An entity directed by HSN's Rafi Assouline and Rebel Property's Allen Linz has filed plans for an impressive new precinct in Woolloomooloo.

The major mixed-use development would transform a prominent William Street site into a new residential village anchored by affordable housing and a large public park.

The proposal, submitted as a State Significant Development Application, covers 164-172 and 174-194 William Street, a 6,398 sqm site between Forbes Street and Dowling Street on the southern edge of Woolloomooloo.

Designed by fjcstudio in collaboration with Bangawarra, Studio Bright and Tribe Studio Architects, the scheme would deliver 227 apartments across four residential buildings ranging in height up to 18 storeys, alongside retail space, public domain improvements and a new publicly accessible park.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="0eb59b7c-914a-4a5c-b849-3a56749f5e93" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.18.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=mxM6EEqeoLjrCiTlCzTKTvzpKuh6kSkH" />

It's another design scheme for Rebel, who took <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/news/nsw/first-look-rebel-property-group-takes-woolloomooloo-precinct-to-nsw-government">concept plans to the NSW Gov late last year</a>.

The latest plans will be a mix of 167 build-to-sell apartments and 60 affordable apartments, with the affordable housing component representing 15 per cent of the project's gross floor area. The apartment mix includes 12 one-bedroom, 53 two-bedroom, 89 three-bedroom apartments and 13 penthouses, while the affordable housing component would comprise 42 one-bedroom and 18 two-bedroom apartments.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="3b3d4553-8a8c-4af5-aa8c-519ffb1e28c6" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.12%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=_Yb6ibN7eDnOtQjCNDK2eviORa4qzgv." />

Rebel Property is seeking to take advantage of the NSW Government's infill affordable housing bonus provisions under the Housing SEPP, which provide additional floor space and height in exchange for the delivery of affordable housing for a minimum of 15 years. The planning pathway allows a 30 per cent increase in floor space ratio and building height where 15 per cent of the development is dedicated to affordable housing.

&nbsp;

At the centre of the development is a 1,356 sqm sunlit public park designed to become a new community gathering space at the gateway to Woolloomooloo. The park would be complemented by a network of pedestrian laneways connecting William Street with the surrounding streets, improving permeability through what is currently a largely impermeable block.

<img alt="Rebel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="257af931-a393-4007-8c6d-7219796df58d" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/Screenshot%202026-06-12%20at%2011.20.51%E2%80%AFAM.png?VersionId=KAHy94GrhaReFsWTGDKfy39EDJ8gEEv4" />

The design team says the public domain has been heavily influenced by the site's topography and Aboriginal cultural heritage, drawing on the escarpments, gullies and landscape characteristics that historically defined the area before urbanisation. The landscape design has been developed in partnership with First Nations consultancy Bangawarra.

The project would be delivered across four separate buildings. The William Street East and William Street West buildings, designed by fjcstudio, would contain the majority of the apartments. Melbourne-based Studio Bright has designed the Forbes Street building, while Tribe Studio Architects is responsible for the Dowling Street building.

Rebel had secured approval for the concept plans late last year.

Joel Robinson

First look: HSN, Rebel, advances Woolloomooloo precinct plans

A locally heritage-listed furniture showroom on Water Street is set to become the centrepiece of a new mixed-use residential development as local developer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/keylin-group">Keylin</a> seeks approval for <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/lotus-on-water-street-290-water-street-fortitude-valley-qld-4006">Lotus on Water Street</a>, a 15-storey project on the Fortitude Valley side of Spring Hill.

The proposal spans 290 Water Street and 137-141 Warry Street, combining several properties into a 2,869 sqm site that sits between Fortitude Valley, Spring Hill and the rapidly evolving Victoria Park precinct. Keylin's plans would deliver 132 apartments alongside new retail, hospitality and commercial space, while retaining and repurposing the historic Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom that fronts Water Street.

Designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/jackson-teece">Jackson Teece</a>, Lotus on Water Street comprises a 12-storey residential tower rising above a three-storey podium and communal rooftop terrace. The development includes 76 apartments classified as multiple dwellings and a further 56 units proposed as short-term accommodation, designed to be flexibly used as either accommodation or permanent residences. The apartment mix comprises six one-bedroom, 54 two-bedroom and 16 three-bedroom homes.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="9822bb79-6c49-49c9-95ba-319e8c8d81c3" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20front.png?VersionId=ioW8zbN4UVebbLetTFuv92t.HkdgfR5e" />

Residents would have access to an extensive rooftop recreation level spanning more than 1,200 sqm of communal open space. Plans include a pool, gym, sauna, infrared sauna, yoga area, library, private dining room, barbecue facilities and landscaped entertainment spaces, making the rooftop the project's largest shared amenity offering.

