that this presents over a long term investment period. All the same, for those that can avoid the high rise district and cope with this long term volatility, the seachange effect is something that I expect is occurring in earnest now.
Don't forget, in 2001-04, when prices doubled in the southern states (especially Sydney and Melbourne), the Gold Coast (and less so Brisbane) became a beneficiary of this as migration led by affordable housing made the move north a rational decision. As the sunny state hit prices only 10% below Sydney/Melbourne leading up to 2007, the rationale for a 'seachange' diminished.
With southern states house prices edging $800k and $700k respectively now, yet with Brisbane and Gold Coast at just over half of that, are you telling me that history is not about to repeat itself?
I'd at least put down a few tulip bulbs to bet that it will.
Sydney and Melbourne at record highs, or the northern cities on the way up. What side of this trade are you going to get caught on?
Oh, one more tip. If you think that something like Tulip Mania can't strike again, I have two words for you. Bit. Coin.
Gavin McPherson is the chief executive of <a href="https://www.oasisproperty.com.au/" target="_blank">Oasis Property Group</a>. His book, 'Value Investing in Property - What would Warren Buffet do if he was buying property in Australia?', takes aim at the get rich quick property experts and explains instead the sturdy path to wealth through value investing in property.
 
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gmcpherson-YBEWnRLxLK

Sydney and Melbourne: ticking time bombs

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An investor who'd missed out on two prior Millers Point offerings paid $2.27 million when the fifth terrace was offloaded by the state government at Millers Point.
Fairfax Media advised those who inspected 86 Windmill Street had $1.5 million to $1.6 million price guidance prior to last night's auction. 
The Di Jones sales agents received more than 1370 enquiries, conducted around 200 property inspections and issued over 70 pre-auction contracts.
The heritage-listed three-bedroom terrace backs onto The Paddock park. 
The three-level, three-bedroom property was one of three houses constructed by the Musgrave family in about 1856 to 1861.
Minister for Family and Community Services, Gabrielle Upton noted continued strong interest in Millers Point property sales saw the 86 Windmill Street residence take the total proceeds of five property sales to more than $13.3 million.
Gabrielle Upton said the NSW Government had inherited a social housing system that was "unfair and unsustainable."
“The sale of properties in Millers Point reflects the Government’s resolve to put the social housing system back on solid financial ground,” Ms Upton said.
“Money from the sale of government-owned properties will go back into the public housing system into things like new homes and maintenance.”
“The strong sales results will mean more money can be poured back into helping people especially the 58 000 applicants on the public housing waiting list.”
There is still one property remaining as part of the initial tranche, 30 Argyle Place, which is due to go for auction on October 8 through Ray White agent Craig Pontey.
 
 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Investor secures heritage Millers Point terrace on third attempt

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Parking is a hot topic for apartment developments. Some see current minimum car space requirements in developments as necessities and others see them as restrictive.
This makes the new planning guidelines crucial for ensuring a practical approach for apartment living across Sydney.
The Urban Taskforce says that they’ve been involved in the development of the new guidelines for apartment living, which sees a proposal to reduce car parking requirements for apartments within 400 metres of a rail station.
In fact, as Property Observer  reported yesterday, the <a href="https://propertyobserver.com.au/forward-planning/investment-strategy/politics-and-policy/36075-cheaper-new-sydney-apartment-drive-as-compulsory-car-spaces-scrapped" target="_blank">reductions will see apartments within these areas requiring no car spaces,</a> under the draft guidelines announced by Pru Goward, who said<a href="/expert-insights/investing/cheaper-new-sydney-apartment-drive-as-compulsory-car-spaces-scrapped"> </a>this may see the prices of new apartments reduced by $50,000 as a result. These guidelines are likely to cover 22 council areas.
Urban Taskforce chief executive Chris Johnson says many apartment dwellers have a clear and obvious preference to use their local public transport.
“The minimum requirements still allow more parking if the market supports this,” says Johnson.
“The previous design code had been over ridden by some councils wanting to set their own standards. The new amendments to the State Environmental Planning Policy makes it clear that council development control plans cannot be inconsistent with the Apartment Design Guide,” he says.
He notes that this applies for specifics such as balconies and solar access, as well as other criteria.
“The planning policy specifically identifies standards that cannot be used as grounds to refuse development consent including ceiling height, apartment areas and car parking provisions,” he says.
Above ground parking is an area they want to consider in detail, due to prohibitive costs of below ground parking.
This, says Johnson, may require the government to review the impact of floor space ratio requirements in this area.
“It is important that the state government sets these standards rather than allowing each individual council to have separate controls,” he says.
The <a href="https://planspolicies.planning.nsw.gov.au/index.pl?action=view_job&amp;job_id=6692" target="_blank">guidelines are currently open for public comment</a>.
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jduke-EHk3XBmHkn