At street level, the proposal focuses on the adaptive reuse of the heritage buildings along Water Street, where 518 sqm of retail and commercial space is planned across shop, office and food and drink outlet uses. A permeable residential lobby would be positioned between the retained heritage buildings, creating a pedestrian connection between the historic streetscape and the new tower behind.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="269cf3e0-7d13-48bf-a318-05a00deb5c10" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20podium.png?VersionId=DLXmTCLsp6GOcLpQ0h.0z7wKCw59EhN_" />

The heritage retention strategy is central to the scheme. The development application notes that the Brunswick Home Furnishers Showroom and adjoining heritage buildings will remain, with only non-significant structures on the site earmarked for removal under a previously issued Heritage Exemption Certificate. Levels one and two of the new podium are recessed behind the heritage façades to maintain their prominence within the streetscape.

Jackson Teece has drawn inspiration from the site's manufacturing history when designing the podium. The planning documents state that the façade incorporates perforated metal screening that references the woven and rattan furniture historically produced on the site. Cascading and climbing plants are integrated throughout the podium to soften the building's presentation and screen parking levels behind. The landscape strategy also informs the project's name, Lotus on Water Street, drawing on the historic Spring Hollow waterholes that once ran through Spring Hill and the blue water lilies associated with Meeanjin, Brisbane's traditional name.

The proposal also incorporates the neighbouring property at 141 Warry Street, currently occupied by a healthcare service. The existing building would remain, with nine dedicated parking spaces allocated within the new development to support its ongoing operation. In total, Lotus on Water Street proposes 117 car spaces, including 110 resident spaces and seven visitor bays, alongside 100 bicycle spaces.

<img alt="First look: Keylin unveils heritage-led Lotus on Water Street tower in Fortitude Valley" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70cf07bc-4fd8-4e70-92dd-be8b21c4e4f0" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/fortitude%20valley%20site.png?VersionId=txlxrJImM0Sm_vTzHVKh5DDUkyL_CiiA" />

The site sits within the Spring Hill East Precinct of the Spring Hill Neighbourhood Plan and is positioned around 650 metres from both Fortitude Valley Station and Exhibition Station. It is also within walking distance of the King Street precinct, Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital, Herston Quarter and Victoria Park, which is earmarked to become a major venue precinct ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Planning documents describe the location as a key gateway between Spring Hill and Fortitude Valley and highlight the area's increasing importance as new transport infrastructure and Olympic-related investment reshape Brisbane's inner north. The development team argues the project will contribute additional housing supply while activating a section of Water Street that has historically received less investment than other parts of the Valley.

Keylin has become increasingly active across Brisbane and southeast Queensland, assembling sites in strategic inner-city locations. They are currently selling and delivering <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/oria-spring-hill-447-gregory-terrace-spring-hill-qld-4000">Oria Spring Hill</a>, just over 140 apartments due for completion in 2027.

Keylin plans heritage-led Lotus on Water Street apartment development in Fortitude Valley

Roseville is poised for a wave of new apartment development following the NSW Government's rezoning of land around Roseville Station under its Transport Oriented Development program.

The new planning controls have unlocked significant development potential within walking distance of the station, with a number of sites expected to be amalgamated and redeveloped in the coming years as developers seek to take advantage of the increased density allowances.

One of the more restrained developments in the precinct, and set among the first to be delivered having commenced well before the recent changes, is Hyecorp's Juliet. The boutique apartment project is already well under construction and remains on track to welcome residents by the end of the year, offering a markedly different proposition to many of the larger-scale developments now likely to emerge across the suburb.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278194]

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/juliet-roseville-64-pacific-highway-roseville-nsw-2069">Juliet</a> will comprise just&nbsp;34 one-, two-, and three-bedroom apartments opposite Roseville Station. For Hyecorp, which has delivered projects across Sydney's Lower North Shore for more than three decades, Roseville presented a rare opportunity to address a growing gap in the market.

"<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/roseville-nsw-2069">Roseville</a> has long been one of the North Shore's most tightly held and desirable suburbs, offering a unique combination of village charm, established greenery, excellent transport connections, and proximity to some of Sydney's best schools and lifestyle amenities," Hyecorp said.

"We recognised a growing demand from local homeowners seeking to downsize without leaving the community they have built their lives around. The location presented a rare opportunity to create homes that cater specifically to that buyer profile."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278196]

The six-level development has been designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/pbd-architects">PBD Architects</a> as a collection of residences that feel more like homes than apartments. The brief centred generous floorplans, abundant natural light, quality finishes, and strong connections to outdoor space.

PBD Architects drew inspiration from Roseville's established garden suburb character, creating a building that sits comfortably within its surroundings rather than dominating them. The architecture incorporates natural materials, soft forms, layered landscaping, expansive balconies, and generous setbacks to strengthen the connection between residents and the suburb's leafy environment.

"The focus was on designing spacious, house-like residences for discerning owner-occupiers and downsizers who wanted to remain on the North Shore without compromising on comfort, privacy, or design," PBD said.&nbsp;

"Every apartment was to feel considered, timeless, and highly functional."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278195]

Inside, residences feature engineered timber flooring, stone kitchen benchtops and splashbacks, integrated Fisher &amp; Paykel appliances, ducted air conditioning, and large outdoor entertaining areas designed to take advantage of district and treetop views.

Residents will also have access to a rooftop barbecue and lounge area, alongside practical amenities including parcel lockers, EV charging capability, bicycle storage, a dog wash bay, and a basement car wash facility.

The majority of purchasers so far have been local owner-occupiers from Roseville, Lindfield, Chatswood, Killara, and the broader Upper North Shore, many of whom are transitioning from larger family homes.

"Buyers are looking for spacious, house-like apartments that allow them to downsize without feeling like they are sacrificing comfort or functionality," Hyecorp noted.

"They value large kitchens, generous living areas, ample storage, quality finishes, secure parking, lift access, and low-maintenance living."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=7395 project_image_fid=278204]

Juliet sits directly opposite Roseville Train Station and within walking distance of Roseville Village, while Chatswood's retail and dining precinct is only minutes away. The development is also surrounded by some of Sydney's most established schools, including Roseville College, Ravenswood, Pymble Ladies' College, and Knox Grammar, as well as nearby parklands and golf courses.

Juliet is currently more than 75 per cent sold ahead of its anticipated completion in late 2026.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=7395]

Juliet to sit quietly amid Roseville apartment boom

Sherpa Property Group has unveiled the third instalment of its Flourish series, securing full approval for the two-tower, $500 million Flourish Soleira development in Palm Beach.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-1150-1154-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> will rise from a prominent site in the commercial heart of Palm Beach, the long-time home of Cash Converters and a range of local retailers.

The project will introduce a new retail and dining precinct at ground level, beneath 286 apartments.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370959]

“We’re very committed to not only providing affordable residential offerings that are much needed in Palm Beach, but also delivering a vibrant new commercial heart that complements the extraordinary growth of the southern Gold Coast,” Sherpa Property Group founder Christie Leet said.

The development will sit under Sherpa's Flourish brand, which is aimed at providing a pathway into the beachside suburb for locals, first-home buyers and downsizers. In a move designed to assist first-home buyers entering the market, Sherpa has reserved all one and two-bedroom, one-bathroom apartments exclusively for eligible first-home buyers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370964]

“Our vision through Flourish is to create a vibrant retail and lifestyle focal point within the Palm Beach centre zone, delivering thriving communities underpinned by lifestyle-rich locations,” Leet said.

“So far, Flourish has been an incredible success, and we hope to carry this momentum as we progress the next two Flourish projects in Palm Beach.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=371430]

Located across 1150-1164 Gold Coast Highway and 3 Sixth Avenue, the development will comprise two towers. The northern tower will deliver 154 apartments, while the southern tower will add a further 132 residences, helping address ongoing demand for new apartments in the tightly held coastal suburb.

Flourish Soleira will also feature the most extensive rooftop amenity offering ever delivered in Palm Beach.

The two towers will be connected by a skybridge, with residents gaining access to a rooftop recreation deck featuring a full-width swimming pool, hot and cold plunge pools, wellness spaces, a gymnasium, private dining facilities, massage treatment rooms, barbecue areas, a basketball court, golf simulator, indoor and outdoor dining spaces, sun lounges and extensive landscaping.

LPS Group is expected to start construction later this year.

Sherpa is already well advanced on construction of its debut Flourish project, Flourish Amargo, located just around the corner from Soleira. Meanwhile, Flourish Oasis, positioned opposite Amargo, recently commenced construction and has nearly sold out its collection of 47 apartments.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa unveils $500m mixed-use Palm Beach precinct, Flourish Soleira

Are mortgage holders set to get a reprieve from the RBA in 2026?