Sydney’s floor space ratios for apartment car parking needs consistency: Urban Taskforce

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The iconic Oxford Hotel’s premises are up for sale providing a unique opportunity in Sydney’s Darlinghurst. However, it appears that the venue will still keep the same tenants.
The <a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-hotel+leisure-nsw-darlinghurst-501298311" target="_blank">134 Oxford Street located Oxford Hotel</a> has a long-term anchor tenant providing 70% of the rental income stream.
The property listing, through JLL, notes that it includes a number of beneficial aspects, including an irreplaceable rooftop signboard approved in perpetuity “never to be repeated” and a rare 24-hour hotel licensed trading approval. It notes that it is “impossible to get approval for these anymore in Sydney”.
The Oxford Hotel spans four levels, including two bars, a cocktail lounge and a live performance area. Currently, the venue is managed by Pelathon Management Group.
It includes 21 gaming machine entitlements, owned by the lessor, which has an estimated value of approximately $2.5 million when combined with the hotel licence.
The corner location is on Taylor Square and provides future retail and commercial uses.
In 2007, the property was valued at $36 million and covers 1,050 square metres. In January 2015, the hotel is expected to undergo a $500,000 Capex refurbishment programme by the tenant.
It is up for auction on 21 October.
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Oxford Hotel, Darlinghurst premises up for sale

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The next Millers Point terrace - part of the 214 freehold terrace properties being sold by the NSW state government - goes to auction tomorrow night, Thursday September 25.
There is no revealed price guidance for the Di Jones auction offering on <a href="https://www.dijones.com.au/millers-point-86-windmill-street/1704067/" target="_blank">Windmill Street</a>.
The 1880s heritage listed terrace (pictured above) has three levels.
"It is immediately liveable, as is, with modern finishes, and there is further potential for refurbishment or reconfiguration," the marketing says.
The next scheduled auction is the <a href="https://rwdbgroup.com/nsw/millers-point/1187867/" target="_blank">30 Argyle Place</a>, October 8 offering through Craig Pontey at Ray White Double Bay.
The NSW government has grossed $11.1 million from the first four property sales. 
The disposal, which will include the in one line sale of the 79 apartments in the Sirius building at The Rocks, appears set to inject more than $500 million into the government's coffers.
The Community Services Minister Gabrielle Upton says the proceeds will be returned to the social housing system, for repairs and new projects.
The social housing waiting list numbers around 58,000 households.
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Fifth Millers Point NSW government terrace to go to auction tomorrow - 209 to go