Big Four bank NAB believes so. They are now expecting the next move from the RBA to be a cut, rather than a hike, which they had pencilled in for August. They are unsure of the timing of the cut however, they note in their latest&nbsp;NAB Economics RBA Watch.

NAB Chief Economist, Dr Sally Auld, said recent data suggests the economy has lost momentum and the outlook for rates has shifted, noting that the broader economic backdrop has changed since earlier in the year.

“The next move in the cash rate is likely to be down, but the timing is uncertain," Dr Auld said.

"In February, growth was above trend, the economy was operating above capacity and there was uncertainty over the restrictiveness of rates. None of these conditions exist today,” she outlined.

Dr Auld said recent data pointed to softer momentum across the economy while acknowledging that at the same time, uncertainty remains a key feature of the outlook.

“Both Q1 GDP data and the NAB business survey suggest momentum in the economy has slowed, meaning that growth has likely peaked for the cycle. That said, we are cognisant there is still considerable uncertainty around the outlook, both with respect to activity and inflation.”

Dr Auld said inflation risks and labour market outcomes would be important to watch.

“On the prices side, we are still forecasting above target core inflation through to mid-2027. Margins will compress and weaker labour market outcomes are a risk.”

She said tighter financial conditions are expected to weigh on housing and activity.

“Tighter financial conditions will be reflected in a slowing in house price growth and housing credit growth. In summary, we have greater conviction that the next move in rates is down, but less conviction on the timing.”

Mortgage relief? NAB forecasts RBA rate cut, not hike, after softer economic conditions

Australian Capital Territory

The ACT government has scrapped stamp duty for off-the-plan apartment and townhouse purchases up to $500,000 from July 1.

The stamp duty abolition will apply to first-home buyers and other owner occupiers who exchange purchases for off-the-plan in the territory from July 1.

<a href="/developments/act">Buyers of newly built apartments or townhouses at $500,000 will save $10,360 in stamp duty.</a>

The eligibility criteria includes satisfaction of residency requirements, that at least one buyer must live in the home continuously for at least one year, starting within 12 months of the date of completion/settlement date.

Since 2012 the ACT has been reducing stamp duty.

&ldquo;This is a further step in our tax reform program and one that encourages an increased supply of housing below the $500,000 threshold,&quot; ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.

The announcement is part of the territory&rsquo;s 20-year plan to phase out stamp duty and replace it with an annual land tax.

The plan has been underway since 2012.

Stamp duty has also beeen reduced by $1040 for any owner-occupier established property purchase between $200,000 to $1.455 million in 2021-22.

As part of the ACT tax reform program, average general rates have increased to offset revenue that would otherwise be lost due to the abolition of stamp duty.&nbsp;

This did not occur in 2020-21 as part of the Government&rsquo;s response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The ACT government has scrapped stamp duty for off-the-plan apartment and townhouse purchases up to $500,000 from July 1

jchancellor

ACT stamp duty scrapped for owner occupier off the plan purchases up to $500,000

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EXPERT OBSERVER
<h3 class="post-title entry-title">
<a href="https://petewargent.blogspot.com/2019/01/hows-act-land-tax-going"></a>Canberra rents surge </h3>
<div id="post-body-7598088234210480051" class="post-body entry-content">
<div>I've been consistent on this point (often wrong, but never in doubt!): taxes in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) are far too high for landlords to invest there en masse, which will lead to a rental shortage as the population steadily grows. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>There are a lot of 'well, in theory...' type comments made about this point, however, including by me, so let's stick to the hard data for today.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Rental vacancy rates fell from 2½ per cent in 2014 when rate rises were first introduced to 0.6 per cent in October 2018. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Rental markets are seasonal in the ACT and often tighten through the early months of the calendar year, and in turn Canberra could take out Hobart in Tasmania for title of most undersupplied capital city rental market in 2019, which is is some feat (click to expand): </div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vT1xNQ-Dd80/XDbv-FMFELI/AAAAAAAAt3c/cYKMVTIhmYgYm33-es2Bb-k5EyZiZE-ygCEwYBhgL/s1600/SQM2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vT1xNQ-Dd80/XDbv-FMFELI/AAAAAAAAt3c/cYKMVTIhmYgYm33-es2Bb-k5EyZiZE-ygCEwYBhgL/s640/SQM2.jpg" width="640" height="350" data-original-height="797" data-original-width="1453"></a></div>
<div> </div>
<div>Asking rents for houses in Canberra are now up by more than 26 per cent over the past three years alone. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>A major issue is that rates are often far too high on units as well, despite the relatively low land value content of this property type. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The asking rent for 2-bedroom units in Canberra is also up by more than 23 per cent over the same time period!</div>
<div> </div>
<div>In Canberra! </div>
<div> </div>
<div class="separator"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qPJMlBBFvq8/XDbv93SNgdI/AAAAAAAAt3g/ybb9rzPeXyQohtoeTKB8Ta16YaZc7WzGACLcBGAs/s1600/sqm1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qPJMlBBFvq8/XDbv93SNgdI/AAAAAAAAt3g/ybb9rzPeXyQohtoeTKB8Ta16YaZc7WzGACLcBGAs/s640/sqm1.jpg" width="640" height="188" data-original-height="229" data-original-width="777"></a></div>
 <div>Source: SQM Research</div>
<div> </div>
<div>
If you don't like asking rents - and you may not - then Domain's actual rental report figures this week were similar. Domain reported that Canberra is now a more expensive city in which to rent a home than even Sydney, with rents spiralling as high as the Black Mountain Tower. 
</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Dr. Nicola Powell:</div>
<div> </div>
<div>"With investors slugged with higher rates and land taxes, it is likely landlords are passing on the additional costs to tenants, or opting for high yielding short-term leases in order to recover costs."</div>
<div> </div>
<div>On the plus side there have been some significant apartment projects approved for construction, but one questions which landlords are going to buy them and rent them out. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>Politicians seeking tax deductions, perhaps. Foreign investors won't supply the rentals any longer, having already been taxed out of the market. <div class="separator"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SLAOdeLo-_w/XDb2yteH7-I/AAAAAAAAt38/-gvstrSWvQgPXqqff-6uw_xnFupyVf8EwCLcBGAs/s1600/China.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SLAOdeLo-_w/XDb2yteH7-I/AAAAAAAAt38/-gvstrSWvQgPXqqff-6uw_xnFupyVf8EwCLcBGAs/s640/China.jpg" width="640" height="128" data-original-height="146" data-original-width="729"></a></div>
</div>
<div>Some people are even campaigning for high land taxes, and the ALP negative gearing reforms, and a doubling of capital gains tax (all of this on top of the changes made to foreign investment, interest-only lending, restrictions on Division 40 depreciation, disallowance of travel expenses etc etc.). </div>
<div> </div>
<div>There's nothing much to say but best of luck with that!</div>
<div>
 It's a small city, which grows in population by less than 10,000 per annum. Way to go!</div>
<div> </div>
<div>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>.</div>
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pwargent-M4siyDbqQY

How's the ACT land tax going? And what it means for property investor supply: Pete Wargent

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The ACT residential property market continues to be driven by high wages support by strong government employment and low general unemployment, according to a recent Herron Todd White (HTW) residential report. 
The current COVID-19 epidemic is going to have a negative impact on key drivers, so it will be interesting to see what impact this may have on the property market in the short to medium term, the valuation firm said.
 The public service accounts for 42% of the ACT’s total workforce which is heavily responsible for the strong $108,000 per year median income in the ACT. 
The report suggests the high median income keeps property prices on the high comparative to the rest of Australia. 
The median house price in Canberra currently sits at $691,000 (January 2020) compared to the national average of $809,000 (January 2020) making it the 3rd most expensive Australian city behind Melbourne and Sydney.
A four bedroom house in Gordon has recently been sold for $685,000.
Set on 525sqm, the <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-act-gordon-133438178" target="_blank">21 Rollins Place home</a> (pictured below) comprises formal lounge, informal living area, kitchen, four bedrooms and study nook.
It is located within walking distance to Point Hut Pond, playgrounds, schools, shops and transport. 
<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/2020/5/28/gordon%20.jpg" alt="">
 
Property under the $600,000 mark continues its popularity among first home buyers, which is likely to continue.
A current listing is a Harrison townhouse priced at $410,000.
The three bedroom, two bathroom home is situated at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/property-townhouse-act-harrison-133514782" target="_blank">159/22 Kings Canyon Street</a> (pictured below).
The townhouse features courtyards, galley style kitchen, large under stair storage and double enclosed garage.  
<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/2020/5/28/harrison.jpg" alt="">
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The weakening economy due to the Coronavirus pandemic makes short term conditions unpredictable.
 Strong government employment suggests that the ACT’s unemployment rate will remain low and the ACT local economy will remain stronger than other economies relying heavily on private sectors.
However market conditions are unpredictable and the unprecedented circumstances provide little guidance in what may happen in the near future.
</div>
</div>
</div>
</div>
<div>Note regards COVID-19</div>
<div>
This edition of Month In Review had its topic defined in late February with submissions from our offices collated through to late March. During this period, shifts in the social and economic landscape due to COVID-19 became increasingly dramatic, as demonstrated by the varied information provided by offices over the course of three weeks. 
</div>
<div>This month’s residential theme on baseline property market drivers remains a common thread, and provides an indication of what influences to monitor as the property sector recovers post-crisis.</div>
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