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Sydney’s much publicised growth over the past few years has seen record breaking sales and new highs in the median price, and there are a number of forces behind this growth, according to McGrath Estate Agents’ John McGrath.
Over the past 12 months, Sydney has seen 14.8% growth across the board, with McGrath tipping further growth to come.
In <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://issuu.com/mcgrathestateagents/docs/mcgrath_spring_report_2014?e=7704045/9223873" target="_blank">The McGrath Report 2014</a>, he notes that when looking at the drivers of the Sydney market six distinct elements emerge. These six factors, in concert with a recovering economy, are behind current growth.
McGrath notes that the property market is likely to continue growing, but at more modest rates, with continued demand in the inner ring and beachside suburbs, but also in the outer ring areas of Kellyville and Rouse Hill.
Here are the six elements that have driven the growth to date:
<ol>
<li>The return of investors and influx of SMSF direct investment 
</li>
<li>Significant inflow of overseas investment in the residential market 
</li>
<li>Record low interest rates alongside record high rents 
</li>
<li>The impact of a new state government 
</li>
<li>Approval and commencement of several major infrastructure projects 
</li>
<li>Underlying housing shortage coupled with an anticipated population growth of 1.57 million by 2031</li>
</ol>
Source: The McGrath Report 2014
His expectation, while not for 'straight line' growth, is for another 10% to 20% growth left in the cycle over the next few years.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE TO READ:
<a href="/news/estate-agent-john-mcgrath-considers-asx-float">Estate agent John McGrath considers ASX float</a>
<a href="/expert-insights/investing/john-mcgrath-s-10-sydney-suburb-picks">John McGrath's 10 Sydney suburb picks</a>
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The six factors driving Sydney's price growth: John McGrath

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The Country Women's Association Potts Point headquarters is being bullishly sold to Chinese developer interests for about $18.5 million.
There were five offers at or above $15 million <a href="https://www.raywhite.com/nsw/elizabeth-bay/1179875/" target="_blank">through Ray White</a> and CBRE Hotels when expressions of interest closed September 3.
It followed the <a href="/news/country-womens-association-of-nsw-to-sell-potts-point-headquarters">recent decision by the Country Women's Association of NSW</a> (CWA) annual state conference to sell its long-time 51 room property.
The sale successfully captured the current huge Chinese buying interest, rather than the association delaying going to market with formal redevelopment approvals which would have been the normal prudent process.
The 11-13 Greenknowe Avenue building houses the head office and auditorium as well as providing $50 a night accommodation.
It was secured in the early 1950s, and opened in 1954 by Lady Slim.
Around 20 developers sought the 1,347 square metre site with the CWA now set to purchase modern office space.
The CWA was formed in 1922 when country women were fighting isolation and a lack of health facilities. 
It has been incorporated by an Act of NSW Parliament since 1931.
It was listed through Ray White agents Ian Campbell and Craig Pontey, in conjunction with CBRE Hotels.
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CWA's Potts Point headquarters sells to Chinese developer

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The former Country Women's Association Potts Point headquarters that sold to a Chinese developer for $18.5 million in 2014 has reportedly been onsold for a bullish $34 million.
The asking price was $30 million plus.
There is no sold sticker posted by its out of area agents, but the local paper has reported its sale.
<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/2019/12/5/CWA.jpg" alt="">
The Wentworth Courer says it has been sold as a women's refuge.
<div class="XGJcx _1DCKj _2yu-G">
The SHMH Group used as its offices while it has run into planning height redevelopment issues.
A concept study undertaken by PTW Architects for an eight-storey apartment building scheme with 38 luxury units over two levels of basement parking.
The 1347sq m site is at 11-13 Greenknowe Avenue.
<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/2019/12/5/SHMH.jpg" alt="">
</div>
There were five offers at or above $15 million when it last sold in 2014.
Its sale followed the <a href="/news/country-womens-association-of-nsw-to-sell-potts-point-headquarters">decision by the Country Women's Association of NSW</a> (CWA) to sell its long-time 51 room property.
The Greenknowe Avenue building housed their head office and auditorium as well as providing $50 a night accommodation.
It was secured in the early 1950s, and opened in 1954 by Lady Slim on its 1,347 square metre site.
The CWA was formed in 1922 when country women were fighting isolation and a lack of health facilities. 
 