ACT property market continues to be driven by strong government employment: HTW residential 

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The 2019 ACT Architecture Awards’ top prize has been won by a contemporary extension to an inner-south bungalow.
The prestigious Canberra Medallion was presented to Austin Maynard Architects for the Empire house (pictured above).
Minister for Planning and Land Management Mick Gentleman handed over the award.
The project also won the Gene Willsford Award for  Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations and Additions).
Australian Institute of Architects ACT Jury Chair, Sarah Truscott, said the project displayed an understanding of the building’s heritage.
"Empire is located on a road that forms a key part of Burley Griffin’s masterplan,” said Truscott.
“The architects have shown respect for Canberra’s built heritage by preserving the best of this home and creating smart additional living spaces inside and out for all seasons."
Other major winners include Edgeworth Apartments, which won the Sydney Ancher Award for Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing for Cox Architecture, and the Concrete House by Rob Henry Architects won the Malcolm Moir and Heather Sutherland Award for Residential Architecture – Houses (New).
Clarke Keller and dwp|design worldwide partnership received the Enrico Taglietti Award for Educational Architecture for their work on ANU’s Hanna Neumann Building. The building also won the W Hayward Morris Award for Interior Architecture and the Pamille Berg Award for Art in Architecture.
"This new building brings together ANU’s Mathematical Sciences Institute and Computer Science in a new teaching and research hub. Embedded coding in the façade and interior details create a series of mathematical puzzles for students to decipher as they work their way up the building with the most complex on the top level," Truscott said.
A total of 30 Named Awards, Awards and Commendations were presented on the night.
ACT Chapter President, Philip Leeson, said: “This year’s awards saw 37 entries ranging from small alterations and additions to large public commercial buildings and institutions.
“Each year our awards showcase the extraordinary talent of the architecture profession and the outstanding buildings it produces and this year is no exception.
“The architects and their projects recognised by this year’s jury will enter the canon of great architecture that has contributed to the city of Canberra that we love.”
Named Award and Award winners will now progress to the National Architecture Awards to be announced on Thursday 7 November 2019. 
Full list of winners: 
<ul>
<li>Residential Architecture – Houses (Alterations and Additions) </li>
</ul>
The Gene Willsford Award – Empire by Austin Maynard Architects
Award – Yarralumla Shed by Gerard O’Connell (pictured below)
<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/2019/6/13/Yarralumla%20Shed.jpg" alt=""> 
<ul>
<li>Residential Architecture – Houses (New) </li>
</ul>
The Malcolm Moir and Heather Sutherland Award – Concrete House by Rob Henry Architects (pictured below) 
<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/2019/6/13/concrete%20house.jpg" alt="">
Award – Red Hill House by Mathieson Architects
Award – Courtyard House by Rob Henry Architects
Commendation – Carwoola House by de Rome Architects
<ul>
<li>Residential Architecture – Multiple Housing </li>
</ul>
The Sydney Ancher Award – Edgeworth Apartments by Cox Architecture
Commendation – Shophouse by JUDD.studio
Commendation – Warehouse by JUDD.studio
<ul>
<li>Commercial Architecture</li>
</ul>
Commendation – Manuka Oval Media and Function Centre
<ul>
<li>Interior Architecture </li>
</ul>
The W Hayward Morris Award – ANU Hanna Neumann Building by Clarke Keller and dwp|design worldwide partnership
Commendation – Denman Village Shops by AMC Architecture (pictured below)
<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/2019/6/13/denman%20village.jpg" alt=""> 
<ul>
<li>Educational Architecture</li>
</ul>
The Enrico Taglietti Award – ANU Hanna Neumann Building by Clarke Keller and dwp|design worldwide partnership
Award – CGGS Early Learning Centre by Daryl Jackson Alastair Swayn
<ul>
<li>Public Architecture</li>
</ul>
Commendation – Cricket ACT by Clarke Keller
<ul>
<li>Small Project Architecture </li>
</ul>
The Cynthia Breheny Award – Charly_Demonstrator by Stack Space
<ul>
<li>Sustainable Architecture </li>
</ul>
The Derek Wrigley Award – CGGS Early Learning Centre by Daryl Jackson Alastair Swayn
Award – Courtyard House by Rob Henry Architects
<ul>
<li>Enduring Architecture </li>
</ul>
The Sir Roy Grounds Award – Wybalena Grove (1974) by Michael Dysart 
<ul>
<li>COLORBOND® Award for Steel Architecture </li>
</ul>
Award – Shophouse by JUDD.studio
<ul>
<li>Chapter Awards and Prizes </li>
</ul>
Canberra Medallion – Empire by Austin Maynard Architects
The Pamille Berg Award for Art in Architecture –ANU Hanna Neumann Building by Clarke Keller and dwp|design worldwide partnership
The Robert Foster Award for Light in Architecture – Red Hill House by Mathieson Architects
Architectural Professional Practice Award – Eric Martin, Eric Martin &amp; Associates
President’s Medal – Paul Barnett, Paul Barnett Design Group
Clem Cummings Medal – Jenny Edwards, Lighthouse Architecture &amp; Science
Emerging Architect Prize – Will Gardner, Guida Moseley Brown Architects
ACT Chapter Student Medallion – Byron Kelly, University of Canberra
Daryl Jackson Alastair Swayn Graduate Prize – Mark Bersolto, University of Canberra
John Redmond Prize – Justin Williams, University of Canberra
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Empire take out top prize at ACT Architecture Awards