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Former CWA Potts Point headquarters offloaded by do-nothing Chinese developer

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The former Country Women's Association Potts Point headquarters that sold to a Chinese developer for $18.5 million in 2014 has returned to the market.
The asking price is around $30 million, Nine Entertainment reported, but $30 million plus in a subsequent press release.
<div class="XGJcx _1DCKj _2yu-G">
The SHMH Group did secure a deferred commencement consent for the site at 11-13 Greenknowe Avenue in 2017, but has in the meantime considered several options including a boarding house.
The premises have been used as its offices while it has run into planning height issues having initially considered a concept study undertaken by PTW Architects for an eight-storey apartment building scheme with 38 luxury units over two levels of basement parking.
The 1347sq m site is approved for up to 22 metres.
</div>
There were five offers at or above $15 million when it last sold in 2014.
Its sale followed the <a href="/news/country-womens-association-of-nsw-to-sell-potts-point-headquarters">decision by the Country Women's Association of NSW</a> (CWA to sell its long-time 51 room property.
The 11-13 Greenknowe Avenue building housed their head office and auditorium as well as providing $50 a night accommodation.
It was secured in the early 1950s, and opened in 1954 by Lady Slim on its 1,347 square metre site.
The CWA was formed in 1922 when country women were fighting isolation and a lack of health facilities. 
 
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Former CWA Potts Point headquarters being offloaded by do-nothing Chinese developer

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GUEST OBSERVATION

Sydney is known for their beaches and lifestyle offerings. However, when it comes to find a suburb in Sydney, it can be hard to find one in your price range, that ticks all the boxes.

<a href="https://www.homely.com.au/" target="_blank">Homely</a> present the best 10 beach suburbs in Sydney collected from hundreds of thousands of reviews from the people who know best, the locals.

<a href="https://www.homely.com.au/tumbi-umbi-wyong-sydney-greater-new-south-wales"><img alt="" src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-ten.jpg"> Tumbi Umbi:</a>

Coming in at 10th position is Tumbi Umbi. The locals say that it is "Prime Family living that is close to beachfront offerings". It offers a relaxed family oriented lifestyle.

Encompassing semi-rural areas, fairly modern housing estates and some older holiday style homes this extremely popular area is only 10 minute drive to beaches and five minutes to Tuggerah lakes .

It is very popular for the fitness guru or for just a gentle stroll are the walking and bike tracks along the lakefront with breathtaking views across Tuggerah Lake. With Shelley Beach and Bateau Beach just moments away. 

<a href="https://www.homely.com.au/tumbi-umbi-wyong-sydney-greater-new-south-wales"><img height="31" src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-nine.jpg" width="33"></a><a href="https://www.homely.com.au/cronulla-sutherland-shire-sydney-greater-new-south-wales" target="_blank">Cronulla</a>:

A famous Sydney suburb, Cronulla has been reviewed as a suburb on the improve. One Homely user says: "The style and atmosphere has improved markedly over the last 15 years, with two supermarkets, many choices for restaurants, cafes. The beach lifestyle is it's best asset.

"There is a wonderful promenade for strolling along the headlands to bass and Flinders point, or return via Gunnamatta bay along the sand. Rock baths and patrolled bathing areas on the beach, and surfing areas give many choices to cool off.

"At the back of the train station is a cute timber ferry to the Royal National Park. Great lifestyle."

Situated just south of Sydney's CBD- it is a great option for those wanting something a littler further out. 

<a href="https://www.homely.com.au/frenchs-forest-warringah-sydney-greater-new-south-wales"><img alt="" src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-eight.jpg">Frenchs Forest:</a>

Conveniently located close to the beach and the North Coast, Frenchs Forest has been described to have some of the most relaxed and friendly people.

Most people have strong relationships with others in their local area through school activities, walking the dog, or just seeing each other around.

There are five different parts of Frenchs Forest, as it is divided up by Forest Way, Warringah Road and Wakehurst Parkway. Each section developed differently and has a different feel.

Being two minutes away from Manly or Curl Curl beaches definitely has its upside. 

<a href="https://www.homely.com.au/coogee-randwick-sydney-greater-new-south-wales"><img alt="" src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-seven.jpg">Coogee:</a>

Waking up on the beach has its positives, especially in Coogee. Once a seaside resort town in the early 1900s, has now become one of Sydney's most desired coastal suburbs.

Offering crystal clear waters, some of the most breathtaking coastline, parklands and aquatic reserves, it offers one of the finest family friendly sandy beaches in Sydney.  