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South Canberra is the dearest region for rents in the nation's capital, according to the recent CoreLogic RP Data Quarterly Rental Review.
Click charts to open in new windows: 
<a href="/images/2015/04/10/canberra-april-13-one.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/04/10/canberra-april-13-one.jpg" alt=""></a>
<a href="/images/2015/04/10/canberra-april-13-two.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="/images/2015/04/10/canberra-april-13-two.jpg" alt=""></a>
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po-LsXgBTHBmX

South Canberra home rental the ACT's priciest: CoreLogic RP Data

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There are few opportunities these days to write anything bullish about the Canberra property market.
All the data suggests prices are stagnating or falling and rents are down significantly, with a 5% annual decline for the median house rent and a 7% fall for apartments.
While Sydney three hours down the road is pumped up by a strong state economy, a big infrastructure spend and the confidence created by competent governance, Canberra is mired in negativity and uncertainty thanks for cuts to the public service and an oversupply of apartments.
But, as is so often the case, there are different stories to be found if you dig beneath the generalised figures about a city.
The Gungahlin precinct is one sector of the Canberra market showing some life. It will benefit in future from the new light rail system, as well as the relocation of 650 public service jobs to that part of Canberra.
The territory's Chief Minister Andrew Barr has confirmed that 400 public servants from ACT Shared Services will vacate Woden this year and head north to Gungahlin.
The move will leave a lot of empty spaces in the Callam Offices complex at Woden, but the biggest impact is likely to be the positive one for Gungahlin – particularly as another 250 public servants will pulled from other areas and relocated to Gungahlin as well. 
The move, taken in conjunction with other unhelpful events, will hurt the economy of Woden and possibly property markets in surrounding areas, which are struggling already.
<a href="https://www.canberratimes.com.au/national/public-service/2015s-perfect-storm-for-woden-will-be-the-public-service-exodus-20150222-13gvdr" target="_blank">The Canberra Times reported</a>: Woden Valley Community Council chairman Martin Miller said the town centre was "probably not prepared" for the departure of so many regular workers.  "The federal public service is decreasing its presence as well – the Department of Human Services was moved to Tuggeranong years ago and the Department of Veterans Affairs is due to move as well," Miller said. "It will have an impact – it's sort of like the perfect storm."
Property markets in suburbs surrounding the Woden Town Centre have been weak performers in recent years. Suburbs like Phillip, Lyons, Hughes and Mawson have median house prices lower than they were three years ago.
They, along with others like Garran, Chifley and Pearce, all have long-term capital growth rates in the 3-4% range, which is poor by national standards.
Where Woden loses, Gungahlin gains. Generally, this precinct of Canberra looks to have better prospects than most in the national capital, helped by the Capital Metro light rail system, which will link Gungahlin to the city centre.
The light rail system is currently in the procurement stages. The ACT government has named four private business consortiums, which will be considered for the construction of the $800 million light rail line.
The targeted travel time from Gungahlin to the city via Northbourne Avenue, the Federal Highway and Flemington Road is 25 minutes. Experience shows that new transport infrastructure can be a game-changer for residential property markets.
The Gungahlin precinct is currently one of the few sections of the Canberra market showing some life. While Canberra prices generally have not grown in the past 12 months, some suburbs in the Gungahlin area have delivered solid increases in median house prices.
They include Palmerston (up 7%), Amaroo (up 5%) and Harrison (up 6%).
Unlike the Woden precinct, suburbs around Gungahlin mostly have values higher than three years ago, though not a lot higher. Amaroo, for example, has grown an average of 4% per year over the past three years.
This precinct also shows up in The Price Predictor Index published by Hotspotting. It has a couple of suburbs listed as Rising Steadily – Palmerston and Nicholls – and others classified as Consistency markets, including Ngunnawal, Franklin and Amaroo.
TERRY RYDER is the founder of <a href="https://hotspotting.com.au/" target="_blank">hotspotting.com.au</a>. You can <a href="https://mailto:ryder@hotspotting.com.au" target="_blank">email him</a> or follow him on <a href="https://www.twitter.com/hotspotting" target="_blank">Twitter</a>. 
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terryryder-YECXbqmri2