The Famous Coogee Pavilion has just undergone a full refurbishment by Merrivale turning the headlights on Coogee food fun and nightlife options. A definite option for families wanting a beach lifestyle 

Early morning runs on the beach are one of the upsides of living close by.

<a href="https://www.homely.com.au/terrigal-gosford-sydney-greater-new-south-wales"><img alt="" src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-six.jpg">Terrigal:</a>

The locals say that Terrigal is a "a great beach town" and it also has incredible outdoor living offerings.

The best things about Terrigal are the many shops and Cafes (Close to Erina also) and the "outdoorsy" things to do like climbing the skillion, water activities (boating, skiing), running and walking (parks and oval), loads of swimming etc. The beach here is gorgeous. 

The top five are on the next page. Please click below.

 

<hr class="system-pagebreak">
<a href="https://www.homely.com.au/manly-manly-sydney-greater-new-south-wales"><img alt="" src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-five.jpg"> Manly:</a>

"Beautiful Seaside location!"- On top of the beach, Manly offers little coves like 'Little Manly' and Delwood Beach. Restaurants are fantastic and neighbours have been highly spoken of.  

Parking can be a nightmare especially on weekends and hot days when people flock to the beach, so look for a place with parking! 

<a href="https://www.homely.com.au/dee-why-warringah-sydney-greater-new-south-wales"><img alt="" src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-four.jpg"> Dee Why:</a>

Described as an "Absolute Winner" Dee Why offers great beach front living with top cafe's and places to eat without the influx of tourists or pretentious people.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6337]

You don't have to surf, but locals say they might have to learn because the beach has some great waves! Shopping, beach,and a great RSL are all features that locals speak highly of. 

<a href="https://www.homely.com.au/bateau-bay-wyong-sydney-greater-new-south-wales"><img alt="" src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-three.jpg"> Bateau Bay:</a>

Described by an agent as "The best value beachside suburb around".

Whether you want to relax under a shady umbrella on the golden beaches, viewing panoramic scenery from Crackneck Lookout or riding the mighty surf this suburb has so much to offer and is central to everything.

The many reserves have some great BBQ facilities most with adequate parking areas and Bateau Bay Reserve has an off the leash dog area. 

And its not all sun and surf. There are outstanding sporting facilities for footy, croquet, basketball, tennis, tenpin bowling, gym and a golf range all at The Entrance District Sporting and Community Centre.

Many cafes, clubs and restaurants in the area and great shopping at Bay Village Shopping Centre plus smaller centres at Cresthaven and Bateau Bay Road. 

<a href="https://www.homely.com.au/bondi-waverley-sydney-greater-new-south-wales"><img alt="" src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-two.jpg">Bondi:</a>

The most iconic and famous beach in Australia only comes in at number two in our list for the best suburbs Sydney has to offer.

The locals have said: "Bondi is a beach suburb in Sydney, not far from the city. Excellent public transport, huge shopping centre at Bondi junction, great mix of people and everyone is in a relaxed mood."

It's an easy commute to the City, close to Randwick races, plenty of schools, a great Aussie suburb, however the parking and cost of living have put it down slightly, keeping it out of first position. 

<a href="https://www.homely.com.au/umina-beach-gosford-sydney-greater-new-south-wales"><img alt="" src="/images/2014/07/04/yellow-one.jpg">Umina Beach:</a>

Umina Beach is an hour on the train to Sydney and a world away from the hustle and bustle.

People still wave as they drive by, show courtesy in their cars, their are no traffic lights, the kids play cricket in the street and lots of those things that we remember from our child hood are still prevalent.

You can still always find a quiet spot on the beach. You have pretty much everything you need here and because it is mostly flat it is easy to walk or ride anywhere.

South Umina has also been touted as a hotspot due to its closeness to the beach, and the leafy and quiet offerings it provides. 

TODD SCHULBERG is marketing engagement and digital strategy executive at <a href="https://www.homely.com.au/" target="_blank">Homely</a>.
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