Not all doom and gloom for Canberra: Terry Ryder

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The Reid, ACT home of late novelist Bryce Courtenay and his wife Christine has been sold for $1.8 million.
The Canberra home on 1,045 square metres at 35 Euree Street was listed for auction last weekend after Christine decided to return to Sydney.
The couple lived in Canberra following the author's diagnosis of cancer.
Listed through Peter Blackshaw Manuka agent Mary Debus, the three bedroom home had been bought for $1.29 million in 2008.
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Bryce Courtney's former Canberra home sold

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Prices growth in Canberra has been relatively flat over recent years, reflecting the impact of a declining local economy, according to the Domain Group senior economist, Andrew Wilson.
"Canberra has clearly benefited least from the sharp cuts in interest rates through 2012-13, which activated most capital city housing markets," said Wilson.
"Federal government fiscal consolidation policies over recent years have impacted the local economy through public service job losses and service cuts, and this has had a predictable impact on housing market activity."
<img src="/images/2015/03/12/canberra-mar-12-one.jpg" alt="">
Source: Domain Group
Over 2014, Canberra recorded modest price growth of just 0.9%, following the previous year’s 2.2% result.
"Through 2015 the Canberra housing market looks set to maintain its modest but steady performance of recent years," he said.
<img src="/images/2015/03/12/canberra-mar-12-two.jpg" alt="">
Source: Domain Group
Recent positive signs for the local market remain with increased auction activity recorded towards the end of 2014 and solid buyer activity early in 2015.
"Lower interest rates will feed into buyer confidence and add to the prospects of rising buyer activity," Wilson said.
"Canberra’s median house price is set to increase by between 1 and 3% through 2015."
<img src="/images/2015/03/12/canberra-mar-12-three.jpg" alt="">
Source: Domain Group
Domain Group tips the best performers will be the middle and upper price market sections as well as regions that experienced subdued prices growth over recent years as value perceptions drive increased changeover buyer activity.
"As usual, however, much will depend on the performance of the local economy, which has recently shown encouraging signs of improvement," said Wilson.
"Government fiscal consolidation policies remain an ever-present impediment for the local Canberra housing market."
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Modest price growth tipped for Canberra: Andrew Wilson

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ME Bank has released a support package for ACT home owners affected by Mr Fluffy asbestos that sign on to the government’s buy back scheme.
The package allows home owners to borrow against their dwelling to accelerate the purchase of an alternative home.
Up to 80% of an agreed value on an existing property will be available through ME Bank, with standard lending criteria still to apply. The standard hardship policy will also be available to these property owners.
The hardship policy allows deferred or reduced home loan repayments if they are facing financial hardship.
Around 1,000 residences in Canberra had loose amosite asbestos installed by Mr Fluffy from the late-60s to the 70s.
Between 1988 to 1993, the federal government attempted to remove the asbestos, but did not manage to clear the properties.
Jamie McPhee, CEO of ME Bank, said that home owners understandably want the certainty and ability to move on with their lives.
It is important people know the banks are here to help people through this difficult time, said McPhee.
“To help them ME Bank has agreed to lend on their existing Mr Fluffy-affected homes using standard lending criteria, and as soon as they join the buy back. That means they can start looking for and potentially buy a new home as soon as possible,” he said. 
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